Article By: Holistic Life Mentor Dr. Badri Narayanan. Ph:95000 64319.  

Remember The sun is said to be 14,96,00,000 km from the earth, but he sends rays in 8.3 minutes to earth. Sun is Our Prana. Since all life forms depend upon him, this day is also celebrated as Surya Jayanthi  and The Ratha Saptami festival seeks the benevolent cosmic spread of energy.
Surya turned his Ratha (Chariot) drawn by seven horses towards the northern hemisphere. The Chariot has 12 wheels, which represents the 12 signs of the Zodiac.
On the Ratha Saptami day the god Vishnu in his manifestation as Surya (Surya Narayana) is worshiped. People offer Arghyam (Tharpanam) to the Surya Bhagavan & to Ancestors. Chanting of Surya Ashtakam, Aaditya Hrudayam creates cosmic vibrations & blissful life.