INVC News
Haridwar, Kashi : Kark Sankranti, also known as Kartak Sankranti and Dakshin Kartak Jayanti, holds immense significance among Hindus. Falling during the month of Shravan, which is dedicated to Lord Shiva, this auspicious occasion marks the beginning of the Dakshinayan period.
The Date and Significance of Kark Sankranti
Kark Sankranti is observed during the Krishna Paksha in the month of Sawan, specifically on July 16, 2023. This year, Kark Sankranti carries special importance based on the zodiac sign and planet alignment. It is considered highly auspicious to engage in acts of charity and worship during this time.
Auspicious Timings for Kark Sankranti
To make the most of Kark Sankranti, it is crucial to be aware of the auspicious timings associated with the occasion. The Punya Kaal, which is the period of maximum auspiciousness, is from 12:25 PM to 07:16 PM on July 16, 2023. Additionally, the Maha Punya Kaal, a highly auspicious duration, occurs from 04:59 PM to 07:16 PM on the same day.
Rituals and Donations Based on Zodiac Signs
Each zodiac sign holds its own set of rituals and donation practices for Kark Sankranti. Let’s explore the specific recommendations for each sign:
1. Aries
For individuals born under the Aries sign, it is advised to put kumkum in water, offer it to the sun, and donate jaggery.
2. Taurus
Taurus natives should consider donating silver or white flowers, pouring milk in water as an offering to the Sun God, and performing Arghya.
3. Gemini
Individuals with the Gemini zodiac sign can mix sesame seeds in water and offer Arghya to the Sun God. Donating green moong to the needy is also highly beneficial.
4. Cancer
People belonging to the Cancer sign are recommended to donate silver, white sesame rice, or white cloth to those in need.
5. Leo
Leo individuals should adorn the day of Sankranti with red flowers, offer water from a pot to the Sun, and donate copper or orange-colored clothes to the less fortunate.
6. Pisces
Pisces natives are advised to chant mantras with devotion to the Sun God and donate saffron to the needy. Donating educational items to children is also considered auspicious.
7. Virgo
On the day of Kark Sankranti, Virgo individuals can plant peepal or basil in their house or outside, and donate sesame seeds to those in need.
8. Libra
For those with the Libra zodiac sign, mixing sugar candy in the water of Libra zodiac and offering Arghya to the Sun is recommended. Donating sugar and umbrellas to the needy can also bring positive outcomes.
9. Scorpio
Scorpio natives are advised to donate lentils and jaggery to the underprivileged. This act is believed to fulfill their wishes.
10. Sagittarius
Individuals born under the Sagittarius sign can put turmeric in water, offer it to the Sun God, and donate fruits, brass utensils, or pulses.
11. Capricorn
For Capricorn natives, reciting Suryashtakam during the Brahma Muhurta is suggested. Donating slippers and black sesame seeds on this day is considered auspicious.
12. Aquarius
Aquarius individuals can recite Surya Chalisa after bathing in the morning and donate umbrellas and blankets.
Significance of Kark Sankranti and Dakshinayan
Kark Sankranti is one of the twelve Sankranti days in a year, signifying the transition of the Sun from one zodiac house to another. This auspicious occasion marks the beginning of a new month in the Hindu calendar. Additionally, Karka Sankranti initiates the arrival of the rainy season according to Hindu mythology.
Dakshinayan, a period lasting six months, concludes with the Makar Sankranti festival. On this day, Lord Vishnu is revered across the country, and devotees engage in charitable acts by donating food items and clothes. These offerings hold immense auspiciousness.
During the month of Shravan, Shiva devotees worship Lord Shiva through rituals and offerings. Rock worship is particularly significant during the monsoon season. On the day of Kark Sankranti, performing Pitru Tarpan, Pind Daan, and taking a bath at sunrise are highly important.
Shradh, a ritual performed on Kark Sankranti, holds the belief that by performing Shraddha during Dakshinayana, the eldest member of a family paves the way for their ancestors to attain divine peace and stability.
As per the scriptures, waking up before sunrise, taking a bath, and worshipping Lord Vishnu, Lord Surya, and Lord Shiva on Kark Sankranti are essential practices for devotees to follow.
