Ratha Saptami: The Real Sunday

Ratha Saptami is a special day that honors the Sun, the source of light and life. It comes during the Magha month, when the Sun’s movement toward the north becomes steady. Slowly, days grow brighter and warmer. Life begins to feel active again.

The Sun is shown riding a chariot with seven horses. The seven horses represent the days of the week. They remind us that time moves in order and that balance brings harmony to life.

Many people call this day the Sun’s birthday. This does not mean the Sun is newly born. It means the Sun’s energy becomes clear, strong, and helpful again after a quiet season.

On this day, people wake up early, take an oil bath, and sometimes place Arka leaves on their head and shoulders. This is done to feel light, clean, and healthy. Water is offered to the rising Sun to say thank you for light and life.