Bhima Ratha Shanti Homam (70th Birthday)

July 11, 2025

Bhima Ratha Shanti is a Vedic ceremony performed when a Hindu man turns 70 years old. On reaching this significant milestone in life, the man and his wife offer prayers to the gods, invoking their blessings for good health and longevity. They also perform Homas and Shanti Poojas to alleviate malefic planetary effects in their birth charts. The couple’s children, grandchildren, younger siblings, and other relatives organize the celebration. As this is an important phase in their lives, they conduct the ritual for the all-round well-being of the couple.

The Vedas talk of Shantikarya Pooja ceremonies, and Sampradaayas recommend the observance of specific rituals that need to be performed when a person attains a certain age. Each of these Shanti Karyas are dedicated to specific deities and the rituals must be performed at specific Kshetras or locations. The Vedas also mention what flowers and herbs should be offered and the number of Ahuti (Homam offerings). All these help attract divine blessings.

Bhima Ratha Shanti Homam

Why Bhima Ratha Shanti Homam?

The Bhima Ratha Shanti Homam holds a significant place in the Hindu tradition, particularly for those reaching the age of 70.

This ceremony enables one to express their thanks for a long life and seek blessings for the future. The word ‘Ratha’ means ‘chariot,’ while ‘Bhima’ represents strength. One can interpret it to mean that the body is like a chariot that carries us on the journey of life. It needs to be strong and stable for the journey to be smooth. Hence, one performs this Homam for physical and mental strength and stability.

The ceremony is also a celebration of a well-lived life, one’s achievements, and longevity. Performing this ritual can bestow peace and prosperity to the celebrant and his family. It is also a spiritual milestone, as it marks a transitional period in life that one navigates with wisdom and experience.

Also, this Homam is a communal event that brings together extended family and friends in celebration. Performing the Bhima Ratha Shanti Homam bestows physical, spiritual, and emotional benefits. It can promote harmony and all-round well-being.

Bhima Ratha Shanti Homam includes rituals like Ayul Shanthi Homam and Kalasa Abishekam. These help enhance the couple’s life span and grants them energy and vitality. It also grants spiritual growth and destroys sins and bad karma.

As part of the ceremony, a Pooja is performed for the Kula Devata or family deity. This is followed by 9 Homas following which the couples exchange garlands.

Significance of Bhima Ratha Shanti Homam

The age of 70 is very important in a man’s life. He would have fulfilled his obligations and commitments towards his family by this age. People consider it very auspicious to seek the couple’s blessings on this occasion. The ceremony takes place once a person completes their 69th year.

During the Bhima Ratha Shanti ceremony, various Homams like Ayush Homam, Mrityunjaya Homam, and Navagraha Homam are performed to ensure that the couple has a long, happy, and healthy life in the years ahead.

When to Perform Bhima Ratha Shanti Homam?

The date is selected according to one’s Janma Nakshatra, the yoga and tithi of that date after one completes 69 years.

Benefits of Bhima Ratha Shanti Homam

The Homam offers many benefits to the celebrant. Here are some of them:
It helps to get divine blessings for a long life span, good health, and spiritual growth.
It bestows peace and stability.
It brings prosperity and wish fulfillment.
It bestows great energy
It facilitates recovery from ailments.
One’s bad karma and sins are forgiven.
Divine blessings for happiness and abundance.
Helps appease Kula-Devata, Ishta Devata, and other deities and get their protection
It brings peace and mental and physical stability
Wish fulfillment