Shani Jayanti 2026: The festival of Shani Jayanti will be celebrated on May 16th; it is observed every year on the *Amavasya* (New Moon) Tithi of the month of *Jyeshtha*. According to Vedic astrology, Lord Shani (Saturn) is regarded as the symbol of justice and holds a distinct position as the deity who bestows the fruits of one's *karma* (actions). This year, a rare celestial alignment is occurring on Shani Jayanti after a gap of 13 years, as the festival falls specifically on a Saturday. According to astrologers, this year's Shani Jayanti witnesses the simultaneous formation—after nearly 300 years—of several auspicious yogas (planetary combinations), including *Budhaditya Yoga* (formed by the conjunction of the Sun and Mercury), *Gajakesari Yoga*, *Shasha Mahapurusha Yoga*, and *Saubhagya Yoga*. This confluence of auspicious alignments has significantly enhanced the spiritual significance of this day. Even if you are not observing the fast (*Vrat*) for Shani Jayanti, there are certain rituals you must perform to seek His blessings and attain relief from *Shani Dosha* (afflictions caused by Saturn). Let us explore what one should do during this rare celestial alignment occurring on Shani Jayanti after 13 years...

The primary objective of Shani Jayanti is believed to be the attainment of Lord Shani's grace and liberation from life's various tribulations. On this day, devotees observe a fast, visit temples to offer prayers, and present offerings such as oil, black sesame seeds (*til*), black gram (*urad*), and blue flowers to Lord Shani. It is believed that offering prayers with a sincere heart can mitigate the negative effects of *Shani Dosha*, *Sade Sati*, and *Dhaiya* (specific periods of Saturn's influence). The mere mention of Lord Shani's name often instills fear in many people, as most tend to believe that He is the cause of the various difficulties and hardships encountered in life. However, this is a misconception; Lord Shani always delivers justice strictly based on one's *karma* (actions).

Purity of both body and mind is of paramount importance during Shani Puja (worship). Astrologers recommend taking a ritual bath and wearing black or blue attire before commencing the worship. This is because black and blue are considered the most auspicious colors associated with Lord Shani. According to Hindu tradition, performing Shani Puja either before sunrise or after sunset is considered highly auspicious. It is widely believed that worshipping Lord Shani during the twilight hours (*Sandhya Kaal*) is particularly beneficial. According to Vastu Shastra and Astrology, Lord Shani (Saturn) is the presiding deity of the West direction; therefore, it is considered appropriate to face West while chanting Shani mantras or performing worship. Astrologers also advise against standing directly in front of the idol of Lord Shani. Instead, standing to the side of the idol while offering prayers is considered auspicious.

Blue flowers hold special significance in Shani worship. It is believed that, whenever possible, offering blue flowers is highly auspicious. It is also held that lighting a four-wick lamp filled with mustard oil near the Shani idol—or beneath a *Ravi* (Sun) tree—during the evening hours helps one attain the blessings of Lord Shani. Circumambulating Lord Shani and the *Ravi* tree seven times is likewise considered auspicious; devotees believe that this practice helps liberate them from the adverse effects of Saturn.

Lord Shani is regarded as the Dispenser of Karma; therefore, those who worship Him should lead an honest life, refrain from lying, and abstain from wrongful deeds. It is believed that Lord Shani's grace can be earned through virtuous actions. According to astrology, the use and donation of iron vessels during Shani worship are considered auspicious. However, copper vessels should not be used, as copper is regarded as a symbol of the Sun.

On Shani Jayanti, it is considered highly important to donate items such as black sesame seeds, black blankets, tea powder, or iron objects to the needy, in accordance with one's financial capacity. It is believed that making donations to the underprivileged yields auspicious results. Furthermore, according to astrologers, lighting a mustard oil lamp beneath a *Peepal* tree and reciting the *Hanuman Chalisa* on Shani Jayanti brings special spiritual benefits.

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