Ratha Saptami 2026: Date, Time, Tithi, Puja Shubh Muhurat, Snan, Vrat, Rituals, Significance, Mantra & All

Ratha Saptami 2026, one of the significant Hindu festivals dedicated to Lord Surya, will be observed across India on 25 January 2026. The festival marks the symbolic birth anniversary of the Sun God and is celebrated with rituals, prayers and spiritual devotion. It is also known by various regional names, including Magha Saptami, Magha Jayanti, and Surya Jayanti.

Ratha Saptami 2026: Date, Time, Tithi, Puja Shubh Muhurat, Rituals, Significance & All

According to the Gregorian calendar, Ratha Saptami falls during the January-February period, arriving two days after Basant Panchami. In 2026, the Saptami Tithi of Shukla Paksha in Magha begins at 12:39 AM on 25 January and ends at 11:10 PM on the same day, guiding puja and fasting schedules.

Ratha Saptami Tithi Begins: 25 January 2026, 12:39 AM

Ratha Saptami Tithi Ends: 25 January 2026, 11:10 PM

Snan Muhurat (Auspicious Bathing Time): 25 January 2026, 05:26 AM - 07:13 AM

Dawn: 25 January 2026, 06:48 AM

Sunrise: 25 January 2026, 07:13 AM

Significance of Ratha Saptami 2026

Ratha Saptami is observed as the day when Lord Surya begins his symbolic journey towards the Northern hemisphere in his chariot, marking the gradual lengthening of days and the arrival of warmer weather.

For many devotees, the festival signals the start of the summer period and an important harvest phase for farmers, as the Sun's increasing presence supports crops and livelihoods. The day is also seen as an opportunity to purify the body, mind, and soul through devotion, disciplined fasting, and spiritual practices.

Rath Saptami Snan, Vrat, Puja Ritual and Offerings

Devotees are encouraged to wake up before sunrise and perform ritual baths during the snan muhurat. Many travel to sacred rivers such as the Ganga, Yamuna, Narmada, and Shipra for this purpose. Those unable to visit rivers often add gangajal to their bath water at home.

The day is considered suitable for fasting, meditation, and offering prayers to Lord Surya. Worshippers avoid tamasik food and maintain a simple diet. A central ritual involves offering Arghya to the rising Sun, pouring water mixed with turmeric, jaggery, and red flowers while chanting prayers and mantras.

Devotees chant mantras such as "Om Suryaye Namah" and "Om Ghrani Suryaye Namah" to seek the Sun God's blessings for health, prosperity, and spiritual growth.