Vedic Astrology (Jyotisha), plays a pivotal role in the spiritual and everyday lives of millions. Central to this system are the Navagraha—the nine celestial bodies that influence human destiny. Each planet is governed by a specific deity, embodying distinct characteristics that shape our lives. This blog delves into the intricate relationship between these planets and their divine rulers, offering insights into their significance in Hindu mythology and astrology.
What is Navagraha?
Navagraha, meaning “nine celestial influences,” refers to the nine planets in Vedic astrology that affect human life and the natural world. They include the Sun (Surya), Moon (Chandra), Mars (Mangala), Mercury (Budha), Jupiter (Brihaspati), Venus (Shukra), Saturn (Shani), Rahu (the North Node), and Ketu (the South Node). Each of these has unique traits, powers, and deities that govern their influence.
Navagraha and their ruling deities
- Surya (Sun) – Governed by Lord Surya, the Sun symbolizes vitality, authority, and leadership.
- Chandra (Moon) – Under the influence of Lord Chandra, the Moon represents emotions, mind, and intuition.
- Mangala (Mars) – Ruled by Lord Mangala, Mars signifies courage, energy, and aggression.
- Budha (Mercury) – Governed by Lord Budha, Mercury embodies intellect, communication, and commerce.
- Guru/Brihaspati (Jupiter) – Lord Brihaspati oversees Jupiter, symbolizing wisdom, prosperity, and spirituality.
- Shukra (Venus) – Under Lord Shukra’s dominion, Venus represents love, beauty, and artistic expression.
- Shani (Saturn) – Lord Shani governs Saturn, associated with discipline, responsibility, and perseverance.
- Rahu – Represented by a shadow entity, Rahu influences obsession, materialism, and unconventionality.
- Ketu – Another shadow planet, Ketu signifies spirituality, detachment, and liberation.
9 Planets and Their Characteristics in Astrology
1. Sun (Surya)
- Characteristics: Vitality, leadership, authority, ego.
- Influence: Enhances self-confidence and ambition but can lead to arrogance if afflicted.
- Mantra: “Om Suryaya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Ruby
2. Moon (Chandra)
- Characteristics: Emotions, intuition, mind, nurturing.
- Influence: Governs emotional stability and mental peace; afflicted Moon can cause mood swings.
- Mantra: “Om Chandraya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Pearl
3. Mars (Mangala/Angaraka/Kuja)
- Characteristics: Energy, courage, aggression, initiative.
- Influence: Drives ambition and determination; malefic effects include conflict and rash actions.
- Mantra: “Om Mangalaya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Red Coral
4. Mercury (Budha)
- Characteristics: Intellect, communication, adaptability, commerce.
- Influence: Facilitates learning and networking; can cause confusion if poorly placed.
- Mantra: “Om Budhaya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Emerald
5. Jupiter (Guru/Brihaspati)
- Characteristics: Wisdom, prosperity, spirituality, growth.
- Influence: Brings fortune and knowledge; adverse effects include overindulgence and complacency.
- Mantra: “Om Brihaspataye Namaha”
- Gemstone: Yellow Sapphire
6. Venus (Shukra)
- Characteristics: Love, beauty, art, luxury.
- Influence: Enhances relationships and creativity; may lead to materialism if afflicted.
- Mantra: “Om Shukraya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Diamond or White Sapphire
7. Saturn (Shani)
- Characteristics: Discipline, responsibility, perseverance, limitations.
- Influence: Teaches patience and hard work; can bring delays and hardships when challenged.
- Mantra: “Om Shanicharaya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Blue Sapphire or Amethyst
8. Rahu
- Characteristics: Obsession, materialism, unconventionality, ambition.
- Influence: Drives innovation and ambition; can cause confusion and deception if malefic.
- Mantra: “Om Rahave Namaha”
- Gemstone: Hessonite Garnet
9. Ketu
- Characteristics: Spirituality, detachment, liberation, enlightenment.
- Influence: Encourages spiritual growth and detachment; may lead to disinterest in material pursuits.
- Mantra: “Om Ketave Namaha”
- Gemstone: Cat’s Eye
Hindu Gods Associated with Planets
The association between Hindu gods and planets is deeply rooted in mythology and astrology. These divine connections illustrate how celestial movements are perceived as manifestations of divine will, influencing human affairs. Worshiping these gods is believed to mitigate adverse planetary effects and enhance favorable influences, leading to personal and spiritual growth.
Lord Surya (Sun)
- Attributes: Radiance, power, life force.
- Significance: Vital for health, vitality, and success.
- Mantra: “Om Suryaya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Ruby
Lord Chandra (Moon)
- Attributes: Coolness, calmness, emotional depth.
- Significance: Essential for mental peace and emotional balance.
- Mantra: “Om Chandraya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Pearl
Lord Mangala (Mars)
- Attributes: Strength, valor, assertiveness.
- Significance: Crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving goals.
- Mantra: “Om Mangalaya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Red Coral
Lord Budha (Mercury)
- Attributes: Intelligence, communication, dexterity.
- Significance: Important for education, business, and relationships.
- Mantra: “Om Budhaya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Emerald
Lord Brihaspati (Guru/Jupiter)
- Attributes: Wisdom, knowledge, benevolence.
- Significance: Integral for spiritual growth and prosperity.
- Mantra: “Om Brihaspataye Namaha”
- Gemstone: Yellow Sapphire
Lord Shukra (Venus)
- Attributes: Beauty, luxury, sensuality.
- Significance: Influences love, art, and creative pursuits.
- Mantra: “Om Shukraya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Diamond or White Sapphire
Lord Shani (Saturn)
- Attributes: Discipline, patience, resilience.
- Significance: Teaches life lessons and fosters personal development.
- Mantra: “Om Shanicharaya Namaha”
- Gemstone: Blue Sapphire or Amethyst
Rahu and Ketu
- Attributes: Mysticism, transformation, unconventionality.
- Significance: Drive karmic shifts and spiritual evolution.
- Mantra for Rahu: “Om Rahave Namaha”
- Mantra for Ketu: “Om Ketave Namaha”
- Gemstone for Rahu: Hessonite Garnet
FAQs
1. Which day is good for Navagraha pooja?
Perform Navagraha pooja on Saturdays or on any specific day ruled by the afflicted planet.
2. How to make Navagraha at home?
Create a small altar with representations of the planets, light lamps, offer fresh flowers, and chant the respective mantras.
3. Can we do Navagraha pooja at home?
Yes, with proper rituals and mantras.
4. Can I pray to a benefic Navagraha planet?
Absolutely, invoking benefic planets enhances their positive effects.
5. Which are the ruling deities of the nine planets?
Deities like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and Goddess Durga govern the Navagrahas.