In simple terms, Shani Amavasya is the combination of two elements from the Hindu calendar: Amavasya (New Moon) and Shani Vaar (Saturday). When these two align, it becomes Shani Amavasya—a day dedicated to Lord Shani, the God of Justice and Retribution.

This rare combination happens only a few times a year and is considered especially auspicious for those who feel affected by the challenging influence of Saturn. For individuals undergoing Shani Mahadasha or experiencing Sade Sat Shani Amavasya is the perfect day to pray to Lord Shani and seek His blessings.

Think of this day as a karmic reset—an opportunity to reflect on life’s purpose, develop patience, humility, and detachment, and make the most of Saturn’s cosmic energy. It’s also a powerful time to heal ancestral wounds (Pitru Dosha) through practices like fasting, charity (daan), and contemplation (sadhana).

Powerful Remedies for Shani Amavasya

To appease Lord Shani, here are some traditional offerings and remedies:

• Offerings to Lord Shani:

  • Black sesame seeds

  • Mustard oil

  • Iron nails or utensils

• To relieve karmic burdens:

  • Chant Om Sham Shanaischaraye Namah " 108 times while offering water or milk to a peepal tree at twilight.

• To reduce the negative effects of Shani:

  • Feed crows, as they are considered messengers of Saturn.

  • Donate to the poor, especially to disabled individuals or laborers.

  • Donate black items, like black clothes, blankets, black urad dal, or footwear, to those in need.

• To earn good karma:

  • Perform Tel abhishek (oil bath) to Lord Shani. Anoint a Shani idol with mustard or sesame oil while chanting Shani mantras.

Mantras for the Day:

Shani Beej Mantra:

Om Pram Preem Proum Sah Shanaischaraya Namah

Meaning: “I meditate upon Shani Dev to take away all my sorrows and bestow upon me calmness and contentment.

Shani Stotra:

Nilanjana samabhasam raviputram yamagrajam 

Chaya martanda sambhutam tam namami shaishcharam Meaning: He, the Shani deva, has the appearance of a blue sky, the radiance of the Sun, and is the most powerful of those in power. 

He may even cast a shadow on the dazzling sun. We prostrate ourselves before Saturn, the god of command.”

You can chant these mantras 108 or 1080 times, preferably using a rudraksha mala.

Additional Suggestions:

• Recite the Hanuman Chalisa or the Shani Stotra as Lord Hanuman is believed to protect from Shani’s influence.

• Perform Pitru Tarpan or Shraddha: If you have Pitru Dosha (ancestral karma) or feel some unhappiness associated with your ancestors, offer water, sesame, and black til in their names.

• Avoid Alcohol, Meat, and Negative Speech: Refrain from gossip, anger, or arguments. Embrace a Satvik lifestyle (pure and disciplined living) on this day.