Tag: Rathasapthami

As part of Surya Jayanti celebrations, the TTD is organizing Rathasapthami, which is popularly known as mini or Upa Brahmotsavams

Surya Jayanthi

Surya Jayanthi

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Surya Jayanthi / Rathasapthami

Rathasapthami is also known as ‘Surya Jayanthi’ because it celebrates the power of the Sun God who is believed to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Surya is considered Lord Vishnu and hence called Suryanarayana or Pratyaksha Daivam.

Rathasapthami is the festival that falls on the Seventh day of the bright fortnight after the new moon day, in the month ‘Magha’.

Rathasapthami is especially auspicious if it falls on a Sunday. This is a special writeup on the significance of Rathasapthami and How it is celebrated in Tirumala Hill Shrine. It is a festival in which the Sun god (in the form of Surya Narayana) is worshipped. It is also celebrated as the birthday of Sun God as the season changes from this day.

Surya Jayanthi or Rathasapthami

Kumbha Sankramanam

The importance of this Rathasapthami is that the sun is moving from the Makara Rasi (i.e. Capricorn) to the Kumbha Rasi (i.e. Aquarius) known as ‘kumbha sankramanam’.

The charioteer, Aruna, has his feet deformed. Aruna means the dawn. On this day some people go to take a bath in the river before dawn carrying a lamp on their head. Then in the courtyard in front of the house, the sun is worshipped. A picture of the chariot and the seven horses is drawn on the ground. On the four sides ‘rangoli’ is made (designs made with powders) and in the centre, cow dung is burnt.

Then the milk is boiled in earthen vessels while facing the Sun. When the milk boils it is believed it reaches the Sun.

Story of Aruna, the Charioteer of Lord Surya

Rishi Kasyapa had two wives; Kadruva and Vinata (daughter of Daksha). The first wife became the mother of a thousand snakes (Nagas), while the second wife, Vinata gave birth to two eggs, one of which was very late in opening. Therefore, she hastily broke the eggshell because of this a handicapped child (without legs) was born. The loving parents named the child ‘Aruna’.

The second egg opened naturally and ‘Garuda’, the bird with large wings, was born.

Aruna, even though disabled, rose to an exalted position as the charioteer of the Sun-god, Surya. Since ancient times, he continued to spread the Sun’s energy daily around the world, sustaining us with vital nourishment without which life would be impossible. His brother Garuda, also known as Vainateya, became the Vahana (vehicle) for Lord Vishnu.

Early in the morning every day, all living beings look eagerly to the eastern sky awaiting the arrival of Aruna; he does not fail them even a single day. He is ever punctual and appears with his master, Lord Sun, brilliantly painting the sky red (Aruna also means red). Riding majestically across the sky, he guides the seven horses in their majestic travel towards the Western horizon. No wonder that the ancients gratefully named sun-rise after him as Arunodaya, the appearance of Aruna!

Lovingly, his master Surya, the Sun-God, identified himself closely with his devoted charioteer and wanted himself also to be known as Aruna!

Then an offering of ‘khir’ made of wheat is shown to the Sun. In the ‘sup’ (basket for sifting corn) twelve heaps of grain are offered to the sun, the number corresponding to the twelve constellations through which the sun goes. Grain is offered to the Brahmins. Some people show their respect to the sun by bowing twelve times every day to the sun (Surya Namaskar).

Surya Temples

The Sun temple at Konark in Orissa is a famous and ancient temple dedicated to the Sun god. One of the beautifully stone-carved temples at Lakkundi, Gadag District of North Karnataka, built by the Chalukyas in the 10th century, is dedicated to Lord Suryanarayana.

Puranas

The worshipping sun god is nothing new, our Puranas have many instances of it. Lord Sri Rama worshipped the sun god before going for the battle against the King of Lanka, Ravana (also known as the king of Asuras i.e. Rakshasas). King Satrajit also worshipped the sun god and got a gem from him called the Samanthakamani, which is the cause of prosperity, which later on was given to Lord Krishna along with Satyabhama in marriage.

In Tirumala, Rathasapthami figures as one of the important festivals of the year. A one-day Brahmotsavam is held and the Utsava Murthi is carried out in seven vahanams around the main temple precincts during the day.

On Rathasapthami day a special bath is taken with seven yekka/arka/calotropis procera leaves along with ‘Mantrakshathas’ (Rice mixed with Turmeric). One leaf is kept on the head, 2 on the shoulders, 2 on the knees and 2 on the foot while having a bath.

The following mantra on the Sun god is chanted while taking a bath.

“Saptha Saptha Maha Saptha |
Saptha Dweepa Vasundara |
Sapth Arka Parna Madaya |
Sapthamyam Snana Machareth ||”

The Festival performed in Tirumala / Rathasapthami at Tirumala

Rathasapthami or Surya Jayanti is a festival at Tirumala and is a celebration of the Lord as Surya Narayana. Aruna Prasnam, katakam are recited.

As the Sun moves from Dhanur raasi to Makara raasi, the days get warmer. In this important annual festival at Tirumala, Sri Malayappa Swami with Ubhaya Naacchiyars are taken around the four Mada streets on seven different Vahanams from Sunrise to Sunset.

‘Sapthami’ denotes the number ‘7’, So Lord Malayappa Swami is taken for a procession around four mada streets in 7 Vahanams in a single day.

Surya Prabha Vahanam during Rathasapthami / Surya Jayanthi
Surya Prabha Vahanam on the day of Rathasapthami

The 7 Vahanams in the order of usage

  • 1. Surya Prabha Vahanam
  • 2. Chinna Sesha Vahanam
  • 3. Garuda Vahanam
  • 4. Hanumanthavahanam & Chakra Snanam
  • 5. Kalpa Vruksha Vahanam
  • 6. Sarva Bhupala Vahanam
  • 7. Chandra Prabha Vahanam

In the middle of the Utsavam Chakra Snanam is grandly conducted at Swami Pushkarini.

Origin of Swami Pushkarini at Tirumala

Laghu Brahmotsavam

Rathasapthami is celebrated as the Surya Jayanti festival at Tirumala. So it is called a ‘Laghu Brahmotsavam’. Lord Malayappa Swami splendidly adorned with precious Jewels and ornaments will come out for a procesion on Surya Prabha Vahanam from 5:30 AM to 8 AM.

The Procession stops near Nairruti side (South-West Corner) and waits until the Sunrise (Calculated according to Local Sunrise) as soon as the Sun rises, Lord Malayappa Swami in the Surya Prabha Vahanam is offered with Karpoora Harathi (camphor) who bless us in Surya Narayana form and offered with ‘Bakala Bath’ (Curd Rice) Naivedyam. Now the procession reaches the Vahana Mandapam.

  • Lord Malayappa Swami is now seated on the Chinna Sesha Vahanam, and again Visesha Samarpana is performed. He now blesses the devotees in this Vahanam from 9 AM to 10 AM.
  • The next Vahanam is the sacred Garuda Seva. This is the only time the devotees can view the Garuda Vahanam in the Morning, which is a very nice divine experience. This procession goes from 11 AM – 12 NOON.
  • Now Lord Malayappa Swami is taken for a procession on the sacred Hanumantha Vahanam from 1 PM – 2 PM. Lord Malayappa Swami is taken back to Sannidhi.
  • At 2 PM, to perform the Chakra Snanam, Sri Sudarsana Chakram is brought from the Sannidhi and is given a holy dip in the Swami Pushkarini.
  • The Madhyahnika Aradhanam is performed to the Lord now in Sannidhi. Second Bell and Bali are performed.
  • After the Second Bell, Lord Malayappa Swami now blesses devotees along with Consorts, Sridevi and Bhudevi, in Kalpa Vriksha Vahanam from 4 PM – 5 PM.
  • Sarvabhupala Vahanam is the next one, where Sri Malayappa Swami again comes out for procession with Thayars from 6 PM – 7 PM.
  • The last one and the coldest one, Chandraprabha Vahanam is from 8 PM – 9 PM, after which Lord Malayappa Swami will return to Sannidhi for Night Kainkaryams.

It is spectacular to watch Lord Malayappa Swami on this Rathasapthami day, with 7 Vahanams. Those who miss Brahmotsavam, those who wish to cherish the divine bliss of Brahmotsavam again, can enjoy the divine ecstasy on a single day.

There is also an account stating that in the era of Kings, Brahmotsavams were conducted every month and over time this procedure went out of practice. Now, the remaining Utsavams are conducted on a single day. That is the reason Chakra Snanam is also conducted during Rathasapthami at Tirumala.

Reverence to the SUN GOD

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The seventh day (Sapthami) in the Telugu month of Magha is celebrated as Ratha Sapthami. This day also marks the beginning of the harvesting season and instils hope amongst the farmers to look forward to a promising new year ahead. Sun God is worshipped on this day. It is also considered to be the day when the Sun’s first rays were directed towards the universe.

Lord Surya – The Sun God

Lord Surya, also called Aditya is said to have been born to Kashyapa and Aditi. Aruna, his charioteer is born of Kashyapa’s other wife Vinata. Aruna represents the golden radiance that arrives before the Sun. Lord Sun God’s chariot is said to be drawn by 7 horses that represent the 7 colours of the spectrum.

The sun is the supreme source of energy, light and warmth. The sun possesses non-diminishing brilliance in abundance and the Sun’s energy is vital for sustaining life on this earth. Sun dispels darkness and is considered the most visible manifestation of God (Pratyaksha daivam). Sun has the power to heal. Surya is said to be the witness to every action that happens in the universe.

Sun God is said to be easily pleased and a simple prayer offered is sufficient to make Him happy. He is also considered very generous and capable of curing sickness in people. Lord bestows on his devotees health, wealth, progeny and long life. Chanting or doing meditation on Him is supposed to help sharpen the mind.

Surya Namaskaram

Surya Namaskaram

One prominent and beneficial form of worship is the Surya Namaskaram.

There is a saying:

Vishnu Alankarapriya, Shiva Abhisheka priya, Surya Namaskara priya, Devi Pradakshina priya, Brahmano Bhojana priya,

which indicates Lord Surya can be easily pleased with offering namaskarams. The Surya Namaskaram consists of 12 steps in the form of asanas or postures offering salutations to Lord Surya. There are many versions of the steps involved, but all of them focus on the sequence of postures and are deemed very beneficial. Regular practice of Surya Namaskarams results in both physical and mental development and many other benefits.

From obvious flexibility to the bones and joints, Surya Namaskaram is said to help in weight loss, control blood sugar, help the digestive system, reduce stress levels, enhance the nervous system help insomnia and provide better sleep.

Each cycle or each pose can be accompanied by the recitation of the 12 Naamaas of the Sun God viz., Mitra, Ravi, Surya, Bhanu, Khaga, Pushan, Hiranyagarbha, Marichi, Aditya, Savitr, Arka and Bhaskara; modulation in inhaling and exhaling is also done to maximize the effect.

The Vedic form of Surya Namaskaram is the recitation of Saura Suktam and Aruna Prashnan, both of which praise the glory and manifestations of Surya.

Lord Surya is considered the eyes of every being and of the devatas and he is said to have arisen from the eyes of the supreme. Caksho: Suryo ajayata says the Purusha Suktam. Reciting or listening to these mantras helps calm one’s mind and re-energise oneself.

Lord Surya’s benevolence

The puranas provide evidence of divine intervention by Lord Surya. Lord Hanuman considers Surya as his guru and it was Surya who blessed Hanuman with the capability of changing his form and size.

Lord Rama received the Aditya hridaya stotram from Sage Agastya. It is a prayer to Lord Surya which ensured Rama won the battle against Ravana.

Yudhishtira receives an Akshayapatra (vessel that provides enough food when sought) from Lord Surya during exile.

Observing Rathasapthami

On Rathasapthami day, it is a practice to have a ritual bath placing 7 arka leaves along with akshatas (rice mixed with turmeric) on the head. This bath is usually performed before sunrise. The seven leaves signify seven types of Paapams (sins). Likewise, punyam (merit) is earned when a good or meritorious deed is performed.

A bath with arka leaves on Rathasapthami is said to facilitate the washing away of all kinds of paapams (sins). After the bath, worship and prayers to Lord Surya are performed and offering of argyam is done.

Surya Prabha Vahanam during Rathasapthami
Surya Prabha Vahanam during Rathasapthami

Philosophical significance of Rathasapthami

Ratha, the chariot is symbolic of the mind which can be moved from place to place. The innumerable and ever-flowing thoughts that arise in the mind are like different horses, which pull the mind in many different directions. The northern direction symbolises the path towards the supreme Brahman.

Rathasapthami is a reminder to humans and should realise that their life purpose should be aligned towards the bigger goals and their thoughts (horses) must be carefully controlled, recalibrated and directed to lead them towards the Supreme Being.

  • Asatoma sadgamaya – reveals to us the Reality of dispelling the illusion
  • Tamasoma jyotirgamaya – lead us to awareness removing the Ignorance.
  • Mrutyorma amrutam gamaya – lead us to Immortality, overcoming death.

Rathasapthami in Tirumala

Rathasapthami is an important day at Tirumala.On Rathasapthami, one-day Brahmotsavam is held in Tirumala. On this day, the Utsava Murthy Lord Malayappa Swami along with his consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi are taken in a procession on the Mada streets surrounding the main temple.

Utsava Murthy - Suprabhatam - Sri Malayappa Swamy

Seven (the same number that represents the number of horses in Surya’s chariot) diverse vahanams carry the deities by turn.

The same grandeur witnessed during the Brahmotsavam can be seen here, all the events compressed within a day. The day begins with Surya Prabha Vahanam early morning around sunrise, followed by Chinna Sesha Vahanam a little later, Garuda Vahanam before noon, Hanuma Vahanam past noon followed by Chakrasananam (the holy bath to Chakratalvar in pushkarini), Kalpavriksha Vahanam early evening, Sarvabhoopala Vahanam around sunset.

CHANDRA PRABHA VAHANAM
Chandra Prabha Vahana Seva – Tirumala

The procession concludes with the Chandra Prabha Vahanam. Each of these processions last around an hour and cover the four Mada streets.

Let Sri Surya Bhagavan shower us all with his abundant grace.

Dwadasha Adityas (12 Sun Gods)

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Significance of Dwadasha Adityas / 12 Adityas / 12 Sun Gods

Rathasapthami happens to be Surya Jayanthi. It is celebrated all over India on the seventh day of the bright half of Magha with great pomp and glory. It marks the turning of the Sun-God towards the northern hemisphere in a north-eastern direction. It heralds the onset of the spring. It is also said that sage Bhishma breathed his last breath on Ekadashi, four days after Rathasapthami.

The Sun God is worshipped on this day and milk is boiled before the rising Sun till it overflows and offered to the Sun. Interestingly, there is also a custom, especially in the Telangana region, of mothers-in-law offering new clothes to their daughters-in-law and serving them with a feast.

Surya Bhagawan or Surya Narayana

Stotras like

  • Adityahridayam,
  • Suryashtakam,
  • Surya Sahasra Nama and
  • Gayathri mantras

are recited.

Rathasapthami – “Mini- Brahmotsavam”

On this day in Tirumala, several processions of Sri Malayappa Swami along with His consorts Sridevi and Bhudevi are taken out from morning till evening.

Surya Prabha Vahanam during Rathasapthami

The day starts with

  1. ‘Surya prabha vahanam followed by
  2. Chinna Sesha Vahanam,
  3. Garuda Vahanam,
  4. Hanumantha Vahanam,
  5. Chakrasnanam,
  6. Kalpa-vriksha Vahanam,
  7. Sarvabhoopala Vahanam and ends with
  8. Chandra Prabha Vahanam.

It is like a sort of “Mini- Brahmotsavam”.

Hanumantha Vahanam
Hanumantha Vahanam

Significance of the Sun

What is the significance of the Sun for us both scientifically and from the perspective of astrology?

He is the source of life on the earth. In the absence of the Sun and its heat and light, the earth would freeze into an ice-ball without life; bacteria and viruses would spread a million-fold causing the annihilation of life.

The Sun is also the source of energy for the earth. Space explorations have discovered other forms of light such as ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays erupting from the Sun and scientists are worried that their variations might affect the future climate of the earth. With the damage to the Ozone layer, the radiation from the Sun is likely to reach the earth and affect our climate as well as our health.

Our ancients have discovered the significance of the Sun for life on the earth and worshipped Him as a God for the health, longevity and prosperity of mankind. Astrologically, the Sun assumes a vital role in guiding the destiny of human lives.

As the Sun moves from one planet or constellation of stars called Raashi to the other, its impact on the humans born in different raashis varies. It appears the Sun stays in each raashi for a month and completes his cycle of movements through twelve raashis in a year.

Dwadasha Adityas or 12 Adityas or 12 Sun Gods

Sun – Aditya

The Sun is referred to as Aditya in our scriptures. He is the son of Aditi and Sage Kashyapa. He is regarded as the embodiment of consciousness that is vital to the evolution of life. The Sun-God awakens us from inertia. He arouses our consciousness.

In the dhyana shloka of Gayatri mantra “Dhyanam dhyeyassadaa savitru mandala madhyavarthee…”, prayer is offered to Lord Vishnu stationed in the middle of the solar orb with the conch and discus. He wears crowns, armlets (keyura), crocodile-shaped eardrops (Makara Kundalas) and pearl strings.

In the Vaishnava tradition, it is Lord Vishnu who gives brightness to the Sun and Moon. Annamayya describes Lord Vishnu in a sankeertana, “talachi joochinanu surya chandrulanu lali vedajalledu lakshanudu.”

In the Bhagavad Gita (10-21) Lord Krishna says that he is Vishnu among the Adityas: “Adityaanaamaham Vishnuh”. Lord Sri Rama could defeat Ravana because of his initiation into Aditya Hridayam by Sage Agastya on the battlefield.

Surya Dev or Lord Surya

Dwadasha Adityas

The Rigveda refers to seven Adityas besides Martanda, the eighth one. They are named Varuna, Mitra, Aryaman, Daksha, Bhaga, Amsha and Savitr. The eighth Aditya, it appears, was rejected by Aditi. Rigveda adds Vivasvaan as the eighth Sun.

The Bhagavata refers to twelve Adityaas regarded as the Dwadashaadityaas. They are considered manifestations of Lord Vishnu. In each month, one of these Adityaas shines as the Sun-God. They control the celestial constellations and guide the proper functioning of the universe.

According to astrology, Nakshatras are the forces of universal wisdom and control the destiny of human lives.

Adityaas is supposed to manage these stars. Regarding the Bhagavata, it is said that the order of twelve Adityas and their ruling months are as follows:

  1. Dhata— Chaitra,
  2. Aaryama—Vaisakha,
  3. Mitra— Jyeshta,
  4. Varuna—Ashadha,
  5. Indra— Shravanam,
  6. Vivasvan—Bhadrapada,
  7. Tvashta—Ashwayuja,
  8. Vishnu— Kartika,
  9. Anshuman—Margashirsha,
  10. Bhaga—Pushya,
  11. Pusha—Magha and
  12. Parjanya—Phalguna.

Dwadasha Adityas (12 Sun Gods)

The Ancient History Of 12 Adityas

Dhata

Dhata, or Dhatr as the creator emerges from Vishnu, the source of consciousness. He rules in the month of Chaitra and his associates are Krutasthali, Heti, Vasuki, Rathakruttu, Pulastya, and Tumburu.

Aryama

He is the Lord of Uttara Phalguni star. He is associated with Mitra and Varuna as a triad and represents determination, perseverance and rules of the society. His journey is towards perfection and light. His associates are Punjikasthali, Pulaha, Ojassu, Praheti, Narada and Kanjaneera.

Mitra

Mitra is the Lord of Anuradha star and is regarded as the personification of the morning star. He brings peace and justice to the lives of the people. His associates are Menaka, Pourasheya, Takshaka, Rathaswana, Atri and Haha, a Gandharva.

Varuna

Varuna is the Lord of Shatabhisha star and represents the setting sun and forms the three worlds: the heavens, the earth and intermittent space. He causes rain and helps the evolution of life. He is also regarded as the keeper of law and order. His associates are Rambha, Shukrachittu, Sahajanya, Huhu, Vasishta and Sruna.

Indra

Indra as the Sun-God has Vishwavasuvu, Shrota, Elaputrudu, Angirasa, Pramlocha, and Charyudu as the associates.

Vivasvan

He is the eighth son of Aditi and was cast away by his mother born with a deformity. He is also called Martanda. He is associated with Pluto which represents misfortune and deprivation. His associates are Anumloda, Ugrasena, Vyaghra, Asarana, Bhrigu and Shankhapala.

Tvashtha

Tvashtha is the ‘heavenly builder’ that makes divine tools and is the guardian of Soma. He is also the grandfather of the twins Yama and Yami which represent dharma and karma. Their father is Surya. He is the God of confidence as well as punishment. His associates are Jamadagni, Kambalashva, Tilottama, Brahmapeta, Shatajittu and Dhritarashtra.

Vishnu

In the early Rig Veda texts, Vishnu was only one of the Adityas. But, later he was regarded as the most powerful Gods and one of the trinity of gods representing absolute consciousness.

His associates are Ashvatara, Rambha, Suryavarcha, Satyajittu, Vishvamitra and Makhapeta. Vishnu as the Sun God, Asvatara as the Naga, Rambha as the Apsara, Suryavarca as the Gandharva, Satyajit as the Yaksa, Visvamitra as the sage and Makhapeta as the Raksasa rule the month of Urja.

Anshuman

Anshuman represents the duality of manifestation. His associates are Kashyapa, Taarkshya, Ritasena, Urvashi, Vidycchatra and Mahashankha.

Bhaga

Bhaga assures ‘marital bliss and prosperity’ as well as affluence. He controls Purva Phalguni star. His associates are Sphoorja, Arishtanemi, Oornuvu, Aayuvu, Karkotaka and Purvajitta. Ritu as the Yaksa, Varca as the Raksasa, Bharadvaja as the sage, Parjanya as the Sun-God, Senajit as the Apsara, Visva as the Gandharva and Airavata as the Naga rule the month known as Tapasya.

Pusha

Pusha, or Pushan stands for “the reason for people to prosper”. It also has a mythic significance as a guardian of livestock. It is believed he guides us and the cattle to the path of the other world. His associates are Dhanunjaya, Vaata, Sushena, Suruchi, Ghritaachi and Goutama.

Parjanya

Parjanya stays in the mists. He causes rain by controlling the beams and mists. His associates are Varcha, Bharadwaja, Parjanya, Senajittu, Vishwa, and Airavata.

Glorious Forms of Vishnu

All these are the glorious forms of Vishnu. While the saints associated with Adityas recite the Vedas, gandharvas play music, the apsarasa dance, the nagas surround the chariot, the yakshas calculate the distance, and the giants push the chariot from behind. 60 thousand Brahmin saints called Valakhilyas offer their praise in front of the Sun God.

Thus, the Sun travels in all directions with his six types of associates spreading purity of consciousness among the inhabitants of this universe.

Dwadash Aditya Yatra

108 names of the Sun

According to the Brahma Purana, chanting the following 108 names of the Sun at dawn and dusk relieves us of all our sins and ensures good health.

  • 1) Surya, Archana, Bhagavana, Tvashta, Pusha, Arka, Savita, Ravi, Gabhastimana, Aja, Kala, Mrityu.
  • (2) Dhata, Prabhakara, Prithivi, Jala, Teja, Akasha, Vayu, Parayana, Soma, Brihaspati, Shukra, Budha.
  • (3) Angaraka, Indra, Vivasvana, Diptamshu, Shuchi, Shouri, Shanaishvara, Brahma, Vishu, Rudra, Skanda, Vaishravana.
  • (4) Yama, Vaidyuta, Jathara, Agni, Aindhana, Tejohapti, Dharmadhvaja, Vedakarta, Vedanga, Vedavahana, Krita, Treta.
  • (5) Dvapara, Kali, Sarvasurashraya, Kala, Kashtha, Muhurta, Kshapa, Yama, Kshana, Samvatsara, Ashvattha, Kalachakra.
  • (6) Vibhavasu, Shashvata, Purusha, Yogi, Vyaktavyakta, Sanatana, Kaladhyaksha, Prajadhyaksha, Vishvakarma, Tamonuda, Varuna, Sagara.
  • (7) Amsha, Jimuta, Jivana, Ariha, Bhutashraya, Bhutapati, Sarvalokanamaskrita, Shrashta, Samvartaka, Vahni, Sarvadi, Alolupa.
  • (8) Anata, Kapila, Bhanu, Kamada, Sarvotamukha, Jaya, Vishala, Varada, Sarvabhutasevita, Mana, Suparna, Bhutadi.
  • (9) Shighraga, Pranadharana, Dhanvantari, Dhumaketu, Adideva, Aditinandana, Dvadashatma, Ravi, Daksha, Pita, Mata, Pitamaha.

Let us pray to the Sun every day morning and evening to ward off all viruses and be assured of good health.

Significance of Rathasapthami

Significance of Rathasapthami

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Rathasapthami

Magha Shukla Sapthami is celebrated as Rathasapthami from ancient days in our land of Vedic culture. Lord Surya’s worship is as ancient as human life on the earth. Our sacred texts proclaim Surya-Sun God as ‘Karma Sakshee Divakarah’, Surya is an eyewitness to whatever we humans do since his rays enter everywhere.

He is also termed ‘Surya Narayana’ since Lord Mahavishnu has bestowed special powers on him, without whose presence we would not have seen the light of a day!

The Vedas praise lord Surya deva as Savitur, in Soura Suktam of Rigveda. ‘Udutyam jatavedasam devam vahanti ketavah’ says the Suktam dedicated to the Sun god.

He is also called ‘Sooryaaya Vishva chakshase’ (the eye of the Universe). Worshipping the Sun as the deity has been a common practice since ancient days in our country. Even a farmer in a village home or a worker, unaware of any particular prayer, looks at the rising Sun and does namaskaram with folded hands, as soon as he looks at the Sun rising in the east.

Sapthami, the 7th day of every Telugu month, is very significant to Surya Deva. He is the lord of planets- grahanam jyotiradityah duritakshaya karakah’, – Sun gives his luminosity to other planets and also wards off their evil effects on humans, according to Shastras.

Magha Sukla Sapthami is the day when the Sun god is worshipped as the main deity. Each year, we get, 2 days in a month, and hence 24 Sapthami days, of which Magha Shukla Sapthami is a very auspicious day. On this day, the Sun changes its path towards the North.

On this Rathasapthami day, early in the morning people take a bath in sacred rivers, wells, ponds, and pilgrim centers keeping Arka leaves on both shoulders signifying the Sun as protector. This day is named ‘Rathasapthami’.

Women prepare special Payasam of broken wheat/rice, and jaggery with ghee and offer it to the Sun God in an earthen pot and offer red flowers to him. This is considered auspicious and pleasing to the Sun god.

‘Arogyam bhaskarad icchet’ – one has to pray to the Sun God for good health shastras say.

Lord Sri Ramachandra, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu was initiated by Agastya rishi to recite ‘Aditya Hrudayam’ in Ramayana, when he found Ravana, very powerful to defeat and kill. Aditya Hridayam is a very powerful stothram which is to be recited every day to ward off all evil effects of planets in bad dashas for blessing us with good health and prosperity.

‘Aaditya Hrudayam Punyam sarva shatru vinashakam, jayavaham japennityam’

Aditya Hrudaya Stotram is very powerful which gives us victory, good health and prosperity, longevity, and much more, says the Stotram. Lord Surya is remembered as ‘Namaskarapriyah’ one who is easily pleased by offering Surya Namaskaras to Him.

Surya grahana tulya sa Shukla mahasya Sapthamee |
Arunodaya velayam snanam tatra mahaphalam ||

Says Bhavishya Puranam. This means ‘Magha Shukla Sapthami’ is equal to the day of the Solar eclipse – a Parvakalam, a very auspicious occasion to offer our prayers to the Sun god. One has to have a bath before the Sun rises and offer Arghyam to Lord Suryanarayana.

surya-prabha-vahanam - rathasaptami
Procession of Surya Prabha Vahana on Tirumala Mada Streets

Rathasaptami In Tirumala

Rathasapthami, popularly known as ‘Surya Jayanthi’. On this holy day, Lord Malayappaswami takes a ride on seven celestial vahanams and hence it is also called “One-day Brahmotsavam”. On Rathasapthami day, One-day Brahmotsavam begins with Suryaprabha Vahanam and concludes with Chandraprabha Vahanam. It is a rare glimpse for the devotees to witness all seven vahanams on a single day in Tirumala on this auspicious occasion.

Chandra Prabha Vahanam
Procession of Chandra Prabha Vahanam on Tirumala Mada Streets

List of Vahanams being taken on Rathasapthami Day in Tirumala

Surya Prabha Vahanam
Chinna Sesha Vahanam
Garuda Vahanam
Hanumad Vahanam
Chakrasnanam
Kalpavruksha Vahanam
Sarvabhupala Vahanam
Chandra Prabha Vahanam

The Rathasapthami festival will also be held in almost all the local TTD temples grandly.

Lord Surya

Lord Surya

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Lord Surya

radiates the world like an infinite Wheel of Light and revolves round the three ‘lokas’. He is the marvellous and direct embodiment of Trinity and Time.

He controls the movements of Planets, Subsequently representing the miraculous nature of Time being visible every moment and creates Days, Nights, Fortnights, Months, Seasons, ‘Ayanas’, and Years.

Saptaswaradha marthandam prachandam kasyapatmajam
Swetha padma dharam devam tam suryam pranamamyaham

The infinite-rayed Prabhakara is like an eye to the entire universe.  With his unique illumination, one can see boundless Nature and the stupendous creation of God. Lord Aditya is eulogized as the Eye of the Universe and the Eye of the Almighty. One finds the sublime standard of sheen in the Lord.

Lord Sri Krishna confirmed in Gita that Lord Surya is similar to Himself ‘Adityanam aham Vishnum Jyothisham Raviramsuman’.

Surya Dev or Lord Surya

 

According to Mythology, many worshipped the magnificent God of Glitter for fulfilling their wishes.

  • By worshipping Lord Surya, King Satrajit obtained ‘Syamanthakamani’ which is capable of showering gigantic masses of gold.
  • Kunthi Devi, the mother of Pandavas got Karna as a son shining with ‘Kavachakundalas’ by praying to Lord Ravi.
  • Pleased with the invocation of king Dharmaraja, Lord Surya offered ‘Akshaya Patra’ to him to solve the crisis of food when the Pandavas were leading a horrible life in the forest.
  • After praying to Lord Surya, the great Sanskrit poet Mayura’s leprosy was cured.
  • Lord Rama won the battlefield by worshipping Lord Prabhakara. Lord Venkateswara, the gorgeous god of “Kaliyuga Vaikunta’ prayed to the Sun God and married Goddess Lakshmi.
  • Sage Yagnavalkya created Sukla Veda and Yajur Veda because of the grace of Lord Aditya.

Renowned as ‘Ramabhaktagresara,’ ‘Chiranjeevi’ and ‘Bhavishyadbrahma,’ Lord Hanuman became the chief disciple of Lord Surya and learned absolute knowledge from Him.

Rathasaptami is also named as Surya Jayanthi’. He moves his Chariot towards the northern direction from this day and gives blessings to devotees.

Let us pray to Lord Surya who is the direct and visible embodiment of all deities to fulfil our noble desires. Lord Surya sanctions wealth, health, progeny, education, and many accomplishments to His devotees. He protects equilibrium in Nature by His movement.

When He rises in the Sky, all movable and immovable entities will be awakened every day. He acts as the witness of ‘Karma’ by following the rule of punctuality. No one can conquer Time. Lord Surya reminds the world about the philosophy of passing Time every moment directly.

On the day of ‘Rathasapthami‘, let us have a holy bath after putting the ‘Jilledu (Arka)’ leaves on our heads and chant the following sloka to possess Lord’s benediction:

Sapta Sapta Maha Sapta Sapta Dweepa Vasundhara Saptarka Parnamaadhayasapthami Rathasapthami

Surya Narayana - Sun God

Surya Narayana – Sun God

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Surya Narayana

Lord Surya Narayana is considered to be the prime of the universe. The sun rays are the source of all light in the universe. All beings are born, nurtured, and deceased due to the rays of the Sun. Lord Surya Narayana is the “Atma” of the universe. Worship of the Sun god has existed from ancient days.

Surya Bhagawan or Surya Narayana

Solar dynasty

Solar dynasty is to be the first Royal dynasty. Lord Sri Ramachandra was born in this solar dynasty. We have to worship Surya Narayana daily. Lord Sri Rama recited “Aditya Hridyam” to slay Ravanasura. Bharatiya Sampradaya insists on worshipping the Sun God.

“Aruna Mantra” is one of the significant Mantra mentioned in Vedas by praising Sun God. There are 12 Adityas in the Universe named Dwadasa Adityas. Lord Sriman Narayana resides in the middle among them.

The transition of the Sun to the zodiac called Makara (Capricorn) is called “Uttarayana” and is celebrated as “Makara Sankranti” – “Magasuddha Sapthami”. This period is very auspicious and is also dedicated to the Sun God by celebrating Rathasapthami as a festival.

Rathasapthami

Rathasapthami is equally celebrated as Makara Sankranti. It is also good to perform rituals for ancestors on this day. Any eye-related problems are resolved by praying to the Sun God. This is mentioned in Jyothisha Sastra.

One can gain healthy eyes and intellect by praying to Lord Surya Narayana. “Aroghyam Bhaskharadichyeth” which means – “Good Health is desired from Bhaskara – the Sun God”

By praying to the Sun God, one can obtain good health, mind, and intellect. When performing namaskara to the Sun God, one should recite “Surya Deva Namasthubhyam”. Sun God has a special status among Navagrahas and has special prayers for him.

Sun God is also known as Savitha as he is the source of birth.

Gayathri Mantra

Gayathri Mantra also relates to Surya Mantra. It is important to recite the Gayathri Mantra per Sun God to improve one’s intellect. Rathasapthami is an ancient festival that is to be celebrated wholeheartedly to get the grace of Lord Surya Narayana.

This would also rejuvenate our body. Sun God is not a planet, he is the Supreme being himself. When one does Namaskaram, it shows his obedience and gratitude towards others.

When performing Surya Namaskaram, our health and wealth are cherished by the blessings of Sun God. Surya Mantra, Surya Sthothram, Aruna Mantra are recited to acquire the blessings of the Sun God.

Procession of Surya Prabha Vahanam in Tirumala
Procession of Surya Prabha Vahanam in Tirumala

Cured of Leprosy

A devotee named Mayurbhatta was cured of Leprosy after praying to Lord Surya Narayana. He composed Surya Satakam in praise of Lord Surya Narayana.

Many puranas, have mentioned the worship of the Sun God which benefits health and wealth. Akshaya Patra in Mahabharata and Aditya Hridyam in Ramayana are clear examples. All the beings have to show gratitude towards the Sun God by performing daily Surya Namaskar towards the east.

*Source – Saptagiri Magazine