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UP government declares January 15 a holiday for Makar Sankranti! Devotees are set to throng Ganga ghats, but why is the festival celebrated a day later this year? Read the article for full story.
Uttar Pradesh government has declared January 15 as public holiday
Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government has declared January 15, 2026, as a public holiday on the occasion of Makar Sankranti. According to the official notification, all state government offices, educational institutions, and public-sector establishments will remain closed on the day.
While Makar Sankranti is traditionally celebrated on January 14, this year the festival falls on January 15 for religious purposes. The shift is based on the Punya Kaal Muhurat, which will be observed on January 15 from sunrise until 1 pm. This period is considered auspicious for performing rituals, taking holy dips, and offering charity.
Authorities have anticipated a large gathering of devotees at major Ganga ghats across the state, including Prayagraj, Kanpur, Varanasi, Unnao, Meerut, and Bijnor. Pilgrims are expected to take holy dips in rivers such as the Ganga and Saryu, and offer donations to temples and charitable causes.
Similarly, popular pilgrimage sites in Rishikesh and Haridwar are also expected to witness a surge in devotees. Officials have advised the public to follow safety measures and maintain discipline while visiting the ghats.
Makar Sankranti, also known as the festival of Khichdi, marks the sun’s transition into the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara), governed by Shani. This year, Surya Dev will enter Capricorn on January 14 at 3:13 pm. However, since rituals are traditionally performed in the morning, the auspicious period for religious activities falls on January 15, prompting the government to declare the holiday accordingly.
The festival is celebrated across India as a harvest festival, signifying the end of winter. Devotees engage in ritual baths, charitable acts, and prayers, believing it purifies the soul and brings prosperity.
With the government offices closed and devotees thronging riverbanks, Uttar Pradesh is expected to witness a grand celebration of Makar Sankranti, combining religious devotion and traditional festivities.
