Karka Sankranti 2023 Date, Time, Rituals, and Importance
The day on which the Sun enters the Karka zodiac sign is known as Karka Sankranti. This day marks the beginning of the southern journey of the Sun God, also known as the Dakshinayana. It is believed that Gods slumber for six months each year. Lord Vishnu is worshipped alongside devotees fasting for blessings on this day. This day is Deva Sayani Ekadashi as well. On this day, it is said to be extremely rewarding to donate food and clothing.
Karka Sankranti is the beginning of the monsoon season, which signifies the beginning of agriculture, an essential source of income for the country. Dakshinayana ends with Makar Sankranti and uttarayan follows. During all four months of Dakshinayana, Lord Vishnu is worshipped. Those who wish to perform Pitra tarpan for their ancestors await Karka Sankranti in order to grant the peace of the departed spirit.
Karka Sankranti Date 2023
Sunday 16 July 2023
Rituals of Karka Sankranti
- To purge their sins and begin anew, devotees should take a sacred bath at dawn.
- During the puja on this particular day, the Vishnu Sahsra nama stotram is chanted. This brings serenity and good fortune to the devotees.
- On this day, it is customary to give all types of daan, including cereals, clothing, and oil, to Brahmins.
- On Karka Sankranti, along with Lord Vishnu, the Sun God is also prayed to for health and prosperity.
- Avoid beginning anything new or significant on this day, as the day is not particularly auspicious.
Importance of Karka Sankranti
The ‘Savan Sankranti’, also known as ‘Karka Sankranti,’ signifies the beginning of the wet season. The night of the gods commences, and ‘Chaumasa’ or ‘Chaturmas’ begins as well. This period is extremely restrained from a behavioural perspective, as the vengeful instincts are at their most active. Additionally, a person’s heart has a tendency to move more in the incorrect direction. A person is therefore prepared to live a pure existence if he adheres to moderation and incorporates purity into his thoughts.