Shani Jayanti is one of the most auspicious days in the Hindu religion, considered extremely favorable for appeasing Lord Shani. This day marks the birth anniversary of Lord Shani Dev and is also observed as Shani Amavasya. In 2026, Shani Jayanti will be celebrated on the Amavasya tithi, falling on May 16.
Shani Jayanti 2026: Date and Time
- Amavasya Tithi Begins: May 16, 2026, at 05:11 AM
- Amavasya Tithi Ends: May 17, 2026, at 01:30 AM
Shani Jayanti 2026: Significance
Shani Jayanti holds great importance as it commemorates the birth of Lord Shani to Lord Surya and Mother Swarna (Chhaya). Since the day falls on Amavasya, it is also known as Shani Amavasya. Lord Shani is revered as the ruler of karma, justice, discipline, commerce, and service. It is believed that wherever Shanidev looks directly, it is considered unlucky, and devotees should avoid staring into his eyes.
Shani Jayanti 2026: Celebration
This event is especially observed in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The most well-known temples dedicated to Lord Shani Dev include Thirunallar Shani Temple, Kokilavan Dham Sani Dev Temple, and Shani Shingnapur. Many devotees travel to Shani Shingnapur to offer prayers.
Shani Jayanti 2026: Puja Rituals
- Visit a Shani temple or Navgraha temple to perform puja.
- Light a mustard oil diya beneath a peepal tree at the Shani temple.
- Chant the Shani mantra "Om Sham Shanishcharaye Namah" 108 times to appease Shani Dev.
- A large number of devotees travel to Nasik's Shani Shingnapur.
- Distribute food and clothes to the needy.
Mantras
- Om Sham Shanaishchraye Namah..!!
- Neelanjana Samabhasam Ravi Putram Yamagrajam, Chhaya Martand Shambhutam, Tam Namami Shanishcharam..!!
