Ratha Saptami marks the birth of Lord Surya, the Sun God. It’s celebrated with rituals such as puja, Surya Namaskar, and Surya Yagna to bring blessings of health, wealth, and prosperity.
Hindus celebrate Ratha Saptami, also known as Surya Jayanti, the birth of Lord Surya, the Sun God. The seventh day of the Shukla Paksha (bright half) of the Magha month, which typically falls in January or February, is when it is observed.
The festival is regarded as one of the most fortunate days for Lord Surya worship, and it is believed to bring prosperity, wealth, and health. It is believed that by performing the rituals on this day, one will be successful in all endeavors and overcome obstacles.
Significance of Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami is significant because it marks the birth of Lord Surya, the Sun God who is believed to be the origin of all life and energy on Earth. On this day, Lord Surya is said to have emerged from Sanjana, his mother, and begun his ascension into the heavens.
In addition, the Sun God is revered as the ruler of all stars and planets and is regarded as the creator of the universe. It is said that he can heal and protect and that he gives heat, light, and energy.
Celebration of Ratha Saptami
The festival of Ratha Saptami starts with the custom of scrubbing down in heavenly streams or lakes, like the Ganges, Yamuna, or Sarawati. It is believed that this will cleanse the mind and body and bring health and prosperity.
After that, devotees perform puja and present Lord Surya with sweets, fruits, and flowers. Additionally, they perform the Surya Namaskar, a 12-posture yoga sequence dedicated to the Sun God.
A chariot procession, in which a decorated chariot transports Lord Surya through the streets to the accompaniment of hymns and devotional songs, is also held in some areas.
Rituals of Ratha Saptami
The puja of Lord Surya, in which sweets, fruits, and flowers are presented to him, is Ratha Saptami’s most significant ritual. The puja is typically performed in the early morning, when the sun’s first rays are visible.
The Surya Namaskar, a series of twelve yoga poses dedicated to the Sun God, is another significant ritual. This is frequently performed as part of the puja because it is believed to bring blessings of health and vitality.
In addition, devotees perform the Surya Yagna, a fire ceremony in which fruits, grains, and ghee are offered to Lord Surya. Wealth and prosperity are said to result from this.
Conclusion
Ratha Saptami is a happy festival that celebrates Lord Surya, the Sun God,’s birth. It is celebrated with fervor and devotion and is believed to bring prosperity, wealth, and health. It is believed that Surya Yagna, Surya Namaskar, and puja, which are performed on this day, will remove obstacles and bring success in all endeavors.
When is Ratha Saptami celebrated?
On the seventh day of the Shukla Paksha (bright half) of the Magha month, which typically falls in January or February, Ratha Saptami is observed.
Why is Ratha Saptami considered significant?
Ratha Saptami is significant because it marks the birth of Lord Surya, the Sun God who is believed to be the origin of all life and energy on Earth. It is also believed that on this day, Lord Surya began his ascension into the heavens from Sanjana, his mother.
What are the rituals performed during Ratha Saptami?
The puja of Lord Surya, in which sweets, fruits, and flowers are presented to him, is Ratha Saptami’s most significant ritual. The puja is typically performed in the early morning, when the sun’s first rays are visible. In addition, devotees perform the Surya Yagna, a fire ceremony in which ghee, grains, and fruits are offered to Lord Surya, as well as the Surya Namaskar, a series of 12 yoga postures meant to honor the Sun God.
What are the benefits of celebrating Ratha Saptami?
Health, wealth, and prosperity are said to be blessings associated with Ratha Saptami. It is believed that Surya Yagna, Surya Namaskar, and puja, which are performed on this day, will remove obstacles and bring success in all endeavors.
Are there any special customs followed in certain regions during Ratha Saptami?
During Ratha Saptami, a chariot procession is also held in some areas. In it, Lord Surya rides through the streets in a decorated chariot while devotional songs and hymns accompany him.
