A Day of Reverence and Joy
Today, on February 16, we come together to celebrate Ratha Saptami, a revered Hindu festival that holds immense significance in our cultural tapestry. This auspicious occasion, also known as Magha Saptami, commemorates the birth anniversary of Lord Surya, the Sun God, and is observed with deep reverence and joyous festivities.
Delving into Tradition: The Meaning of Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami, a compound of ‘Ratha’ meaning chariot and ‘Saptami’ signifying the seventh day, falls on the seventh day of the bright half of the Hindu lunar month of Magha. It symbolises the celestial journey of Lord Surya as he begins his ascent towards the northern hemisphere, heralding the onset of spring and the harvest season.
Marking the Calendar: Date and Time
This year, Ratha Saptami 2024 is observed on February 16, aligning with the auspicious Saptami Tithi. The divine occasion commences at 10:12 am on February 15 and concludes at 8:54 am on February 16, spanning a period of spiritual significance and devotion.
Ancient Echoes: Tracing the Worship of the Sun God
The worship of Lord Surya dates back to ancient times, resonating in revered scriptures like the Vedas. Legends and folklore abound with tales of sage Kashyapa and his wife Aditi, blessed with the divine incarnation of Lord Surya, underscoring the deity’s timeless presence in Hindu mythology and spiritual practice.
A Tale of Redemption: Stories from the Past
In another poignant legend, King Yashovarma’s fervent prayers to Lord Surya for an heir led to the miraculous birth of a son, albeit afflicted with a fatal illness. Through the sacred rituals of Ratha Saptami, the king sought redemption from past sins, ultimately witnessing his son’s miraculous recovery and prosperous reign.
Symbolism and Significance: The Journey of the Sun God
Ratha Saptami symbolises not only the commencement of the spring season but also the commencement of the harvest season as Lord Surya embarks on his journey northward. Farmers across the country offer prayers at sun temples, seeking blessings for a bountiful harvest and favourable weather, underscoring the festival’s agricultural significance and communal unity.
Rituals and Traditions: Honouring the Divine
Devotees awaken at the crack of dawn, offering arghya (water oblations) to the rising sun, symbolising purification, gratitude, and devotion. Fasting throughout the day, devotees seek divine blessings for prosperity, longevity, and good health, embracing the sun’s illuminating warmth and life-giving energy with reverence and humility.
Spreading Joy and Generosity: Acts of Compassion
Ratha Saptami is not only a day of spiritual devotion but also a day of altruism and compassion. Devotees engage in charitable acts, donating clothes and food to the less fortunate, embodying the spirit of generosity and empathy. It’s a time to express gratitude for the sun’s benevolence, which sustains life on earth and fills our hearts with hope and positivity.
Celebrating Tradition with Zeal: Embracing Cultural Heritage
As we immerse ourselves in the festivities of Ratha Saptami, let’s embrace the timeless traditions and cultural heritage woven into this auspicious day. May the radiant Sun God bestow upon us prosperity, happiness, and abundance, guiding us on a journey of spiritual enlightenment and fulfilment as we celebrate the divine essence of Ratha Saptami.
-ARYAN