Sarva PanchangSarva Panchang
Sankranti

Simha Sankranti

Also called: Singha Sankranti, Ghee Sankranti, Olgia

Marks the Sun entering its own ruling sign, Leo (Simha). Classified as the third Vishnupadi Sankranti of the year. In its own sign, the Sun represents regal authority, health, and vitality. Punya Kaal is observed for 16 ghatis prior to ingress.

Key facts

Paksha
Vishnupadi Class
Lunar month
Sun enters Simha (Leo) in Shravana / Bhadrapada
Observed on
The day the Sun enters Simha Rashi (~August 16-17)
Deities
Surya Dev (in his own sign), Lord Vishnu, Lord Shiva

The story

In Uttarakhand and the Himalayan foothills, it is celebrated as Ghee Sankranti (Olgia). Traditional lore holds that consuming fresh cow ghee on this day sharpens the intellect, protects the body during damp monsoon conditions, and honors agrarian productivity.

Practices

  • Holy bath during the morning Punya Kaal window
  • Consuming pure cow ghee and rotis stuffed with urad dal in Uttarakhand
  • Artisans, farmers, and weavers offering gifts of their produce (olgia) to landowners and family elders
  • Sun worship with red lotus flowers and aditya stotras

Regional variations

  • Known as Avani in Tamil Nadu, Chingam in Kerala (marking the start of the Malayalam New Year and Onam season)

Common questions

Why is ghee eaten on Simha Sankranti in Uttarakhand?
Folk wisdom states that consuming ghee on this day enhances memory, strengthens digestion, and ensures physical vitality during the damp monsoon season.

Types of Sankranti