Mon Jan 12 03:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Makar Sankranti and Ekadashi Coincide in 2026, Creating Observance Dilemma
The Story:
As the festival of Makar Sankranti approaches, preparations are in full swing in Saharanpur. This year, a unique situation arises as Makar Sankranti coincides with Ekadashi, creating confusion among devotees regarding the proper timing and method of observance. The article aims to clarify these doubts, explaining the significance of Makar Sankranti and providing guidance on how to observe both Ekadashi and Makar Sankranti. According to Pandit Som Prakash Shastri, this rare combination requires devotees to observe Ekadashi during the day and celebrate Makar Sankranti in the evening.
Key Points:
- Makar Sankranti marks the entry of the Sun into the Makar (Capricorn) zodiac sign.
- It signifies the beginning of the ‘Agni Tattva’ (fire element) and the Sun’s northward journey (Uttarayana).
- In 2026, Makar Sankranti falls on the same day as Ekadashi, causing ambiguity in observance.
- Devotees are advised to observe Ekadashi during the day and celebrate Makar Sankranti in the evening, after 6:40 PM.
- Traditional Makar Sankranti practices include offering prayers to the Sun, consuming Khichdi (a dish made of rice and lentils), and donating items like peanuts, sesame sweets (Revdi, Gajak), black lentil Khichdi, clothes, umbrellas, shoes, and utensils to temples and Brahmins in the name of ancestors.
- Pandit Som Prakash Shastri suggests preparing sweet Khichdi or Khichdi made with peanuts or Samvat rice and offering it to Lord Narayan before consuming it.
Key Takeaways:
- The coincidence of Makar Sankranti and Ekadashi necessitates careful planning for observance.
- Traditional practices and timing guidelines provided by religious authorities are essential for proper observance.
- Khichdi holds significant cultural importance during Makar Sankranti.
First Piper 