Description

The "Navagraha Shanti Puja" is a Hindu ritual performed to seek the blessings and pacify the influence of the nine celestial bodies or planets known as the Navagrahas. According to Hindu astrology, the Navagrahas play a significant role in influencing human life, and their positions at the time of one's birth are believed to have an impact on various aspects of life. The Navagrahas include the Sun (Surya), Moon (Chandra), Mars (Mangala), Mercury (Budha), Jupiter (Brihaspati), Venus (Shukra), Saturn (Shani), Rahu (North Lunar Node), and Ketu (South Lunar Node). The Navagraha Shanti Puja is performed to mitigate the malefic effects of the planets and enhance their positive influences. Here are the key aspects associated with the Navagraha Shanti Puja: Ganapathi Puja: The ritual often begins with the worship of Lord Ganesha, the remover of obstacles, seeking his blessings for the successful completion of the puja. Kalasha Sthapana: The consecration of a ceremonial pot (Kalasha) is done, representing the divine presence. It is filled with water, sometimes mixed with other sacred substances. Navagraha Puja: Each of the nine planets is worshipped individually with specific mantras, prayers, and offerings. Devotees seek their benevolence and request the pacification of any malefic influences. Homam (Fire Ritual): Offerings are made into the sacred fire along with the chanting of Vedic mantras to invoke the positive energies of the Navagrahas. Navagraha Mantras: Chanting of specific mantras associated with each planet is an integral part of the puja. Navagraha Yantra: The use of a Yantra (a mystical diagram) associated with the Navagrahas may be included in the ritual. The Yantra is believed to carry the energies of the planets and bring positive influences.