There is confusion again regarding the date of Makar Sankranti, the first festival of the year. Shattila Ekadashi falls on January 14th, the day of Makar Sankranti. Due to Ekadashi, khichdi (a dish made with rice and lentils) cannot be prepared. This has created uncertainty about how to celebrate the festival. Some are suggesting making khichdi the next day due to Ekadashi, while others are suggesting celebrating the festival without khichdi.
In recent times, there has been considerable confusion regarding the dates of several festivals. Decisions were made to celebrate some festivals over two days. Now, at the beginning of 2026, there is confusion about the date of the first festival itself. The reason is that Ekadashi falls on January 14th, the day of Makar Sankranti. Acharya Pawan Pathak, editor of the Shri Buddhiballabh Panchang, said that the Sun God will enter Capricorn at 3:07 PM on January 14th.
Shattila Ekadashi on Makar Sankranti
Since rice is not consumed on Ekadashi, rice-based dishes will not be prepared on Makar Sankranti. Shattila Ekadashi will begin at 3:18 AM on January 14th and continue until 5:53 PM. People can prepare khichdi the next day. This coincidence of Shattila Ekadashi falling on Makar Sankranti is happening after 19 years.
Making khichdi has special significance on Makar Sankranti, but due to Ekadashi, it cannot be prepared. On this day, people can prepare dishes made with sesame seeds or sago khichdi. Pawan Pathak said that bathing on Makar Sankranti is considered auspicious. Donating blankets, ghee, and sesame seeds on this day brings good fortune. Due to Ekadashi, white sesame seeds can be offered to God.
Auspicious ceremonies will not begin this time
Every year, auspicious ceremonies begin with Makar Sankranti, but this time, auspicious and religious ceremonies will only begin after February 2nd. Astrologer Dr. Sushant Raj said that due to Venus being in conjunction with the Sun, auspicious ceremonies will not begin from Makar Sankranti this year. Auspicious ceremonies can begin from February 2nd after Venus rises
