❓ What is Sankranti, how many Sankrantis are there in a year, what are their names, and what is their religious significance?

When the Sun moves from one zodiac sign and enters another, it is called Sankranti. There are 12 zodiac signs in astrology, so according to the Sun entering from one sign to another, there are generally 12 Sankrantis in a year.

The names of Sankrantis are based on the zodiac sign in which the Sun enters. The 12 Sankrantis are — Mesha Sankranti, Vrishabha Sankranti, Mithuna Sankranti, Karka Sankranti, Simha Sankranti, Kanya Sankranti, Tula Sankranti, Vrishchika Sankranti, Dhanu Sankranti, Makar Sankranti, Kumbha Sankranti, and Meena Sankranti.

Sankranti holds special significance in Hindu religious tradition. On these days, there is a tradition of taking holy baths, making donations, worshiping, and performing religious acts. The religious significance of different Sankrantis also varies.

Among these, Makar Sankranti has special significance. When the Sun enters Makara Rashi, it is called Makar Sankranti. On this day, there is a tradition of taking a holy bath in a sacred river or pilgrimage, worshiping the Sun God, and making donations. The religious belief of the Sun turning northward (Uttarayan) is also associated with Makar Sankranti.

Thus, Sankranti is not only an astronomical event related to the Sun's transition of signs, but it also holds special significance in Hindu religious traditions.