16/01/2026
SANKRANTI
The Significance, Traditions, and Spiritual Meaning of Sankranti
(Specifically Makar Sankranti) as taught by Her Holiness Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi.
1. Definition and Astronomical Significance
According to Her teachings, Sankranti marks a significant celestial transition.
Meaning: The word derives from San meaning "good," "holy," or "auspicious," and Krant (or Kranti) meaning "revolution" or "transition." Therefore, Sankranti signifies a "holy revolution" or an auspicious change (Mumbai, January 14, 1984; London, August 26, 1980; Pune, January 14, 2002).
Solar Movement: It is the specific day when the Sun changes its axis and moves from the Tropic of Capricorn (Makar) toward the Tropic of Cancer (Karka). This movement signifies the Sun travelling from the South to the North (Mumbai, January 14, 1985; Rahuri, January 14, 1987; Pune, January 14, 2004).
The Solar Calendar: Unlike most Indian festivals which are based on the lunar calendar and therefore change dates annually, Makar Sankranti follows the solar calendar. Consequently, it almost always falls on the 14th of January, though She noted it fell on the 15th in 1988 due to planetary adjustments (Mumbai, January 10, 1988; Pune, January 14, 1991).
Seasonal Change: It marks the end of the coldest winter days in India and the beginning of the harvest season and warmer weather. It is a time when the Earth begins to receive the warmth of the Sun again, symbolising the warmth of God's love (Rahuri, January 14, 1987; New Delhi, October 25, 1995).
2. Cultural Traditions and Symbolism
Shri Mataji explains the deep cultural practices associated with this festival, particularly the consumption of sweets.
Sesame and Jaggery: It is traditional to exchange sweets made of sesame seeds (til) and jaggery (gur) or sugar.
Physical Reason: Sesame seeds are rich in oil and heat-giving, which is beneficial for the body as it transitions out of the cold season (Mumbai, January 10, 1988).
Psychological Reason: As the Sun's heat increases, it can affect the liver, making people hot-tempered or bitter. The sweets are given with the phrase, "We give you sweet so you also speak sweetly" (Tilgul ghya goad goad bola), to counteract this heat and promote sweetness in speech and relationships (Dhulia, January 13, 1983; Pune, January 14, 2002).
The Culture of Giving: Sankranti is a day to acquire the habit of giving. She emphasises that one should give with all one's heart to neighbours, family, and the needy, rather than just donating to priests. It represents the nature of the Sun, which burns itself to give light and life to others (Rahuri, January 14, 1987).
Women's Traditions: In some regions, ladies exchange bangles as a sign of auspiciousness. She notes that men are not given bangles as it is culturally seen as insulting to their valour (London, August 26, 1980).
3. Spiritual Significance in Sahaja Yoga
Beyond the physical and cultural aspects, Shri Mataji reveals the subtle spiritual importance of this day.
The Agnya Chakra and Forgiveness: The Sun governs the Agnya Chakra, the centre of Christ. Because the Sun's heat can cause anger and ego, it is vital to cleanse the Agnya on this day. She teaches that the best way to do this is through forgiveness, which is the quality of Lord Jesus Christ: "In place of anger, there should be forgiveness" (Pune, January 14, 2004).
Self-Confidence: The "Sun-power" represents self-confidence. On Sankranti, one should utilise the light of the Sun to become radiant and confident, rather than getting "scorched" by its heat through ego or anger (Pune, March 17, 2002).
Internal Revolution: Just as the Sun changes its course, this day signifies an internal revolution (Sankramana) for the seeker. It is a time to leave behind old habits and darkness and move toward the "active Divinity" of the Krita Yuga, the Golden Age (Mumbai, January 14, 1984; Lonavala, January 26, 1982).
The Mother Principle: She explains that the Sun moving toward the Tropic of Cancer is significant because the sign of Cancer represents the Mother. However, sinning against the Mother principle can lead to Karka Roga (Cancer), which is a heat-producing disease. Sankranti is a time to balance this heat (Dhulia, January 13, 1983).
And this year Shri Surya decided to treat us with a magnificent recognition of Sankranti by beaming His love for our Holy Mother through Her Palazzo Doria, the 15th-century castle in Cabella Ligure, a village in the province of Alessandria, Italy, built by the Duke of Genoa.
