Makar Sankranti & Ekadashi: Can You Eat or Donate Rice on Jan 14? Vedic Scholar Explains

• Makar Sankranti falls on January 14 this year, coinciding with Ekadashi, causing confusion about rice consumption and donation.
• Astrologer Durgesh Tare suggests celebrating Makar Sankranti on January 15 (Dwadashi) for better auspiciousness, as festivals begin with Udaya Tithi.
• If celebrating on January 14, donating rice is permissible, as khichdi holds special significance and rice is 'Brahma Anna'.
• However, eating rice on January 14 is prohibited due to Ekadashi; fasting and consuming fruits are recommended, with grain consumption on January 15.
• Donations of rice, lentils, sesame, jaggery, gajak, peanuts, clothes, money, and utensils are highly auspicious on Makar Sankranti.

Why It Matters: While donating rice on Makar Sankranti (Jan 14) is fine, avoid eating it due to Ekadashi; Jan 15 is better for celebration.