Achala Saptami 2024: Rituals and Significance of Rath Saptami

The auspicious occasion of Achala Saptami, also known as Rath Saptami, falls on the seventh day of the waxing phase of the Magh month. According to Hindu mythology, this date marks the first sun rays hitting the Earth. It is considered highly divine to seek the blessings of the Sun God on this significant day.

The Magh month’s Shukla Paksha Saptami begins on February 15th around 10:12 am and continues till February 16th at 8:54 am. As per the Vedic lunar calendar, Rath Saptami will be observed on Friday, February 16th this year.

Before sunrise on Rath Saptami, take a ritual bath and offer water to the sun god using a copper pot filled with water, red sandalwood, rice, red flowers, and sacred grass, while chanting the Surya Mantra. Slowly pour the water towards the Sun while facing eastwards and present red flowers as a token of reverence.

The Aditya Hridayam Stotram, an ancient hymn from Valmiki Ramayana, was given to Lord Rama by Sage Agastya to emerge victorious over Ravana during battle. Chanting this Stotram on Rath Saptami is believed to alleviate mental sufferings, heart ailments, stress, conquer enemies, and overcome failures, leading to a path of success.

Observing a fast dedicated to the Sun God on Achala Saptami is believed to relieve various physical afflictions. It is said that fasting on this day could turn unfavorable results into favorable outcomes. Listening to the stories associated with the day fulfills one’s wishes and elevates social status, wealth, and health.

On this solemn day, donate items related to the Sun God like copper utensils, yellow or red clothing, wheat, jaggery, rubies, and red sandalwood. Offering charity in accordance with one’s faith symbolizes the purification of the sun-related afflictions in one’s astrological chart, leading to prosperity and opulence.

Reciting the Surya Gayatri Mantra is considered to bestow self-purification, self-esteem, and mental peace. Chanting this mantra helps in warding off unfortunate events and lifting obstacles that come one’s way.