Ratha Saptami 2023: Check Shubh Muhurat, when auspicious time ends and significance of puja rituals

Hindus across the world are preparing to celebrate Ratha Saptami 2023, an auspicious festival dedicated to the worship of Lord Surya, the Hindu deity of the sun. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Surya is believed to enlighten the world with his powerful rays on this day, which is also known as the birth anniversary of Surya.

Devotees will gather at temples and homes to offer prayers and perform rituals to seek blessings from Lord Surya and to get rid of past sins. The festival typically falls a day after the celebration of Vasant Panchami, and this year it will be observed on the Saptami tithi in the month of Magha, Shukla Paksha Saptami.

Importance of Ratha Saptami?

Ratha Saptami 2023 marks the day of Lord Surya's journey to the Northern hemisphere in his chariot, signalling the arrival of summer and a change in weather patterns in Southern India. It also marks the start of the harvest season for farmers. This festival is considered highly auspicious for performing charitable acts and making donations. Legends state that those who make donations on this occasion will be forgiven of their sins and will be blessed with good health, prosperity, and longevity.

Ratha Saptami 2023: Date and time

Ratha Saptami falls this year on Saturday (January 28). The auspicious muhurat for worshipping Lord Surya began at 9:10 am on January 27 and will end at 8:43 am on January 28.

Ratha Saptami 2023: What are the rituals performed?

Early risers can start their day with a spiritual experience by taking a bath during the Arunodaya period, before sunrise. As part of this tradition, worshipers of Lord Surya offer water to the deity from a Kalash, while performing the Namaskar Mudra and praying to the lord. To further enhance the devotion, a Diya is lit with pure ghee and Kapoor along with agarbatti and red flowers are offered as well.

FAQs

Q1. Who is the lord of the Sun?
Lord Surya is the lord of the Sun.

Q2. When does Ratha Saptami fall this year?
Ratha Saptami falls this year on Saturday (January 28).