Dhanu Sankranti

सूर्यः धनुरभिप्राप्तः पुण्यकालः प्रतिष्ठितः।
दानं स्नानं जपः कार्या धर्मस्य फलसिद्धये॥

Meaning: When the Sun enters the zodiac sign of Sagittarius (Dhanu Rashi), that time is considered a period of virtue (Punyakal). During this time, performing acts of charity, taking holy baths, and reciting prayers or mantras are believed to lead to the fulfillment of righteousness (Dharma).

This verse highlights the religious significance of Dhanu Sankranti and the deeds to be performed on this auspicious occasion.

Dhanu Sakranti or Dhanu Sankraman is the first day of Poush month. Dhanu Sakranti occurs when the sun crosses over to the zodiac sign Sagittarius which is known as the Dhanu Rashi. In a Hindu calendar year, the sun crosses over to different zodiac signs a total of twelve times. This phenomenon is called Sankranti. This means that there are twelve Sankratis in a year and the first day of a month is Sakranti.

Welcome to the ninth month of this year, Poush. This is the month with the shortest and coldest days and it commemorates Lord Jagannath and Lord Surya.

Lord Krishna proceeded to Mathura on this day, so this Sakranti also commemorates the importance of an initiation for righteousness.

The cold is at its peak, we got to take care of ourselves. This month is also called orangy month as the markets are filled with oranges. Enjoy the month, stay safe.

-Suyog Dhakal