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Brihaspati – Planet Jupiter
I salute Brihaspati, Guru, dazzling like
gold, teacher of the gods and rishis.
-Navagraha Stotram
Brihaspati also known as Brahmanaspati is
the guru of Devas and is praised in many
hymns of Rig Veda. He is the fifth of the
Navagrahas. Brihaspati is described to be
yellow or golden in color, holding a stick, a
lotus and his beads. Jupiter symbolizes
knowledge, love and spirituality. The planet
rules the thighs, flesh, kidney, liver, fat and
the arterial system. The day of Jupiter is
Thursday and the gemstone is Sapphire.
Dhanu Rashi and Meena Rashi are ruled by
Brihaspati.
In Hinduism, Brihaspati has been revered
for ages not only as the officiating priest, the
Purohita, of the Devas but also as their
teacher and guide; hence the appellation,
“Guru”. He bestows upon his devotees
excellence in education and the fine arts,
oratory skills and success in the workplace.
His very name Vachaspati alludes to Vach,
the primordial world that emerged from
Brahma’s head. In the Rig Veda, Guru, is
described as being pure and beautiful in
form, having a clear voice, seven mouths, a
lovely tongue, sharp horns, a hundred wings
and holding an iron axe. He is considered
the most compassionate of all the grahas.
When Brihaspati is not well placed in one’s
natal chart, the person shows a tendency for
the following afflictions:- obesity, problems
with the ribs, blood, muscles or nerves,
diabetes, liver problems, kidney problems,
hearing impairment and breathing problems
like asthma. Praying at Guru shrines is
believed to keep these afflictions at bay.
continued on page 7
Abathsahayeswarar Temple, Alangudi
Temple Architecture - Features
Abathsahayeswarar Temple at Alangudi,
one of the Navagraha Temples in Tamil
Nadu, is about 17 km from Kumbakonam on
the way to Needamangalam, in Tiruvarur
District of Tamilnadu. The main deities are
Lord Abathsahayeswarar or Aranyeswara,
a c c o m p a n i e d b y h i s c o n s o r t ,
Ezhavarkuzhali or Umai Ammai. The temple
is regarded as a Guru Sthalam (the temple
o f P l a n e t J u p i t e r ) w h e r e L o r d
Dakshinamurthy (The Guru or teacher form
of Lord Shiva) is held in great reverence. A
special feature is that Lord Guru or
Brihaspati (or Brahmanaspati) is engraved
on the wall and is not in the form of a
separate idol, reunited with Shiva. It is
believed that Adi Shankaracharya and Sage
Agastya had worshipped Lord Guru here.
Located on the south of the river Cauvery,
the Alangudi Temple occupies a large area
surrounded by lofty walls. There are around
15 theerthams in this temple and the one
which is located inside the temple is referred
t o a s A m r i t a P u s h k a r i n i .
Abathsahayeswarar Temple is the abode to
shrines of Lord Surya, Gurumoksheswarar,
S o m a n a t h a r, S a p t a r i s h i n a t h a r,
S o m e s w a r a r , V i s h n u n a t h a r a n d
Bhrameesar, Kaasi Viswanathar and
Visalakshi. The inscriptions that date back to
the period of Vikrama Chola (1131 AD) refer
t o A l a n k u d i a s J a n a n a t h a
saruppedimangalam. The details of the
Chidambaram Natarajar temple are also
seen here. The Poolaivala River, runs east
of the temple.
Legend says that once, the Devas and the
Asuras tried to churn the celestial ocean,
'Parkadal' (sea of milk). They used the
celestial snake 'Vasuki' as the rope and the
mount 'Mandara' as the rod to obtain the
nectar. The snake emitted deadly poison
(Ala Visham) which the Lord swallowed to
safeguard the universe. Hence Lord Shiva
came to be called as 'Abathsahayeswarar',
meaning 'savior' for having consumed the
poison and the place came to be known as
'Alangudi'. Goddess Parvati is said to have
been reborn on the banks of Amrita
History of Abathsahayeswarar Temple
u April 20136
jyotisha
This is the second and final part of the article "Belief is Relief". Part one of this was published last month. In the first part we
have dealt with the grahas Surya, Chandra, Budha. Readers are requested to kindly read both the part as a single whole.
The Navagraha
Belief Is Relief - Part TwoPushkarini and later on reunited with Shiva
and hence this place is known as Thirumana
Mangalam. Sage Viswamitrar is believed to
have worshipped Shiva here. Lord Ganesha
is worshipped as 'Kalangaamal Kaatha
Vinayagar' (the Lord who was firm in saving
the devotees) for having killed the ferocious
'Gajamuhasura' who was a great threat to
t h e D e v a s . K a s i A r a n y a m a n d
Thiruvirumpoolai are the other names of
Alangudi.
Legend has it that Lord Dakshinamurthy is
said to have preached to the Devas who
swooned under the impact of the poison that
came out of the churning of the milky ocean.
He is called as Brahaspathi or Brihaspati for
his excellence in education and fine arts.
Thursday is auspicious to him. Yellow-
colored garment and chick peas (konda
kadalai) are offered to bring happiness to the
Guru devotees. It is believed that students,
in order to excel in education, can offer
kondakadalai garland (chick pea is soaked
in water and made as a garland) to Lord
Guru. Large numbers of devotees throng
here during Guru Peyarchi, that is, when
Jupiter transits between the zodiac signs.
New Moon Day (Ammavasai), Full Moon
Day (pournami), Guruhorai, days falling on
stars like punarpoosam, Visagam and
Pooratathi are very auspicious for Sri Guru
Bhagavan. Offering prayers on these days is
more special.
Four worship services are offered daily. The
temple opens daily from 5:30 am to 12 noon
and from 4 pm to 8 pm.
Not much is known about who built this
temple and when. The great saint and poet
Tirunayana Sambandar, has composed and
sung about this place. It is therefore a matter
of conjecture that this temple was built
before 600 AD, most likely by the early
Chola kings.
Annual Bhrammotsavam is celebrated in
the Tamil month of Chittirai. Also Hindu
festivals, including Navaratri, Skanda
Sashti, Aadi Puram, Arudra Darisanam,
Poojas and Worship
History
Temple Festivals
Kartikai Deepam, Thai Poosam and Pankuni
Uththiram are celebrated here with much
religious fervor. Guru Peyarchi, the transit of
Guru (Planet Jupiter) from one zodiac sign to
another, is another major festival celebrated in
the temple.
Alangudi is about 35 km from Tiruvarur which
serves as the nearest railway station.
Nidamangalam Railway Station, on the
Thanjavur-Tiruvarur rail route, is the nearest
railhead.
Lord Shukra or Planet Venus is the teacher of
the demons and the author of Sukraniti.
Shukra is of white complexion, is middle-aged
and is generally shown with four hands, riding
upon a golden or silver chariot drawn by eight
horses. He holds a stick, beads and a lotus
and sometimes a bow and arrow. Shukra
Dasha actually remains for twenty years in a
person’s horoscope and this planet is believed
to give more wealth, fortune and luxury living, if
positioned well in one’s horoscope. Venus
symbolizes love and passion. The day of
Venus is Friday and the gemstone is diamond.
Vrishaba Rashi (Taurus, Edavam) and Tula
Rashi (Libra, Thulam) are ruled by Lord
Shukra or planet Venus.
In Hindu mythology, Shukra is male, the son of
Bhrigu and the grandson of Brahma. Shukra’s
Prati devata is Indra. As he is ever-happy, he
is called Usana. Being the son of Bhrigu, he is
also named Bhargava. He is blind in one eye.
He is highly intelligent and well-versed in legal
matters.
Agneeswarar Temple at Kanjanoor or
Agniswara Swami Temple at Kanjanur is one
of the nine Navagraha Temples in Tamil Nadu
and is associated with Lord Sukran (Planet
Venus), the sixth of the Navagraha planets.
Also known as Sukran Navagraha Sthalam,
How to reach Abathsahayeswarar Temple at
Alangudi
Shukra - Planet Venus
Agneeswarar Temple, Kanjanoor
I bow to lotus eyed Bhargava, Shukra,
who is well versed in all shastras and the
guru of the Asuras.
-Navagraha Stotram
continued on page 8
u April 2013 7
Agniswarar temple is located around 18 km
from Kumbakonam and 2 km to the east
from Sooriyanayanar Kovil, on the Kallanai -
Poompuhar road, in Tamilnadu.
Similar to most of the other Navagraha
Temples in Tamilnadu, the presiding deities
of Agniswara Swami Temple is Lord Shiva
and Goddess Parvati. Lord Shiva is
worshipped here as Agneeswarar, as it is
said that Lord Agni (Fire God) had
worshipped Lord Shiva here. Goddess
P a r v a t i i s w o r s h i p p e d h e r e a s
Karpagambal.
It is said that Lord Brahma was blessed with
a vision of Shiva's marriage with Parvati
here. The Brahma Linga enshrined in the
Agniswarar Temple is said to have been
worshipped by Lord Brahma. Another
important feature is that the Oil Abhishekam
performed to the main Shiva linga is fully
absorbed by the idol. There is no separate
sannidhi for Lord Shukra as Lord Shiva
himself is believed to have incarnated as
Venus here.
Located on the northern banks of river
The Temple and its History
Worship of the Navagrahas benefits the devout and the dedicated persons. One needs to be sincere in effort when performing the things listed above. Devotion to the lord is of the greatest importance. Without this virtuous element, it is not possible to obtain relief from suffering.
- Dr Ravi Rao
Brihaspati – Planet Jupiter
I salute Brihaspati, Guru, dazzling like
gold, teacher of the gods and rishis.
-Navagraha Stotram
Brihaspati also known as Brahmanaspati is
the guru of Devas and is praised in many
hymns of Rig Veda. He is the fifth of the
Navagrahas. Brihaspati is described to be
yellow or golden in color, holding a stick, a
lotus and his beads. Jupiter symbolizes
knowledge, love and spirituality. The planet
rules the thighs, flesh, kidney, liver, fat and
the arterial system. The day of Jupiter is
Thursday and the gemstone is Sapphire.
Dhanu Rashi and Meena Rashi are ruled by
Brihaspati.
In Hinduism, Brihaspati has been revered
for ages not only as the officiating priest, the
Purohita, of the Devas but also as their
teacher and guide; hence the appellation,
“Guru”. He bestows upon his devotees
excellence in education and the fine arts,
oratory skills and success in the workplace.
His very name Vachaspati alludes to Vach,
the primordial world that emerged from
Brahma’s head. In the Rig Veda, Guru, is
described as being pure and beautiful in
form, having a clear voice, seven mouths, a
lovely tongue, sharp horns, a hundred wings
and holding an iron axe. He is considered
the most compassionate of all the grahas.
When Brihaspati is not well placed in one’s
natal chart, the person shows a tendency for
the following afflictions:- obesity, problems
with the ribs, blood, muscles or nerves,
diabetes, liver problems, kidney problems,
hearing impairment and breathing problems
like asthma. Praying at Guru shrines is
believed to keep these afflictions at bay.
continued on page 7
Abathsahayeswarar Temple, Alangudi
Temple Architecture - Features
Abathsahayeswarar Temple at Alangudi,
one of the Navagraha Temples in Tamil
Nadu, is about 17 km from Kumbakonam on
the way to Needamangalam, in Tiruvarur
District of Tamilnadu. The main deities are
Lord Abathsahayeswarar or Aranyeswara,
a c c o m p a n i e d b y h i s c o n s o r t ,
Ezhavarkuzhali or Umai Ammai. The temple
is regarded as a Guru Sthalam (the temple
o f P l a n e t J u p i t e r ) w h e r e L o r d
Dakshinamurthy (The Guru or teacher form
of Lord Shiva) is held in great reverence. A
special feature is that Lord Guru or
Brihaspati (or Brahmanaspati) is engraved
on the wall and is not in the form of a
separate idol, reunited with Shiva. It is
believed that Adi Shankaracharya and Sage
Agastya had worshipped Lord Guru here.
Located on the south of the river Cauvery,
the Alangudi Temple occupies a large area
surrounded by lofty walls. There are around
15 theerthams in this temple and the one
which is located inside the temple is referred
t o a s A m r i t a P u s h k a r i n i .
Abathsahayeswarar Temple is the abode to
shrines of Lord Surya, Gurumoksheswarar,
S o m a n a t h a r, S a p t a r i s h i n a t h a r,
S o m e s w a r a r , V i s h n u n a t h a r a n d
Bhrameesar, Kaasi Viswanathar and
Visalakshi. The inscriptions that date back to
the period of Vikrama Chola (1131 AD) refer
t o A l a n k u d i a s J a n a n a t h a
saruppedimangalam. The details of the
Chidambaram Natarajar temple are also
seen here. The Poolaivala River, runs east
of the temple.
Legend says that once, the Devas and the
Asuras tried to churn the celestial ocean,
'Parkadal' (sea of milk). They used the
celestial snake 'Vasuki' as the rope and the
mount 'Mandara' as the rod to obtain the
nectar. The snake emitted deadly poison
(Ala Visham) which the Lord swallowed to
safeguard the universe. Hence Lord Shiva
came to be called as 'Abathsahayeswarar',
meaning 'savior' for having consumed the
poison and the place came to be known as
'Alangudi'. Goddess Parvati is said to have
been reborn on the banks of Amrita
History of Abathsahayeswarar Temple
u April 20136
jyotisha
This is the second and final part of the article "Belief is Relief". Part one of this was published last month. In the first part we
have dealt with the grahas Surya, Chandra, Budha. Readers are requested to kindly read both the part as a single whole.
The Navagraha
Belief Is Relief - Part TwoPushkarini and later on reunited with Shiva
and hence this place is known as Thirumana
Mangalam. Sage Viswamitrar is believed to
have worshipped Shiva here. Lord Ganesha
is worshipped as 'Kalangaamal Kaatha
Vinayagar' (the Lord who was firm in saving
the devotees) for having killed the ferocious
'Gajamuhasura' who was a great threat to
t h e D e v a s . K a s i A r a n y a m a n d
Thiruvirumpoolai are the other names of
Alangudi.
Legend has it that Lord Dakshinamurthy is
said to have preached to the Devas who
swooned under the impact of the poison that
came out of the churning of the milky ocean.
He is called as Brahaspathi or Brihaspati for
his excellence in education and fine arts.
Thursday is auspicious to him. Yellow-
colored garment and chick peas (konda
kadalai) are offered to bring happiness to the
Guru devotees. It is believed that students,
in order to excel in education, can offer
kondakadalai garland (chick pea is soaked
in water and made as a garland) to Lord
Guru. Large numbers of devotees throng
here during Guru Peyarchi, that is, when
Jupiter transits between the zodiac signs.
New Moon Day (Ammavasai), Full Moon
Day (pournami), Guruhorai, days falling on
stars like punarpoosam, Visagam and
Pooratathi are very auspicious for Sri Guru
Bhagavan. Offering prayers on these days is
more special.
Four worship services are offered daily. The
temple opens daily from 5:30 am to 12 noon
and from 4 pm to 8 pm.
Not much is known about who built this
temple and when. The great saint and poet
Tirunayana Sambandar, has composed and
sung about this place. It is therefore a matter
of conjecture that this temple was built
before 600 AD, most likely by the early
Chola kings.
Annual Bhrammotsavam is celebrated in
the Tamil month of Chittirai. Also Hindu
festivals, including Navaratri, Skanda
Sashti, Aadi Puram, Arudra Darisanam,
Poojas and Worship
History
Temple Festivals
Kartikai Deepam, Thai Poosam and Pankuni
Uththiram are celebrated here with much
religious fervor. Guru Peyarchi, the transit of
Guru (Planet Jupiter) from one zodiac sign to
another, is another major festival celebrated in
the temple.
Alangudi is about 35 km from Tiruvarur which
serves as the nearest railway station.
Nidamangalam Railway Station, on the
Thanjavur-Tiruvarur rail route, is the nearest
railhead.
Lord Shukra or Planet Venus is the teacher of
the demons and the author of Sukraniti.
Shukra is of white complexion, is middle-aged
and is generally shown with four hands, riding
upon a golden or silver chariot drawn by eight
horses. He holds a stick, beads and a lotus
and sometimes a bow and arrow. Shukra
Dasha actually remains for twenty years in a
person’s horoscope and this planet is believed
to give more wealth, fortune and luxury living, if
positioned well in one’s horoscope. Venus
symbolizes love and passion. The day of
Venus is Friday and the gemstone is diamond.
Vrishaba Rashi (Taurus, Edavam) and Tula
Rashi (Libra, Thulam) are ruled by Lord
Shukra or planet Venus.
In Hindu mythology, Shukra is male, the son of
Bhrigu and the grandson of Brahma. Shukra’s
Prati devata is Indra. As he is ever-happy, he
is called Usana. Being the son of Bhrigu, he is
also named Bhargava. He is blind in one eye.
He is highly intelligent and well-versed in legal
matters.
Agneeswarar Temple at Kanjanoor or
Agniswara Swami Temple at Kanjanur is one
of the nine Navagraha Temples in Tamil Nadu
and is associated with Lord Sukran (Planet
Venus), the sixth of the Navagraha planets.
Also known as Sukran Navagraha Sthalam,
How to reach Abathsahayeswarar Temple at
Alangudi
Shukra - Planet Venus
Agneeswarar Temple, Kanjanoor
I bow to lotus eyed Bhargava, Shukra,
who is well versed in all shastras and the
guru of the Asuras.
-Navagraha Stotram
continued on page 8
u April 2013 7
Agniswarar temple is located around 18 km
from Kumbakonam and 2 km to the east
from Sooriyanayanar Kovil, on the Kallanai -
Poompuhar road, in Tamilnadu.
Similar to most of the other Navagraha
Temples in Tamilnadu, the presiding deities
of Agniswara Swami Temple is Lord Shiva
and Goddess Parvati. Lord Shiva is
worshipped here as Agneeswarar, as it is
said that Lord Agni (Fire God) had
worshipped Lord Shiva here. Goddess
P a r v a t i i s w o r s h i p p e d h e r e a s
Karpagambal.
It is said that Lord Brahma was blessed with
a vision of Shiva's marriage with Parvati
here. The Brahma Linga enshrined in the
Agniswarar Temple is said to have been
worshipped by Lord Brahma. Another
important feature is that the Oil Abhishekam
performed to the main Shiva linga is fully
absorbed by the idol. There is no separate
sannidhi for Lord Shukra as Lord Shiva
himself is believed to have incarnated as
Venus here.
Located on the northern banks of river
The Temple and its History
Worship of the Navagrahas benefits the devout and the dedicated persons. One needs to be sincere in effort when performing the things listed above. Devotion to the lord is of the greatest importance. Without this virtuous element, it is not possible to obtain relief from suffering.
- Dr Ravi Rao
causing discomfort and tension in the
relationship, leading to severe disharmony
among the spouses and eventually to other
bigger problems. This is attributed to the
"fiery" nature of Mars, the planet of war. Also,
if two mangliks marry, the negative effects
are believed to cancel each other out.
However, Mars is not the only planet in Vedic
astrology that is supposed to affect the
relationship and these effects should be
seen in a broader perspective of the overall
astrological compatibility.
There is also a belief that the negative
consequences for a single-manglik
marriage can be resolved if the manglik first
performs a ceremony called a kumbh vivah,
in which the manglik "marries" a banana
tree, a peepal tree, or a silver or gold idol of
the Hindu God Vishnu. However, this belief
is gradually being eroded.
The bad effects of Manglik dosh can be
reduced with the help of astrological
remedies which would generally include the
application of puja, mantras, gemstones
and charity. These remedies are different for
each individual depending upon the
horoscope. You are advised to consult an
expert Vedic astrologer in order to evaluate
the level of dosha.
Saturn, known as Shani in Indian astrology
is the sixth planet from the Sun and the
second largest. In Roman mythology,
Saturn is the god of agriculture. In Greek
myth, he is the father of Jupiter and is the
root of the English word “Saturday.”
Shani Dev is the Lord of Saturday and is
embodied in the planet Saturn. As one of his
Shani - Planet Saturn
My salutations to Shani, son of the Sun
and his consort Chaya , Brother of
Yama and of the complexion of a blue
eyed collyrium.
-Navagraha Stotram
legs is shorter than the other, Shani walks
slowly and is hence named Shanaischara or
Saneeshwara. Due to his slow pace Shani
takes about 30 years to revolve around the
sun.
Shani Bhagavan, one of the 9 Navagraha
Planets, is reputed both as a giver and as a
destroyer. Lord Shani is regarded as a
troublesome god and is capable of breaking
fortunes by his influence and position in the
planetary system. He is considered to have
a malefic influence on events, though this is
not always true.
Lord Shani is generally shown with four
hands, riding upon a chariot or a buffalo or a
vulture. Shani is seen holding a sword,
arrows and two daggers. Saturn is often
referred to as a ‘dark planet’ and symbolizes
longevity, misery and grief. The day of
Saturn is Saturday and gemstone is blue
sapphire. Kumbha rashi and Makara rashi in
the zodiac signs are ruled by Lord Shani.
The Agamas describe Shani as dark in color,
short statured, lame in a leg, wearing black
clothes, holding a sword, arrows and two
daggers and seated in a lotus seat or
mounted on a vulture. Vulture is Shani’s
vahana and as the protector of property,
Shani is able to suppress the thieving
tendencies of these birds. However, in Tamil
Nadu, Shani’s vehicle is said to be a crow.
The grain associated with him is sesame
which can be offered with the flowers - vanni
and blue kuvalai; or rice mixed with sesame
powder. Special pujas and abhishekams are
performed on Saturdays as this day is
cons idered spec ia l fo r the Lord
Saneeswara.
Being lean and lank, he is called Nirmamsa
Gatra, Sushka and is the lord of the west.
Shani is also known as Chayaputra as he is
the son of Lord Surya, the Sun God and his
wife Chhaya. Yama, the God of death is his
elder brother. A person’s life is rewarded or
punished appropriately during his lifetime
according to his present and past deeds.
Shani is known as a great teacher and the
impact of Shani is so much that when Shani
opened his eyes for the first time while he
was a baby, the Sun went into an eclipse.
Shani punishes those who follow the path of
evil hence he is considered as trouble-giver
as well as the well-wisher.
When Lord Shani (Saturn) passes through
the ‘Janma Rasi’ in one's birth chart, he is
said to cause difficulties to a person and
when he passes through the eighth house
from one's Janma Rasi (Ashtamathu Sani)
he casts more challenges. However, the
adverse effects of Shani can be relieved
Saneeswaran – Effects in the Horoscope
continued on page 11
continued from page 9
u April 201310
jyotisha The bad effects of Manglik Dosh can be reduced with the help of astrological remedies which would generally include the application of Pooja, Mantras, Gemstones and Charities and these remedies are different for different individuals depending upon their horoscopes. You are advised to consult an expert Vedic astrologer in order to evaluate the level of dosha and malefic. It is important to know the level of Mangal dosha in order to come up with the right remedies with the help of your guide and or an expert Vedic astrologer.
u April 2013 11
through prayer and by performing puja to
appease Lord Shani. Shani transits from
one house to another every two-and-a-half
years and this is known as ‘Sani Peyarchi’.
Shani Peyarchi is one of the best known
f e s t i v a l s c e l e b r a t e d a t L o r d
Darbaranyeswarar Temple and is visited by
a large number of people. Saneeswarar’s
deity is taken in a procession around the
town on this auspicious occasion.
Lord Saneeshwara is known more for his
blessings than for his ill effects. A favourably
placed Shani in the horoscope of a person
stands for a strong career, healthy life and
prosperity. Shani can also award one with
leadership qualities along with fame and
recognition among the masses. Lord
Saneeshwara is known as Needhiman or
judge as he always blesses those who are
on the right path and are devoted.
Shani, if unfavorably placed in a person’s
horoscope gives Shani Dosha. It denotes
trouble in all ways. Shani is feared by those
Hindus who believe in astrology because
the effects of unfavorable Shani can be very
severe. Shani brings about the bad effects of
one’s deed or karma. The diseases which
Shani curses at the physical level are poor
blood supply, asthma, impotency, and
tuberculosis. At the mental level, those
afflicted with the Shani Dosha become
narrow-minded, suffer from low esteem and
so on. Lord Shani tests a person’s patience
with frustrations and delays.
Positive impact of Shani in Astrology
Negative Impact of Shani in Horoscope
What is Sade Saathi?
Sade Saathi is a period of seven and a half
years. Shani takes 30 years to traverse all
the 12 planets. He stays 2 and a half years in
one ‘rasi’ or sun sign. When the planet
aspects the lord of the house, then good
benefits are derived. In the garland of
planets, God Shani is called ‘Chaya
Martand’. When ‘Chaya Grah’ or the planet
passes through a house, that star sign’s
previous star sign and the next star sign is
troubled. That is ‘Chaya Grah’. This belief is
accepted in Sade Saathi. When Shani
passes through the 12th house of the birth
chart for the second time, it is called Sade
Saathi. Shani stays in a house for 2 and ½
years. This way, God Shani’s transit
through 3 houses is called Sade Saathi. (2
and ½ x 3= 7and ½). Therefore, this patch of
7 and a half years is known to bring
suffering, sorrows and misfortune. This is
known by people as Sade Saathi.
The effects of Sade Saathi are common to
all creatures. Whether they are saints,
commoners, great people, spiritualists,
Gods or godly people, all face the Shani
effect. The famous examples are of King
Veer Vikramaditya and Nala Damayanti who
suffered under the effect of Shani.
Any big solution sought for Shani in Sade
Saathi, takes a small shape. And when the
time comes for the benefit, it comes in a big
way like a miracle. As per astrology, Shani’s
Sade Saathi is understood in three parts.
One is from the lagna, the other is from
Moon and the third is from Sun. Over a
period of thirty years, every chart is affected
by Sade Saathi once, whether he is a lion or
a king. Sade Saathi touches every birth
chart. It is estimated that at any point in time,
one-twelfth of the population suffers from
Saturn’s malignant effects.
In Sade Saathi, a great deal of misery,
trouble, fearsome disease, excess sorrow,
loss of money, blame, insult, illness,
imprisonment etc., are undergone. By
taking the help of ‘Vedic Vidhi’ and the
mantras, penance etc., the fearsome effects
of Sade Saathi can be reduced. In brief,
Sade Saathi or seven and a half years of
God Shani put the normal life of man into
great distress. This is the direct result of
Sade Saathi. Normal, ongoing work comes
to a standstill. The desire of students to
study goes away. People looking for a job do
not attain their objective even if they
continue their quest.
In the birth chart, if Shani is exalted,
(powerfully placed), Sade Saathi will be
pronounced, which means, there will be
great loss of wealth and fame. Shani’s Sade
Saathi has troubled many brave and strong
kings, but they never let go of the truth. Raja
First and foremost the Graha (a planet as in astrology) has NO agenda to punish you. What so ever wrongs / sins you have committed in your earlier lives, they come back to you as bad planet positions in your Birth Chart in this life.
continued on page12
causing discomfort and tension in the
relationship, leading to severe disharmony
among the spouses and eventually to other
bigger problems. This is attributed to the
"fiery" nature of Mars, the planet of war. Also,
if two mangliks marry, the negative effects
are believed to cancel each other out.
However, Mars is not the only planet in Vedic
astrology that is supposed to affect the
relationship and these effects should be
seen in a broader perspective of the overall
astrological compatibility.
There is also a belief that the negative
consequences for a single-manglik
marriage can be resolved if the manglik first
performs a ceremony called a kumbh vivah,
in which the manglik "marries" a banana
tree, a peepal tree, or a silver or gold idol of
the Hindu God Vishnu. However, this belief
is gradually being eroded.
The bad effects of Manglik dosh can be
reduced with the help of astrological
remedies which would generally include the
application of puja, mantras, gemstones
and charity. These remedies are different for
each individual depending upon the
horoscope. You are advised to consult an
expert Vedic astrologer in order to evaluate
the level of dosha.
Saturn, known as Shani in Indian astrology
is the sixth planet from the Sun and the
second largest. In Roman mythology,
Saturn is the god of agriculture. In Greek
myth, he is the father of Jupiter and is the
root of the English word “Saturday.”
Shani Dev is the Lord of Saturday and is
embodied in the planet Saturn. As one of his
Shani - Planet Saturn
My salutations to Shani, son of the Sun
and his consort Chaya , Brother of
Yama and of the complexion of a blue
eyed collyrium.
-Navagraha Stotram
legs is shorter than the other, Shani walks
slowly and is hence named Shanaischara or
Saneeshwara. Due to his slow pace Shani
takes about 30 years to revolve around the
sun.
Shani Bhagavan, one of the 9 Navagraha
Planets, is reputed both as a giver and as a
destroyer. Lord Shani is regarded as a
troublesome god and is capable of breaking
fortunes by his influence and position in the
planetary system. He is considered to have
a malefic influence on events, though this is
not always true.
Lord Shani is generally shown with four
hands, riding upon a chariot or a buffalo or a
vulture. Shani is seen holding a sword,
arrows and two daggers. Saturn is often
referred to as a ‘dark planet’ and symbolizes
longevity, misery and grief. The day of
Saturn is Saturday and gemstone is blue
sapphire. Kumbha rashi and Makara rashi in
the zodiac signs are ruled by Lord Shani.
The Agamas describe Shani as dark in color,
short statured, lame in a leg, wearing black
clothes, holding a sword, arrows and two
daggers and seated in a lotus seat or
mounted on a vulture. Vulture is Shani’s
vahana and as the protector of property,
Shani is able to suppress the thieving
tendencies of these birds. However, in Tamil
Nadu, Shani’s vehicle is said to be a crow.
The grain associated with him is sesame
which can be offered with the flowers - vanni
and blue kuvalai; or rice mixed with sesame
powder. Special pujas and abhishekams are
performed on Saturdays as this day is
cons idered spec ia l fo r the Lord
Saneeswara.
Being lean and lank, he is called Nirmamsa
Gatra, Sushka and is the lord of the west.
Shani is also known as Chayaputra as he is
the son of Lord Surya, the Sun God and his
wife Chhaya. Yama, the God of death is his
elder brother. A person’s life is rewarded or
punished appropriately during his lifetime
according to his present and past deeds.
Shani is known as a great teacher and the
impact of Shani is so much that when Shani
opened his eyes for the first time while he
was a baby, the Sun went into an eclipse.
Shani punishes those who follow the path of
evil hence he is considered as trouble-giver
as well as the well-wisher.
When Lord Shani (Saturn) passes through
the ‘Janma Rasi’ in one's birth chart, he is
said to cause difficulties to a person and
when he passes through the eighth house
from one's Janma Rasi (Ashtamathu Sani)
he casts more challenges. However, the
adverse effects of Shani can be relieved
Saneeswaran – Effects in the Horoscope
continued on page 11
continued from page 9
u April 201310
jyotisha The bad effects of Manglik Dosh can be reduced with the help of astrological remedies which would generally include the application of Pooja, Mantras, Gemstones and Charities and these remedies are different for different individuals depending upon their horoscopes. You are advised to consult an expert Vedic astrologer in order to evaluate the level of dosha and malefic. It is important to know the level of Mangal dosha in order to come up with the right remedies with the help of your guide and or an expert Vedic astrologer.
u April 2013 11
through prayer and by performing puja to
appease Lord Shani. Shani transits from
one house to another every two-and-a-half
years and this is known as ‘Sani Peyarchi’.
Shani Peyarchi is one of the best known
f e s t i v a l s c e l e b r a t e d a t L o r d
Darbaranyeswarar Temple and is visited by
a large number of people. Saneeswarar’s
deity is taken in a procession around the
town on this auspicious occasion.
Lord Saneeshwara is known more for his
blessings than for his ill effects. A favourably
placed Shani in the horoscope of a person
stands for a strong career, healthy life and
prosperity. Shani can also award one with
leadership qualities along with fame and
recognition among the masses. Lord
Saneeshwara is known as Needhiman or
judge as he always blesses those who are
on the right path and are devoted.
Shani, if unfavorably placed in a person’s
horoscope gives Shani Dosha. It denotes
trouble in all ways. Shani is feared by those
Hindus who believe in astrology because
the effects of unfavorable Shani can be very
severe. Shani brings about the bad effects of
one’s deed or karma. The diseases which
Shani curses at the physical level are poor
blood supply, asthma, impotency, and
tuberculosis. At the mental level, those
afflicted with the Shani Dosha become
narrow-minded, suffer from low esteem and
so on. Lord Shani tests a person’s patience
with frustrations and delays.
Positive impact of Shani in Astrology
Negative Impact of Shani in Horoscope
What is Sade Saathi?
Sade Saathi is a period of seven and a half
years. Shani takes 30 years to traverse all
the 12 planets. He stays 2 and a half years in
one ‘rasi’ or sun sign. When the planet
aspects the lord of the house, then good
benefits are derived. In the garland of
planets, God Shani is called ‘Chaya
Martand’. When ‘Chaya Grah’ or the planet
passes through a house, that star sign’s
previous star sign and the next star sign is
troubled. That is ‘Chaya Grah’. This belief is
accepted in Sade Saathi. When Shani
passes through the 12th house of the birth
chart for the second time, it is called Sade
Saathi. Shani stays in a house for 2 and ½
years. This way, God Shani’s transit
through 3 houses is called Sade Saathi. (2
and ½ x 3= 7and ½). Therefore, this patch of
7 and a half years is known to bring
suffering, sorrows and misfortune. This is
known by people as Sade Saathi.
The effects of Sade Saathi are common to
all creatures. Whether they are saints,
commoners, great people, spiritualists,
Gods or godly people, all face the Shani
effect. The famous examples are of King
Veer Vikramaditya and Nala Damayanti who
suffered under the effect of Shani.
Any big solution sought for Shani in Sade
Saathi, takes a small shape. And when the
time comes for the benefit, it comes in a big
way like a miracle. As per astrology, Shani’s
Sade Saathi is understood in three parts.
One is from the lagna, the other is from
Moon and the third is from Sun. Over a
period of thirty years, every chart is affected
by Sade Saathi once, whether he is a lion or
a king. Sade Saathi touches every birth
chart. It is estimated that at any point in time,
one-twelfth of the population suffers from
Saturn’s malignant effects.
In Sade Saathi, a great deal of misery,
trouble, fearsome disease, excess sorrow,
loss of money, blame, insult, illness,
imprisonment etc., are undergone. By
taking the help of ‘Vedic Vidhi’ and the
mantras, penance etc., the fearsome effects
of Sade Saathi can be reduced. In brief,
Sade Saathi or seven and a half years of
God Shani put the normal life of man into
great distress. This is the direct result of
Sade Saathi. Normal, ongoing work comes
to a standstill. The desire of students to
study goes away. People looking for a job do
not attain their objective even if they
continue their quest.
In the birth chart, if Shani is exalted,
(powerfully placed), Sade Saathi will be
pronounced, which means, there will be
great loss of wealth and fame. Shani’s Sade
Saathi has troubled many brave and strong
kings, but they never let go of the truth. Raja
First and foremost the Graha (a planet as in astrology) has NO agenda to punish you. What so ever wrongs / sins you have committed in your earlier lives, they come back to you as bad planet positions in your Birth Chart in this life.
continued on page12
continued on page13
Harishchandra , who was afflicted by Sade
Saathi - did not abandon the truth. Only then
was God Shani pleased and restored him to
the throne, giving him progeny and wealth
and made him pure again. He gave him the
strength to do penance.
When one is affected by Sade Saathi, one
should make use of prayer as a boatman
and cross the river of bad times. One should
not resort to falsehood, theft, robbery, vices,
bad habits etc. One should remember that
there is no role of God Shani in Sade Saathi .
He cleanses us of the sins of our previous
births and brings us closer to the divinity of
God. During the period of Sade Saathi, if we
take the help of our prayers, penance and
‘mantras’ and hold on to the truth, we will
emerge stronger.
Sri Darbaranyeswarar Temple is one of the
most famous Lord Shani (Lord Saturn)
temples in India. It is located at Tirunallar
(Thirunallar) which is about 5 km west of
Kaaraikal, on the Karaikal-Mayiladuthurai-
Kumbakonam bus route, in Karaikal District,
Tamilnadu. Similar to the other Navagraha
S t h a l a m s i n T a m i l n a d u ,
Sri Darbaranyeswarar Temple also
enshrines Lord Shiva as the main deity. Lord
Shiva is known as Darbaranyeswarar here
a n d G o d d e s s P a r v a t i D e v i a s
P r a n a m a m b i k a o r B o g a m a r t h a
Poonmulaiammai.
The magnificent shrine dedicated to
Saneeswarar (Lord Shani or Saneeswaran)
is near the inner tower known as `Kattai
Gopuram'. He faces east with `abhaya
varada hastham' and is considered the
'Anugraha Murthi' (one who bestows good
things). His idol is placed in between the
presiding deities.
According to a legend, King Nala was badly
affected with numerous problems due to the
adverse effects of Saneeswaran. He took a
holy dip at the temple tank Nala Theertham
and was relieved of the evil effects.
It is customary to first perform pradakshina
(circumambulate) of the temple and worship
Lord Shiva, then Ambal and lastly worship
Shani.
Nayanmar Tirunayana Sambandar had
sung the praises of the Lord of this temple.
So too did Tirnnavukkarasu and later
Sundarar (9th century AD) The temple was
expanded and renovated by the Chola king
RajaRaja II in 1173 AD and Kolatunga Chola
III in 1195 AD.
Apart from daily worship services which are
p e r f o r m e d f i v e t i m e s d a i l y ,
Darbaranyeswarar Shani Temple hosts a
number of festivals throughout the year. On
Tamil New Year's day (Tamil Puthandu),
(marked by the transition of the Sun from
Darbaranyeswarar Temple at Tirunallar
History of the temple
Temple Festivals
Pisces to Aries according to the Indian
astrological system) Tyagaraja is taken in a
procession. An eighteen-day festival is
performed in the Tamil month of Vaikashi
(when the sun resides in the sign of Taurus).
Festivals related to Nataraja (the Lord of
Dance) are held during the month of Aani
(Gemini). Several special services are
performed to the emerald Lingam on the full
moon night in the month of Purattasi (Leo).
Besides, Navaratri, Kartikai Deepam and
Panguni Uthiram are also celebrated here
with much devotion.
Tirunallar is located near Karaikkal (5 km)
and Nagapattinam, and is well-connected
by road to many other towns. Direct bus
services are also available from Karaikal
and even Chennai. Thirunallar to Bangalore
(Karnataka) is around 298 km. Tirunallar is
59 km from Kumbakonam, 35 km from
Mayavaram (Mayiladuthurai), 140 km from
Pondicherry, 100 km from Thanjavur, 150
km from Trichy. Tirunallar can easily be
accessed from Mayiladuthurai or from
Nagapattinam.
The Shani Shingnapur shrine is in
Maharashtra which is also very famous. It is
situated in the village of Shingnapur or
Sonai in Ahmednagar d is t r ic t o f
Maharashtra. The idol of Lord Shani here is
a Swayambu, which is a five-and-a-half foot
high black rock, installed on an open-air
platform. At the side of the image is a trishula
(trident). A nandi (bull) image is to the south.
There are small images of Lord Shiva and
Lord Hanuman in the front. The uniqueness
of Shingnapur is that no house in the village
has doors, but only door frames. No theft is
reported here and villagers never keep their
valuables under lock and key. It is believed
that Lord Shani punishes anyone attempting
theft. A curtain is the only barrier they use to
keep out stray animals.
Shingnapur is situated about 6 km from
Ghodegaon, on the Aurangabad-
Ahmednagar Road. Shani Shingnapur is
about 84 km from Aurangabad, 65 km from
Shirdi, and 35 km from Ahmednagar.
How to Reach Darbaranyeswarar
Navagraha Temple By Bus
Shani Shingnapur (Maharashtra)
u April 201312
continued from page 11
jyotisha
As per astrology, Shani’s Sade Saathi is understood in three parts. One is from Lagna, the other is from Moon and the third is from Sun. Over a period of thirty years, every chart is affected by Sade Saathi once, whether he is a lion or a king. Sade Saathi touches every birth chart. It is estimated that at any one time one-twelfth of the population is suffering from Saturn’s malignant effects.
continued on page14
Rahu
N a g a n a t h a s w a m y T e m p l e a t
Thirunageswaram - Rahu Sthalam
History of the Temple
I bow to Rahu, half human and son of
Simhika, All powerful and the tormentor of
Surya and Chandra
-Navagraha Stotram
In Hindu mythology, Lord Rahu is described
as the head of a demonic snake that
swallows the sun and moon, causing
eclipses. Rahu is a shadowy planet and
does not have a special day dedicated to
him. He is depicted in art as a dragon with no
body riding on a chariot drawn by eight black
horses. When Rahu is afflicted, one faces
several miseries and obstacles in the way of
success. The gemstone of Rahu is gomedh
or honey-coloured hessonite.
Rahu is tall in stature and slow by nature. He
is known as the remover of diseases, the
one who bestows freedom from fear of
snakes and poisonous reptiles; who is full of
mercy; who is a friend of Shani and Shukra
and who delights Murugan.
Rahu has a son, Amuda Katikan.
Sri Naganathaswamy Temple or Rahu
Sthalam is one of the 9 Navagraha temples
in Tamil Nadu and is associated to Lord
Rahu. Sri Naganathaswamy Temple is
located at Tirunageswaram, which is 7 km
east of Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam-
Nannilam Road, in Thanjavur District,
Tamilnadu. The main presiding deity of
Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple is Lord
Naganathaswamy (Lord Shiva) and his
consort Giri Gujambika (Goddess Parvati)
who is enshrined with Goddess Lakshmi
and Goddess Saraswati by her side. Rahu is
seen with his two consorts Nagavalli and
Nagakanni. Sri Naganathaswamy Temple is
the one where Lord Shiva was worshipped
by Rahu and was relived of a curse. A unique
feature of Naganatha Swamy temple is that
Lord Rahu is seen with human face. In other
places, he is worshipped with a serpent
face.
The basic temple structure must have been
built well before the seventh century, since
all the four Shiva saints who lived at that time
– Appar, Sambandar, Sundarar and
Manikkavachakar – have sung in praise of
the Lord of this temple. Inscriptions inform
that additions were made to the temple by
Vikrama Chola between 1118 AD and 1135
AD.
Lord Shani and Lord Yama are worshipped
here.
u April 2013 13
The planets Ketu and Rahu, known as ‘Chaaya Grahangal’, are associated with the
legend of the churning of the celestial ocean of milk by the devas (gods) and asuras
(demons) with the Manthira Mountain as the churning stick and the green seven-headed
snake Vasuki as the rope to get amrut (elixir). Vishnu had already decided to give the
amrut only to the devas, so he transformed himself into a beautiful maiden, Mohini.
Once the amrut was collected, Mohini asked the devas and the asuras to make two
separate lines to receive the amrut personally from her. The asuras were spellbound by
Mohini’s beauty and did not realize that Mohini was giving the amrut only to the devas.
Svarbanu who was the grandson of Rishi Kashyap and the great grandson of Lord
Brahma saw through Vishnu’s trick. He disguised himself as a deva and quietly went over
to stand between Chandra and Surya and received drops of the amrut from Mohini. Soon
enough, Chandra and Surya realized what had happened and quickly informed Lord
Vishnu. Lord Vishnu hit Svarbanu, the asura, on the head with the spoon in his hand. The
head was cut off and fell on the ground. As the asura had consumed the amrut, his head
and body continued to live. The head portion of the asura attached itself to a snake body
and became Rahu. The body portion that was thrown away fell in Pothigai mountain
region which was found and preserved by a brahmin. The head of a snake got attached to
the asura body to become Ketu.
Even though Svarbanu had become immortal like the devas, they refused to accept him
as one of their own. Since he was the only asura to have drunk the amrut, the asuras too,
refused to accept him. Lord Vishnu then granted the entities Rahu and Ketu a status
equal to that of the planets and named them grahas.
Legend has it that Rahu and Ketu have still not forgiven Surya and Chandra after all
these centuries. Periodically, these two grahas completely or partially “swallow” the Sun
and the Moon. This is when the eclipses occur.
Rahu and Ketu Background
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. The temple was built by the Tamil king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura, present-day Angkor, the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum.
Churning of the Ocean of Milk Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
continued on page13
Harishchandra , who was afflicted by Sade
Saathi - did not abandon the truth. Only then
was God Shani pleased and restored him to
the throne, giving him progeny and wealth
and made him pure again. He gave him the
strength to do penance.
When one is affected by Sade Saathi, one
should make use of prayer as a boatman
and cross the river of bad times. One should
not resort to falsehood, theft, robbery, vices,
bad habits etc. One should remember that
there is no role of God Shani in Sade Saathi .
He cleanses us of the sins of our previous
births and brings us closer to the divinity of
God. During the period of Sade Saathi, if we
take the help of our prayers, penance and
‘mantras’ and hold on to the truth, we will
emerge stronger.
Sri Darbaranyeswarar Temple is one of the
most famous Lord Shani (Lord Saturn)
temples in India. It is located at Tirunallar
(Thirunallar) which is about 5 km west of
Kaaraikal, on the Karaikal-Mayiladuthurai-
Kumbakonam bus route, in Karaikal District,
Tamilnadu. Similar to the other Navagraha
S t h a l a m s i n T a m i l n a d u ,
Sri Darbaranyeswarar Temple also
enshrines Lord Shiva as the main deity. Lord
Shiva is known as Darbaranyeswarar here
a n d G o d d e s s P a r v a t i D e v i a s
P r a n a m a m b i k a o r B o g a m a r t h a
Poonmulaiammai.
The magnificent shrine dedicated to
Saneeswarar (Lord Shani or Saneeswaran)
is near the inner tower known as `Kattai
Gopuram'. He faces east with `abhaya
varada hastham' and is considered the
'Anugraha Murthi' (one who bestows good
things). His idol is placed in between the
presiding deities.
According to a legend, King Nala was badly
affected with numerous problems due to the
adverse effects of Saneeswaran. He took a
holy dip at the temple tank Nala Theertham
and was relieved of the evil effects.
It is customary to first perform pradakshina
(circumambulate) of the temple and worship
Lord Shiva, then Ambal and lastly worship
Shani.
Nayanmar Tirunayana Sambandar had
sung the praises of the Lord of this temple.
So too did Tirnnavukkarasu and later
Sundarar (9th century AD) The temple was
expanded and renovated by the Chola king
RajaRaja II in 1173 AD and Kolatunga Chola
III in 1195 AD.
Apart from daily worship services which are
p e r f o r m e d f i v e t i m e s d a i l y ,
Darbaranyeswarar Shani Temple hosts a
number of festivals throughout the year. On
Tamil New Year's day (Tamil Puthandu),
(marked by the transition of the Sun from
Darbaranyeswarar Temple at Tirunallar
History of the temple
Temple Festivals
Pisces to Aries according to the Indian
astrological system) Tyagaraja is taken in a
procession. An eighteen-day festival is
performed in the Tamil month of Vaikashi
(when the sun resides in the sign of Taurus).
Festivals related to Nataraja (the Lord of
Dance) are held during the month of Aani
(Gemini). Several special services are
performed to the emerald Lingam on the full
moon night in the month of Purattasi (Leo).
Besides, Navaratri, Kartikai Deepam and
Panguni Uthiram are also celebrated here
with much devotion.
Tirunallar is located near Karaikkal (5 km)
and Nagapattinam, and is well-connected
by road to many other towns. Direct bus
services are also available from Karaikal
and even Chennai. Thirunallar to Bangalore
(Karnataka) is around 298 km. Tirunallar is
59 km from Kumbakonam, 35 km from
Mayavaram (Mayiladuthurai), 140 km from
Pondicherry, 100 km from Thanjavur, 150
km from Trichy. Tirunallar can easily be
accessed from Mayiladuthurai or from
Nagapattinam.
The Shani Shingnapur shrine is in
Maharashtra which is also very famous. It is
situated in the village of Shingnapur or
Sonai in Ahmednagar d is t r ic t o f
Maharashtra. The idol of Lord Shani here is
a Swayambu, which is a five-and-a-half foot
high black rock, installed on an open-air
platform. At the side of the image is a trishula
(trident). A nandi (bull) image is to the south.
There are small images of Lord Shiva and
Lord Hanuman in the front. The uniqueness
of Shingnapur is that no house in the village
has doors, but only door frames. No theft is
reported here and villagers never keep their
valuables under lock and key. It is believed
that Lord Shani punishes anyone attempting
theft. A curtain is the only barrier they use to
keep out stray animals.
Shingnapur is situated about 6 km from
Ghodegaon, on the Aurangabad-
Ahmednagar Road. Shani Shingnapur is
about 84 km from Aurangabad, 65 km from
Shirdi, and 35 km from Ahmednagar.
How to Reach Darbaranyeswarar
Navagraha Temple By Bus
Shani Shingnapur (Maharashtra)
u April 201312
continued from page 11
jyotisha
As per astrology, Shani’s Sade Saathi is understood in three parts. One is from Lagna, the other is from Moon and the third is from Sun. Over a period of thirty years, every chart is affected by Sade Saathi once, whether he is a lion or a king. Sade Saathi touches every birth chart. It is estimated that at any one time one-twelfth of the population is suffering from Saturn’s malignant effects.
continued on page14
Rahu
N a g a n a t h a s w a m y T e m p l e a t
Thirunageswaram - Rahu Sthalam
History of the Temple
I bow to Rahu, half human and son of
Simhika, All powerful and the tormentor of
Surya and Chandra
-Navagraha Stotram
In Hindu mythology, Lord Rahu is described
as the head of a demonic snake that
swallows the sun and moon, causing
eclipses. Rahu is a shadowy planet and
does not have a special day dedicated to
him. He is depicted in art as a dragon with no
body riding on a chariot drawn by eight black
horses. When Rahu is afflicted, one faces
several miseries and obstacles in the way of
success. The gemstone of Rahu is gomedh
or honey-coloured hessonite.
Rahu is tall in stature and slow by nature. He
is known as the remover of diseases, the
one who bestows freedom from fear of
snakes and poisonous reptiles; who is full of
mercy; who is a friend of Shani and Shukra
and who delights Murugan.
Rahu has a son, Amuda Katikan.
Sri Naganathaswamy Temple or Rahu
Sthalam is one of the 9 Navagraha temples
in Tamil Nadu and is associated to Lord
Rahu. Sri Naganathaswamy Temple is
located at Tirunageswaram, which is 7 km
east of Kumbakonam on the Kumbakonam-
Nannilam Road, in Thanjavur District,
Tamilnadu. The main presiding deity of
Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple is Lord
Naganathaswamy (Lord Shiva) and his
consort Giri Gujambika (Goddess Parvati)
who is enshrined with Goddess Lakshmi
and Goddess Saraswati by her side. Rahu is
seen with his two consorts Nagavalli and
Nagakanni. Sri Naganathaswamy Temple is
the one where Lord Shiva was worshipped
by Rahu and was relived of a curse. A unique
feature of Naganatha Swamy temple is that
Lord Rahu is seen with human face. In other
places, he is worshipped with a serpent
face.
The basic temple structure must have been
built well before the seventh century, since
all the four Shiva saints who lived at that time
– Appar, Sambandar, Sundarar and
Manikkavachakar – have sung in praise of
the Lord of this temple. Inscriptions inform
that additions were made to the temple by
Vikrama Chola between 1118 AD and 1135
AD.
Lord Shani and Lord Yama are worshipped
here.
u April 2013 13
The planets Ketu and Rahu, known as ‘Chaaya Grahangal’, are associated with the
legend of the churning of the celestial ocean of milk by the devas (gods) and asuras
(demons) with the Manthira Mountain as the churning stick and the green seven-headed
snake Vasuki as the rope to get amrut (elixir). Vishnu had already decided to give the
amrut only to the devas, so he transformed himself into a beautiful maiden, Mohini.
Once the amrut was collected, Mohini asked the devas and the asuras to make two
separate lines to receive the amrut personally from her. The asuras were spellbound by
Mohini’s beauty and did not realize that Mohini was giving the amrut only to the devas.
Svarbanu who was the grandson of Rishi Kashyap and the great grandson of Lord
Brahma saw through Vishnu’s trick. He disguised himself as a deva and quietly went over
to stand between Chandra and Surya and received drops of the amrut from Mohini. Soon
enough, Chandra and Surya realized what had happened and quickly informed Lord
Vishnu. Lord Vishnu hit Svarbanu, the asura, on the head with the spoon in his hand. The
head was cut off and fell on the ground. As the asura had consumed the amrut, his head
and body continued to live. The head portion of the asura attached itself to a snake body
and became Rahu. The body portion that was thrown away fell in Pothigai mountain
region which was found and preserved by a brahmin. The head of a snake got attached to
the asura body to become Ketu.
Even though Svarbanu had become immortal like the devas, they refused to accept him
as one of their own. Since he was the only asura to have drunk the amrut, the asuras too,
refused to accept him. Lord Vishnu then granted the entities Rahu and Ketu a status
equal to that of the planets and named them grahas.
Legend has it that Rahu and Ketu have still not forgiven Surya and Chandra after all
these centuries. Periodically, these two grahas completely or partially “swallow” the Sun
and the Moon. This is when the eclipses occur.
Rahu and Ketu Background
Angkor Wat is the largest religious monument in the world. The temple was built by the Tamil king Suryavarman II in the early 12th century in Yasodharapura, present-day Angkor, the capital of the Khmer Empire, as his state temple and eventual mausoleum.
Churning of the Ocean of Milk Angkor Wat in Cambodia.
Temple Features
Effects of Rahu
O c c u p y i n g a v a s t a r e a , t h e
Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple has vast
prakarams, towering gopurams, and
several mandapams. There are four entry
towers with fort-like walls which surround
the outermost prakaram.
There are twelve sacred water heads in this
place, namely, Suriya Pushkarani,
Gowthama Thee r tham, Pa rasa ra
Theertham, Indira Theertham, Prugu
Theertham, Kannuva Theertham and
Vasishta Theertham. Suriya Pushkarani is
inside the temple compound and is very
sacred. The theertham is built in Chola style
and is square in shape with 'double-bat'
roofing. Legend says that the mythological
serpents Aadi Seshan, Dakshan and
Karkotakan worshipped Shiva here.
Rahu is said to be the cause of one's good
position, status, business, faithfulness,
winning over opposition, overseas travel
and for mantra power. It is believed that by
doing milk abhishekam here for Rahu during
Rahu kalam (period of one and a half hours
occurring every day), delays in getting
married, childlessness, troublesome
married life, ill-effects of Kalasarpa Dosha
(affliction), Kalasthra Dosha and Sarpa
Dosha are all cured.
An important aspect of Rahu Temple at
Thirunageswaram is that during milk
abhishekam, the milk when poured over the
idol, turns blue which is clearly visible. Large
numbers of devotees throng here to perform
the abhishekam. On every occasion of Rahu
moving to the next Raasi (Rasi) which
happens once in one and a half years in anti-
clockwise direction, special abhishekam
with homam is performed at Sri Arulmigu
Naganathaswamy Temple. Lord Rahu is
taken in procession in sesha vahanam.
Other major festivals celebrated here are
Brahmotsavam (November or December),
Thiruvathirai (December – January), Kanda
Special Feature
Temple Festivals
Shashti (October or November), Sivaratri
(February - March), Navaratri and Sekkizhar
Vaikasi Pooja (June).
The temple opens daily from 6 AM to 9 AM,
from 1 PM to 5 PM and from 7 PM to 9 PM.
The temple conducts six pujas daily
ushakala puja (6 am), kalasandhi puja (9
am), uchikkala puja (1 pm), sayaratchai puja
(5 pm), irandam kala puja (7 pm) and
arthajama puja (9 pm).
Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple is on the
Kumbakonam-Karaikal bus route and is just
7 km from Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu.
In Sanskrit, Ketu (Dhuma Ketu) means
comet. It is a shadowy planet and is depicted
as the tail of a demon snake. He is usually
shown with a pock marked body, riding
upon a vulture and holding a mace. Lord
Ketu is the representation of the karmic
collections both good and bad, spirituality
and supernatural influences. The gemstone
of Ketu is cat’s eye.
Ketu is believed to have been brought up by
a Brahmin named Mini. According to
Vishwakarma’s classical text on sculpture,
Ketu is black in colour, he carries a mace in
one hand while offering grace to his
devotees with the other. His chariot is said to
be drawn by ten horses. He is considered
great among the asuras while being a gem
among sages and seers who have
conquered the senses and controlled the
mind. He is angry by temperament and tall in
stature. Ketu has eight children.
The Ketu Naganathaswamy Temple or Ketu
Temple Timings and Daily Pujas
How to reach Sri Naganathaswamy Temple,
Thirunageswaram
Ketu
Ketu Navagraha Temple
Red like the Phalasa flower with the head
of a comet and fierce in appearance, Oh
Ketu, I bow to you.
-Navagraha Stotram
u April 201314
continued from page13
jyotisha
continued on page15Rahu and Ketu
continued on page16
Navagraha Temple is one of the 9
Navagraha temples in Tamil Nadu, located
at Keezhperumpallam (Kizhaperumpallam),
near Tarangampadi in Nagapattinam
district. This renowned Ketu Sthalam is one
of the most important Ketu temples in Tamil
Nadu as well as in India. The temple’s
p r e s i d i n g d e i t i e s a r e L o r d
Naganathaswamy and his consort
Soundaryanayaki. It is said that Lord Ketu
prayed to Lord Shiva to get rid of his sins. It is
rare to find Ketu enshrined with the head of a
snake and the body of an asura, which you
can see here. In this temple, Lord Ketu faces
the west in the north praharam. Lord Ketu
appears with the body in divine form, his
head as a five-headed snake and the folded
hands worshipping Lord Shiva.
Worship to Ketu
Daily Puja Services
Temple Timings
Ketu is adorned in multi-colours and it is
believed that offering puja to Lord Ketu at
Keezhperumpallam with red lily, horse
gram, and cloth will result in relief from
illness, poverty and other doshams.
Besides the worship services that are
offered six times daily, abhishekam is
performed at 8.30 AM. Pradhoshams are
held in great reverence here. The speciality
of Ketu Temple at Keezhperumpallam is that
the temple remains open even during Rahu
Kalam and Emakanda Kalam.
Ketu Naganathaswamy Temple opens daily
from 6 AM to 12 PM and from 4 PM to 7 PM.
How to Reach Ketu Navagraha Shrine at
Keezhperumpallam
The Ketu Temple at Keezhperumpallam is
located around 63 km from Kumbakonam. It
can also be reached via the Sirkali
(Sirkazhi)-Poompuhar Road.
Shiyali railway station, Thanjavur is the
nearest station, about 15 km from the
temple.
This article as well as the one presciding it
last month is based upon consultation with
our panel of astrologers some information
has been researched using tools such as
world wide web, classical hindu texts and
actual visits to the Navagraha Temple in
Tamilnadu.
u April 2013 15
Srikalahasti Temple is is one of the most famous Shiva temples in South India, It is situated 36 km away from Tirupati. The inner temple was
constructed around 5th century and the outer temple was constructed in the 12th century by the Chola kings and the Vijayanagara kings.
Srikalahasteeswara Swamy Temple is reputed. as the Rahu - kethu Kshetra, If the People who have Rahu Kethu Doshas and sarpa Doshas
the unmarried and No Children and those who are facing various problems for a long period perform the most effective "Rahu - Kethu Sarpa
Dosha Nivarana Puja" in this Temple all the Doshas get removed and desired results occur. Thousands of devotees from the country and
abroad perform this puja and fulfil their vows again and again after receiving good results.
Rahu-kethu Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Puja
Temple Features
Effects of Rahu
O c c u p y i n g a v a s t a r e a , t h e
Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple has vast
prakarams, towering gopurams, and
several mandapams. There are four entry
towers with fort-like walls which surround
the outermost prakaram.
There are twelve sacred water heads in this
place, namely, Suriya Pushkarani,
Gowthama Thee r tham, Pa rasa ra
Theertham, Indira Theertham, Prugu
Theertham, Kannuva Theertham and
Vasishta Theertham. Suriya Pushkarani is
inside the temple compound and is very
sacred. The theertham is built in Chola style
and is square in shape with 'double-bat'
roofing. Legend says that the mythological
serpents Aadi Seshan, Dakshan and
Karkotakan worshipped Shiva here.
Rahu is said to be the cause of one's good
position, status, business, faithfulness,
winning over opposition, overseas travel
and for mantra power. It is believed that by
doing milk abhishekam here for Rahu during
Rahu kalam (period of one and a half hours
occurring every day), delays in getting
married, childlessness, troublesome
married life, ill-effects of Kalasarpa Dosha
(affliction), Kalasthra Dosha and Sarpa
Dosha are all cured.
An important aspect of Rahu Temple at
Thirunageswaram is that during milk
abhishekam, the milk when poured over the
idol, turns blue which is clearly visible. Large
numbers of devotees throng here to perform
the abhishekam. On every occasion of Rahu
moving to the next Raasi (Rasi) which
happens once in one and a half years in anti-
clockwise direction, special abhishekam
with homam is performed at Sri Arulmigu
Naganathaswamy Temple. Lord Rahu is
taken in procession in sesha vahanam.
Other major festivals celebrated here are
Brahmotsavam (November or December),
Thiruvathirai (December – January), Kanda
Special Feature
Temple Festivals
Shashti (October or November), Sivaratri
(February - March), Navaratri and Sekkizhar
Vaikasi Pooja (June).
The temple opens daily from 6 AM to 9 AM,
from 1 PM to 5 PM and from 7 PM to 9 PM.
The temple conducts six pujas daily
ushakala puja (6 am), kalasandhi puja (9
am), uchikkala puja (1 pm), sayaratchai puja
(5 pm), irandam kala puja (7 pm) and
arthajama puja (9 pm).
Thirunageswaram Rahu Temple is on the
Kumbakonam-Karaikal bus route and is just
7 km from Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu.
In Sanskrit, Ketu (Dhuma Ketu) means
comet. It is a shadowy planet and is depicted
as the tail of a demon snake. He is usually
shown with a pock marked body, riding
upon a vulture and holding a mace. Lord
Ketu is the representation of the karmic
collections both good and bad, spirituality
and supernatural influences. The gemstone
of Ketu is cat’s eye.
Ketu is believed to have been brought up by
a Brahmin named Mini. According to
Vishwakarma’s classical text on sculpture,
Ketu is black in colour, he carries a mace in
one hand while offering grace to his
devotees with the other. His chariot is said to
be drawn by ten horses. He is considered
great among the asuras while being a gem
among sages and seers who have
conquered the senses and controlled the
mind. He is angry by temperament and tall in
stature. Ketu has eight children.
The Ketu Naganathaswamy Temple or Ketu
Temple Timings and Daily Pujas
How to reach Sri Naganathaswamy Temple,
Thirunageswaram
Ketu
Ketu Navagraha Temple
Red like the Phalasa flower with the head
of a comet and fierce in appearance, Oh
Ketu, I bow to you.
-Navagraha Stotram
u April 201314
continued from page13
jyotisha
continued on page15Rahu and Ketu
continued on page16
Navagraha Temple is one of the 9
Navagraha temples in Tamil Nadu, located
at Keezhperumpallam (Kizhaperumpallam),
near Tarangampadi in Nagapattinam
district. This renowned Ketu Sthalam is one
of the most important Ketu temples in Tamil
Nadu as well as in India. The temple’s
p r e s i d i n g d e i t i e s a r e L o r d
Naganathaswamy and his consort
Soundaryanayaki. It is said that Lord Ketu
prayed to Lord Shiva to get rid of his sins. It is
rare to find Ketu enshrined with the head of a
snake and the body of an asura, which you
can see here. In this temple, Lord Ketu faces
the west in the north praharam. Lord Ketu
appears with the body in divine form, his
head as a five-headed snake and the folded
hands worshipping Lord Shiva.
Worship to Ketu
Daily Puja Services
Temple Timings
Ketu is adorned in multi-colours and it is
believed that offering puja to Lord Ketu at
Keezhperumpallam with red lily, horse
gram, and cloth will result in relief from
illness, poverty and other doshams.
Besides the worship services that are
offered six times daily, abhishekam is
performed at 8.30 AM. Pradhoshams are
held in great reverence here. The speciality
of Ketu Temple at Keezhperumpallam is that
the temple remains open even during Rahu
Kalam and Emakanda Kalam.
Ketu Naganathaswamy Temple opens daily
from 6 AM to 12 PM and from 4 PM to 7 PM.
How to Reach Ketu Navagraha Shrine at
Keezhperumpallam
The Ketu Temple at Keezhperumpallam is
located around 63 km from Kumbakonam. It
can also be reached via the Sirkali
(Sirkazhi)-Poompuhar Road.
Shiyali railway station, Thanjavur is the
nearest station, about 15 km from the
temple.
This article as well as the one presciding it
last month is based upon consultation with
our panel of astrologers some information
has been researched using tools such as
world wide web, classical hindu texts and
actual visits to the Navagraha Temple in
Tamilnadu.
u April 2013 15
Srikalahasti Temple is is one of the most famous Shiva temples in South India, It is situated 36 km away from Tirupati. The inner temple was
constructed around 5th century and the outer temple was constructed in the 12th century by the Chola kings and the Vijayanagara kings.
Srikalahasteeswara Swamy Temple is reputed. as the Rahu - kethu Kshetra, If the People who have Rahu Kethu Doshas and sarpa Doshas
the unmarried and No Children and those who are facing various problems for a long period perform the most effective "Rahu - Kethu Sarpa
Dosha Nivarana Puja" in this Temple all the Doshas get removed and desired results occur. Thousands of devotees from the country and
abroad perform this puja and fulfil their vows again and again after receiving good results.
Rahu-kethu Sarpa Dosha Nivarana Puja
Don’t Blame the Grahas
Astrology, Karma and Destiny
First and foremost, a Graha (planet in
astrology) has no agenda to punish you. The
wrongs and sins you had committed in your
earlier lives come back to you as adverse
planetary positions in your birth chart in this
life. An astrologer merely holds up a light
that shows the things in store for you in the
years ahead and how you might reduce their
ill effects.
Astrology (Jyotisha) is nothing but the
language of karma (action and reaction to
the earlier action). A horoscope (kundali,
chart, jataka) that is plotted at the time of the
birth of the native indicates his nature,
character and the events that will take place
in his life. It is like a blue print. To say that the
horoscope causes everything that takes
place in one’s life by using the English word
“destiny” is only partially correct, just as it is
partially wrong. This word fails to convey the
meaning of the word “karma” as the word
karma means reaction to an action. It also
says action, as result is not there without
action. It is different thing that from your
viewpoint the result is favorable or adverse.
The real meaning is that your karma as
indicated by your horoscope is only one-
third of your life’s baggage. You are still left
with the majority portion, two-thirds to play
with and to seek relief. This two-third portion
of your life is also indirectly controlled from
your birth chart. It is divided into two sets of
one-third each.
The second one-third is in your hands in
terms of acquiring qualifications, education,
training, apprenticeship and so on. You can
choose this one-third as you wish. For
instance, a qualified doctor can opt to
become a trader or a banker. He can choose
what he wishes to be. The horoscope will not
be in any position to help him until he puts in
his effort to reach his goal.
The last one-third is in the hands of the place
where he lives and where he works. The
latter two control his actions in the form of
temperament, decision-making and thinking
process.
The complete picture emerges as a result of
a reaction to an action. You need to
understand the above clearly.
Remedies in astrology are of two types –
that which is possible and that which is not
possible. Possible remedies come from the
smallest to the largest. Visiting temples,
japa, daan, worship, wearing rings,
gemstones, reciting slokas and so on.
Some problems may not have any remedy,
or the graha may not allow the native to see
the remedy. Instead, it makes the native
undergo pain or suffering. Again, remember
that the graha has made its decision based
on its position in your birth chart. In this
manner, the graha itself causes the native’s
disbelief towards a particular remedy,
turning him away by his own wish.
The assimilation of all the one-third parts
along with the native’s dedication and will to
seek remedy brings solace in his life.
Astrology cannot go wrong, but the
astrologer, depending on his ability,
knowledge and interpretation along with the
native’s participative interest (shraddha)
may limit the remedy.
As I have mentioned above, it is of course
impossible to escape from one’s karma, but
Remedies in Astrology
The Navagraha Remedies
it is definitely possible to heighten its good
effect or reduce the impact of its ill-effect.
One can do this by propitiating the
Navagrahas. Our ancients have shown us
the way - visiting holy temples dedicated to
the Navagrahas, making offerings of cloth
(vastram), grain, oil, and flowers specific to
the Navagraha. Also, our ancients have
guided us on the number of lamps that must
be lit, the number of circumambulations to
be made around the shrines; regarding
bathing in the holy waters in the tanks and
wells at the temples, reciting the appropriate
holy verses and wearing the appropriate
gem stones.
Worship of the Navagrahas benefits the
devout and the dedicated persons. One
needs to be sincere in effort when
performing the things listed above. Devotion
to the lord is of the greatest importance.
Without this virtuous element, it is not
possible to obtain relief from suffering.
u April 201316
Conclusion to "Belief is Relief”
The Navagraha Remedies
First and foremost, a Graha (planet in astrology) has no agenda to punish you. The wrongs and sins you had committed in your earlier lives come back to you as adverse planetary positions in your birth chart in this life.