Introduction to Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami is an important Hindu festival celebrated in the month of Magha, which falls on the seventh day of the bright half of the lunar month. It is celebrated in honour of Lord Surya, the Sun God. This festival is also known as Magha Saptami or Surya Jayanti, and is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm by Hindus all over India.
History of Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami has been celebrated since ancient times. It is believed that Lord Surya, the Sun God, was born on this day. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Surya is the son of Sage Kashyapa and Aditi, and is the source of all energy in the universe. This day is also believed to be the day when Lord Surya started his journey across the sky in his chariot, which is why it is known as Ratha Saptami.
When to Celebrate Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami is celebrated on the seventh day of the bright half of the lunar month of Magha, which usually falls in the month of February or March. In 2024, it will fall on February 16th.
Significance of Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami is a significant festival in Hinduism as it marks the birth of Lord Surya, the Sun God. It is believed that worshipping Lord Surya on this day will bring good health, wealth, and prosperity to the devotees. Additionally, it is believed that worshipping Lord Surya on this day will help in attaining moksha, or liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
How to Celebrate Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami is celebrated with great devotion and enthusiasm by Hindus all over India. On this day, devotees take a holy bath in rivers and offer prayers to Lord Surya. They also perform special rituals such as offering of flowers, fruits, and sweets to the Sun God. Devotees also chant mantras and sing hymns dedicated to Lord Surya.
Summary
Ratha Saptami is an important Hindu festival celebrated in the month of Magha, which falls on the seventh day of the bright half of the lunar month. It is celebrated in honour of Lord Surya, the Sun God. This festival is also known as Magha Saptami or Surya Jayanti, and is observed with great devotion and enthusiasm by Hindus all over India. It is believed that worshipping Lord Surya on this day will bring good health, wealth, and prosperity to the devotees. On this day, devotees take a holy bath in rivers and offer prayers to Lord Surya. They also perform special rituals such as offering of flowers, fruits, and sweets to the Sun God.
You can explore other festivals such as Haldi Kumkum and Karwa Chauth.