In Vedic astrology, Lord Shani (Saturn) is regarded as the symbol of karma, justice and discipline. He is called the “Giver of Karmic Results” because he rewards individuals strictly according to their deeds. Appeasing Lord Shani during his Mahadasha or Sade Sati can help alleviate life’s crises, obstacles and planetary afflictions. Vedic belief holds that with Lord Shani's grace, not only can one attain worldly comforts but also spiritual progress and even liberation.
Saturday Special: Worship Methods and Remedies
Morning Bath and Shiva Worship
- Wake up during Brahma Muhurta and bathe with water mixed with Gangajal.
- Perform abhishekam of the Shiva Linga using water infused with black sesame seeds (Shani and Shiva are deeply connected).
Peepal Tree Worship
- Offer water with black sesame seeds to the root of the Peepal tree.
- Circumambulate the tree three times and perform five squats - this is dedicated to the crow, the symbolic vehicle of Shani.
Oil Offering
- Offer sesame or mustard oil to Lord Shani’s idol in a Shani temple.
Mantras
- “Om Sham Shanaishcharaya Namah”
- “Om Praam Preem Praum Sah Shanaye Namah”
Significance of Donations on Saturdays
What to Donate:
- Black Sesame Seeds: For pacifying Shani and eliminating sins.
- Urad Dal (Black Lentils): For relief from disease, poverty and enemy issues.
- Iron Objects: To reduce Saturn’s malefic effects.
- Mustard Oil: For protection from negative energy and health benefits.
- Black Clothes: For stability and security in life.
- Umbrella, Footwear: For protection and safe travels.
- Blankets, Black Fruits or Grains: To help the poor and needy.
How to Donate:
- Always donate with devotion and selfless intent.
- While donating, mentally focus on Lord Shani and pray for his blessings.
- Give to those who are truly needy - the poor, elderly or helpless.
- Donations made at temples or beneath a Peepal tree on Saturdays are considered highly auspicious.
Benefits of Donation:
- Relief from suffering during Sade Sati, Dhaiyya or Mahadasha.
- Improvement in financial, health and family matters.
- Mental peace, inner strength and positive mindset.
- Greater stability, respect and spiritual progress in life.
Shani Yantra and Mantra Sadhana
Yantra Worship
- On Saturdays, place a Shani Yantra on an iron plate.
- Offer black flowers, sesame seeds and mustard oil.
- Light a ghee lamp in front of the Yantra.
Mantra Recitation
Shani Gayatri Mantra:
“Om Bhagabhavaya Vidmahe Mrityuroopaya Dhimahi Tanno Shanih Prachodayat”
(Chant 108 times daily)
Shani Beej Mantra:
“Om Praam Preem Praum Sah Shanaye Namah”
Do’s and Don’ts to Please Lord Shani
What to Do:
- Observe fasts on Saturdays and eat only sattvic food made of sesame, urad dal or black gram.
- Serve your father, elders and the underprivileged (Shani is the significator of ancestors).
- Perform your duties honestly - Lord Shani blesses good karma.
What Not to Do:
- Avoid lies, deceit or unjust behavior.
- Refrain from consuming meat, alcohol or tamasic food on Saturdays.
- Do not insult or disrespect others.
Gemstone Remedy
- Consult an astrologer before wearing Neelam (Blue Sapphire) and get your birth chart analyzed.
For Sade Sati
- Recite the Hanuman Chalisa regularly.
- Offer sindoor at Hanuman temples (Hanuman is considered the ruler over Shani).
Offerings
- Donate black clothes, iron or sesame seeds at a Shani temple.
Emotional Insight: Don’t Fear Shani - Understand Him
It is a misconception to see Lord Shani as a cruel planet. He is truly a teacher of karma who guides us with discipline, patience and justice. The secret to gaining Shani’s grace is simple:
“Shani’s blessings lie in the purity of one’s actions.”
When you act honestly, serve the poor and remain patient, Shani becomes your greatest protector. His grace not only removes difficulties but also brings stability, inner strength and spiritual elevation.
Three Golden Rules to Attain Lord Shani’s Grace
- Purity of Karma: Perform your duties with sincerity and without deceit.
- Donation and Service: Make sure to donate sesame or urad dal on Saturdays.
- Meditation and Sadhana: Recite Saturn mantras with devotion every day.
By following these remedies with discipline and faith, the blessings of Lord Shani can illuminate even the darkest phase of life.