Shani Jayanti 2023: Shani Jayanti is a Hindu festival that celebrates the birth anniversary of Lord Shani, the God of Justice and Karma. The festival falls on the Amavasya (no moon day) of the Hindu month of Jyeshtha, which usually falls in May or June in the Gregorian calendar. The festival falls on May 19 this year (2023).
Lord Shani is believed to be a powerful deity who punishes those who do wrong and rewards those who lead a righteous life. The day of Shani Jayanti is considered to be an auspicious time to seek the blessings of Lord Shani and to perform rituals and prayers to appease him.
Devotees observe fasts, visit temples dedicated to Lord Shani, and perform special puja (worship) on this day. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shani on Shani Jayanti helps to alleviate the negative effects of the planet Saturn in one's horoscope and brings good luck, prosperity, and success in life.
In addition to its religious significance, Shani Jayanti is also a cultural festival that is celebrated with great enthusiasm in many parts of India. People decorate their homes, wear new clothes, and prepare special dishes to share with family and friends. Overall, Shani Jayanti is an important occasion for Hindus to honor and seek the blessings of Lord Shani and to celebrate the values of justice and righteousness.
On the occasion of Shani Jayanti, devotees perform various rituals and seek blessings from Lord Shani for their well-being and protection. Here are some of the rituals that are commonly observed on this day:
Fasting: Devotees observe a strict fast on Shani Jayanti to please Lord Shani and seek his blessings. Some people fast for the entire day, while others observe a partial fast.
Offering Puja: Devotees offer special prayers and perform puja to Lord Shani on this day. They offer oil, flowers, and black sesame seeds to the deity.
Donations: Many people also make donations on Shani Jayanti to seek the blessings of Lord Shani. Donating black clothes, black sesame seeds, iron, or oil is considered auspicious on this day.
Reciting Shani Mantras: Chanting Shani mantras is believed to be very effective in warding off the negative effects of Saturn. Devotees recite the Shani Chalisa or other mantras dedicated to Lord Shani to seek his blessings.
Lighting Diyas: Lighting diyas or lamps with sesame oil is considered auspicious on Shani Jayanti. It is believed to bring good luck and ward off negative energies.
Overall, Shani Jayanti is an important day for devotees of Lord Shani to seek his blessings and protection from the malefic effects of Saturn.
Sita Navami 2023, A Look at the Birth Anniversary of Goddess Gita