Arasavalli Suryanarayana Swamy Rathasapthami

Arasavalli Suryanarayana Swamy Rathasapthami Festival Significance

Rathasapathmi or Surya Jayanthi is the most important festivals of the Sun God. Rathasapthami or Magha Saptami day marks the birth date of Sun God who was born to Sage Kasyapa and Aditi. On this special day, Suryanarayana Swamy Nijaroopa Darshan (with no ornaments) will be available from 5:00 am – 2:00 pm. Lakhs of devotees visit this holy shrine to offer prayers. This festival will be celebrated in the month of Feb or Mar. It is believed that offering prayers to the Sun God on this day will be blessed with good health and wealth. It is said that Lord Rama worshipped Sun God before killing Ravana.

Rathasapathami marks the beginning of Uttaryana i.e first half of the year. On this day, Sun changes planetary position from Sagittarius to Capricorn. It is said that the rays on this special day will have the power to cure chronic diseases.

Ksheerabhishekam will be performed to the deity. Devotees will be allowed to watch this special event.

How to celebrate Rathasapthami Festival?

Devotees should take a bath before sunrise with 7 Gigantic swallow-wort / Calotropis gigantea / (Arka) / (Madar) / (Jilledu) and 7 Jujube leaves (Regu Pandu tree) and 7 Jujube fruits ( Regu Pandu) in head, shoulders and hands.
While taking bath, spell this Sloka once

Yadya Janmakrutham Paapam
Maya Sapathasu janmasu
Thanme Rogam cha Shokam cha
Maakaari Hamthu Sapthami

Etha Janma Krutham Paapam
Yachcha Janmaantha rarjitham
Mano Vaakkaayajam Yachcha
Jnaatha Jnaathe cha ye Punah

Ithi Sapthavidham paapam
Snaanaanme saptha Sapthike
Sapthavyaaadhi Samaayuktham
hara Maakari Sapthami

Which means, remove sorrows, health issues due to sins committed knowingly or unknowningly from my previous birth.

3. Prepare Prasadam with Milk in the open air outside the home and offer to Sun God.

Reference Link: Rathasapthami Festival