Ratha Saptami

Ratha Saptami is the grand annual festival of Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple at Arasavalli, near Srikakulam, Andhra Pradesh. Dedicated to Lord Surya (the Sun God), the festival is celebrated on Magha Shukla Saptami (January or February) and is revered as Surya Jayanti, the divine birthday of Lord Surya. It is one of the most important festivals at the temple and attracts lakhs of devotees from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, and other parts of India.

Significance

Ratha Saptami symbolizes the Sun God’s chariot, drawn by seven horses, beginning its journey toward the northern hemisphere, representing light, health, prosperity, and the arrival of spring. Devotees believe that worshipping Lord Surya on this auspicious day removes obstacles, grants good health, and brings success and happiness.

Major Celebrations

• 🌅 Holy bath before sunrise and offering Arghya to the Sun God.
• 🛕 Special Abhishekam, Archana, and Nija Rupa Darshanam of Lord Sri Suryanarayana Swamy.
• 🚩 Grand temple processions with Vedic chanting and devotional music.
• 🙏 Lakhs of devotees visit the temple to seek divine blessings.
• 🎭 Cultural and devotional programs showcasing the rich traditions of Srikakulam.

About the Temple

The Sri Suryanarayana Swamy Temple at Arasavalli is one of India’s oldest and most revered Sun temples, believed to have been built in the 7th century CE by King Devendra Varma of the Eastern Ganga dynasty. The temple is renowned for its unique architecture and spiritual significance.