Arka Vratam is dedicated to Surya, the sun god in Hindu
tradition. The Vrat is observed on Sunday. The important rituals of the vratam include
fasting, chanting of Gayatri Mantra or any other prayer dedicated to Surya.
Devotee observing Arka Vrata will be blessed with peace and prosperity.
The devotee observing the vrat should wake up before sunrise
on Sunday. After taking bath, should view the rising sun and offer prayers and
chant Gayatri mantra or any other prayer dedicated to Surya.
Only a single meal is taken on the day – mostly during noon.
The fasting is continued even after sunset. The single meal should be a simple
pure vegetarian meal.
No pujas are performed during the evening hours.
It
is believed that Arka Vratam helps in alleviating various diseases and it also
helps the devotee to attain spiritual awareness.