Ratha Saptami Significance & Spiritual Meaning
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.
Ratha Saptami 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.
Ratha Saptami Puja Rituals & Vidhi
- 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.
Ratha Saptami Mantras in Sanskrit
ॐ सूर्याय नमः
oṃ sūryāya namaḥ
Salutations to Surya
Ratha Saptami Traditional Foods & Prasad
- ●Pongal
- ●Milk
- ●Fruits
- ●Sattvic prasad
Ratha Saptami Regional Celebrations across India
Andhra Pradesh(రథ సప్తమి)
Sun bath, chariot rangoli
Tamil Nadu(ரத சப்தமி)
Magha Snan, Surya puja
Maharashtra(रथ सप्तमी)
Oil bath, Surya worship
Ratha Saptami Do's & Don't's
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
Ratha Saptami — Frequently Asked Questions
- What is Ratha Saptami?
- Ratha Saptami marks the Sun God's birthday and his northward journey.
- What are the Ratha Saptami puja rituals?
- 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.
- What to eat on Ratha Saptami?
- Pongal, Milk, Fruits, Sattvic prasad
- What should you do on Ratha Saptami?
- Bathe at sunrise; Offer arghya to Sun; Chant Surya mantras
- What should you avoid on Ratha Saptami?
- Do not miss the sunrise bath; Avoid tamasic food; Do not disrespect the Sun
- Which deity is worshipped on Ratha Saptami?
- Ratha Saptami is dedicated to Surya.