Yesterday, 22nd January was Ratha Saptami. Ratha Saptami is an
important festival observed in the current month of Maagha Masam on Shukla
Saptami which is on the 7th day after the New Moon. Ratha Saptami festival is
dedicated to Lord Surya (Sun GOD) and on this day Surya Bhagwan is worshipped
for better health, happiness and prosperity.
Lord Surya rides a Chariot driven by seven horses and it is in this
form he is worshipped during Ratha Saptami. Ratha means Chariot and Saptami
means the seventh day. Surya Namaskaram is a ritual practised every day by the
devout and today it is performed by all those observing Ratha Saptami. Ratham
Muggu (Rangoli) is drawn in front of the house. You can see samples of such
Muggu in the above pictures. Naivedyam, which is food offerings to the
idols/pictures of Gods at home are made and later eaten as prasadam.
In Telangana, Ratha Saptami is also celebrated as Kodalla Panduga
which is a festival for the daughters-in-law of the house. The daughters-in-law
are gifted with a new dress and a sweet is offered along with a festive meal
for the entire family. Two days before Ratha Saptami on Maagha Masam Shukla
Panchami, it is Kodukula Panduga, which is a festival for the sons. Perhaps this
is the only area in the entire country which has festivals earmarked every year
for the Sons and Daughters-in-law.
Those of you who have missed these two occasions this week or do not follow this tradition may celebrate and enjoy them this weekend! in honour of these important family members.
Let all TELUGUS read this and observe all over the world!
ReplyDeletePakirareddy
మేము కూడా మా ఇంట్లో కొడుకుల పండుగ మరియు కోడళ్ళ పండుగ ను జరుపుకుంటాం sir
ReplyDeleteHappy to know :-)
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