Saripodhaa Sanivaaram

How to Celebrate Pongal Saripodhaa Sanivaaram: A Step-by-Step Guide

What is Pongal Saripodhaa Sanivaaram?

Pongal Saripodhaa Sanivaaram is a Hindu festival that falls on the first Saturday after Pongal. It is dedicated to the worship of Lord Saturn (Sani). Devotees observe a fast on this day, seeking blessings for good health, prosperity, and protection from planetary afflictions.

Significance of Pongal Saripodhaa Sanivaaram

Lord Saturn is known for his powerful influence on human destiny. According to Hindu mythology, Saturn brings both good and bad results depending on his placement in a person's birth chart. By observing Pongal Saripodhaa Sanivaaram, devotees can appease Lord Saturn, reduce negative planetary influences, and attract positive outcomes.

How to Prepare for Pongal Saripodhaa Sanivaaram:

1. **Fasting:** Observe a full-day fast on the day of Pongal Saripodhaa Sanivaaram. Only liquids like milk, tea, and fruit juices are allowed. 2. **Rituals:** Visit a Sani temple and offer prayers and offerings to Lord Saturn. Perform an abhishekam (sacred bath) with sesame oil or black sesame seeds. 3. **Shani Mantra:** Chant the following mantra dedicated to Lord Saturn: Om Sham Shanishcharaya Namah 4. **Oil Bath:** Before sunset, take an oil bath to purify yourself. Apply sesame oil or black sesame seed oil to your body and leave it on for at least an hour. 5. **Donation:** Donate food, clothes, or other essentials to the needy. This act of charity helps reduce the negative impact of Saturn. 6. **Light a Lamp:** In the evening, light a sesame oil lamp and keep it burning throughout the night. This represents the illumination of knowledge and the removal of darkness. 7. **Feed a Crow:** Feed a crow on Pongal Saripodhaa Sanivaaram. Crows are associated with Lord Saturn, and offering them food is believed to bring blessings. 8. **Offer Sesame Seeds:** Offer black sesame seeds to Lord Saturn. Sesame seeds are considered auspicious and offering them helps nullify the malefic effects of Saturn. 9. **Read Sanipeyarchi Book:** Devotees often read the Sanipeyarchi book, which contains predictions and remedies related to Saturn's transit. 10. **Wear Blue:** Wearing blue clothing on Pongal Saripodhaa Sanivaaram is believed to bring good luck and appease Lord Saturn.