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How did some Hindu traditions seek to influence planetary deities through puja and temple rituals?
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astrology
Zodiac wheel showing the 12 astrological constellations or signs from an illumination of the poem Breviari d'Amour, Catalan (Spain), late 14th century; in the collection of the British Library.
In Hindu traditions, the navagraha—the nine celestial bodies believed to influence human life—are often worshipped to mitigate negative astrological impacts (dosha) and enhance positive ones. Devotees seek to influence these planetary deities through specific temple rituals and puja:
- Circumambulation: Worshippers perform pradakshina (clockwise circumambulation) around the navagraha altar nine times. This act is believed to help allay the negative influences of the planets and amplify their positive effects.12
- Offerings: Devotees leave specific offerings to pacify individual deities. For example, sesame oil is offered to Shani (Saturn), while red or black lentils are presented to Rahu and Ketu.1
- Astrological Observance: Appeasing these deities is considered particularly significant on one’s birthday. Additionally, practitioners may wear rings containing specific gemstones associated with each of the nine planets to protect against planetary impediments.1
- Temple Structures: Many temples feature dedicated navagraha altars where the deities are arranged in a square formation with the Sun at the center. Some regions, such as Tamil Nadu, even feature pilgrimage routes consisting of nine separate temples, each dedicated to one of the nine planets.1