Ratha Saptami 2026 is one of the most significant Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God. Observed across India on 25 January 2026, the festival marks the symbolic birth anniversary of the Sun God and is celebrated with sacred baths, fasting, prayers, and devotional rituals. Ratha Saptami is also known by several regional names, including Magha Saptami, Magha Jayanti, and Surya Jayanti.
The festival holds deep spiritual importance and is closely associated with purification, discipline, and gratitude toward the Sun, the ultimate source of life and energy.
Ratha Saptami 2026: Date, Time & Tithi Details
According to the Gregorian calendar, Ratha Saptami falls in the January–February period, arriving two days after Basant Panchami. In 2026, the festival is observed during the Shukla Paksha Saptami Tithi of the Magha month.
- Ratha Saptami Date: 25 January 2026
- Tithi Begins: 25 January 2026, 12:39 AM
- Tithi Ends: 25 January 2026, 11:10 PM
These timings guide the performance of ratha saptami rituals, fasting, and puja.
Ratha Saptami Snan Muhurat 2026
The ritual bath, or Snan, is one of the most important aspects of Ratha Saptami rituals. Bathing during the auspicious time before sunrise is believed to purify the body and soul.
- Snan Muhurat: 05:26 AM – 07:13 AM
- Dawn: 06:48 AM
- Sunrise: 07:13 AM
Devotees are advised to complete the ritual bath during this time for maximum spiritual benefit.
Significance of Ratha Saptami Rituals
Ratha Saptami is believed to mark the day when Lord Surya begins his symbolic journey toward the Northern Hemisphere in his divine chariot. This movement represents the gradual lengthening of days, the arrival of warmer weather, and renewed energy in nature.
For farmers, the festival signals an important harvest phase, as the Sun’s increasing presence supports crops and livelihoods. Spiritually, the day is seen as a powerful opportunity to purify the body, mind, and soul through devotion, fasting, and disciplined spiritual practices.
Ratha Saptami Snan, Vrat & Puja Rituals
Ritual Bath (Snan Vidhi)
Devotees wake up before sunrise and perform the sacred bath during the snan muhurat. Many visit holy rivers such as the Ganga, Yamuna, Narmada, and Shipra. Those unable to travel add gangajal to their bath water and perform the ritual at home.
Fasting and Discipline
Observing a vrat (fast) is considered highly auspicious on Ratha Saptami. Worshippers avoid tamasik food and follow a simple, disciplined diet while dedicating the day to prayer and meditation.
Surya Puja and Arghya Offering
A central part of ratha saptami rituals is offering Arghya to the rising Sun. Water mixed with turmeric, jaggery, and red flowers is offered while facing the Sun as a mark of devotion and gratitude.
Ratha Saptami Mantras and Spiritual Benefits
During Surya Puja, devotees chant sacred mantras such as:
- “Om Suryaye Namah”
- “Om Ghrani Suryaye Namah”
These mantras are chanted to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual growth. The rituals of Ratha Saptami are believed to cleanse negative energies, strengthen inner discipline, and deepen one’s spiritual connection with Lord Surya.
Conclusion
Ratha Saptami 2026 is a deeply spiritual festival that emphasizes purity, devotion, and reverence toward the Sun God. By following the prescribed ratha saptami rituals, including the sacred snan, fasting, Surya puja, and mantra chanting, devotees seek physical well-being, mental clarity, and spiritual upliftment.
Also Read ……Kedarnath Yatra 2026: Ultimate Guide, Opening Date, Route & Registration
