Sankranti 2026 in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana - Telugu Sankranthi Festival in 2026

Sankranti is an important festival observed by Telugu speaking people in Pushya Month (January – February) in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. In 2026, the date of Sankranti festival is January 14 as per panchangs. The punyakal as per certain Telugu Panchangam and calendar is from PM on January 14, 2026. It is observed during the same period as Makar Sankranti and is quite similar to the Pongal festival observed in Tamil Nadu. Sankranti is a four day festival in Telugu culture and is dedicated to Lord Surya.

4-Day Sankranti Festival And Celebrations In Andhra Pradesh and Telangana

• The first day of Sankranti festival is known as Bhogi - January 13, 2026.
• Sankranti the most important festival is observed on the second day - January 14, 2026.
• Kanuma is observed on the third day of the festival - January 15, 2026.
• Mukkanuma is observed on the fourth day of the festival mainly in the coast districts of Andhra Pradesh - January 16, 2026.

Uttarayana Punyakalam period begins with Sankranthi and the next six months is the day time of Devas and is considered highly auspicious.

On the Sankranthi day, ‘Pongali’, a dish prepared from the recent rice harvest is offered to Sankranthi Lakshmi. This is quite similar to the dish prepared in neighboring Tamil Nadu during Pongal. An important side dish prepared on the day is the pumpkin curry. 'Arselu' or special ‘Sankranthi Appam' is an important sweet delicacy prepared during Sankranthi.

A major highlight of Sankranthi festival in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana is charity or alms giving. Most people make it a point to share whatever they have with other people. Sweets and milk products are shared between relatives and neighbors. Gifting pumpkin is another highlight. Idols of various gods in the Hindu pantheon, bronze utensils, and clothes are given away on the day.