NAVAGRAHAS

Graha

from Sanskrit grha, seizing, laying hold of, holding) is a 'cosmic influencer' on the living beings of
mother Bhumidevi (Earth). In Hindu astrology, the Navagraha (nine seizers or nine influencers,
Imperial stars) are some of these major influencers. All the navagraha have relative movement with
respect to the background of fixed stars in the zodiac. These celestial bodies are named Surya (Sun),
Chandra (Moon), Mangal (Mars), Budha (Mercury),Guru/Brihaspati (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani
(Saturn), Rahu (North Lunar Node) and Ketu (South Lunar Node).

Grahas are said to be the "markers of influence" that point out the karmic influence on the behavior
of living beings. They themselves are not causative elements but can be compared to traffic signs.

According to the astrological treatise Prasna Marga, there are many other spiritual entities called
grahas or spirits. All (except the navagrahas) are said to have been born of the anger of Lord Shiva or
Rudra. Most grahas are generally malefic in nature but there are a few that may be good. The book
called The Puranic Encyclopedia, under the heading 'Graha Pinda', gives a list of such grahas (spirits
or spiritual entities, etc.),that may afflict people and may be the cause of tough or negative
situations.

Astrology

Astrologers claim that Grahas influence the auras (energy bodies) and minds of beings connected to
the Earth. Each Graha carries a specific energy quality, which is described in an allegorical form
through its scriptural and astrological references. The energies of the Grahas are getting connected
in a specific way to the individual auras of humans at the time they take their first breath in a given
nativity. These energy connections remain with the natives of Earth as long as their current body
lives." The nine planets are transmitters of universal, archetypal energy. The qualities of each planet
help to maintain the overall balance of polarities in both the macrocosmic and the microcosmic
universe - as above, so below.

Humans are also capable to tune themselves to the chosen energy of a specific Graha through
Samyama i.e. self control, with that Graha or its presiding deity. The effects of worship of specific
deities are manifested accordingly to the layout of their relative energies in a given nativity of a
worshiper in question, in particular depending on the Bhavas occupied by the respective Grahas.
"The cosmic energy we always receive contains different energies coming from different celestial
bodies." "When we repeatedly utter a Mantra we are tuning to a particular frequency and this

frequency establishes a contact with the cosmic energy and drags it into our body and
surroundings."

The idea of planets, stars and other celestial bodies being the living energy entities influencing the
other beings of the Universe has cross-references in many ancient cultures and had become the
background of numerous modern fiction works.
Surya (Sun)

Surya is the chief, the solar deity, one of the Adityas, son of Kasyapa. He has hair and arms of gold.
He is often depicted riding a chariot harnessed by seven horses or one horse with seven head which
represent the seven colours of the rainbow or the seven chakras. He presides as "Ravi" over "Ravivar" or Sunday.

In Hindu religious literature, Surya is notably mentioned as the visible form of God that one can see
every day. Furthermore, Shaivites and Vaishnavas often regard Surya as an aspect of Shiva and
Vishnu, respectively. For example, the sun is called Surya Narayana by Vaishnavas. In Shaivite
theology, Surya is said to be one of eight forms of Shiva, named the Astamurti.

Vivasvata (Surya) had three queens; Saranyu (also called Saraniya, Saranya, Sanjna, or Sangya),
Ragyi, and Prabha. Saranyu was the mother of Vaivasvata Manu or Sraddhadeva Manu (the seventh,
i.e. present Manu) and the twins Yama (the Lord of Death) and his sister Yami. She also bore him the
twins known as the Ashvins, divine horsemen and physicians to the Devas. Saranyu, being unable to
bear the extreme radiance of Surya, created a superficial entity from her shadow called Chhaya and
instructed her to act as Surya's wife in her absence. Chhaya mothered two sons Savarni Manu (the
eighth, i.e. next Manu) and Shani (the planet Saturn), and two daughters Tapti and Vishti. He also
has a son, Revanta, or Raivata, by Ragyi. Interestingly, Surya's two sons Shani and Yama are
responsible for the judgment of human life. Shani gives us the results of one's deeds through one's
life through appropriate punishments and rewards while Yama grants the results of one's deeds
after death.

Surya represents Sattva Guna, soul, will-power, fame, the eyes, general vitality, courage, kingship,
father, highly placed persons and authority. He is exalted in the sign Mesha (Aries) and is in decline
in the sign Tula (Libra). The strongest placement for Surya is directly overhead in the 10th house, and
on the angles (the 1st, 5th and 9th houses). Surya is lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions:
Krittika, Uttara Phalguni and Uttara Ashadha.
Invoking Gayatri Mantra or Aditya Hrudaya Mantra (Aditya Hridayam) are known to please the Sun
God.

The grain associated with the Sun is whole wheat and the number associated to the Surya is 1. He is
especially worshipped in the Hindu festivals of Ratha Saptami, Makar Sankranti, Chhath and Samba
Dashami.
Some prominent temples are Konarka in Orissa, Uttararka and Lolarka in Uttar Pradesh, Balarka in
Rajasthan.
Characteristics of Surya are: Wives Suvarna and Chaya; Colour Yellow; Gender Male; Element
Fire; God Agni; Pratyadi Devata Rudra; Metal Copper; Gemstone Ruby; Body part Bone;
Taste Pungent; Food Wheat; Season Summer; Direction East; Day Sunday; Tone Ga.
Chandra (Moon)

In Hinduism, Chandra is the Vedic Lunar deity Graha Soma i.e. juice. The Soma name refers
particularly to the juice of sap in the plants and thus makes the Moon the lord of plants and
vegetation.

Chandra is described as young, beautiful, fair; two-armed and having in his hands a club and a lotus.
He rides his chariot across the sky every night, pulled by ten white horses or an antelope. He is
connected with dew, and as such, is one of the gods of fertility. He is also called Rajanipati (lord of
the night) and Kshuparaka (one who illuminates the night), Indu (the bright drop). As Soma, he
presides over Somvar or Monday.
Chandra is known for having a series of disastrous love affairs. His first lover, Tara, was the wife of
Brihaspati, the planet Jupiter. From their union, Tara became pregnant gives birth to Budha (a.k.a.
the planet Mercury). Because of how he was conceived, Budha hated his father and as Chandra also
knew that Budha is his illegitimate son, he began to hate his son, and their rivalry continues to this
day. For the sin of abducting another god's consort, Brahma banished Chandra to the outer
atmosphere. This story illustrates allegorically the prohibition of intoxicants for Brahmins. After that,
Chandra, set out to marry the twenty-seven daughters of Daksha. Daksha allowed this on the
condition that the moon not favor any daughter over the others. Chandra failed to do this, and
Daksha placed a curse on him that took away his luster, which accounts for the moon's waxing and
waning. These stories are symbolic and portray the deeper relationship dynamics amongst all these
factors.
In Vedic astrology Chandra represents Sattva Guna, brain and mind, emotions, sensitivity, softness,
imagination, queen and mother. Chandra rules over the sign Karka (Cancer), while he is exalted in
Vrishabha (Taurus) and in his fall in Vrishchika (Scorpio). The waxing moon is considered to be
benefic, and the waning moon is considered to be malefic. The bright moon is considered a benefic
of the highest order, while the dark moon is considered a malefic. Chandra is lord of three
nakshatras or lunar mansions: Rohini, Hasta and Shravana.
In Hindu astrology, the moon is considered to be one of the best planets to be born under as it
promises wealth and happiness.

Characteristics of Chandra are: Wives Rohini; Colour White; Gender Female; Element Water;
God Varuna; Pratyadi Devata Gowri; Metal Silver; Gemstone Pearl/ Moonstone; Body part
Blood; Taste Salt; Food Rice; Season Winter; Direction North west; Day Monday; Tone Ma.
Mangal (Mars)

Mars is also called Angaraka ('one who is red in colour') or Bhauma ('son of Bhumi') in Sanskrit. He is
the god of war and is celibate. He is considered the son of Bhumi, the Earth Goddess.

He is painted red or flame colour, four-armed, carrying a trident (Sanskrit: trishula), mace (Sanskrit:
gada), lotus (Sanskrit: Padma) and a spear (Sanskrit: shula). His mount (Sanskrit: vahana) is a ram. He
presides over 'Mangala-varam' i.e. Tuesday.
In Vedic astrology Mangala is considered a malefic of the first order. He rules over the signs Mesha
(Aries) and Vrishchika (Scorpio), is exalted in Makara (Capricorn) and has his fall in Karka (Cancer).
Mangala is the lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Mrigashirsha, Chitra and Shravishta or
Dhanishta.
The Sun, Moon and Jupiter are all considered friendly to him, while he is hostile to Mercury. Venus
and Saturn are neutral. Mangala represents Tamas Guna, drive and physical energy, self-confidence
and ego, strength, anger, impulsiveness, heroism and adventurous nature. Mangala rules over
blood, muscles and bone marrow. He is associated with battle, war and soldiers. He is a teacher of
the occult sciences (Ruchaka Mahapurusha Yoga).
There is a famous pilgrim place Mangalnath (in Ujjain,Madhya Pradesh, India). Others are
Amalner(Maharashtra) and another in Vaitheeswaran Kovil, Tamil Nadu.
Characteristics of Mangal are: Wife Shaktidevi; Colour Red; Gender Male; Element Fire; God
Subramanya; Pratyadi Devata Murugan; Metal Brass; Gemstone Red Coral; Body part
Marrow; Taste Acid; Food Pigeon pea; Season Summer; Direction South; Day Tuesday; Tone
Re.
Budha (Mercury)

In Hindu mythology, Budha is Mercury, a son of Chandra (the moon) with Tara or Rohini. He is also
the god of merchandise and protector of Merchants.

He is represented as being mild, eloquent, and having a greenish complexion. He is depicted holding
a scimitar, a club and a shield, riding a winged lion. In other illustrations, he holds a sceptre and lotus
and rides a carpet or an eagle or a chariot drawn by lions.
Budha presides over 'Budhavar' or Wednesday.

Chandra was a student with Brihaspati, the Teacher of devas. Tara was the wife of Brihaspati. Tara
fell in love with the beauty of Chandra and started living with him, deserting Brihaspati. When
Brihaspati asked her to come back, she refused. Brihaspati became angry, and a war eventually
started between Chandra and Brihaspati. Sukracharya, the teacher of the Asuras, joined Chandra in
the battle, while The devas joined Brihaspati. As the battle was due to desire (kama) for Tara, it was
known asTarakaamayam. Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, feared the war might abolish the
world. Hence, he came down and stopped the war. He convinced Tara, took her away from Chandra,
and gave her back to Brihaspati. Budha, a beautiful child, was born to Tara. Both Brihaspati and
Chandra claimed to be the father of Budha, but Tara kept silent. Budha himself got angry over this
tussle and asked his mother to tell the truth. Tara said that Chandra was the father of Budha. Budha
married Ila, the daughter of Vaivasvata Manu and fathered a son Pururava.
In Vedic astrology Budha is considered a benefic, unless he is joined with a malefic planet, in which
case he becomes malefic also. Mercury rules over Mithuna (Gemini) and Kanya (Virgo), is exalted in
Kanya and in his fall in Meena (Pisces). Budha is friendly with Saturn and Venus, hostile to the Moon,
Mars and Jupiter, and neutral towards the other planets. Budha represents Rajas Guna and
Communication skills,intellect, communication, analysis, the senses (especially the skin), science,
mathematics, business, education and research. The written word and journeys of all types fall
within his domain. Budha is lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Ashlesha, Jyeshtha, and
Revati (nakshatra).
Characteristics of Budha are: Wife Ila; Colour Green; Gender Neutral; Element Earth; God
Vishnu; Pratyadi Devata Vishnu; Metal Zinc; Gemstone Emerald; Body part Skin; Taste
Mixed; Food Mung bean; Season Autumn; Direction North; Day Wednesday; Tone Sa.
Brihaspati ( Jupiter)

Brihaspati (Sanskrit - "lord of prayer or devotion") also known as Deva-guru(guru of the gods). He is
considered the personification of piety and religion, and the chief 'offerer of prayers and sacrifices to
the gods' (Sanskrit: Purohita), with whom he intercedes on behalf of humankind.

He is the guru of the Devas (gods) and the arch-nemesis of Shukracharya, the guru of the Danavas
(demons). He is also known as Ganapati (leader of the group [of planets]), and Guru (teacher), the
god of wisdom and eloquence, to whom various works are ascribed, such as the Brahaspatya sutras.
He is described as of yellow or golden color and holding the following divine attributes: a stick, a
lotus and beads. He presides over 'Guru-var' or Thursday.
Brihaspati is the son of Rishi Angiras (according to the Rig Veda 4.40.1) and Surupa according to the
Shiva Purana. He has two brothers named Utathya and Samvartana, and has three wives. His first
wife, Shuba, gave birth to Bhanumati, Raaka,Archishmati, Mahamati, Mahishmati, Sinivali, and
Havishmati, his seven daughters. His second wife, Tara, gave birth to seven sons and a daughter.
Through B?ihaspati's third wife, Mamata, he had two sons, Kacha and Bharadwaja.

Brihaspati attained the position of preceptor of the Devas by performing penances on the banks of
Prabhas Tirtha. Lord Shiva granted him this position, as well as his position as one of the Navagrahas
(Nine Planets).
There is a wide debate whether Kacha was B?ihaspati's offspring or his brother. But the
Mahabharata states that Kacha was his brother. All Brahmins belonging to the Bharadwaja Gotra are
believed to be his descendants.
In Jyotisha (Hindu astrology), Brihaspati is the name for the planet Jupiter. Brihaspati is considered
to be the most beneficial amongst the planets. Brihaspati rules over the signs Dhanu (Sagittarius)
and Meena (Pisces), he is exalted in Karka (Cancer) and in his fall in Makara (Capricorn). The Sun,
Moon and Mars are considered friendly to Brihaspati, Mercury is hostile and Saturn is neutral.

Brihaspati in Vedic astrology is considered to be of the element ether (space) or Akasha Tattva (i.e.
Akasha = Space /Sky / Ether; Tattva = Essence/ Category/Truth). This element indicates vastness,
growth and expansion in a person's life. Brihaspati also represents the Sattva Guna, balance of past
karma, religion, philosophy, knowledge and issues relating to offspring. He is concerned with
education, teaching and the dispensation of knowledge. Humans with Jupiter dominating in their
horoscope could grow fat as life progresses and their empire and prosperity increases; and diabetes
is an ailment directly related to this sign. According to traditional Hindu astrology, worship or
propitiation of Brihaspati or Guru (Jupiter) results in cure from ailments affecting the stomach and
helps ward off sins.

Brihaspati is lord of three Nakshatras or lunar mansions: Punarvasu, Vishakha, and Purva
Bhadrapada.
Characteristics of Brihaspati are: Wife Tara; Colour Gold; Gender Male; Element Ether; God
Indra; Pratyadi Devata Brahma; Metal Gold; Gemstone Yellow Sapphire; Body part Brain;
Taste Sweet; Food Chickpea; Season Winter; Direction North East; Day Thursday; Tone
Dha.
Shukra (Venus)

Shukra in Sanskrit means "clear, pure" or "brightness, clearness". He is the son of Bhrigu and
Ushana. He is preceptor of the Daityas, and the guru of the Asuras with the honorific Guru
Shukracharya. He is identified with the planet Venus, He presides over Shukravar i.e. Friday.

He is of white complexion, middle-aged and of agreeable countenance. He is described variously as

mounted on a camel, horse or crocodile. He holds a stick, beads and a lotus and sometimes a bow
and arrow.

In Vedic astrology Shukra (Venus) is considered a benefic and rules over the signs Vrishabha (Taurus)
and Tula (Libra). It is exalted in Meena (Pisces), and in its fall in Kanya (Virgo). The planets Mercury
and Saturn are considered friendly to Shukra, the Sun and Moon are hostile and Jupiter and the rest
are considered neutral. In astrology Shukra represents Rajas Guna, love, romance and sexuality,
artistic talents, the quality of the body and material life, wealth, the opposite sex, pleasure and
reproduction, feminine qualities and the fine arts, such as music, dance, painting and sculpture.
Those with Shukra strong in their charts are likely to appreciate nature and enjoy harmonious
relationship. However, an excessive influence can cause them to indulge too much in the pleasures
of life without accomplishing much of real worth. Shukra is the lord of three nakshatras or lunar
mansions: Bharani, Purva Phalguni and Purva Ashadha.
Venus is an indicator of spouse, love, marriage, comfort, luxury, beauty, prosperity, happiness, all
conveyances, art, dance music, acting, passion and sex. Shukra blesses the people with power to
control their sense organs (Indriyas) and enables to obtain name and fame. Afflictions to Venus can
cause eye diseases, venereal complaints, indigestion, pimples, impotency, loss of appetite and
rashes on the skin.
In Vedic astrology, there is a dasha or planetary period known as Shukra Dasha which remains active
in a person's horoscope for 20 years, this is the longest dasha among all planets. This dasha is
believed to give more wealth, fortune and luxury to a person's life if they have Shukra positioned
well in their horoscope. In addition Shukra is an important benefic planet in the horoscope. Shukra is
associated with a month in the Hindu calendar called Jyeshtha (MayJune, personified as the
guardian of Kubera's treasure).
Characteristics of Shukra are: Wives Sukirti and Urjaswathi; Colour White/ Yellow; Gender
Female; Element Water; God Indrani; Pratyadi Devata Indra; Metal Silver; Gemstone
Diamond; Body part Semen; Taste Sour; Food Kidney beans; Season Spring; Direction South
East; Day Friday; Tone Ni.
Shani (Saturn)

The word shani embodies Saturn, also denotes the seventh day or Saturday in most Indian
languages. The word shani comes from Sanaye Kramati Sa? i.e. the one who moves slowly, because
Saturn takes about 30 years to revolve around the Sun.

Shani is a deva and son of Surya and his wife Chhaya, hence also known as Chayyaputra. He is the
elder brother of Yama, the Hindu god of death, who in some scriptures corresponds to the
deliverance of justice. Surya's two sons Shani and Yama judge. Shani gives us the results of one's
deeds through one's life through appropriate punishments and rewards; Yama grants the results of
one's deeds after death.

It is said that when Shani opened his eyes as a baby for the very first time, the sun went into an
eclipse, which clearly denotes the impact of Shani on astrological charts. He is known as the greatest
teacher and well wisher for the righteous as well the greatest punisher for those who follow the
path of evil, betrayal, backstabbing and unjust revenge. He is depicted dark in colour, clothed in
black; holding a sword, arrows and two daggers and mounted on a crow, which is Shani's vahana i.e.
vehicle.
Shani represents Tamas Guna, learning the hard way, Career and Longevity.
Few prominent Shani temples are Shani Shingnapur Maharashtra, Thirunallar at Tamil Nadu.
Characteristics of Shani are: Wife Neeladevi; Colour Black/ Blue; Gender Neutral; Element Air;
God Brahma; Pratyadi Devata - Yama; Metal Iron; Gemstone Blue Sapphire; Body part
Muscles; taste Astringent; Food Sesame; Season All seasons; Direction West; Day Saturday;
Tone Pa.
Rahu (North Lunar Node)

Rahu is the head of the demonic snake that swallows the sun or the moon causing eclipses,
according to Hindu scriptures. He is depicted in art as a dragon with no body riding a chariot drawn
by eight black horses. The rahu kala is considered inauspicious.

According to legend, during the Samudra manthan, the asura Rahu drank some of the amrita (divine
nectar). Sun and moon realized it and they alerted Mohini (the female avatar of Vishnu). Before the
nectar could pass his throat, Mohini cut off his head. The head, however, remained immortal due to
the effect of amrita and became Rahu. It is believed that this immortal head from time to time
swallows the sun, causing eclipses. Then, the sun passes through the opening at the neck, ending the
eclipse. The body also turned into Ketu due to a boon, and it in turn swallows the moon on timely
basis to cause a lunar eclipse.
Astronomically, the Moon in its orbit, on a northerly course from South to North, crosses the ecliptic
(the apparent path of Sun). This point of intersection is known as Rahu or "Dragon's head". 180
degrees away from this point, the Moon on its southerly course crosses the ecliptic. This point is
called "the dragons tail" or Ketu.
Thus, Ketu and Rahu denote the points of intersection of the paths of the Sun and the Moon as they
move around the celestial sphere. Therefore, Rahu and Ketu are respectively called the north and
the south lunar nodes. The fact that eclipses occur when the Sun and the Moon are at one of these
points is explained in stories as the swallowing of the Sun and the Moon by the demon snake. Thus,
Rahu and Ketu do not have physical identity but only mathematically calculated sensitive points.
Rahu is friends with Ketu, Saturn, Mercury and Venus. It is the enemy of Sun, Moon, Mars, and
Jupiter. It is important to note that Rahu is more inimical to the Sun as compared to the Moon. Rahu
is lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Ardra, Swati and Shatabhisha.

In Vedic astrology Rahu is seen as an asura or demon who does his best to plunge any area of life he
controls into chaos, mystery, and cruelty. He is associated with the world of material manifestation
and worldly desire, as well as random, uncontrolled growth without wisdom or understanding. Rahu
is a legendary master of deception who signifies cheaters, pleasure seekers, operators in foreign
lands, drug dealers, poison dealers, insincere & immoral acts, etc. It is the significator of an
irreligious person, an outcast, harsh speech, falsehoods, uncleanliness, abdominal ulcers, bones, and
transmigration. Rahu is instrumental in strengthening one's power and converting even an enemy
into a friend. He represents Tamo Guna, dualities and illusions being a naughty child of Maya. It
relates to the Seventh Ray energy of esoteric astrology, as it represents a force displaying all the
possibilities within the realm of existence.

In some astrological positions he is bestows of prosperity and wealth and ultimate knowledge.
Characteristics of Rahu are: Wife Simhi; Colour Smoky; Gender Female; Element Air; God
Nirriti; Pratyadi Devata Durga; Metal Lead; Gemstone Hessonite; Body part Head; Taste Nil;
Food Urad pulse; Season nil; Direction South West; Day Saturday; Tone Nil.
Ketu (South Lunar Node)

'Ketu' is said to be the body of Rahu, after the head of theasura was cut off by God Vishnu. In Hindu
mythology, Ketu is generally referred to as a "shadow" planet. It is believed to have a tremendous
impact on human lives and also the whole creation. In some special circumstances it helps someone
achieve the zenith of fame. Ketu is often depicted with a gem or star on his head signifying a mystery
light.

In ancient Tamil astrological scripts, Ketu was considered as incarnation of Indira (The head of
Devas).During a war with Asuras, Indira was defeated and took a passive form and a subtle state as
"Ketu". It was the time, Indira spent realizing his past mistakes, failures and that lead to spirituality
towards Lord Shiva.
Ketu represents Tamo Guna and supernatural influences. It was considered, "Ketu" being
responsible for Moksha (Liberation of Soul), Sanyasa ( Give away material comfort), Self Realization,
Gnana (Fore-seeing future), Wavering nature, Restlessness, Endocrine system and Slender physique.
People with good aspects from "Ketu" were Great Doctors, Priests, Thinkers, Movie stars and Social
workers. Though these people with good aspects of "Ketu" attain great heights, but they tend to be
mentally detached, would not get material pleasure and joy through their great heights in social life.
In Hindu astrology Ketu represents karmic collections both good and bad, spirituality and
supernatural influences. Ketu is associated with the Meena Avatar (Fish Incarnation) of Vishnu. Ketu
signifies the spiritual process of the refinement of materialization to spirit and is considered both
malefic and benefic, as it causes sorrow and loss, and yet at the same time turns the individual to
God. In other words, it causes material loss in order to force a more spiritual outlook in the person.

Ketu is akaraka or indicator of intelligence, wisdom, non-attachment, fantasy, penetrating insight,

derangement, and psychic abilities. Ketu is believed to bring prosperity to the devotee's family,
removes the effects of snakebite and illness arising out of poisons. He grants good health, wealth
and cattle to his devotees. Ketu is the lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Ashvini, Magha
andMula.
Characteristics of Ketu are: Wife Chitralekha; Colour Smoky; Gender Neutral; Element Earth;
God Ganesha; Pratyadi Devata Chitragupt; Metal Mercury; Gemstone Cats Eye; Body part
Skin; Taste Nil; Food Horsegram; Season Nil; Direction Nil; Day Tuesday; Tone Nil.
Worship/ Pooja

Pooja is performed by offering red flowers to Surya bhagwan, White flowers to Sukra and Chandra
Devta, Orange flowers to Mangal devta, Blue flowers to Rahu, Ketu and Shani Bhagwan, Yellow
flowers to Bhrishaspati, and Green to Budh Baghwan. Tulsi malas are offered to each deity.
Surya Puja

Surya Puja or Sun Worship is dedicated to Lord Surya. Grah Shanti Surya Puja or Sun worship is
recommended to those, having malefic surya or wrongly placed sun as per the horoscope. Here is a
list of things associated with the worship of Surya - the Sun God.

Surya is the only visible God whom we can see, perceive and pray. The Sun God is considered as the
life-giver, ''Prannadata'' of the entire universe. Surya is essential for life. All Vedas regard Surya as
the witness (Saakshi) of all actions. The Sun or Surya is also known as ''Atmakaraka''. Being a Sanskrit
word, ''Atma'' means ''soul'' and ''Karaka'' means ''indicator''. The Sun is the ''indicator of the soul''.
The Surya is the indicator of our ego, honor, status, fame, the heart, the eyes, general vitality,
respect and power.

Surya Puja - Worshipping the Sun God

Surya Puja is a divine boon for those who face problems, hurdles and misfortune in their lives.
Worship of Sun is beneficial when people get stuck, no matter how hard working, honest and
intelligent they are good luck seems to ignore them. People who aspire for sound health, prosperity,
good eyesight, strength and courage, success, cure of chronic diseases like leprosy, heart ailment,
nervous weakness, asthma etc. should worship the Sun. This planet is known for his Power, strength
and glory.

An ill-placed Sun could also lead to difficulties in health, relating to heart or blood pressure/ blood
circulation. In such a case, it is advisable to recite Surya Japa or Dhyan Mantra. After planning to
perform the Surya Puja, one should wear clean red clothes on Sunday and offer lotus flower to the
God, facing the east direction.

"Aum Hrim Hrim Suriyaye Namah Aum''

People can observe fast on Sundays and can take salt-free food (one time meal before sunset). It is
regarded as beneficial. One should meditate on the rising sun. If not possible, they should meditate
on a ruby.After reciting and meditating on the Sun, one should offer water adding a few rice grains
and vermillion to the Sun Lord. It is really beneficial for every person. The Sun is the god of light and
intellect, may god bless you with all the grace. Read more to know about the Sun and its affects.

The Sun - Position

The nature of Surya is fiery. The Sun is the most powerful of all the stars. It is believed that the
stronger the Sun the bigger the ego, so much in fact that there might be small place for other people
to exist in such egoistic brilliance. Thus, it is where the excess vanity of the Sun exerts a malefic
influence. A well-located Sun provides intelligence, perception, strength of will and character. It
creates endurance, stamina, vitality, positive spirit, direction, courage, conviction, confidence,
leadership, independence and straight- forwardness.

An ill-placed Sun gives lack of intelligence, poor perception, weakness of will and character. It
creates lack of endurance, low vitality, melancholy, fear, dependency or servitude, deviousness or
dishonesty. An overly strong but ill-disposed Sun creates pride, arrogance, tyranny and control. It
creates much of the same problems as Mars (or Saturn), when too strong. A weak but spiritually
inclined Sun makes us friendly, desiring to do good and self-effacing.

Significance of the Sun

Surya is considered to be the most powerful planet in astrological parlance as any planet placed with
it gets combust. But, whenever Rahu or Ketu comes at 14 degrees from the Sun, a solar eclipse
occurs around New Moon (meaning Rahu or Ketu eclipse the Sun). As per Medical astrology, the Sun
rules head and brain among body parts and boils, pimples and fever among diseases.

The Sun or Surya is the lord of Leo in the Zodiac. Surya exalts in the sign of Aries and falls in the sign
of Libra. The sun stays one month in each Rashi and takes 365 days or 1 year to complete a round of
12 Rashis. The Sun is in his strongest placement directly overhead in the 10th House.

Surya is also strong in the other Kendras, or Angles. These are the Houses 1, 4, and 7. The Sun also
works well in what are called the ''Upachaya'', or growing houses. These are the Houses 3, 6 and 11.
The Sun is particularly beneficial for the fire sign Ascendants of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. Surya Puja
on Sunday is considered to bring in manifold benefits to the worshippers.