Ratha Saptami, also known as Surya Jayanti, is a vibrant Hindu festival celebrating the Sun God's symbolic birthday and his auspicious northward journey in a magnificent chariot drawn by seven horses.

Observed on Sunday, January 25, 2026, this day marks the transition from winter to spring, signifying renewal, vitality, and the onset of the new harvesting season. 

Ratha Saptami Snan is one of the most important rituals and is ideally performed during Arunodaya only. Arunodaya last about one and a half hours (96 minutes) before sunrise in most Indian locations.

Ratha Saptami (Surya Jayanti) – Sunday, January 25, 2026 | The Birthday of Lord Surya
Saptami Tithi Begins – 12:39 AM on January 25, 2026
Saptami Tithi Ends – 11:10 PM on January 25, 2026 
Snan (Holy Bath) Muhurat – 05:26 AM to 07:13 AM on January 25, 2026 (Duration: 1 hour 47 mins)
Sunrise (Arghyadan Time) – Approximately 07:13 AM on January 25, 2026

Ratha Saptami (Surya Jayanti)

Ratha Saptami, also known as Surya Jayanti or Magha Saptami, is a significant Hindu festival dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God. Celebrated on the seventh day (Saptami) of the bright half (Shukla Paksha) of the Hindu month of Magha, it marks the symbolic birthday of Surya Dev and the commencement of the Sun's northward journey, known as Uttarayan. This festival holds immense religious, cultural, and scientific importance in Hinduism, where the Sun is revered as the ultimate source of life, energy, and vitality on Earth. Devotees across India and beyond observe this day with rituals, prayers, and offerings to seek blessings for health, prosperity, and enlightenment. In 2026, Ratha Saptami falls during a time when the winter season transitions toward spring, symbolizing renewal and growth.