What is Ratha saptami?

Ratha saptami is a festival devoted to Lord Surya. It is the birth anniversary of lord Surya. (Sun God)

When does it occur?

Raptha saptami is observed on the saptami (7^th day) of the Shukla paksha during the month of Magha (Jan-Feb).

What are the other names of Ratha Saptami?

Ratha Saptami is also known as Surya jayanthi, Magh Jayanthi or Magha saptami.

Ratha Saptami date?

24-Jan-2018

Cause of the name – Ratha Saptami?

The word Ratha means chariot and Sapta means seven which also relates to the number of horses that pull his chariot.

Read the connection between Lord Surya and Time

Celebrations on Ratha Saptami?

There are lots of temples that venerate the Sun god. The Ratha Saptami is celebrated in these Lord Surya temples. The celebrations at Tirumala Tirupathi Balaji temple, holds great significance in states of Karnataka, TamilNadu, Andhra Pradesh and Maharastra.

Story associated with Sun God worship.

It is believed that King Yashovarma had no children, so he performed prayers to Surya Bhagawan. In turn he was blessed with a Son. However, The Son fell sick and the King’s son was advised by a saint to perform the Ratha Saptami pooja to be relieved of his past Sins. The prince followed the instructions of the saint and performed the Ratha Saptami pooja and was restored with good health.

Read here for the rituals and mantra to be chanted on Ratha Saptami

Significance

It is also believed that by faithfully worshipping Surya Bhagwan on this day, all the kinds of sins, from the current or previous births will be forgiven. Surya Namaskaram even once a year on the Ratha sapthami day will grant good health for the whole year.