Ratha Saptami, also known as Magha Saptami, is an auspicious Hindu festival honoring Lord Surya that occurs on the seventh day of the Shukla Paksha of the Magha month. On this day, people rise up early to give arghya to the rising sun and fast for the whole day. Worshiping the Sun God on this day is considered to bring good luck and absolve one of their sins. Ratha signifies chariot, whereas Saptami refers to the seventh day. It is claimed that the Sun God Surya begins his journey to the northern hemisphere on a ratha, or chariot driven by seven horses. The day is also considered to be Lord Surya’s birthday and is celebrated as Surya Jayanti.
Ratha Saptami 2024 Date
Ratha Saptami 2024 is observed on February 16 this year.
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Ratha Saptami 2024 History
There are various legends surrounding the festival. It is stated that sage Kashyapa and his wife Aditi were graced with an incarnation of Lord Surya, one of the Adityas.
According to another tradition, a king named Yashovarma pleaded to the Lord to bless him with a son since he lacked a successor to his kingdom. His wishes were granted, and he was blessed with a son, but he was gravely sick. On the guidance of a saint, the individual did Ratha Saptami pooja (worship) to atone for his previous crimes. Following the rites, the King’s son recovered and went on to lead the realm.
Significance
As Lord Surya begins his trek to the north, Ratha Saptami marks the commencement of the spring season and the harvesting season. Farmers around the country visit sun temples to seek Lord Surya’s blessings for a plentiful crop and good weather throughout the year. The worship of the sun dates back to prehistoric times and is mentioned in ancient books such as the Vedas. On this day, people also show appreciation to the Sun for illuminating the entire planet with its warmth and light, making life possible on Earth. The event is an excellent opportunity to donate clothing and food to the destitute while praying for longevity, wealth, and good health.
Shubh Muhurat
Ratha Saptami falls on February 16, 2024, Friday.
Shubh Muhurat for taking bath on Ratha Saptami from 5:17 am to 6:59 am.
Civil Dawn on Ratha Saptami, 6:35 a.m.
Observational Sunrise time on Ratha Saptami is 6:59 am.
Saptami Tithi begins at 10:12 a.m. on February 15, 2024.
Saptami Tithi ends at 8:54 a.m. on February 16, 2024.
Rituals
Ratha Saptami rites begin with a morning bath, which is performed during the unique muhurat of Arunodaya, which lasts four ghatis or 1.5 hours. It generally occurs 24 minutes before dawn. Taking a bath before sunrise during the Arunodaya season helps to keep infections at bay.
After having a bath, one should worship Lord Surya at morning by presenting arghya to him. Arghyadaan is performed by presenting water to Lord Surya from a tiny kalash, folded hand in Namaskar Mudra, while facing Lord Sun in a standing stance.
Light a pure ghee diya. Other puja samagri include kapur, dhup, and crimson
