List of Festivals on January 14, 2026 in India

India is set to immerse itself in a rich array of cultural and religious festivities on January 14, 2026, as several prominent harvest festivals converge on this auspicious date. From the northern plains to the southern tip, communities will celebrate the sun's northward journey (Uttarayan) and the bounty of the harvest season. The list of key celebrations includes Makar Sankranti, observed widely across central and western India, Pongal in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, Lohri predominantly in Punjab, and Magh Bihu in Assam, each marked by unique customs, rituals, and culinary traditions. These festivals collectively underscore India's deep agricultural roots and its diverse cultural heritage. Is 1st January 2026 the Hindu New Year?

Makar Sankranti: A Pan-Indian Observance

Makar Sankranti stands as one of India's most significant pan-Indian festivals, celebrated with varying customs but a unified spirit. It marks the day when the sun enters the zodiac sign of Capricorn (Makara), signifying the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. Devotees often take holy dips in rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and Godavari, believing it purifies them of sins. A popular tradition involves flying kites, particularly in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan, where the skies become a canvas of colourful kites. The consumption of sesame (til) and jaggery (gur) sweets is also central to the celebrations, symbolising warmth and well-being during the transition from winter. Simple Rangoli, Muggulu, Kolam Design Ideas For Makar Sankranti 2026.

Pongal: Tamil Nadu's Celebration of Abundance

In Tamil Nadu, January 14, 2026, will usher in Pongal, a four-day harvest festival dedicated to the Sun God, Surya, and cattle. The first day, Bhogi Pongal, involves discarding old belongings and lighting bonfires, symbolising new beginnings. The main day, Surya Pongal, sees families preparing 'Pongal,' a sweet dish of freshly harvested rice boiled with milk and jaggery, offered to the Sun God. Mattu Pongal, the third day, is dedicated to cattle, which are adorned with bells and garlands and worshipped for their role in agriculture. The festival is a vibrant display of gratitude, community feasting, and traditional folk arts.

Lohri and Magh Bihu: Regional Harvest Traditions

Further north, Punjab and surrounding regions will celebrate Lohri on the evening of January 13th, leading into the 14th. This festival is characterised by bonfires, around which people gather to sing folk songs, dance, and offer popcorn, peanuts, and sweets to the flames, seeking blessings for prosperity and a good harvest. It holds special significance for newlyweds and new mothers. Simultaneously, in the northeastern state of Assam, Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu, will be celebrated. This harvest festival is marked by community feasts, traditional games like buffalo fights and pot breaking, and the construction of temporary huts called 'Meji' and 'Bhelaghar', which are later set ablaze, symbolising the end of the harvest season and the beginning of a new agricultural cycle.

Key Details and List About Festivals on January 14, 2026, in India:

Makar Sankranti: Celebrated across North and Central India on Jan 14, marking the sun's entry into Capricorn.

Bhogi Pongal: The first day of the 4-day Pongal festival in Tamil Nadu falls on Jan 14 (burning of old items).

Uttarayan: The famous kite-flying festival in Gujarat coincides with this date.

Magh Bihu: In Assam, the eve of the festival (Uruka) often begins on the 14th with community feasts.

These concurrent celebrations on January 14, 2026, highlight the rich tapestry of India's cultural landscape. While each festival carries its distinct regional flavour and customs, they are united by common themes of gratitude for the harvest, reverence for nature, and the joyous spirit of community. As the nation transitions from winter to spring, these festivals serve as a vibrant reminder of India's enduring traditions and its deep connection to the agricultural rhythm of life.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 10, 2026 03:10 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).