Ratha Saptami, an annual Hindu festival venerating the sun god, Surya, has been celebrated this year on 19th February 2021. In this festival, the words “Ratha” and “Saptami” signifies “Chariot” and “Seventh” respectively. Every year, a one-day Brahmotsavam is held in Tirumala in Andhra Pradesh to celebrate this occasion. Known alternatively as Surya Jayanti, Ratha Saptami commemorates the birth of the deity and indicates the commencement of spring, marking the onset of the harvest season.
The Significance of Ratha Saptami
Ratha Saptami holds considerable significance in Hindu tradition, primarily because it represents the birth of Surya, the sun god. The festival falls on the seventh day (Saptami) of the Hindu month Magha, which explains why it is referred to as Magha Saptami. This important festival is devoted to thanking the sun god for his warmth and energy, crucial factors for the growth of crops and thus, human sustenance.
Rituals and Celebrations of Ratha Saptami
On the day of Ratha Saptami, devotees get up early, take a bath at sunrise, and offer prayers to the sun god for blessings and good health. In several parts of India, chariot processions are organised by various temples. Notably, a one-day Brahmotsavam is held in Tirumala, Andhra Pradesh, drawing large crowds.
Ratha Saptami: A Mark of Seasonal Change
An interesting aspect of Ratha Saptami is that it marks the transition from winter to spring. As per the Hindu calendar, this festival heralds the shift towards longer days and shorter nights, thereby signifying the start of warmer temperatures. This change in weather is significant for agricultural reasons, as the majority of crops are sown during this period.
The Harvesting Season and Ratha Saptami
Linked to the change of season, Ratha Saptami also signals the commencement of the harvesting season. Post winter, when the fields are lush with mature crops, farmers begin their harvest. This critical period in agriculture is thus associated with Ratha Saptami. In many ways, this festival directly connects the community with nature’s cycle, emphasising the crucial role of the sun god in agriculture and harvest.
Cultural Impact of Ratha Saptami
As a cultural event, Ratha Saptami is a major Hindu festival celebrated across India. It unites communities, bringing families and friends together, and fosters a spirit of gratitude towards the sun god. The festival’s rituals, processions, and practices also contribute to preserving and promoting local cultural traditions and values.
To sum up, Ratha Saptami is more than just a religious event. It plays a vital role in marking seasonal changes, kick-starting the harvest season, and strengthening community ties, thereby deeply intertwining with the socioeconomic fabric of India.
