Ketu is one of the Navgrahas or nine planets revered in Hinduism. In astrology, Ketu is significant and is believed to influence an individual's horoscope for a period of seven years. Worshiping Ketu is done to mitigate the negative effects in one's horoscope, which can include skin diseases caused by an unfavorable Ketu position in the Kundali. Ketu is often worshiped alongside Lord Shiva.
Materials Needed for Ketu Puja:
- Oil
- Til (sesame seeds)
- Blanket
- Clothes
- Blue flowers
- Items for donating to the poor and needy
Steps to Perform Ketu Puja:
Preparation:
- Choose a suitable place and clean the area where the puja will be performed.
- Set up an altar with an idol or image of Ketu and Lord Shiva.
- Arrange all the required items neatly.
Best Time:
- The most auspicious time to perform Ketu Puja is at night.
Offering and Worship:
- Light a lamp using oil and place it in front of the deity.
- Offer til (sesame seeds), which is considered sacred for Ketu.
- Place a blanket and clothes as offerings to Ketu.
- Offer blue flowers, as blue is associated with Ketu.
- Recite the Beej Mantra: “Om stram streem strom saha ketave namaha” while making the offerings.
Prayers and Chanting:
- Begin with a prayer to Lord Ganesha to remove any obstacles.
- Continue with prayers to Lord Shiva, seeking his blessings.
- Recite the Ketu Beej Mantra multiple times (ideally 108 times) with devotion and concentration.
Donation:
- It is highly recommended to donate clothes to the poor and needy as part of the puja rituals. This act of charity helps in alleviating the negative influences of Ketu.
Concluding the Puja:
- Conclude the puja with an Aarti (a devotional song) dedicated to Ketu and Lord Shiva.
- Thank the deities for their blessings and protection.
Performing Ketu Puja with faith and devotion can help in reducing the malefic effects of Ketu in one's horoscope and bring about positive changes in health and well-being.