Significance
Ratha Saptami marks the Sun God's birthday and his northward journey. It falls on Magha Shukla Saptami. Devotees offer puja to Surya and take a ritual bath at sunrise.
Mythology & Legend
According to the Vishnu Purana, Surya is believed to have been born to Kashyapa and Aditi. The day also symbolises the Sun turning his chariot (Ratha) northward. King Yashovarma was blessed with a son after observing this vrat.
Rituals & Observances
- At sunrise, take a bath with seven leaves (bilva or erukku) on the head; offer arghya to the Sun.
- Draw a chariot (ratha) rangoli and offer flowers and milk to Surya.
- Chant Surya mantras and Surya Namaskar; offer prasad.
- In some regions, prepare and offer sweet Pongal.
Sacred Mantras
ॐ सूर्याय नमः
oṃ sūryāya namaḥ
Salutations to Surya
Traditional Foods
- ●Pongal
- ●Milk
- ●Fruits
- ●Sattvic prasad
Regional Variations
Andhra Pradesh(రథ సప్తమి)
Sun bath, chariot rangoli
Tamil Nadu(ரத சப்தமி)
Magha Snan, Surya puja
Maharashtra(रथ सप्तमी)
Oil bath, Surya worship
Do's & Don'ts
Do's
- ✓Bathe at sunrise
- ✓Offer arghya to Sun
- ✓Chant Surya mantras
- ✓Offer prasad
Don'ts
- ✗Do not miss the sunrise bath
- ✗Avoid tamasic food
- ✗Do not disrespect the Sun