Dosha

Shani Dosha

What is Shani dosha?

Shani Dosha occurs when the planet Shani or Saturn is in the wrong place in one’s natal chart. It can also occur if it is weak in the birth horoscope. The coexistence of Saturn along with other elements such as Mars, Moon or Rahu can also lead to this Dosha.
The planet Shani or Saturn is one of the most prominent and influential planets in Vedic astrology. Hence, its position in your natal chart, location and nature play an important role in a person’s life. Shani is the son of the Sun god and the elder brother of Yama, the god of death. Though Saturn is said to be a hostile planet, it is also the planet of justice. According to popular belief, Saturn rewards and punishes people based on their good and bad deeds. Shani takes 30 years to complete one revolution around the sun. When this planet is not well-placed in the horoscope, it is called Shani Dosha.

Sade Saati

This is another condition associated with Shani. It is called the Sade Saati. In this situation, Shani places itself in such a way that its effects stay for a very long time. This astrological phase is feared by the people as it causes a lot of misery and failures. According to Vedic astrology, the person who is facing this situation goes through a troubling time. The person will also face a lot of challenges. This situation can occur in one’s life at any point in time. If Shani places itself in the 1st, 4th, 7th, 10th and 12th house, its influence becomes stronger than the other planets in the house. During this time, the person will have to face a number of failures and misfortunes. The effect of this dosha lasts for seven and a half years.

Shani Dosha Remedies

  • Observing a fast on Saturday: Saturday is a very auspicious day for Shani. When one has Shani Dosha, they have to fast for 51 Saturdays. They have to break their fast with Khichdi or the broth of sesame seeds after sunset.
  • Charities and donations: Donating things that are related to Shani is one of the best remedial measures. Things such as black or blue clothes, black gram dal, black sesame seeds, iron items, things made of clay and leather, cows and buffaloes should be donated to the poor.
  • Worshipping Hanuman and Shiva: When affected with Shani Dosha, one has to worship Lord Hanuman every Tuesday and Saturday, and also chant the Hanuman Chalisa. Worshipping Lord Shiva will also prove effective. One can also light a lamp with sesame oil beside a peepal tree.
  • Jewellery and Gemstones: Blue Sapphire is recommended to all those who suffer from Shani Dosha. It is said that blue sapphire has the power to make one mentally and physically balanced. Wearing a Shani Yantra pendant or a black horse shoe ring is also suggested.