Karka Sankranti 2025: A Sacred Transition into Dakshinayana

 

Date & Sankranti Moment

  • Date: Wednesday, July 16, 2025
  • Sankranti Moment: 10:21 AM IST
  • Punya Kaal: 06:11 AM to 05:40 PM
  • Maha Punya Kaal: 03:34 PM to 05:40 PM

What is Karka Sankranti?

Karka Sankranti marks the Sun’s transition into Karka Rashi (Cancer), initiating the Dakshinayana phase—when the Sun begins its southward journey. This six-month period is considered the night of the devas (gods) and is spiritually reflective.

  • It is the counterpart to Makar Sankranti, which marks the Sun’s northward journey (Uttarayana).
  • It signals the start of the monsoon season and a time for introspection, penance, and ancestral remembrance.

Spiritual Significance

  • Dakshinayana Begins: A time for inner growth, spiritual sadhana, and vratas.
  • Devshayani Ekadashi often coincides with this day, marking the symbolic "sleep" of Lord Vishnu.
  • Ideal for Pitru Tarpanam: Many perform rituals to honor ancestors.
  • Charity (Daan) is highly meritorious—especially food, clothes, and money to Brahmins or the needy.

Rituals & Observances

1. Morning Bath & Surya Arghya

  • Take a holy dip in a river or sacred water body.
  • Offer Arghya (water) to the Sun while chanting:
    • Aditya Hridayam
    • Surya Ashtakam
    • Gayatri Mantra

2. Puja & Fasting

  • Worship Lord Vishnu or Lord Shiva.
  • Observe a satvik fast or consume simple meals.
  • Visit temples and take a sankalpa (spiritual vow) for the upcoming Chaturmas.

3. Charity & Pitru Tarpan

  • Donate jaggery, ghee, clothes, grains, or money.
  • Perform tarpanam to appease ancestors and seek blessings.

Regional Observances

Region

Observance Highlights

Tamil Nadu & Kerala

Surya archana, homams, and special alankaras in temples

Maharashtra & Karnataka

Fasting, daan, and seasonal rituals, especially among women and elders

Odisha & Eastern India

Simple Surya puja at home with seasonal offerings

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