Blog

Meena Sankranti also known as Mina Sankramanam marks the Sun’s movement from the zodiac sign Pisces (Meena Rashi) to Aries (Mesh Rashi). This event usually occurs around March 14th or March 15th. The process of the Sun’s movement between zodiac signs has been named Sankranti in Hinduism.

This day is celebrated with different customs and traditions in different regions of India. But all of them honour the Sun’s movement and the importance of this event in the Hindu calendar. In this article, we explore the date, importance and meaning of this religious day.

Meena Sankranti 2024: Date and Time

In 2024, Meena Sankranti will take place on Thursday, March 14, the time is 12:46 PM. This day and time is calculated using the Hindu lunisolar calendar.

Significance of Meena Sankranti

Meena Sankranti is an important event as it signifies the beginning of Spring and the change in weather from cold to warm. There’s a change in nature as flowers bloom, birds migrate and the energy around us changes.

Apart from the seasonal shift, this day is also seen as a good time for religious practices and rituals. People believe that performing rituals associated with this day with sincerity and devotion can bring blessings from heaven and good luck. 

The Story Behind Meena Sankranti

Like many other religious festivals, there are various different legends behind Meena Sankranti as well. One of these legends from the Hindu scriptures state that this day is linked to the sacred river Ganga and her appearance on Earth.

As per this story, King Bhagirath performed rituals with devotion to bring the holy river Ganga to Earth. He did so to cleanse the souls of his ancestors. Ganga was pleased with his discipline and devotion and decided to come to Earth. Lord Shiva had to intervene and slow down the force of her fall down to Earth. Due to this reason, it’s believed that no damage was done to the planet. 

Religious followers believe that this event occurred on the day the Sun moved into the Pisces zodiac (Meena). This day stands as a reminder for devotees of the importance of balance and harmony in the world.

The Rituals and Traditions of Meena Sankranti

Meena Sankranti is celebrated with different customs and rituals in different regions of India. However, some common rituals include taking a bath or dip in sacred rivers, praying to Surya the Sun god, and donating items such as money, food, and clothes to help the less fortunate. On this day, people also eat traditional food items.

Lighting lamps and praying to the Sun to offer thanks for warmth and light are also some rituals in some regions. People also organize and attend fairs, cultural programs, and community programs.

This day is a celebration of the seasonal change and connect with our spiritual energy and honour India’s rich cultural history. So, enjoy the warmth and energy of the Sun and let’s appreciate the beautiful nature on this day.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the 3 dates of Sankranti 2024?

In total there are 12 Sankrantis every year associated with the movement of the Sun between the 12 zodiac signs. Following Meena Sankranti on March 14 are Mesha Sankranti on April 13 and Vrishabha Sankranti on May 14.

Which color not to wear on Sankranti 2024?

Usually black is the colour that is avoided during Sankranti.

What is the significance of Meena Sankranti?

Mina Sankramanam signifies the seasonal change to spring and the importance and power of devotion and discipline. 

Is Sankranti on 14th or 15th?

This year Mina Sankramanam will be celebrated on March 14th