Why we celebrate
Karka Sankranti marks the Sun's entry into the zodiac sign of Cancer (Karka), the beginning of Dakshinayana, the southern course of the Sun.
Solar calendar tradition
Festival Profile
Karka Sankranti
Sun's entry into Cancer, marking the start of Dakshinayana in many traditions.
Karka Sankranti marks the Sun's entry into the zodiac sign of Cancer (Karka), the beginning of Dakshinayana, the southern course of the Sun.
When
Karka Sankranti falls on the day the Sun enters Cancer, around mid-July.
Since when it is followed
The solar transits and the concept of Dakshinayana are ancient, tied to the solar calendar.
Solar tradition
Who celebrates / for whom
Celebrated by Hindus across India, especially in Odisha and coastal regions.
Origin
The origin is the astronomical transit of the Sun into Cancer, marking the start of the southern course (Dakshinayana).
Solar calendar tradition
Key deities
The Sun God (Surya), and in some regions the worship of Lord Jagannath.
How to celebrate
Take a holy bath, offer water to the Sun, and in Odisha perform the Raja festival or worship of Jagannath.
Rituals & offerings
Holy bathing, Sun offering, and the regional worship associated with Dakshinayana.
Key facts
Karka Sankranti begins the Dakshinayana, the southern course of the Sun.
Solar tradition