Bhanu Saptami 2023 Date, Time, Rituals, and Significance
Bhanu Saptami / Surya Saptami is an auspicious day devoted to Surya Narayan. The Sun God is an important deity in Hinduism and is worshipped daily; however, on Shukla Paksha Saptami, which falls on a Sunday, the significance of this deity is amplified.
Bhanu is one of Surya Narayan’s various names. It is important to mention that Bhanu Saptami is historically thought to be Surya Narayan’s birthday. (or the first time the Sun God appeared). Temples hold special prayers and ceremonies on this day. The day is also referred to as Vivaswat Saptami. Suryavanshis are the name given to Vaivaswat’s descendants since they are descended from the Sun God.
Bhanu Saptami Date 2023
Monday, 13th of February
Rituals of Bhanu Saptami
- Before sunrise, devotees take a dip in the Holy River or lake.
- One prays to Lord Sun after bathing while standing beside a river or lake.
- This day is denoted by the presence of lamps.
- Donations of camphor, dhoop, flowers, and fruits are made by devotees.
- People donate to the poor.
- Donate and present offerings to Brahmas.
- A person should also recite ‘Om Ghrani Suryaya Namah’ or ‘Om Suryaya Namah’.
- Reading the Aditya Hridiya Stotra is also seen as fortunate.
Importance of Bhanu Saptami
Before sunrise on this day, one should bathe in a river, lake, etc. After bathing, one should worship the Sun God. Lord Sun should be worshipped by a pond, lake, or river. This day should see the donation of lamps. Additionally, one should donate camphor, dhoop, red flowers, etc. A person should give charitable contributions to Brahmanas and the destitute.
Before sunrise, one should take a bath in moving water, according to another belief. A person should bathe with seven Badar or Ark leaves on his or her head. After taking a bath, a person must combine seven varieties of fruit, rice, durva, sandalwood, etc. with water and serve it to the Sun God. A person should also recite ‘Om Ghrani Suryaya Namah’ or ‘Om Suryaya Namah’. Reading the Aditya Hridiya Stotra is also seen as fortunate.