Importance of Shani Jayanti

About Shani Jayanti

The occasion of Shani Jayanti, the birthday of Saturn, is a highly auspicious Hindu festival that falls on Vaishak Vaidya Chaturdashi Amavasya. The day commemorates the birth anniversary of Shani Dev, the karmic planet Saturn. The occasion is celebrated all over the country, though the rituals and ceremonies may differ slightly from region to region. It is highly recommended that people observe the rituals on this day by adhering to the strict guidelines as prescribed in the holy texts to appease Shani Dev (Saturn). Though Saturn is often regarded as a strict planet by many, one should not overlook the fact that this is only to guide humanity towards the right path. By pacifying Shani Dev, one can lead a more wholesome and contented life, and offering prayers to Saturn on Shani Jayanti can work wonders in alleviating the malefic effects of Saturn in one’s horoscope.

Shani Dev and life

Shani Dev (Saturn) is considered the ultimate leveler, and people in all strata of life are considered the same by him, whether rich or poor, skilled or unskilled. Saturn or Shani also ensures that those who have committed any wrongdoings in life are made to pay for their errors. Astrologers also attribute a person’s standing in life due to the stance of Shani in the horoscope. While this holds true in some cases, it does offer everyone an opportunity to correct the unfavorable effects, affecting their lives. Shani does not discriminate against anyone, and those who are patient and persistent in their endeavors are sure to prevail ultimately. It is also imperative to note that one’s destiny is mostly dictated by the placement of Shani (planet Saturn) in the Natal Birth Chart.

Poojas for Shani Dev

Performing the Navagraha Pooja on a regular basis can help you connect with Shani. Devotees take the opportunity to visit Shani temples to conduct special rituals. Shani Jayanti is the ideal occasion to perform this Poojas, and those who do so with sincerity can be blessed with favorable outcomes and good fortune. However, one should also keep in mind that a Shani Yagna (Saturn Fire Lab) should be performed only after due consultation with an astrologer to avoid any negative repercussions.

Observing Shani Vrat (Fasting)

Observing a ‘Vrat’ (fast) on Shani Jayanti is immensely beneficial for the devotees, and those who adhere strictly to the ritual are favored by Shani Devi. This holds true even for the families of the persons who observe the fast. Additionally, it is recommended to chant the Shani Jaap 23,000 times for peace and prosperity in life.

Customs Observed on Shani Jayanti

Start the day by waking up early and having a holy bath in the closest water body. While doing so, offer Surya Namaskar to the rising Sun. After this, devotees should wear clean garments in preparation for the rituals to follow.

Perform Abishekam to the statue of Shani Dev (Saturn) with Gangajal (pure water), Panchamrita (mix of five ingredients), oil, and water. After completion of this ritual, the idol of the deity should be decked up with a Navratna necklace (nine stones); this is considered akin to connecting with the Navgrahas. A Shani Shanti Pooja (Saturn Pacification Pooja) and ‘Telabhishekam’ (Hydration Pooja with oil) are performed to propitiate the deity. A ‘Homa’ or ‘Yagna’ is performed to protect one from evil forces. It is also strongly recommended to wear a horseshoe ring, preferably on the middle finger of the right hand. Hanging a horseshoe ring on the threshold of one’s house is also believed to ward off evil spirits and usher in prosperity into the household. By chanting the Shani mantra ‘Om sham ShaneshcharayaNamaha’ for 11 times, one can benefit from the good effects of Shani Dev. It is also recommended to feed ants with wheat and jaggery. The occasion of Shani Jayanti is celebrated with great pomp and gaiety in the Shani Shingnapur ShaneshwaraMandir (Temple) in Maharashtra. People from all over the country make their way to this temple to worship Shani (Saturn) on this auspicious day.