Simple Steps to Perform Navagraha Pradakshina Correctly

Astrology For You

Navagraha Pradakshina is a powerful spiritual practice often recommended in astrology to strengthen planetary energies and reduce negative influences. Over the years, I have shared these simple yet effective instructions with my clients, and today I want to explain them clearly so that anyone can follow them with confidence when visiting a temple.

This guide will help you understand how to perform Navagraha Pradakshina properly, which planet to start with, the correct direction, and how mantra chanting enhances the results.

Understanding the Navagrahas and the Days of the Week

There are nine planets (Navagrahas), but only seven days in a week. Each day is associated with a specific planet. When you visit a temple and perform Navagraha Pradakshina, you should begin with the planet that rules the day of your visit.

In most temples, the Navagraha idols are clearly labeled, making it easy to identify each planet. The Sun (Surya) is usually placed at the center, with the remaining eight planets arranged around it.

Step 1: Start with the Planet of the Day

Always begin your Pradakshina with the planet associated with the day you visit the temple:

  • Sunday – Sun (Surya)
  • Monday – Moon (Chandra)
  • Tuesday – Mars (Mangala)
  • Wednesday – Mercury (Budha)
  • Thursday – Jupiter (Guru)
  • Friday – Venus (Shukra)
  • Saturday – Saturn (Shani)

Starting with the correct planet aligns your prayers with the natural planetary energy of that day.

Step 2: Chant the Planet’s Bija Mantra

While performing the Pradakshina, chant the specific Bija Mantra of the planet you are focusing on.

If you are wondering where to find these mantras, all nine Navagraha Bija Mantras are available on my website astrology4you.us under the Remedies section.

There is no strict rule about how many times the mantra must be chanted. During the Pradakshina, chant the mantra as much as comfortably possible with devotion.

Step 3: Complete Nine Rounds of Pradakshina

Ensure that you complete nine rounds of Pradakshina around the Navagraha shrine. For all planets, the movement should be clockwise.

You do not need to chant loudly. Silent or soft chanting within yourself is perfectly effective. What matters is focus and sincerity.

Special Instructions for Rahu and Ketu

After covering the seven planets through the days of the week, Rahu and Ketu remain. These shadow planets require a slightly different approach:

  • Rahu Pradakshina
    • Perform on Saturday
    • Direction: Anti-clockwise
    • Chant the Rahu mantra

       

  • Ketu Pradakshina
    • Perform on Tuesday
    • Direction: Anti-clockwise
    • Chant the Ketu mantra

For all other planets, Pradakshina is done clockwise, but Rahu and Ketu must always be done in the opposite direction for the practice to be effective.

Final Thoughts

Navagraha Pradakshina is a simple yet powerful remedy when done with the right method and awareness. By starting with the correct planet, chanting the appropriate mantra, completing nine rounds, and following the correct direction—especially for Rahu and Ketu—you can significantly enhance the spiritual benefits of this practice.

I hope this guide helps you perform Navagraha Pradakshina with greater clarity and confidence. We will explore more interesting astrological topics in future articles.

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