Shani Dev, also known as Saturn in astrology, is one of the most revered deities in Hinduism. Shani Dev is the lord of justice, and worshipping him with sincere devotion is believed to remove hardships, bring balance in life, and grant justice. Worship of Shani Dev is traditionally performed on Saturdays. Here's a detailed guide on how to worship Shani Dev, covering all aspects from cleanliness to puja rituals.
1. Importance of Worshipping Shani Dev
Shani Dev governs discipline, hard work, karma (actions), and time. Worshipping him is said to:
- Remove obstacles and reduce the effects of "Shani Dosha" (Saturn's ill placement in astrology).
- Bring prosperity and success through righteous actions.
- Develop patience, resilience, and mental strength to face life's challenges.
- Alleviate health issues, financial problems, and family disputes.
2. Preparations for Shani Dev Puja
A. Cleanliness and Purity
Before starting the puja, ensure that both the surroundings and the devotee are clean:
- Personal Cleanliness: Take a bath early in the morning to purify the body. Maintain a calm and focused mind.
- Puja Area: Clean the puja area and sanctify it by sprinkling Gangajal (holy water). If possible, light some incense to purify the atmosphere.
B. Time to Perform Shani Puja
- The most auspicious day to perform Shani Dev puja is Saturday, as this day is dedicated to Shani Dev.
- Time: The ideal time is early morning after sunrise or during the Pradosh Kaal (1.5 hours before sunset). This is believed to be the most auspicious period to offer prayers to Shani Dev.
C. Attire and Color to Wear
- Devotees typically wear black-colored clothing during Shani Dev puja, as black is associated with Shani Dev.
- Wear simple and clean clothes. Cotton is preferred, and avoid flashy or expensive attire.
3. Puja Items Required for Shani Dev Worship
Here is a list of the essential items required to perform Shani Dev puja:
- Idol or Picture of Shani Dev (preferably seated on a crow or with his chariot).
- Mustard Oil (til ka tel) – considered auspicious for offering to Shani Dev.
- Black Sesame Seeds (til).
- Flowers – Blue or black flowers (if available) or red hibiscus.
- Black Cloth – To offer to the idol or picture of Shani Dev.
- Lamp – Use sesame oil or mustard oil for lighting the diya (lamp).
- Incense Sticks – Fragrant sticks (agarbatti) or dhoop.
- Sindoor (vermilion) or Kumkum.
- Rice – Unbroken grains.
- Iron Nails or Iron Objects – Symbolic of Shani’s planetary influence.
- Navratna (nine gemstones) – If available, can be placed near the deity.
- Gangajal – To purify the area.
- Panchamrit – A mixture of milk, honey, sugar, yogurt, and ghee.
Prasad:
- Black gram (kala chana) or urad dal khichdi is commonly prepared and offered as prasad.
- Fruits such as blackberries, dates, or bananas can also be offered.
4. Simple Steps of Shani Dev Puja
Step 1: Cleanse the Idol
- Begin by sprinkling a few drops of water (preferably Gangajal) over the idol or picture of Shani Dev. Clean the idol with water or milk.
Step 2: Light the Lamp and Incense
- Light an oil lamp (preferably mustard oil) and place it in front of the deity.
- Light the incense sticks or dhoop and rotate them in a clockwise direction before the deity.
Step 3: Offer Flowers and Prayers
- Offer flowers (especially blue or black) at the feet of the idol or picture.
- Chant Shani Dev’s name with devotion, requesting his blessings for protection and guidance.
Step 4: Offering Mustard Oil and Sesame Seeds
- Pour a small quantity of mustard oil into a diya or a small dish and place it before the idol. Offer a few black sesame seeds along with it.
- You can also anoint the idol of Shani Dev with mustard oil, symbolizing devotion and surrender.
Step 5: Recite Shani Mantras and Prayers
Chanting mantras dedicated to Shani Dev during the puja is essential. Some commonly recited mantras are:
Shani Mantra:
ॐ शं शनैश्चराय नमःOm Sham Shanaishcharaya Namah
Shani Beej Mantra:
ॐ प्रां प्रीं प्रौं सः शनैश्चराय नमः Om Praam Preem Praum Sah Shanaishcharaya Namah
Shani Gayatri Mantra:
ॐ कृष्णांगाय विद्महे रविपुत्राय धीमहि तन्नः मंदः प्रचोदयात् Om Krishnangaya Vidmahe Ravi Putraya Dhimahi Tanno Mandah Prachodayat
Repeat these mantras at least 11 or 108 times during the puja. Chanting with concentration helps strengthen the devotee's connection with Shani Dev.
Step 6: Offer Prasad
- Place the prasad (black gram, fruits, and other offerings) before Shani Dev. You can also offer a small piece of black cloth or iron objects.
5. How to Conclude the Shani Dev Puja
- Perform Aarti using the oil lamp and incense sticks. Sing or recite the Shani Dev Aarti.
- Meditate for a few minutes in front of the deity, asking for Shani Dev’s blessings and protection.
- Pray for removal of obstacles, relief from suffering, and inner strength to face challenges.
- After the puja, distribute the prasad to family members, friends, and the needy. It is also recommended to donate black clothes, iron utensils, or black sesame seeds to the poor on this day.
6. What to Do with the Leftover Puja Items
- Mustard oil and black sesame seeds offered during the puja should be disposed of carefully. They can be poured under a peepal tree or donated to the poor.
- Offer leftover flowers or garlands to flowing water (like a river or stream) if possible.
- Prasad should be distributed among family members, neighbors, and even to the poor as a gesture of goodwill.
7. Benefits of Worshipping Shani Dev
- Alleviation of the adverse effects of Saturn, especially for those going through "Shani Sade Sati" or "Shani Mahadasha."
- Protection from accidents, diseases, financial troubles, and legal issues.
- Strengthening patience, perseverance, and moral character.
- Granting justice and balancing karmic influences.
- Mental peace, success in ventures, and relief from past life karmas.
By worshipping Shani Dev with sincerity and observing humility, one can overcome the challenges posed by Saturn and attain spiritual growth, success, and peace of mind.