Healer Pooja Seth Shares the Spiritual Significance and Rituals of Makar Sankranti

Mumbai: Renowned healer Pooja Seth highlights the deep astrological and karmic importance of Makar Sankranti, calling it one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu calendar. According to her, this year’s Makar Sankranti holds even greater power as it marks a rare celestial alignment of Surya (the Sun God) and Lord Vishnu, a divine union that is believed to occur after nearly 32–35 years.
“Makar Sankranti is known as the day of God. It signifies a powerful shift of energy, purification of karma, and the beginning of positive, long-lasting results,” says Pooja Seth. “Any spiritual or constructive action performed on this day bears fruits for a long time.”
She explains that while charity is highly encouraged, one must avoid ann daan (donation of cooked food) on this specific day. Instead, til daan (donation of sesame seeds) is considered extremely auspicious. Ann daan can be performed the following day.
Pooja also emphasizes the importance of ritualistic cleansing. Bathing during Brahma Muhurat and adding sesame seeds and a few drops of Ganga jal to the water is believed to purify the body and mind. Rubbing crushed sesame seeds on the body before bathing is said to remove negative energies and cleanse past karmic impressions.
Offering water (arghya) to the Sun God, lighting a diya at home, observing a fast, and donating warm or white clothes are among the key practices recommended. Seeking blessings from elders and consuming satvik (pure vegetarian) food further enhances the spiritual merit of the day.
In the evening, lighting sesame oil lamps and performing gratitude prayers in the Uttar-Purva (north-east) direction is considered highly beneficial for mental peace and spiritual growth.
She also lists a few important don’ts:
-Avoid arguments and negative speech
-Stay away from non-vegetarian food and alcohol
-Refrain from unnecessary spending
She ends by saying, “Makar Sankranti is a day to balance the mind, purify karma, and align with higher energies. The discipline and positivity you maintain on this day sets the tone for your spiritual journey ahead.”