Meena Sankranti 2026: Date, time, punya kaal and rituals explained
Meena Sankranti 2026 falls on 15 March. Know the exact date, Sankranti moment, punya kaal, maha punya kaal, and the meaning of this important Sun transit into Meena Rashi in the Hindu calendar.
by India Today Information Desk · India TodayIn Short
- Meena Sankranti 2026 falls on Sunday, 15 March
- The Sankranti moment occurs at 01:08 AM
- Devotees perform charity, prayers and holy baths
Meena Sankranti 2026 will be observed on Sunday, 15 March. The day marks the Sun’s transition from Kumbha Rashi (Aquarius) to Meena Rashi (Pisces), an event that begins the final month of the Hindu solar calendar.
In the Hindu calendar, Sankranti refers to the movement of the Sun from one zodiac sign to another. There are twelve such transitions in a year, each marking the start of a new solar month and often linked with prayers, charity and ritual baths.
For devotees, Meena Sankranti is seen as an auspicious day for good deeds, spiritual practices and donations.
MEENA SANKRANTI 2026 DATE AND MUHURAT
According to the Hindu Panchang, the key timings for Meena Sankranti 2026 are:
- Meena Sankranti date: Sunday, 15 March 2026
- Sankranti moment: 01:08 AM
- Punya Kaal Muhurat: 06:32 AM to 12:31 PM
- Punya Kaal duration: 5 hours 59 minutes
- Maha Punya Kaal: 06:32 AM to 08:32 AM
- Maha Punya Kaal duration: 2 hours
The punya kaal and maha punya kaal are considered the most favourable windows for performing religious rituals, charity and prayers.
WHY MEENA SANKRANTI MATTERS
In astrology, Meena Sankranti marks the Sun’s entry into Pisces. This transit signals the final stage of the solar cycle before the next solar new year begins.
Many believe this period can influence personal and social life. Traditional predictions also suggest balanced commodity prices and positive prospects for traders and businesses during this time.
Spiritually, the day is linked with self-reflection, purification and preparing for a fresh cycle ahead.
RITUALS AND TRADITIONS
On Meena Sankranti, devotees usually begin the day with a holy bath, followed by prayers and offerings to the Sun God. Visiting temples and offering water to Surya are common practices.
Charity is also an important part of the observance. People donate food grains, money or clothes to Brahmins and those in need. Ann daan, dhana daan and vastra daan are among the traditional offerings made on this day.
The aim of these rituals is simple: start the new solar month with a positive mindset while seeking peace and well-being for everyone.
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