Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, has announced January 15 as a public holiday across the state to mark the festival of Makar Sankranti. An official notification has been issued confirming that all state government offices, educational institutions, and government-run establishments will remain closed on this day.
This year, Makar Sankranti is being observed on January 15 instead of the traditionally expected January 14, leading to curiosity among citizens. The decision has been taken keeping religious beliefs and auspicious timings in mind, as the main rituals associated with the festival fall on January 15.
Makar Sankranti is one of the most important festivals in the Hindu calendar. It marks the transition of the Sun God, Surya Dev, into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara), which is ruled by Shani. According to astrological calculations, Surya Dev will enter Capricorn on January 14, 2026, at 3:13 pm. However, since Sankranti-related rituals such as holy bathing, charity, and prayers are traditionally performed during early morning hours, the festival’s religious observance shifts to the following day.
Experts explain that the most auspicious period, known as the Punya Kaal Muhurat, will occur on January 15, from sunrise until 1 pm. This time is considered ideal for taking holy dips in rivers, offering donations, and performing spiritual rituals. Because of this, devotees across Uttar Pradesh and other parts of the country will celebrate Makar Sankranti on January 15.
A massive gathering of devotees is expected at major Ganga ghats across Uttar Pradesh, including Prayagraj, Varanasi, Kanpur, Unnao, Meerut, and Bijnor. Thousands of pilgrims are likely to take holy dips in sacred rivers such as the Ganga and the Saryu and offer prayers and charity. Similar crowds are also expected at famous pilgrimage sites like Rishikesh and Haridwar.
Makar Sankranti is also popularly known as the “Khichdi Festival” in parts of North India, where devotees offer khichdi and donate food, clothes, and money to the needy. With the state declaring a public holiday, authorities are preparing for crowd management and security arrangements to ensure a smooth and safe celebration.
