In Hinduism, a total of 12 Sankrantis are celebrated throughout the year, each holding its own special significance. Among these Sankrantis, Kanya Sankranti holds a special place. On this day, the Sun God leaves his own sign, Leo, and enters Virgo. From an astrological perspective, this transition is considered special because this transit of the Sun promotes qualities like analysis, intelligence, and practicality.
When is Kanya Sankranti in 2025?
According to the Hindu calendar, Kanya Sankranti in the year 2025 falls on September 17th. On this day, the Sun God will leave Leo and enter Virgo in the afternoon. Along with this, the religious significance of this day increases even more because this is the time when Pitru Paksha is considered to begin.
Auspicious Time for Worship
According to the Panchang, the Punyakal of Kanya Sankranti will start from 1:46 PM on September 17th and will last till 6:19 PM. This period of approximately 4 hours and 33 minutes is considered extremely meritorious. During this time, charity, bathing, and worship are said to be of special importance.
Apart from this, the Mahapunyakal will be from 1:46 PM to 3:31 PM. This period is considered most suitable for religious rituals, Sun worship, and donation.
What to do on this day
- Offering Arghya to the Sun: On the day of Kanya Sankranti, people offer water to the Sun from the morning itself. During this, the mantra 'Om Ghrini Suryaya Namah' is chanted. It is believed that offering Arghya to the Sun with this mantra increases self-confidence and removes negative energy.
- Special importance of donation: This day is considered very suitable for charity. Donating sesame seeds, jaggery, rice, clothes, and ghee especially gives auspicious results. In many places, people also feed the poor.
- River Bathing: If possible, taking a bath in holy rivers on this day is considered very beneficial. Those who are unable to take a river bath can bathe at home by mixing Ganga water.
- Day of Vishwakarma Puja: Another important aspect of Kanya Sankranti is Vishwakarma Puja. This day is especially important for artisans, engineers, and people associated with machinery. On this day, machines are worshiped in many factories, workshops, and offices, and Lord Vishwakarma is invoked.
Indication of the beginning of Pitru Paksha
Pitru Paksha is also considered to start with Kanya Sankranti. In Hindu traditions, this time is special for the peace of the souls of ancestors. During this period, deeds like Shraddha, Tarpan, and Pind Daan are performed. In such a situation, the day of Kanya Sankranti is also an opportunity to remember the ancestors and express gratitude towards them.
Effect of Sun's Transit
According to astrologers, when the Sun enters Virgo, it affects a person's thinking, reasoning power, and analytical ability. Virgo is considered to be the sign of the planet Mercury, which represents intelligence and communication. In such a situation, the effect of this transit of the Sun can be clearly seen on tasks related to business, education, communication, and analysis.
Time for Religious Events
In many states, religious events are held especially in Sun temples on this day. People observe fasts, light lamps in temples, and worship the idol of the Sun in their homes. Special preparations are also made regarding Vishwakarma Puja in North India, East India, and especially in the areas of Bengal, Odisha, and Jharkhand.
Festival related to culture
Kanya Sankranti is not only an astrological event but also a part of Indian culture. This day is dedicated to introspection, charity, and devotion to ancestors through the worship of the Sun. This festival is special in some form or the other for every class, whether it is a farmer, an artisan, or an ordinary householder.