Shani Jayanti, also known as Shaneschara Jayanti, marks the birth anniversary of Lord Shani Dev, the powerful deity associated with karma, justice, and discipline. Falling on the Amavasya Tithi (New Moon Day) of the Jyeshtha month as per the Hindu lunar calendar, this day holds deep spiritual and astrological significance, especially for those influenced by Saturn (Shani) in their horoscopes.
Who is Lord Shani?
Lord Shani Dev is the son of Lord Surya (Sun God) and Goddess Chhaya. He governs the planet Saturn, and is one of the nine celestial influencers in Navagraha. Known as the god of karma, justice, and discipline, Shani rewards or punishes individuals based on their deeds. His influence can bring life-changing transformations—both challenging and rewarding.
What Should Be Done on Shani Jayanti?
Shani Jayanti is a sacred opportunity to appease Lord Shani and seek protection from his adverse effects, such as Shani Sade Sati or Dhaiya. Devotees follow these rituals:
Key Puja Rituals for Shani Jayanti:
- Early Morning Bath – Take a ritual bath before sunrise and wear clean clothes, preferably black or dark blue.
- Visit Shani Temples – Offer oil, black sesame seeds, and mustard oil to Lord Shani's idol or Shani Yantra.
- Lighting Diya – Light a sesame oil lamp under a Peepal tree, which is sacred to Shani Dev.
Chant Mantras – Recite Shani Mantras like:
“ॐ शं शनैश्चराय नमः”
or
“नीलांजनसमाभासं रविपुत्रं यमाग्रजम्। छायामार्तण्डसम्भूतं तं नमामि शनैश्चरम्॥”- Donate to the Needy – Offer black clothes, iron, sesame seeds, urad dal, footwear, or oil to the poor or physically challenged.
- Read Shani Mahatmya or Hanuman Chalisa – Lord Hanuman is believed to protect from Shani’s malefic effects.
What to Eat During Shani Jayanti Fast?
Devotees observing Shani Jayanti Vrat (fast) usually follow a Satvik (pure vegetarian) diet. The fast can be strict or partial, depending on personal ability.
Permissible Foods During the Fast:
- Fruits (bananas, apples, papaya)
- Dry fruits (almonds, dates, raisins)
- Milk & milk-based products
- Sabudana (sago) items like sabudana khichdi or kheer
- Potatoes or sweet potatoes (without onion or garlic)
- Rock salt (Sendha Namak) instead of regular salt
Avoid grains, non-vegetarian food, garlic, onion, and alcohol on this day.
What is the Birth Date of Shani Dev?
According to Hindu scriptures, Lord Shani was born on the Amavasya (New Moon Day) of Jyeshtha month, during the Pushya Nakshatra, on a Saturday. This celestial alignment makes Shani Jayanti a potent time for spiritual upliftment and karmic correction.
Which Colour to Wear on Shani Jayanti?
Shani Dev is associated with dark hues, especially black and navy blue, symbolizing depth, discipline, and humility. Wearing black clothes on this day is believed to:
- Ward off negative energy
- Reduce the impact of Shani dosha
- Enhance protection from malefic planetary effects
Which Rashi is Good for Shani?
Shani Dev is known to be favorable or more benefic when placed in:
- Capricorn (Makar Rashi) – Shani’s own sign, providing discipline, patience, and structure.
- Aquarius (Kumbh Rashi) – Also ruled by Shani, enhances spiritual insight and long-term growth.
- Libra (Tula Rashi) – Considered exalted here, bringing balance and fair outcomes.
Those with strong Saturn placement often excel in fields like law, engineering, governance, and justice.
What Makes Shani Dev Happy?
To receive Lord Shani’s blessings, sincerity and humility are key. Here’s what truly pleases him:
Things That Make Shani Happy:
- Honest actions and integrity in daily life
- Helping the poor, elderly, and physically challenged
- Chanting Shani Mantras regularly
- Saturday fasting (Shani Vrat) or visiting Shani temples
- Lighting a diya with mustard or sesame oil under Peepal tree
- Feeding black dogs, crows, or ants
- Avoiding deceit, arrogance, and cruelty
Final Thoughts
Shani Jayanti is not just a day to worship a deity—it’s a reminder to introspect, act with fairness, and correct one's karmic path.
By observing this auspicious day with devotion, you can ease Shani’s malefic effects, gain spiritual strength, and invite long-term stability into your life.
🕯️ May Lord Shani bless you with justice, balance, and protection. Shubh Shani Jayanti!
