Makarajyothi 2026 | Makara Jyothi Darshanam in 2026, Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple Makara Sankranti Festival

Makarajyothi darshanam

Makarajyothi 2026, Sabarimala Makarajyothi Festival in 2026, when is Makarajyothi in 2026?

Makarajyothi Festival is celebrated on Makara Jyoti Darshanam day near Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple in January every year. In 2026, Makarajyothi date is January 14.

It is a week-long festival usually falls during Makar Sankramana. Prior to this celebration, Makara Jyoti is appeared in Sabarimala forest area.

The arrival of Malikapurathuama on an elephant marks the beginning of Makarajyothi festival. The procession goes on to Patinettampadi, the 18 divine steps of Sabarimala Ayyappa Sannidhanam. After visiting Lord Ayyappa, she goes back to her abode.

Sabarimala Ayyappa Temple Calendar 2025-2026 (Sannidhanam Opening dates, Closing dates in 2026-2027)

Kuruthi Puja is another popular ritual observed during Makarajyothi festival.

Makarajyothi Time is between 6.15 PM and 6.50 PM, 14 January 2026 (Makara Vilakku darshanam time on 14 January 2026 is exactly 6.46 PM to 6.48 PM).

Significance

The Makara Jyothi is considered a divine manifestation of Lord Ayyappa. Devotees believe it symbolizes the deity’s blessings, spiritual illumination, and the victory of good over evil.
It is seen as a celestial star or flame that shines on the Ponnambalamedu hill near the temple, and its sighting brings immense spiritual merit and divine grace to those who witness it.
This event coincides with the sun’s transition into the zodiac sign Capricorn (Makara), marking an auspicious cosmic moment.
The festival includes grand processions, devotional singing, and rituals conveying unity, devotion, and spiritual awakening among pilgrims of all backgrounds.

The Makara Jyothi event is a highlight of the Sabarimala pilgrimage season, fostering community bonding and religious harmony.
It is associated with the legend of Lord Ayyappa’s triumph over the demoness Mahishi and symbolizes divine protection and victory.

In essence, the Makara Jyothi is a sacred, deeply symbolic light that signifies spiritual transcendence, devotion, and divine presence during the important Hindu festival of Makar Sankranti at Sabarimala.