In Hinduism, Saturday is dedicated to Lord Shani, and observing fasts and performing puja dedicated to Shani Dev helps mitigate the effects of Shani Dosha. During the fast, it’s advised to consume only sattvic food.
Understanding Shani Dosha
In Hinduism, Lord Shani is considered the deity of justice. He is also seen as the dispenser of karmic results, meaning individuals receive outcomes based on their actions. Those who perform good deeds receive favorable results, while those who engage in negative actions face unfavorable consequences. Scriptures also mention that Shani Dev bestows liberation by freeing individuals from the bondage of their actions. In astrology, the period of Saturn (Shani) and the seven and a half years of Saturn (Sade Sati) are considered challenging times in a person’s life.
Remedies to Overcome Shani Dosha
- Worship Lord Shiva on Mondays: Monday is dedicated to Lord Shiva and Mata Parvati. Performing puja and offering abhishek to Lord Shiva on this day holds significance. Use holy items like Ganga jal, milk, curd, honey, ghee, bilva leaves, and flowers during the abhishek. Chant the mantra “Om Namah Shivaya” during the worship. After worshiping Lord Shiva, recite the Shani Chalisa to appease Shani Dev and seek his blessings.
- Perform Puja to the Peepal Tree: In Hinduism, the peepal tree is considered sacred as it is believed to be the abode of various deities including Lord Vishnu, Goddess Lakshmi, and Shani Dev. On Saturdays, after taking a bath and wearing clean clothes, visit a peepal tree. Light a lamp and incense, and offer water, milk, and ganga jal to the tree. Tie a red thread around the trunk of the peepal tree and circumambulate it. Sit beneath the tree and offer prayers to Shani Dev and Goddess Lakshmi. Chant their mantras and offer fruits, flowers, and sweets to the tree. Additionally, donate to the needy and perform acts of charity.
- Reduce Salt Consumption: Some individuals may benefit from reducing salt intake during the period of Shani Dosha. In astrology, salt is associated with the planet Rahu, which is considered a representative of Saturn. It is believed that reducing salt consumption during Sade Sati can mitigate the negative effects of Saturn.
- Perform Remedial Measures for Marriage Issues: Shani Dosha can sometimes lead to obstacles in marriage. In astrology, Saturn is considered a hindrance to marriage. If you have Shani Dosha in your horoscope and face marriage-related challenges, you can perform the following remedy on the first Saturday of the waxing moon phase (Shukla Paksha): Take some black mustard seeds and tie them in a black cloth. Dig a hole near a peepal tree’s roots and bury the bundle. Fill the hole with soil and water it. Pay your respects to the peepal tree and pray for your marriage to be blessed. Repeat this ritual every Saturday and offer water to the tree.
These remedies offer practical solutions to mitigate the challenges posed by Shani Dosha and bring about positive changes in one’s life.