Vrishabha Sankranti 2025 – Welcoming the Energy of Stability and Prosperity

Vrishabha Sankranti, a sacred and spiritually significant day in the Hindu calendar, marks the transition of the Sun into the zodiac sign of Taurus (Vrishabha). It is an occasion of joy, reverence, and reflection for millions of devotees across India. The festival celebrates the change in solar energy, which is believed to usher in a phase of growth, stability, and prosperity in our lives.

This year, Vrishabha Sankranti falls on Thursday, May 15, 2025. As per astrological calculations, the Vrishabha Sankranti moment occurs at 12:21 AM, and the Punya Kaal Muhurta, the most auspicious time for rituals and offerings, extends from 06:03 AM to 12:19 PM. Within this period, the Maha Punya Kala, considered especially beneficial, lasts from 06:03 AM to 08:08 AM.

• Vrishabha Sankranti Punya Kala – May 15, 06:03 AM to 12:19 PM
• Duration – 06 Hours 15 Mins
• Vrishabha Sankranti Maha Punya Kala – May 15, 06:03 AM to 08:08 AM
• Duration – 02 Hours 05 Mins
• Vrishabha Sankranti Moment – May 15, 12:21 AM

What is Vrishabha Sankranti?

Vrishabha Sankranti signifies the Sun’s movement from Mesha Rashi (Aries) to Vrishabha Rashi (Taurus). In the solar Hindu calendar, this marks the beginning of the Vrishabha month, also known as the second month of the year. This shift in the Sun’s position brings renewed cosmic energy that is aligned with prosperity, abundance, and spiritual grounding.

In different parts of India, the festival is known by different names. In Odisha, it is celebrated as Brusha Sankranti, while in South Indian states, it is known as Vrishabha Sankramana or Vrushabha Sankraman.

Why is Vrishabha Sankranti Celebrated?

The core essence of Vrishabha Sankranti lies in its connection to nature and cosmic balance. As the Sun enters Taurus, a sign ruled by Venus, it is believed to bring harmony, patience, and material comfort. People observe this day to honour the Sun’s strength and to seek blessings for a fruitful harvest, well-being, and spiritual clarity.

This transition is also symbolic of the Earth’s shift towards warmth and productivity—an ideal time to begin new ventures or invest in long-term goals. It is a moment to pause, reflect, and channel positive energies into our actions.

Rituals and Celebrations

Vrishabha Sankranti is observed with great devotion across India, though the practices may vary depending on the region. Here are some common rituals and traditions followed on this auspicious day:

• Holy Bath (Sankramana Snana): Taking a dip in sacred rivers, lakes, or even a ritual bath at home is believed to purify the soul and wash away sins. In Odisha, people gather at holy places like Puri for the Brusha Sankranti Snana, a sacred bath to honour ancestors and the Sun God.
• Puja and Offerings: Devotees perform special pujas to Surya (Sun God), Vishnu, and Ganesha. Offerings of seasonal fruits, grains, flowers, and sweets are made during the Punya Kaal for good health and prosperity.
• Charity and Daan: Acts of kindness and charity are central to this day. Devotees donate food, clothes, and money to the poor. Donating cows is considered highly meritorious, especially within the 16 gharis (moments) before the actual Sankranti time.
• Pitra Tarpan: Many also perform rituals for their ancestors to express gratitude and seek their blessings.
• Temple Visits: People visit temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu, praying for wisdom, inner peace, and protection from the cycle of rebirth.
• Festive Foods: Traditional delicacies are prepared and shared among families, adding a warm and celebratory flavour to the day.

Read about Devutthana Ekadashi

Regional Celebrations

The diversity of Indian culture is reflected in the way Vrishabha Sankranti is celebrated across different states:

• In Tamil and Kerala regions, the day is observed with devotion, temple visits, and chanting of Vedic hymns. It falls in the Hindu calendar’s solar cycle and aligns with important local seasonal observances.
• In Telugu households, families prepare for the Sankramana with ritualistic cleaning, offerings, and prayers seeking wealth and harmony.
• In Odisha, as mentioned, Brusha Sankranti is a deeply revered occasion. Devotees gather at the Jagannath Temple in Puri, take ritual baths in the sea, and offer prayers to Lord Vishnu and the Sun God with great devotion.
• In North India, community fairs and cultural gatherings often add a festive spirit, with music, dance, and spiritual discourses.

Mythological Significance

There is also a deeper symbolic connection between Vrishabha Sankranti and Hindu mythology. The bull, known as Vrishabha in Sanskrit, is not only the name of the zodiac sign Taurus but also represents Nandi, the sacred vehicle (vahana) of Lord Shiva.

Scriptures describe the divine duties of the trinity—Brahma (the creator), Vishnu (the sustainer), and Shiva (the destroyer)—who together maintain the balance of the universe. On this day, devotees especially turn to Lord Vishnu, praying for detachment from material illusions (moh and maya) and hoping to attain liberation (moksha).

Thus, Vrishabha Sankranti becomes more than just a solar transition—it is a moment of spiritual alignment, seeking inner stability and divine blessings.

Vrishabha Sankranti is a beautiful blend of celestial rhythm, spiritual significance, and cultural celebration. It invites us to embrace change, express gratitude, and work towards a more grounded and purposeful life. Whether you follow the Tamil calendar, Telugu calendar, or any regional tradition, the core message remains the same—honour the divine cycle of nature and seek balance in all aspects of life.

This May 15th, as the Sun begins its journey through Taurus, let us all welcome the energies of peace, prosperity, and renewal. May the rituals, vrat, and prayers you observe bring positivity into your home and heart.