January 2026 Festivals

Pradosh Vrat is observed in the twilight period (Pradosh Kala — 90 minutes after sunset) of the 13th lunar day. Legend holds that on this day, Shiva performed the Tandava dance in the light of the waxing and waning moon, surrounded by all the gods. Witnessing this dance and worshipping Shiva during Pradosh grants liberation from all sins. Soma Pradosh (Monday Trayodashi) and Shani Pradosh (Saturday Trayodashi) are especially significant.

Trayodashi (13th lunar day) of both Shukla and Krishna Paksha — twice monthly

Sakat Chauth is observed by many families, especially mothers, with Ganesha puja and fasting until moonrise. The vrat katha and offering of til preparations are common in North India.

Magha Krishna Chaturthi / Sankashti Chaturthi

Lohri marks the end of the winter solstice period and is associated with the harvest of the rabi (winter) crop, particularly sugarcane and sesame. Bonfires are lit at crossroads and in courtyards at sunset. The legend of Dulla Bhatti — a folk hero who rescued girls from being sold as slaves during Akbar's time — is central to Lohri songs. It is especially significant for newly-weds and families with newborn children.

Night before Makar Sankranti — January 13

Sun begins uttarayana (northward course) — considered most auspicious time (Bhishma chose it for his death in Mahabharata). Symbolic transition from darkness to light.

January 14 / 15 (sun's transit into Capricorn — Makara rashi)

Makar Vilakku is the culminating event of the Sabarimala pilgrimage season. On the night of Makar Sankranti, a divine star (Makara Jyoti) is said to appear on the distant hill of Ponnambalamedu, visible from the Sabarimala temple. This is believed to be the celestial visitation of Lord Ayyappa himself. Millions of pilgrims who have completed the 41-day vritha (austere preparation) climb the sacred 18 steps to the temple. The Makara Vilakku (sacred lamp) is lit at the temple as the star appears. Ayyappa is the son of Shiva and Vishnu (Mohini).

Makar Sankranti night (January 14) — when Makara Jyoti appears on Ponnambalamedu hill

Pongal is Tamil Nadu's most important harvest festival, a four-day thanksgiving to the sun for a successful harvest. 'Pongal' means 'to boil over' — symbolic of abundance overflowing. The four days are Bhogi (burning old things), Thai Pongal (cooking new rice with milk until it boils over as an offering to Surya), Mattu Pongal (honouring cattle), and Kaanum Pongal (family reunion). The festival predates many of Tamil Nadu's Hindu religious traditions and has distinct agricultural roots.

Sun enters Capricorn (Makara Sankranti) — January 14–17

Mauni Amavasya is traditionally associated with Magha snan, ancestor offerings, and periods of silence. Many devotees bathe at sacred rivers and spend the day in japa, charity, and reflection.

Magha Amavasya

Beginning of spring (vasant); Saraswati's birthday. Saraswati emerged from Brahma's mouth to bestow speech and music on the universe.

Magha shukla panchami (January-February)

Rath Saptami celebrates the sun turning his chariot northward — the symbolic beginning of the sun's ascent toward its full power in summer. According to mythology, on this day Kashyapa Prajapati placed the infant Surya on a chariot drawn by seven horses (representing the seven colors of light / seven days of the week). The day marks Surya's full power. Tirumala (Tirupati) in Andhra Pradesh has its most significant Rath Saptami festival with the Brahmotsavam chariot procession. Bathing in a sacred river or lake on this day is considered meritorious.

Shukla Saptami of Magha (January/February)

According to the Mahabharata, Bhishma chose the auspicious Uttarayana period for his departure. Devotees remember his teachings, offer water, and pray for clarity in dharma.

Magha Shukla Ashtami