Bhogi 2026: Welcoming Sankranti with Fire, Faith, and Fresh Beginnings

Hyderabad, January 14, 2026

Bhogi, the first day of the grand Sankranti festival, was celebrated across India on January 14, 2026, with traditional fervor, spiritual devotion, and cultural pride. Marking the end of the old and the beginning of the new, Bhogi symbolizes renewal, gratitude, and hope.

Bhogi is dedicated to Lord Indra, the god of rain and prosperity. Farmers express their gratitude for a successful harvest season, while families welcome the auspicious transition of the Sun into Makara Rasi (Capricorn), signifying the start of the harvest festival known as Makara Sankranti.

Tradition of Bhogi Bonfire

One of the most prominent rituals of Bhogi is the Bhogi Mantalu—bonfires lit in the early hours of the morning. Old household items, broken furniture, and unused belongings are offered to the fire, symbolizing the burning away of negativity, bad memories, and past hardships. The ritual encourages people to embrace positivity and new beginnings.

Children danced around the bonfires, elders offered prayers, and neighborhoods echoed with folk songs, drum beats, and joyful greetings.

Bhogi Pallu: Blessings for Children

In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the beautiful tradition of Bhogi Pallu was performed, where elders showered children with a mixture of flowers, sugarcane pieces, coins, and fruits. This ritual is believed to protect children from evil influences and bless them with health, wisdom, and prosperity.

Temples, homes, and community centers witnessed colorful celebrations as families gathered to perform this cherished custom.

Rangoli, Sugarcane and Festive Flavors

Homes were decorated with vibrant Muggulu (rangoli), fresh mango leaves, and turmeric plants. Sugarcane stalks, a symbol of sweetness and abundance, adorned entrances. Special dishes such as pongal, ariselu, sakinalu, and tilgul were prepared, filling homes with festive aromas.

Environmental Awareness

In many cities, residents opted for eco-friendly Bhogi celebrations by avoiding plastic waste and burning only biodegradable materials. Social organizations and civic bodies urged people to celebrate Bhogi responsibly, keeping air quality and public health in mind.

A Festival of Unity and Gratitude

Bhogi is more than a ritual—it is a celebration of gratitude to nature, respect for tradition, and hope for a prosperous future. It unites families, communities, and generations under the warmth of fire and faith.

As Bhogi 2026 ushered in Sankranti celebrations, it reminded everyone that letting go of the old is essential to welcome new joy, success, and harmony.