Shani Dev is the god of justice — he punishes and rewards in equal measure. Learn which remedies earn his grace and bring stability to your life.
Who is Shani Dev?
Shani Dev is the son of the Sun and the brother of Yama. In astrology he is the slowest planet (2.5 years per sign). He is the god of karma — he keeps the account of our deeds from past lives.
Shani's colour is black or dark blue. Saturday is his day. His favoured substances are: black sesame seeds, mustard oil, iron, and the blue sapphire. His favoured animals are: crow, buffalo and dog.
When Does Shani Become Difficult?
Shani's Sade Sati (7.5 years) and Dhaiya (2.5 years when Shani is in the 4th or 8th house from the birth sign) are considered especially challenging. During these periods pressure may come on career, health, family or finances.
But Shani's gaze is harshest on those who do injustice, speak falsehood or exploit others. For the honest and hardworking person, Shani is a friend.
Remedies for Shani Dev
Daily remedies: on Saturdays, light a lamp with black sesame seeds and mustard oil; chant "Om Sham Shanaishcharaya Namah" 108 times; visit a Shani temple and perform oil abhishek.
Charity: on Saturdays, donate black clothing, black shoes, a black blanket, urad dal or black sesame seeds. Honour and respect labourers and servants — Shani is their protector.
Special Puja for Shani
On Shani Jayanti (Vaishakh Amavasya) there is a special puja tradition. On this day, abhishek of Shani's image with mustard oil, a hawan with black sesame seeds, and offering blue flowers pleases Shani Dev greatly.
Regularly reciting the Shani Stotra or Dasharatha's Shani Stuti is also highly effective.