In Hinduism, Shani Dev is revered as the god of justice, dispensing results according to one's actions. Those who have performed good deeds in life are rewarded with high positions, fame, and prosperity. Conversely, those indulging in wrongdoing, injustice, and egotism may face severe consequences. Appeasing Shani Dev and seeking his blessings can be transformative, especially for individuals undergoing challenging planetary periods like Shani Sade Sati or Dhaiyya.
Significance and Date of Shani Jayanti
Shani Jayanti commemorates the birth of Shani Dev. It falls on the Amavasya (new moon day) of the Jyeshtha month. According to religious beliefs, Shani Dev was born to Surya Dev (the Sun God) and Chhaya (his shadow). In 2025, Shani Jayanti will be observed on Tuesday, May 27th. This day presents an opportunity for devotees to seek Shani Dev's special grace.
On this day, people observe fasts, worship the Peepal tree, chant Shani mantras, and donate black sesame seeds, black clothes, iron, and oil to please Shani Dev. However, certain actions can incur Shani Dev's wrath and lead to obstacles in life.
Do Not Cut Hair or Nails
Purity of body and mind is crucial on the sacred occasion of Shani Jayanti. Religious beliefs consider cutting hair and nails inauspicious as they are associated with external impurities. When worshipping a deity, complete devotion and purity are essential. Cutting hair and nails can detract from this purity, making it best to avoid these activities. This practice instills discipline and devotion.
Do Not Donate Used or Contaminated Oil
Offering black sesame seeds and mustard oil to Shani Dev is considered auspicious. However, caution is advised. If offering oil on Shani Jayanti, it must be new, pure, and clean. Never offer used, contaminated, or stale oil, as this is considered an insult. It may attract negative karma instead of merit. Donations and worship are only fruitful when offered with complete devotion, purity, and humility. Maintaining purity, even in small things, is vital to receiving Shani Dev's grace.
Do Not Insult the Poor or Needy
Shani Dev is the god of justice and tests how individuals treat the poor, elderly, laborers, and vulnerable. Insulting, disregarding, or refusing help to the needy on Shani Jayanti displeases Shani Dev, potentially causing problems and difficulties. Helping, respecting, and showing compassion to the needy on this day pleases Shani Dev and brings peace and happiness.
Avoid Tamasic Food – Maintain a Pure and Sattvic Diet on Shani Jayanti
Purity of body and mind is paramount on Shani Jayanti. Avoid tamasic foods like meat, alcohol, onions, and garlic. These not only weigh down the body but also weaken mental energy. Shani Jayanti is a day of devotion, restraint, and spiritual growth. Consume sattvic foods like fresh fruits, milk, lentils, rice, and other pure vegetarian foods. This promotes mental calmness and facilitates receiving Shani Dev's grace.
Avoid Anger, Envy, and Negativity
Shani Dev values patience and restraint. Anger, conflict, or negative thoughts on Shani Jayanti displease him. Maintain calmness, avoid arguments, and dispel negative thoughts. Meditate, chant Shani mantras, and engage in devotional singing. This fosters inner peace and devotion, maintaining Shani Dev's grace. Restraint and positivity bring peace and happiness.
Auspicious Practices and Puja Vidhi on Shani Jayanti
Worship the Peepal Tree: Shani Dev holds the Peepal tree sacred. On Shani Jayanti, bathe, wear clean clothes, and visit a Peepal tree. Offer water, light a mustard oil lamp, and chant the Shani mantra: 'ॐ शं शनैश्चराय नमः'.
Donate Black Items: Donate black items like black urad lentils, black tea, and black clothes to the poor or a temple.
Chant Shani Mantras: Mantra chanting is highly beneficial. In a calm, sacred place, chant one of the following mantras:
'ॐ शनैश्चराय नमः'
'ॐ प्रां प्रीं प्रौं सः शनैश्चराय नमः'
Observe a Fast: If possible, observe a fast. Fasting purifies the body and mind. Consume sattvic food or fruits. Drink plenty of water and avoid negative emotions. Combining fasting with worship and meditation amplifies its effects.
Spiritual Message of Shani Jayanti
Shani Jayanti is not merely a festival; it's an opportunity for self-reflection and accountability. It reminds us that actions have consequences. Restraint, helping others, and living humbly earn Shani Dev's grace. Purify the mind through devotion and eliminate negativity. The true essence of Shani Jayanti is self-improvement and building resilience to life's challenges.
Avoiding these five mistakes and worshipping Shani Dev with devotion can mitigate the challenges of Shani Dasha, Sade Sati, and Dhaiyya. This is not just a day of fasting or worship but also introspection and self-improvement. Seek Shani Dev's blessings through sincere devotion, avoid harming others, and act thoughtfully.
