Ratha Saptami, also known as Arogya Saptami, Vidhan Saptami, or Radha Saptami, or Surya Jayanti, is believed as the birthday of Surya Bhagavan. Ratha Saptami 2011 date is 10 February, Thursday. In South India, Ratha Saptami is celebrated with utmost gaiety. Women draw Ratham Kolam or Ratham muggu in front of home and welcome Surya Bhagavan to their house for better health and prosperity of their family members.
Pongal, Payasam, etc. are offered as naivedyam. Aditya Hrudayam, Surya Namaskara stotram, Surya Ashtakam, etc. are the most important stotras to chant on Ratha Saptami festival.
Special Temple festivals mark jubilant celebrations during Ratha Saptami in South Indian temples. Arasavalli Surya Narayana swamy temple in Srikakulam district of Andhra Pradesh, one of the famous Sun Temples in India, attracts lacs of devotees on this festival. Devotees will have Surya Narayana Swamy Nijaroopa darshanam on Ratha Saptami festival in this temple.