Devotees often turn to various rituals, prayers, and charitable acts to seek the blessings of Shani Dev and alleviate any challenges associated with the influence of the planet Saturn.
Here are some common practices to please Shani Dev:
- Recitation of Mantras:
- Chanting the Shani Mantra: “Om Sham Shanaischaraya Namaha” is a powerful mantra dedicated to Shani Dev. Devotees may chant this mantra regularly, especially on Saturdays.
- Reciting the Shani Gayatri Mantra: The Gayatri mantra for Shani is another option for seeking the deity’s blessings.
- Visit Shani Temples:
- Visiting temples dedicated to Shani, such as the Shani Shingnapur temple in Maharashtra, is a common practice. Devotees often offer prayers, light oil lamps, and make donations at these temples.
- Saturday Fasting:
- Devotees may observe a fast on Saturdays as it is considered the day dedicated to Shani. Some people choose to eat a simple diet or avoid certain foods on this day.
- Charitable Acts:
- Offering donations and performing acts of charity, such as feeding the poor and helping the needy, are believed to please Shani Dev. Donating black sesame seeds, black clothes, iron, or oil on Saturdays is considered auspicious.
- Worship with Oil:
- It is believed that Shani Dev is pleased with the use of oil in worship. Devotees may light an oil lamp or offer mustard oil to Shani Dev during prayers.
- Recitation of Shani Stotras:
- Devotees may recite Stotras (hymns) dedicated to Shani Dev, such as the Shani Chalisa or the Shani Stuti, or the Shani Mantra to seek the deity’s blessings.
- Hanuman Chalisa:
- Some devotees believe that chanting the Hanuman Chalisa can also please Shani Dev, as Lord Hanuman is considered a powerful and benevolent deity who can mitigate the effects of malefic planets.
- Yantra and Gemstone:
- Some people use a Shani Yantra or wear a blue sapphire (neelam) gemstone after consulting with an astrologer. It is believed that these items can help balance the influence of Shani.
- Prayers to Lord Hanuman:
- Hanuman is considered a devotee of Lord Shani, and prayers to Lord Hanuman are believed to please Shani Dev. Reading the Hanuman Chalisa or visiting Hanuman temples is common.
It’s important to note that while these practices are followed by many devotees, individual beliefs and customs may vary. Before adopting any specific ritual or wearing gemstones, consulting with a knowledgeable astrologer is advisable. Additionally, sincerity and faith are considered crucial aspects of any devotional practice.
