Rathasapthami

Rathasapthami begins in households with a purification bath by holding several Ekka leaves on their head while bathing and chanting a verse which is supposed to invoke the benevolence of the Lord in all that one indulges in during the rest of the year.

Ekka leaves (in Kannada), are also known as Arka (in Sanskrit, meaning a ray or flash of lightning) leaves – Calotropis Gigantea in English. Arka is also a synonym for Surya or Sun. Its significance to Sun God could be compared to the significance of Tulsi leaves to Vishnu. Arka leaves are also used for worship of god Ganesha known by the name Arka Ganesha and also for Hanuman worship. Its stems, called samidha (sacrificial offerings of wood) are used for the Yagna ritual as a sacrificial offering to a ritual fire. Its shape is said to represent the shoulders and chariot of Sun God. Its use during the ritualistic ceremonious bath involves placement of seven leaves - one on the head, two on the shoulders, two on the knees and two on the feet.

Gayatri mantra, Surya Ashtottara Shatanamavali, Aditya Hridayam chanted on this day is believed to be very powerful.