The word Sankranti is derived from sat and kranti, meaning "good movement." Sankranti means transmigration of Sun from one constellation of the zodiac to another.

	Devotees taking holy bath in Ganga at Haridwar on Makar Sankranti

The Sun transition from Sagittarius to Capricorn during the winter solstice is known as Makar Sankranti. The journey of Sun traveling northwards is sacred and auspicious.

On Sankranti people bathe in river Ganges (Ganga Snaan) and worshipping the Sun (Surya Puja). On this day Bathing, Worshipping Gods and Goddesses, Fasting and Charity are considered extremely holy deeds.

Makar Sankranti is also known as Khichadi (a dish made from rice and lentils) Sankranti because on this day the injunction to eat Khichadi, is generally observed by people.