Ratha Saptami, also known as Magha Saptami, is being celebrated today, February 16th, this year.
It is an auspicious Hindu festival that commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Surya. The term “Ratha Saptami” derives from the words “Ratha,” meaning chariot, and “Saptami,” meaning the seventh day. This festival falls on the seventh day, or saptami, during the Shukla Paksha of the Magha month.
Ratha Saptami Shubh Muhurat
The Saptami Tithi begins at 10:12 am on February 15, 2024. The auspicious time to take a bath on Ratha Saptami is from 5:17 am to 6:59 am. Civil Dawn on Ratha Saptami is at 6:35 am, followed by the observational sunrise time at 6:59 am. The Saptami Tithi ends at 8:54 am on February 16, 2024.
History
The worship of the Sun dates back to ancient times and is mentioned in scriptures such as the Vedas. According to folklore and legends, it is believed that sage Kashyapa and his wife Aditi were blessed with the incarnation of Lord Surya, who was one of the Adityas. Another legend tells the story of a king named Yashovarma who prayed to the Lord for a son, as he had no heir to his reign. His prayers were answered and a son was born to him, but unfortunately, the child was terminally ill. The king performed Ratha Saptami pooja (worship) to get rid of his past sins on being advised by a saint King’s son recovered after performing the rituals and hence went on to rule the kingdom.
Significance
The belief surrounding the Ratha Saptami festival revolves around the popular folklore that the Sun God Surya begins his journey towards the northern hemisphere riding in a ratha or chariot drawn by seven horses. This day is also celebrated as Surya Jayanti, as it is considered to be the day of Lord Surya’s birth.
Ratha Saptami celebrates the beginning of the spring season as Lord Surya starts his journey toward the north and marks the beginning of the harvest season. Farmers across the country head to sun temples seeking blessings of Lord Surya. Experience the divine energy of Ratha Saptami, a vibrant celebration that ushers in the essence of spring and marks the commencement of Lord Surya’s journey towards the north.
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This auspicious occasion holds great significance as it signifies the beginning of a bountiful harvest season, bringing hope and prosperity to farmers across our beautiful country. During this sacred time, devotees from all walks of life flock to sun temples with reverence in their hearts to seek blessings from Lord Surya. The radiant sun god, symbolizing light and warmth, is believed to bless his devotees with abundance and good fortune for the upcoming year. As we embrace Ratha Saptami, let us take a moment to appreciate the vital role that farmers play in our lives. Their unwavering dedication and hard work ensure that our plates are filled with nourishing food throughout the year.
By seeking blessings on this special day, farmers connect deeply with nature’s cycles and renew their commitment to nurturing Mother Earth. In addition to its agricultural significance, Ratha Saptami also holds spiritual importance. It is said that worshipping Lord Surya on this day can purify one’s mind and body while bestowing wisdom, vitality, and strength upon them. By partaking in rituals such as offering prayers at sunrise or performing charitable acts for those less fortunate, individuals can deepen their connection with divinity.
So let us come together on this joyous occasion of Ratha Saptami to celebrate new beginnings and express gratitude for all that we have been blessed with. May Lord Surya’s benevolent rays illuminate our path toward success and shower us with abundant prosperity throughout this harvest season!
Festivities
On this day people worship the Sun God who is believed to bring good luck and cleanse one of their sins. Devotees wake up early in the morning, offer arghya to the rising sun, and observe a day-long fast on this day. Farmers pray for a bountiful harvest and favorable weather conditions throughout the year. This day serves as a momentous occasion to express gratitude towards the Sun which illuminated the entire world with its warmth and brightness, which also makes life possible on Earth. Ratha Saptami is the perfect occasion to donate clothes and food to the poor and pray for longevity, prosperity, and good health.
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