Bhanu Saptami, dedicated to the worship of the Sun God (Surya), is a significant festival celebrated by Hindus. In 2025, Bhanu Saptami will be observed on Sunday, April 20th . The day is considered highly auspicious for offering prayers to the Sun, who is regarded as the source of life, vitality, and energy. Devotees worship the Sun to seek good health, prosperity, and spiritual well-being. The rituals typically include chanting mantras, offering water and prayers to the Sun, and performing specific pujas, all aimed at harnessing the Sun's divine energy. This day holds special importance for those who believe in the power of Surya to remove ailments and bring positive changes in life.
Significance & Importance of Bhanu Saptami
Bhanu Saptami, also known as Surya Saptami, Maghi Saptami, Achala Saptami, Surya Jayanti, and Ratha Saptami, holds deep spiritual significance in Hindu tradition. It is observed on the seventh day of the Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) during the month of Magha. This day is particularly revered as Surya Jayanti, as it is believed to mark the day when Lord Surya, the Sun God, illuminated the world, bringing light and life to the universe. The Sun, revered as the source of all energy, vitality, and sustenance, holds a special place in Hindu worship, and this day is dedicated to offering reverence and seeking the divine blessings of Surya.
Devotees observe Bhanu Saptami with fervent prayers and rituals, offering water to the Sun at sunrise while chanting specific mantras to invoke his blessings. The Sun God is believed to grant various benefits to those who worship him with sincerity. Those who offer their prayers on this auspicious day are said to be blessed with wealth, longevity, good health, and vitality. Moreover, it is believed that the act of fasting on Bhanu Saptami brings about a physical and spiritual cleanse, helping devotees rid themselves of ailments and negative energies. By observing this fast, individuals are thought to alleviate the accumulated sins from their past and present lives, leading to a purer and more prosperous existence.
The day is also associated with spiritual and physical rejuvenation. Devotees believe that by honoring Surya on this day, they can bring healing to their bodies and minds, as well as gain protection from adversities. The worship of Surya on Bhanu Saptami is considered a way to seek divine intervention for personal growth and to maintain harmony with nature. This day encourages individuals to reflect on their lives, adopt a more disciplined and health-conscious approach, and express gratitude for the Sun's life-giving energy.
The significance of Bhanu Saptami also traces back to ancient cosmological beliefs, particularly in the Chandogya Upanishad, which provides an insightful account of the process of creation. According to the Upanishad, the universe originated from a cosmic egg that split into two halves—one golden and the other silver. The silver half became the Earth, while the golden half formed the heavens. This celestial division gave rise to the creation of mountains, snow, clouds, and all that we see around us. It was at this moment, as Surya dev began his journey, that life on Earth was ignited. His light illuminated the world for the first time, giving birth to day and night and ensuring the continuity of life.
Bhanu Saptami holds profound cosmic and spiritual significance, marking the day when Lord Surya, the Sun God, ascended to Earth in his golden chariot. This momentous occasion is depicted in Hindu mythology as a divine event, where Surya dev, in all his radiance, rode upon a resplendent chariot drawn by seven horses. Each horse represents one of the seven rays of the Sun, which are said to signify different aspects of energy, vitality, and life force. The charioteer of the Sun, Aruna, is believed to have shielded the Earth from the intense heat of the Sun, ensuring that the world was not overwhelmed by its power. This symbolism underscores the Sun’s nurturing role, offering light and warmth without causing harm, and is a reminder of the balance required between power and compassion.
Story of Bhanu Saptami Festival
On Bhanu Saptami, devotees celebrate the 'birthday' of Surya dev, marking the day he brought illumination, vitality, and energy to the Earth. The worship of Surya on this day is considered a powerful act, as it is believed that through sincere devotion, one can attain divine blessings of good health, prosperity, and longevity. Those who observe the fast on this auspicious day are believed to be absolved of their sins, both from this life and past lives. The fast is also linked with the purification of the body and soul, as it is said that all diseases are warded off by taking a ritual bath before sunrise. This practice of bathing, particularly in sacred rivers or water bodies, is believed to cleanse the devotee of impurities and ensure that health and well-being are maintained throughout the year.
Due to these healing properties, Bhanu Saptami is sometimes referred to as Aarogya Saptami, emphasizing the festival's association with the protection from illness and the promotion of a long, healthy life. Devotees who participate in the rituals of this day are thought to receive divine grace that fosters mental clarity, physical strength, and overall wellness. The day is not only a celebration of the Sun's radiant energy but also a time for spiritual renewal, reminding followers of the interconnectedness of light, life, and divine grace in the universe. Through worship, fasting, and prayer, individuals seek to align themselves with the cosmic forces of creation and maintain harmony with the energy that sustains the world.
Festival Date, Time, Muhurat & Tithi
Bhanu Saptami will be observed on Sunday, April 20th, 2025.
Saptami Tithi (7th lunar day) of the Magha month as per the lunar calendar.
Key Timings for Bhanu Saptami 2025:
-
Bhanu Saptami Muhurat:
06:15 AM to 06:45 AM (IST)
Duration: 30 Minutes - Saptami Tithi begins at 05:45 AM on April 20th (IST)
- Saptami Tithi ends at 06:20 AM on April 21st (IST)
- Bathing Muhurat: 06:15
Note: Sunrise and sunset vary by region and date due to India's geographical diversity. For exact timings, refer to local astronomical data.
How to Celebrate Bhanu Saptami
Bhanu Saptami is a day dedicated to the worship of Lord Surya, the Sun God, and is considered highly auspicious for spiritual and physical well-being. To celebrate Bhanu Saptami, devotees begin the day by waking up early before sunrise to take a ritual bath. The bath is believed to purify the body and mind, and it is an important step in the worship process. The sacred water should be offered with devotion, and some devotees choose to bathe in holy rivers or nearby water bodies to enhance the sanctity of the ritual.
After bathing, devotees offer prayers to Lord Surya, typically facing the rising sun. They chant mantras such as the Gayatri mantra or Surya Ashtakshara mantra to invoke the blessings of the Sun God. Offering water to the Sun is an essential part of the prayer, as it is believed that this act helps in dispelling ailments, removing obstacles, and gaining vitality. During the worship, devotees may also offer flowers, incense, and fruits, with a focus on surrendering to the divine light of the Sun for blessings of health, prosperity, and longevity.
The day is also observed by many with fasting, although some may choose to take only fruits or liquids, depending on their health and preference. Those who fast on Bhanu Saptami are believed to receive the Sun God's blessings for physical health and the removal of past sins. Special offerings of food, particularly grains and sweets, are prepared and shared with family and friends after the completion of the worship rituals. Throughout the day, devotees engage in prayers and meditations, seeking to align themselves with the positive energy of the Sun and ensure a prosperous and healthy future.
In some regions, the day is also observed as Aarogya Saptami, where people focus specifically on health and healing. Observing the rituals and praying with pure intentions is believed to bring about physical and spiritual rejuvenation. Bhanu Saptami serves not only as a time to honor the Sun God but also as an opportunity to reflect on one's life, seek forgiveness for past wrongdoings, and embrace the divine light that ensures the continuation of life on Earth.
Bhanu Saptami Festival Puja Vidhi (Puja Procedure)
The Bhanu Saptami Puja is performed with devotion and reverence to honor Lord Surya, the Sun God. To begin the puja, devotees wake up early before sunrise, as the first rays of the sun are considered to be the most auspicious. The day begins with a ritual bath to purify the body and mind. It is customary to bathe in a river or any sacred water body if possible, but a simple bath with clean water will also suffice. After bathing, the devotee should wear clean clothes and sit in a clean, peaceful space for the puja.
The main aspect of the puja is the offering of water to the Sun God. The devotee should face the rising Sun and hold a vessel filled with water, offering it towards the Sun while chanting the Surya mantras, such as the Gayatri mantra or Surya Ashtakshara mantra. The mantras are repeated several times to invoke the Sun God’s blessings. Devotees may also offer flowers, incense, and other sacred items, such as kumkum, rice, and fruits, as a mark of reverence.
During the puja, it is important to maintain focus on Lord Surya’s radiant energy, which is believed to bring health, prosperity, and longevity. Some people may also observe fasting on this day, consuming only fruits or liquids, to enhance the spiritual benefits of the day. After completing the worship, devotees may offer prayers for the well-being of their family and community.
The day concludes with the offering of prasad, usually consisting of fruits and sweets, to family members and others present. Bhanu Saptami is seen as a day to rejuvenate spiritually and physically, ensuring that the devotee remains aligned with the divine light of the Sun.
Bhanu Saptami Puja Mantras
Surya Gayatri Mantra
'ॐ सूर्याय विद्महे महादेवाय धीमहि
तन्नो सूर्य: प्रचोदयात्'
Transliteration
:
'Om Suryaya Vidmahe Mahadevaya Dhimahi
Tanno Surya Prachodayat'
Meaning
:
'We meditate upon the Sun God, who is the embodiment of supreme power and divine light. May He illuminate our minds and guide us towards spiritual awakening.'
Surya Ashtakshara Mantra
'ॐ सूर्याय नमः'
Transliteration
:
'Om Suryaya Namah'
Meaning
:
'Salutations to Lord Surya, the Sun God.'
These mantras are chanted with devotion while offering water to the Sun, especially during sunrise, to invoke the blessings of Lord Surya. Reciting these mantras purifies the mind and body, brings healing energy, and protects the devotee from ailments.
Bhanu Saptami Vrat Vidhi (Fasting Procedure)
The Bhanu Saptami Vrat is observed to seek the blessings of Lord Surya for good health, prosperity, and the removal of obstacles. The fasting procedure begins with waking up early before sunrise to take a ritual bath. It is considered highly auspicious to bathe in a river or sacred water body if possible, but a clean bath with water also suffices. The bath is intended to purify the body and prepare the devotee for the spiritual practices of the day.
After the bath, the devotee should wear clean clothes and prepare a quiet and clean space for worship. It is important to offer prayers to Lord Surya, facing the rising Sun. Devotees typically offer water to the Sun, holding a vessel filled with water and chanting Surya mantras such as the Gayatri mantra and the Surya Ashtakshara mantra. These mantras invoke the blessings of Lord Surya and are believed to bring vitality, strength, and protection from ailments.
While fasting, many devotees choose to consume only fruits, water, or light food to keep the body pure and focused. Some may observe a strict fast by refraining from eating altogether. Throughout the day, it is essential to maintain a focused and devotional attitude, praying for the removal of obstacles and seeking blessings for good health and prosperity. After the Sun sets, the fast is generally broken, often by consuming fruits or light food. It is also customary to offer prasad (usually fruits and sweets) to family members and those present, sharing the blessings received during the day. The fast is believed to cleanse the body, remove negative energy, and bring the devotee closer to Lord Surya’s divine light.
Bhanu Saptami Vrat Katha (Traditional Fasting Story)
The story of Indumati and her quest for moksha, as narrated in connection with Bhanu Saptami, is a tale steeped in spiritual depth and divine grace. Indumati, a woman of great beauty and devotion, was deeply troubled by the cycle of birth and rebirth that she found herself trapped in. Her longing for liberation, or moksha, led her to seek guidance from the revered sage, Vashishtha, one of the Saptarishi, known for his wisdom and deep knowledge of spiritual practices.
Upon meeting Sage Vashishtha, Indumati humbly expressed her desire to attain moksha, asking him for a solution to break free from the endless cycle of life and death. The sage, who could see the sincerity in her heart, listened carefully to her plight. After contemplating for a moment, Sage Vashishtha imparted to her a profound yet simple solution: 'Observe the sacred fast of Bhanu Saptami, dedicated to Lord Surya, the Sun God. By worshipping the Sun with devotion, you will purify your soul and gain divine grace, which will ultimately lead you to moksha.'
Indumati, having great faith in the sage's words, decided to follow his advice without hesitation. She observed the Bhanu Saptami Vrat with complete devotion and discipline. She woke up early on the auspicious day, took a ritual bath, and performed the puja facing the rising Sun, offering water to Lord Surya while chanting powerful mantras. Her heart was filled with gratitude and reverence as she offered flowers, incense, and prayers. She spent the day in fasting, reflecting on her life, meditating on the divine light of the Sun, and seeking blessings for liberation.
As the day progressed, Indumati's sincere devotion and unwavering faith in the Sun God did not go unnoticed. Lord Surya, who is known as the giver of life, light, and vitality, was moved by her intense devotion. He appeared to her in a radiant form, showering her with his divine blessings. Pleased by her worship and the purity of her heart, Lord Surya granted her the ultimate gift — liberation from the cycle of birth and rebirth. Indumati, through her devotion on Bhanu Saptami, achieved moksha and was elevated to the heavens as an Apsara, a celestial being blessed with eternal peace and beauty.
Indumati's story serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of devotion, particularly when it is directed towards Lord Surya. Her transformation from a mortal being to an Apsara illustrates the profound spiritual significance of Bhanu Saptami and how sincere worship can lead to the highest form of liberation. This tale encourages devotees to engage in the fast and rituals with a pure heart, seeking not only material benefits but spiritual growth and ultimate freedom. By honoring Lord Surya, the source of all life and light, one can cleanse their soul, dispel darkness, and attain the eternal grace of moksha.
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Surya Sun Grah Puja Mantra Japa and Yagna
Surya grah puja mantra japa and yajna is performed to enhance the benefit of planet Sun and remove its malefic effects. It is best done when the native is under the dasha of Sun in horoscope. Sun also called Surya or Aditya is a primary diety in Hinduism. As a source of light, warmth, and life, He is worshipped as Surya Narayana for good health, vitality, prosperity, and success. Worship of the Sun is deeply rooted in Hindu culture and rituals, with dedicated prayers and hymns that express reverence and gratitude for the Sun's blessings. The Sun is also associated with knowledge, wisdom, and enlightenment.
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Conclusion
Bhanu Saptami is a day that celebrates the divine light of Lord Surya, the Sun God, whose rays sustain life and illuminate the universe. It is a day of spiritual significance, offering devotees the opportunity to purify their hearts and minds through sincere worship and devotion. By honoring Surya, who represents strength, vitality, and clarity, individuals seek to remove obstacles, gain health, prosperity, and ultimately achieve spiritual liberation. The fast, prayers, and rituals associated with Bhanu Saptami not only cleanse the body but also nourish the soul, connecting the devotee with the cosmic energy of the Sun. As the Sun rises on this sacred day, it symbolizes the dawn of new possibilities, healing, and divine grace, reminding us of the eternal truth that through devotion, faith, and purity, we can overcome the challenges of life and move towards the light of eternal peace.
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