In the age old reverence of the Sun as the source of life, energy and prosperity, the traditional ceremonial procession of the Lord Surya through Chaura Rasta in Jaipur on the occasion of Surya Saptami demonstrates the ancient Indian reverence to the Sun. The event is firmly entrenched in cultural and religious ideas and brings major participation of people as well as preserves the symbolic significance of solar power in daily life. Other than the religious importance the procession also reflects the dedication of Rajasthan to solar energy and sustainable development. Being one of the Sun-heavy producers of solar power, Rajasthan is using the full potential of the sun to increase the capacity of renewable energy, encourage rooftop solar and even other climate-friendly initiatives as a composite of ancient wisdom and current sustainability interest
Ancient Tradition Meets Modern Message
One such religious tradition which has a long history of some 250 years was the annual Surya Saptami Rath Yatra that was observed on Sunday with great religious zeal and strong sustainability message. It was started before the sunrise with Vedic chants, Surya Puja and giving of arghya to Lord Surya who is the giver of life and energy.The biggest event was the Rath Yatra procession where a decorated chariot full of the idol of the Sun God was pulled in customary pathways by the followers. Rituals were carried out as boys would play the conch shells, drums, and devotional songs. Thousands of participants were involved in the event, hoping to be blessed with the health, prosperity, and well-being.The organisers also included a modern touch this year, by encouraging the awareness of renewable energy. Posters and advertisements were used to compare Lord Surya with solar power and emphasized that solar energy was a clean and renewable source. Key messages centered around energy conservation, adoption of solar power and environmental responsibility connecting ancient wisdom to the modern day action on climat
Leaders Advocate Solar Power as a Cultural and Social Responsibili
The Rajasthan Solar Association (RSA) and the Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) leaders explained that solar energy provides benefits beyond economic advantages because it functions as a social obligation which connects to cultural traditions. RSA President Sunil Bansal and CEO Nitin Agarwal explained that India needs to use sunlight which represents its primary natural resource to continue Lord Surya’s legacy.
Event Draws Broad Participatio
The procession attracted not only religious devotees but also traders, social organisations and energy professionals — reflecting a diverse civic engagement. The platform served to raise awareness about renewable energy adoption and encourage public commitment to sustainable practices.
