The 10th Annual Surya Sawari Rally brought devotion, tradition, and social harmony together on 14 January 2026. The event marked the auspicious occasion of Makar Sankranti 2026 (मकर संक्रांति 2026). It also celebrated the deeply symbolic Pita–Putra Diwas (पिता–पुत्र दिवस).
On Makar Sankranti, Surya Dev enters Makara Rashi, which Shani Dev rules. Hindu tradition regards Shani Dev as the son of Surya Dev. Astrology often presents them as opposing forces. However, their meeting in Makara Rashi conveys a positive message. It represents respect, balance, renewal, and reconciliation.
Therefore, Krishna Guruji transformed this celestial event into a meaningful celebration of the father–son relationship. Pita–Putra Diwas encourages fathers and sons to overcome differences. It also inspires them to strengthen their bond through love, dialogue, and mutual respect.
Honouring Ancestors on Makar Sankranti 2026
The spiritual journey began at Pitreshwar Hanuman Mandir, Indore, under the guidance of Krishna Guruji. Guruji hoisted the Bhagwa Flag and planted saplings in memory of departed ancestors. Through these sacred acts, participants offered heartfelt Shraddhanjali.
Krishna Guruji also explained the importance of the rare union of Ekadashi and Makar Sankranti. According to him, this sacred combination carries a message of moksha, prayer, and inner purification.
Moreover, planting trees in the names of ancestors creates a living memorial. It honours departed souls while protecting nature. Thus, the initiative connects spiritual faith with environmental and social responsibility.
Ekadashi–Makar Sankranti 2026: Remembering the Bhagirathpura Tragedy
This year’s Makar Sankranti 2026 observance held special importance because it coincided with Ekadashi. On this solemn occasion, participants remembered the victims of the Bhagirathpura tragedy. Several people had lost their lives after drinking contaminated water.
Under Krishna Guruji’s guidance, the Krishna Guruji Social Welfare Society organised a memorial ceremony at Pitreshwar Pitru Parvat. Members planted trees and hoisted flags in memory of the deceased.
They prayed for peace for the departed souls. In addition, they prayed for the speedy recovery of people still receiving treatment. The ceremony expressed collective compassion and social responsibility.
Grand Surya Sawari Rally from Shani Navgrah Mandir, Ujjain
After the memorial ceremony, the celebration continued at Shani Navgrah Mandir, Ujjain. A total of 111 Batuk Brahmins joined the grand palanquin procession of Surya Dev.
The sacred sounds of shankh, damru, and dhol–tasha filled the surroundings. Devotees carried colourful Navgraha flags and walked with faith. As a result, the Surya Sawari Rally became a divine celebration of Pita–Putra Diwas.
The traditions of Shani Navgrah Mandir highlight the spiritual importance of the nine planets. The Skanda Purana also describes the unique roles and domains of the Navgrahas.
During the ceremony, the Batuk Brahmins symbolically represented Shani Dev, the son. They welcomed Surya Dev, the father, through Paada Pooja. This sacred ritual expressed humility, respect, and the eternal bond between a father and son.
Sacred Rituals and the Message of Unity
Krishna Guruji and the temple priests guided the sacred rituals. First, they worshipped Surya Dev with traditional prayers and mantras. Then, they placed the idol of Surya Dev in the decorated palanquin.
Meanwhile, the Batuks carried Navgraha flags during the procession. These flags represented cosmic balance and harmony.
The procession later reached Triveni Sangam, Ujjain. There, devotees performed a special Archana and recited the Aditya Hridayam Stotram. Calls of “Jai Surya Dev” filled the atmosphere with devotion.
Afterwards, the priests installed the idol of Surya Dev in the Shani sanctum under Makara Rashi. This ritual marked the Sun’s auspicious transition on Makar Sankranti 2026.
Finally, everyone chanted Shani–Surya Mantras together. The ceremony reinforced a timeless message. Respect and dialogue can restore unity in every relationship, especially between fathers and sons.
Pitreshwar Pitru Parvat: Ketu, Moksha, and Ancestral Peace
Krishna Guruji explained that the flag at Pitreshwar Pitru Parvat represents Ketu. In astrology, Ketu signifies moksha, detachment, and spiritual awakening.
The sacred site promotes ancestral remembrance, seva, and dharmic action. Furthermore, its tree-plantation tradition combines Sanatan spirituality with environmental protection. In this way, every planted tree becomes a living tribute to an ancestor.
Community Participation and Social Unity
Many members of the Krishna Guruji Social Welfare Society joined the event. They included Anil Kumar Ji, Nitesh Patel Ji, Pinku Yadav Ji, and Bharti Mandloi Ji.
Mahesh Dalodra Ji, Rajendra Gupta Ji, and many respected citizens also participated. People from Ujjain, Indore, and Bhopal joined the initiative. Together, they expressed solidarity with the affected families.
The Society supports many humanitarian and inclusive initiatives. One such initiative was International Yoga Day with people affected by leprosy. Such programmes connect spirituality with compassion and social service.
Transforming Festivals into Human Values
Pita–Putra Diwas reflects Krishna Guruji’s vision of connecting festivals with human values. According to him, festivals should inspire social service and positive action.
Krishna Guruji says, “I do not change festivals; I change the purpose for which we celebrate them.” Therefore, every celebration becomes an opportunity to serve humanity.
Similar initiatives also connect festivals with compassion and public welfare. Readers can explore the Vighnaharta initiative connecting Ganesh Utsav with human service.
Media Coverage of Surya Sawari Rally 2026
Leading media organisations covered the Surya Sawari Rally and its spiritual message. Their reports highlighted the Surya–Shani meeting and the father–son relationship. They also covered the participation of Batuk Brahmins and the traditions of Shani Navgrah Mandir.
Amar Ujala: Preparations for the Divine Surya Sawari in Ujjain
ETV Bharat: Surya Yatra and the Message of the Father–Son Relationship
Amar Ujala: Grand Surya Dev Palanquin Marks the Surya–Shani Reunion
This continued media recognition reflects the event’s spiritual, cultural, and social relevance. It also shows the growing public recognition of Pita–Putra Diwas.
A Message for Every Father and Son
Makar Sankranti celebrates the movement of the Sun towards light and positive change. Similarly, Pita–Putra Diwas encourages fathers and sons to leave ego and misunderstanding behind.
Let every father bless his son with love and wisdom. At the same time, let every son honour his father with gratitude and respect. When families choose dialogue over distance, society becomes stronger.
May the blessings of Surya Dev illuminate our lives. May they strengthen every father–son relationship. May they also guide humanity towards harmony, compassion, and spiritual awakening.
— Krishna Guruji
Spiritual Mentor, Yoga Teacher, Author and Humanitarian
