Ratha Saptami, also known as Surya Jayanti, is a Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God). Celebrated on the seventh day (Saptami) of the Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of the moon) in the month of Magha, this festival marks the symbolic birth of Surya and the transition of the sun towards the northern hemisphere. It is believed to bring health, prosperity, and spiritual enlightenment.

Significance of Ratha Saptami

Ratha Saptami is an auspicious day that signifies the movement of the Sun’s chariot (Ratha) towards the northern direction, symbolizing longer and warmer days ahead. It is considered a continuation of Makar Sankranti and is said to represent the beginning of spring and agricultural prosperity.

According to Puranas, the Sun God rides a golden chariot driven by seven horses, representing the seven colors of sunlight or the seven Vedic meters. Worshiping Surya on this day is believed to cleanse sins, improve health, and grant longevity. It is also celebrated as Surya Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Surya.

Rituals and Celebrations

1. Holy Bath and Rangoli

Devotees wake up before sunrise and take a ceremonial bath, often in sacred rivers or at home with water infused with sesame seeds. Some place seven arka (calotropis) leaves on their head while bathing, symbolizing purification. Beautiful rangolis depicting the Sun and chariots are drawn in homes.

2. Surya Puja and Offerings

After the bath, devotees perform Surya Arghya, where water is offered to the Sun while chanting mantras such as the Gayatri Mantra and Aditya Hridayam. Special prayers and food offerings, including jaggery, sesame, and rice-based dishes, are made to the deity.

3. Charity and Fasting

Many observe fasting and donate food, clothes, and other essentials to the needy. Feeding cows and Brahmins is considered highly meritorious.

4. Special Temple Celebrations

Temples dedicated to Surya, such as the Konark Sun Temple (Odisha), Suryanar Temple (Tamil Nadu), and Sun Temple in Modhera (Gujarat), host grand celebrations. The Tirumala Tirupati Balaji Temple also conducts a special Ratha Saptami festival with processions of Lord Venkateswara on seven different vahanas (celestial vehicles).

Spiritual and Astrological Importance

Ratha Saptami holds great astrological significance, as the Sun is considered the soul of the universe in Vedic traditions. Performing Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) and meditating on this day are believed to enhance spiritual wisdom, improve health, and remove karmic debts. It is especially beneficial for those suffering from ailments related to the Sun in their horoscope.

Ratha Saptami is not just a festival but a spiritual reminder of the Sun’s vital role in sustaining life. By worshiping Surya, devotees seek energy, vitality, and divine blessings for overall well-being. The festival serves as a beautiful blend of devotion, gratitude, and cultural traditions that emphasize the importance of nature and cosmic energy in human life.

Dakshinamurthy is a scholar and researcher of Indic themes and a contributing writer of The Verandah Club