Maha Saptami Vrat is an auspicious year-long Vrat. It begins on Magh Shukla Panchami and ends on Magh Shukla Saptami. In 2023, Maha Saptami date is January 28.
Maha Saptami Vrat Vidhi
On Magh Shukla Panchami, Vrat would follow Ekabhukt Upvaas (one time fasting) and offer Shodashopachar Pooja to Surya Bhagwan. On Shashti day, Nakt Upvaas and Pooja is performed. There will be no upvaas on Saptami day but Surya Bhagwan is offered ‘Karveer Pushpa’ (Indian Oleander – Nerium indicum).
This Vrat is performed for an year, dividing it into 3 periods. In each period of 4 months, different Naivedya, Flowers and Dhoop are offered to Bhagwan. In the end, a Rath (Chariot) is offered to Surya Bhagwan and is donated to a Brahmin.
Maha Saptami Vrata is mentioned in the Bhavishya Purana.