Mumbai: As the Sun shifts its position in the zodiac, it marks key transitional points that carry deep astrological and spiritual significance in Indian culture. One such transition is Mithun Sankranti, observed when the Sun moves from Taurus (Vrishabh Rashi) to Gemini (Mithun Rashi). This event will take place on 15 June 2025, marking a spiritually charged day for worship, charity, and regional festivities across India.

In astrology, every time the Sun enters a new zodiac sign, it is called a Sankranti, and there are 12 such Sankrantis in a year. Among them, Mithun Sankranti is regarded as a Shashthi-mukhi Sankranti—a six-faced Sankranti—believed to bring significant energetic changes. According to tradition, auspicious activities and charity performed during the 16 ghatis (approximately 6.4 hours) following the Sankranti moment are especially fruitful. The day is also deeply associated with rituals honouring Earth, Sun, and feminine energies in different parts of the country.

What is the Importance of Mithun Sankranti?

Mithun Sankranti is more than just a planetary movement; it is a symbolic moment of transition that reflects a shift in solar energy. In Odisha, the festival is celebrated as Raja Parba, a three-day event honouring Mother Earth’s fertility cycle and seasonal change. In eastern and northeastern India, Mithun Sankranti is also viewed as the Earth goddess’s monthly menstruation—a time when the land is allowed to rest before the onset of the monsoon.

This makes Mithun Sankranti not only astrologically relevant but also agriculturally and environmentally conscious in its celebration. Across many regions, devotees worship traditional tools like sil-batta (grinding stones) as representations of Shakti and prosperity.

Types of Sankranti in the Hindu Calendar

All 12 Sankrantis in a year are classified into four main categories:

• Ayan sankranti
• Vishuva (or Sampat) sankranti
• Vishnu sankranti
• Shashthi-Mukhi (Six-Faced) Sankranti
• Mithun Sankranti falls under the last category and holds a special place due to its connection with divine femininity and solar power.

Rituals and puja vidhi for mithun sankranti 2025

• Early Morning Bath: Begin the day with a sacred bath before sunrise.
• Surya Arghya: Offer water to the rising Sun (Surya Arghya) with red flowers in a copper vessel.
• Mantra Chanting: Sit on a red mat and chant the Surya Mantra: “Om Ghrini Surya Aditya Namah”
• Worship Lord Vishnu and Bhudevi: Devotees worship Lord Vishnu along with Goddess Bhudevi (Earth Goddess).
• Dress in Traditional Attire: In Odisha, people wear traditional garments and decorate special stones symbolising the Earth.
• Swing Celebrations: Young girls dress beautifully and enjoy swings hung from banyan trees.
• Ancestor Worship: Many perform Pitru Puja near rivers or temples.
• Dance Rituals: Both men and women dance barefoot on the Earth to welcome the rains.
• Charity & Gifts: Donating items, especially cows, is considered highly auspicious.

(Disclaimer: The information provided is based on traditional beliefs and religious texts. News9 Live does not endorse or validate these claims.)