Navagraha Pradakshina Rules: Know the Right Method, Count and Benefits

Navagrahas are considered highly significant in Hindu astrology and religious tradition. Many devotees perform pradakshina around the Navagraha idols as part of their prayers and remedies. According to traditional beliefs, planetary positions are associated with various experiences in human life, including challenges, financial gains and happiness. Devotees are advised not to touch the Navagraha idols while performing pradakshina. Before entering the Navagraha shrine, devotees should face the Sun and traditionally begin the circumambulation from the Moon’s side, moving towards the right. Nine pradakshinas are generally performed while remembering the nine planets.

After completing the nine pradakshinas, devotees traditionally perform two additional circumambulations while remembering Rahu and Ketu, taking the total count to 11. The Navagraha mantra, “Adityaya Cha Somaya Mangalaya Budhayacha, Guru Shukra Shanibhyascha Rahave Ketave Namah” may be chanted during the pradakshina. Devotees are also advised to take a bath and wear clean clothes before performing the ritual. In Shiva temples, the traditional practice is to first seek the blessings of Lord Shiva and then visit the Navagraha shrine. Saturday is generally considered favourable for Navagraha pradakshina, while devotees may also follow the specific weekdays associated with individual planets for particular remedies.

Note: These rules, benefits and remedies are based on traditional Hindu religious and astrological beliefs and are not scientifically proven.