Shani Jayanti marks the birth of Shani Dev, also known as Shani Amavasya. The festival of Shani Jayanti or Shri Shanaishcar Janma Diwas is celebrated in the honor of Lord Shani (Saturn). Born to Surya Dev or Sun God and Chhaya or Goddess of Shade. He is the Lord of the planet Saturn and Saturday and holds a strong impact on everyone’s life as per Hindu astrology.
Women also observe a fast and follow Vat Savitri Vrata on this day. This year, Shani Jayanti will be celebrated on May 22.
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History of Shani Jayanti:
As per Hindu texts, Shani Dev is the son of Lord Surya and Devi Chaaya, the shadow of the wife of Lord Surya, Devi Saranyu. It is said that Devi Sarnyu could not bear the heat and brightness of Lord Surya and left him. She went away for Penance and left her Shadow Chaaya to take her place. As Shani Dev was born when Devi Chaaya was in severe penance meditating Lord Shiva, he was born dark. The dark complexion of Lord Shani made Lord Surya doubt over the chastity of Chaaya and he used to insult her.
It is said that once infuriated by the insults of Lord Surya, Lord Shani cast a cruel gaze on him due to which he got burnt and his complexion turned to black. At that time, Lord Shiva healed Lord Surya and unraveled the truth of Chaaya and Lord Shani’s birth. Also, Lord Shiva blessed Lord Shani with greats powers and authority to punish people for their wrong and evil deeds.
Rituals of Shani Jayanti:
- On the day of Shani Jayanti, devotees perform a special Puja ceremony, Yajna, or Homa which are usually conducted in Shani temples or Navagraha temples.
- Before initiating with the rituals, the devotees clean the place of worship and also the idol of the deity. Cleaning is done with water, oil, panchamrit and Gangajal.
- The idol is adorned with a neckpiece comprising the nine precious gems known as Navratna Haar and after that puja is commenced.
- To please the deity and attain success in life, devotees recite Shani Path or Shani Strotra.
- Devotees are also required to make donations of mustard oil, sesame seeds, and black colored clothes on the day of Shani Jayanti to live a life free from obstacles and hurdles.
- People also observe strict fast and feed animals especially black dogs or cows.
- Some devotees recite Shani Dev Mantras for 11000 times and visit Shani Temples to offer oil and black til seeds.
Shani Puja 2020 Date and Timings:
Amavasya Tithi Begins– 09:35 PM on May 21, 2020
Amavasya Tithi Ends – 11:08 PM on May 22, 2020
