Karka Sankranti 2021

Sankranti means transmigration of the Sun from one Rāshi to the next. Karka Sankranti marks the southern journey of Lord Surya. Dakshinayana, which is a period of six months, starts with Karka Sankranti. Karka Sankranti is the counterpart of Makar Sankranti and it is considered significant for charity activities.

It is believed that the Gods go to sleep during this phase of six months. MahaVishnu is worshipped on this day along with devotees taking vrat for blessings. Deva Sayani Ekadashi also falls on the same day as Karka Sankranti. It is believed that it is extremely fulfilling to donate food and clothes on this day.

Karka Sankranti is the start of the monsoon season that marks the time agriculture, which is an important source of income in the country. Dakshinayana ends with Makar Sankranti and uttarayan follows. During all the four months of Dakshinayana, people worship Lord Vishnu. Individuals who want to do Pitra tarpan for their ancestors wait for Karka Sankranti to provide the departed souls some peace.

Karka Sankranti Rituals of the Day

• Devotees should take holy bath during sunrise to wash away all sins and start afresh.
• On this day, Lord Vishnu is worshiped and Vishnu Sahsra nama stotram is chanted during the puja. This brings peace and better luck to the devotees.
• It is said, to do all kinds of daan on this day including grains, clothes, and oil especially to Brahmins.
• Along with Lord Vishnu, the Sun God is also prayed and offered puja for health and prosperity on Karka Sankranti.
• One should avoid starting anything new or important on this day, as the day is not very auspicious.  

The purpose of puja and fasting on Karka Sankranti is to get relief from all bad aspects that can affect you or your family. There are many temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu that are flooded with devotees to offer puja on this day. In addition, Lord Varaha Swamy is worshipped on Karkataka Sankranti.