Saturday is dedicated to Lord Shani, and observing a fast on this day can help reduce the adverse effects of Shani Sade Sati, Dhaiya, or Shani Dosha. The fast includes worshipping the Peepal tree, offering oil at a Shani temple, chanting Shani mantras, and reciting the Shani Chalisa. This fast is specifically undertaken to receive the blessings of Shani Dev.
Shaniwar Vrat Niyam (Rules for Saturday Fast): Worshipping Lord Shani and observing a fast on Saturday is considered auspicious, especially for individuals experiencing Shani Sade Sati, Dhaiya, or Shani Dosha as per their horoscope. Fasting helps mitigate the negative effects of Shani and provides relief from life's troubles. On this day, worship the Peepal tree while wearing blue or black attire, offer mustard oil at a Shani temple, and chant Shani mantras and the Shani Chalisa. It is advisable to perform the puja and fast at a temple.
Why is the Saturday Fast Performed?
The purpose of observing a fast on Saturday is to receive the grace of Lord Shani and gain liberation from his malefic effects. Shani Dev's influence can create various difficulties and obstacles in a person's life. For this reason, people resort to Saturday fasts and prayers. Those whose horoscopes indicate a weak position of Saturn or who are undergoing Shani Dosha can attain stability and peace in their lives by observing this fast.
Correct Time for Fasting
The fast begins on Saturday morning after waking up and making a vow. If one is observing the fast for the first time, they can take a vow to fast for 7, 11, or 21 Saturdays. It is considered auspicious to wear blue or black attire during the fast. Saturday is particularly auspicious for the worship of Lord Shani.
Method of Worship
The ritual for the Saturday fast includes worshipping the Peepal tree in the morning. It is essential to offer water at the roots of the Peepal tree. In the evening, one should visit a Shani temple and offer mustard oil to Lord Shani. Additionally, it is significant to light a lamp with black sesame seeds and urad dal (black gram) before Lord Shani. Offering black cloth to Lord Shani also holds special importance.
Chanting Shani Dev's mantras during the fast is considered auspicious. Reciting the Shani Chalisa also has a significant effect on this day. It is advisable to perform the worship of Lord Shani at a temple rather than at home. Idols or images of Shani Dev are not typically installed at home.
The Impact of Shani Sade Sati
The effects of Shani Sade Sati and Dhaiya can bring difficulties in health, business, and relationships. Observing the Saturday fast helps to alleviate these hardships and maintain balance in life. Worshipping and fasting for Shani Dev not only brings mental peace but also instills stability and positive energy into one's life.
Lord Shani is regarded as the deity of justice. He is the giver of the fruits of actions (Karmaphal Data) and rewards everyone according to their deeds. With the grace of Lord Shani, an individual can improve their life. Saturn's influence can be long-lasting, therefore, maintaining devotion and reverence towards him is considered essential.
Things to Keep in Mind During the Fast
During the Saturday fast, the observer is advised to consume a sattvic (pure and simple) diet. It is common practice to have a simple meal and observe fasting during the fast. Maintaining concentration and devotion during the worship of Lord Shani is important. The objective of the puja and fast is to receive the blessings of Lord Shani and attain freedom from his adverse effects.
