Lord Shani (Shani Dev)
Every Saturday
Significance
Saturday (Shanivar) is governed by Shani Dev, the lord of karma and justice. The fast is kept for relief during Sade Sati and Shani dhaiya, and to seek patience, discipline and protection from hardship. Shani rewards honest effort and selfless service over ritual alone.
Vrat Vidhi (How to Observe)
- 1Bathe early and wear dark or black clothing.
- 2Light a mustard-oil diya under a Peepal tree or before Shani Dev.
- 3Offer black sesame (til), black urad dal, iron items and blue/black flowers.
- 4Chant the Shani mantra 'Om Sham Shanaishcharaya Namah'.
- 5Eat one meal of simple, dark-coloured food (such as urad dal) after sunset; help and feed the needy.
Benefits
- Sought for relief from Sade Sati and Shani's hardships
- Cultivates patience, humility and discipline
- Encourages charity and honest conduct
What you can eat
- Urad dal items
- Black sesame
- Fruits
- Khichdi
What to avoid
- Non-vegetarian food
- Onion and garlic
- Alcohol
- Excess salt
Frequently Asked Questions
Shanivar vrat kaise kare?
Light a mustard-oil diya for Shani Dev, offer black til and urad dal, chant the Shani mantra, keep a one-meal fast, and serve the needy — Shani values righteous action.
Shani dev ko khush karne ke liye kya kare?
Honest work, patience and selfless service. Donating black sesame, mustard oil, iron and feeding the poor on Saturday are traditional remedies.