Karka Sankranti is on July 16 this year.
On the day of Karka Sankranti, devotees worship Lord Vishnu by observing fast to seek his blessings.
The Sun changes from one sign of the zodiac to another throughout the year. Currently, it is in Gemini and will soon move to Cancer. The day when the Sun will move into Karka rashi, also known as Cancer, is called Karka Sankranti. From this day onwards, the Sun takes its journey towards the south and is therefore called Dakshinayana. It is believed that during this time, the gods go to sleep for six months. On the day of Karka Sankranti, devotees worship Lord Vishnu by observing fast to seek blessings from him. This day is also called Devshayani Ekadashi. According to the scriptures, it is considered fruitful to donate food and clothing on this day. Karka Sankranti also means the beginning of the monsoon season.
People bathe in sacred rivers and donate or offer charity according to their ability. Dr. Ganesh Mishra of Central Sanskrit University, Puri, Odisha revealed the date of Karka Sankranti. As per Vedic calendar calculations, Sun will transition into Karka Zodiac on Tuesday, July 16 at 11:29 am At the time of Sun's transition, there will be Shubh and Ravi Yogs and Vishakha Nakshatra.
According to the expert, Ravi Yog will be from 05:34 am to 02:14 am on the next day, July 17, while Shubh Yog will be from 07:19 am to all night. Vishakha Nakshatra is from morning to late night at 02:14 am
On July 16, Karka Sankranti Maha Punya Kaal will last for 2 hours and 18 minutes from 09:11 am to 11:29 am. The Punya Kaal will last for 5 hours and 55 minutes. It will start before Maha Punya Kaal at 05:34 am and will end at 11:29 am.
On this auspicious day, one should wake up early in the morning and free oneself from daily tasks. Bathing should be done during Maha Punya Kaal. One can take a dip in the holy river or take a bath at home by adding Gangajal to the bath water. After that, devotees should wear clean clothes, worship the Sun, offer it Arghya and continue with charity or donations.
According to religious scriptures, Sankranti is considered important because it can strengthen your luck and remove any flaws in your horoscope. It is believed that all sins are washed away by bathing in holy water and making donations.
