Seasonal Festivals — Hindu Sacred Festival
Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami (Surya Jayanti) falls on the seventh day of the bright half of Magha month and celebrates the Sun God's northward journey (Uttarayan), when Surya is believed to turn his chariot of seven horses — representing the seven colors of light and the seven days of the week — toward the northern hemisphere, heralding the arrival of spring and the peak of the harvest season. It is considered the birthday of Surya himself. Devotees take ritual baths with Arka (Calotropis) leaves placed on their head, symbolically bathing under the Sun's blessings.
Last updated: 24 April 2026 · Source: Vedic Tradition
Significance
Surya Jayanti — the birthday of the Sun God. The day marks the peak of Uttarayan and the Sun's full radiant power. Worshipping Surya on this day is said to cure diseases, bestow long life, and wash away sins of seven past lives.
Rituals & Traditions
Pre-dawn ritual bath with 7 Arka (Calotropis) leaves placed on the head. Offer Arghya (water) to the rising Sun. Perform Surya Puja with red flowers, red sandalwood, and wheat. Read Aditya Hridayam. Fast. Light lamps facing east. Donate sesame and jaggery.
Traditional Foods
FAQ
Q.What is Ratha Saptami?
Ratha Saptami (Surya Jayanti) falls on the seventh day of the bright half of Magha month and celebrates the Sun God's northward journey (Uttarayan), when Surya is believed to turn his chariot of seven horses — representing the seven colors of light a...
Q.What is the significance of Ratha Saptami?
Surya Jayanti — the birthday of the Sun God. The day marks the peak of Uttarayan and the Sun's full radiant power. Worshipping Surya on this day is said to cure diseases, bestow long life, and wash away sins of seven past lives.
Q.What are the rituals of Ratha Saptami?
Pre-dawn ritual bath with 7 Arka (Calotropis) leaves placed on the head. Offer Arghya (water) to the rising Sun. Perform Surya Puja with red flowers, red sandalwood, and wheat. Read Aditya Hridayam. Fast. Light lamps facing east. Donate sesame and jaggery.
Q.What foods are made during Ratha Saptami?
Pongal (sweet rice), Chakra Pongali, Sesame rice, Gur chikki, Fruits