Navagraha: The Nine Planets in Hindu Astrology
What Are the Navagraha?
Navagraha, literally meaning "nine celestial bodies" in Sanskrit, refers to the nine astronomical entities that form the foundation of Hindu astrology (Jyotish Shastra). In Hindu tradition, these are not merely physical planets but are considered divine beings — Devas who govern the cosmic forces influencing all life on Earth. Temples dedicated to the Navagraha are found across India, and their worship is integral to Hindu religious practice.
The Nine Planets and Their Attributes
- Surya (Sun): The king of the Navagraha and the source of all life energy. Surya is worshipped on Sundays. His gemstone is Ruby (Manikya), and he governs the soul, authority, and government. The Gayatri Mantra is dedicated to Surya.
- Chandra (Moon): The queen, governing the mind and emotions. Monday is Chandra's day. Pearl (Moti) is the associated gemstone. Chandra's influence affects mental peace, mother, and public relations.
- Mangala (Mars): The warrior planet, governing energy, courage, and property. Tuesday is Mars' day, and Coral (Moonga) is the gemstone. Mars is especially significant in marriage analysis (Manglik Dosha).
- Budha (Mercury): The prince of communication and intelligence. Wednesday belongs to Budha, with Emerald (Panna) as the gemstone. Mercury governs speech, learning, and commercial activity.
- Guru/Brihaspati (Jupiter): The greatest benefic and divine teacher of the gods. Thursday is Jupiter's day, and Yellow Sapphire (Pukhraj) is the gemstone. Jupiter bestows wisdom, wealth, children, and spiritual growth.
- Shukra (Venus): The guru of the Asuras (demons), representing love, beauty, and material pleasures. Friday is Venus' day, with Diamond (Heera) as the gemstone.
- Shani (Saturn): The judge and teacher through hardship. Saturday is Saturn's day, and Blue Sapphire (Neelam) is the powerful associated gemstone. Saturn delivers karmic justice and rewards patience.
- Rahu (North Lunar Node): A shadow planet born from the head of the demon Svarbhanu. Rahu has no physical form but exerts powerful influence over material desires, foreign connections, and sudden changes. Hessonite (Gomed) is the gemstone.
- Ketu (South Lunar Node): The tail of the same demon, representing spiritual liberation, detachment, and past-life karma. Cat's Eye (Lehsunia) is the associated gemstone.
Navagraha in Temple Worship
Navagraha temples arrange the nine planetary deities in a specific geometric pattern. Devotees circumambulate the Navagraha shrine to seek blessings and mitigate negative planetary influences. Special pujas are performed during planetary transits, eclipses, and during challenging Dasha periods.
Navagraha in Your Kundali
The placement of all nine planets in your birth chart determines the trajectory of your life. Understanding which planets are strong, which are afflicted, and how they interact with each other provides deep insights into your personality, challenges, and opportunities. Generate your free Kundali at Purohit.app to see the Navagraha positions in your chart and check the Panchang for daily planetary information.