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NAVAGRAHAS Graha

from Sanskrit gráha, seizing, laying hold of, holding) is a 'cosmic influencer' on the living beings of mother Bhumidevi (Earth). In Hindu astrology, the Navagraha (nine seizers or nine influencers, Imperial stars) are some of these major influencers. All the navagraha have relative movement with respect to the background of fixed stars in the zodiac. These celestial bodies are named Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangal (Mars), Budha (Mercury),Guru/Brihaspati (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu (North Lunar Node) and Ketu (South Lunar Node).

Grahas are said to be the "markers of influence" that point out the karmic influence on the behavior of living beings. They themselves are not causative elements but can be compared to traffic signs.

According to the astrological treatise Prasna Marga, there are many other spiritual entities called grahas or spirits. All (except the navagrahas) are said to have been born of the anger of Lord Shiva or Rudra. Most grahas are generally malefic in nature but there are a few that may be good. The book called The Puranic Encyclopedia, under the heading 'Graha Pinda', gives a list of such grahas (spirits or spiritual entities, etc.),that may afflict people and may be the cause of tough or negative situations.

Astrology

Astrologers claim that Grahas influence the auras (energy bodies) and minds of beings connected to the Earth. Each Graha carries a specific energy quality, which is described in an allegorical form through its scriptural and astrological references. The energies of the Grahas are getting connected in a specific way to the individual auras of humans at the time they take their first breath in a given nativity. These energy connections remain with the natives of Earth as long as their current body lives." The nine planets are transmitters of universal, archetypal energy. The qualities of each planet help to maintain the overall balance of polarities in both the macrocosmic and the microcosmic universe - as above, so below.

Humans are also capable to tune themselves to the chosen energy of a specific Graha through Samyama i.e. self control, with that Graha or its presiding deity. The effects of worship of specific deities are manifested accordingly to the layout of their relative energies in a given nativity of a worshiper in question, in particular depending on the Bhavas occupied by the respective Grahas. "The cosmic energy we always receive contains different energies coming from different celestial bodies." "When we repeatedly utter a Mantra we are tuning to a particular frequency and this

frequency establishes a with the cosmic energy and drags it into our body and surroundings."

The idea of planets, stars and other celestial bodies being the living energy entities influencing the other beings of the Universe has cross-references in many ancient cultures and had become the background of numerous modern fiction works. Surya (Sun)

Surya is the chief, the solar deity, one of the Adityas, son of Kasyapa. He has hair and arms of gold. He is often depicted riding a chariot harnessed by seven horses or one horse with seven head which represent the seven colours of the rainbow or the seven chakras. He presides as "Ravi" over "Ravivar" or Sunday.

In Hindu religious literature, Surya is notably mentioned as the visible form of God that one can see every day. Furthermore, Shaivites and Vaishnavas often regard Surya as an aspect of Shiva and Vishnu, respectively. For example, the sun is called Surya Narayana by Vaishnavas. In Shaivite theology, Surya is said to be one of eight forms of Shiva, named the Astamurti.

Vivasvata (Surya) had three queens; Saranyu (also called Saraniya, Saranya, Sanjna, or Sangya), Ragyi, and Prabha. Saranyu was the mother of Vaivasvata Manu or Sraddhadeva Manu (the seventh, i.e. present Manu) and the twins Yama (the Lord of Death) and his sister Yami. She also bore him the twins known as the Ashvins, divine horsemen and physicians to the Devas. Saranyu, being unable to bear the extreme radiance of Surya, created a superficial entity from her shadow called Chhaya and instructed her to act as Surya's wife in her absence. Chhaya mothered two sons – Savarni Manu (the eighth, i.e. next Manu) and Shani (the planet Saturn), and two daughters – Tapti and Vishti. He also has a son, Revanta, or Raivata, by Ragyi. Interestingly, Surya's two sons Shani and Yama are responsible for the judgment of human life. Shani gives us the results of one's deeds through one's life through appropriate punishments and rewards while Yama grants the results of one's deeds after death.

Surya represents Sattva Guna, soul, will-power, fame, the eyes, general vitality, courage, kingship, father, highly placed persons and authority. He is exalted in the sign Mesha (Aries) and is in decline in the sign Tula (Libra). The strongest placement for Surya is directly overhead in the 10th house, and on the angles (the 1st, 5th and 9th houses). Surya is lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Krittika, Uttara Phalguni and Uttara Ashadha. Invoking Gayatri Mantra or Aditya Hrudaya Mantra (Aditya Hridayam) are known to please the Sun God.

The grain associated with the Sun is whole wheat and the number associated to the Surya is 1. He is especially worshipped in the Hindu festivals of Ratha Saptami, Makar Sankranti, Chhath and Samba Dashami. Some prominent temples are Konarka in Orissa, Uttararka and Lolarka in Uttar Pradesh, Balarka in Rajasthan. Characteristics of Surya are: Wives – Suvarna and Chaya; Colour – Yellow; Gender – Male; Element – Fire; God – Agni; Pratyadi Devata – Rudra; Metal – Copper; Gemstone – Ruby; Body part – Bone; Taste – Pungent; Food – Wheat; Season – Summer; Direction – East; Day – Sunday; Tone – Ga. Chandra (Moon)

In Hinduism, Chandra is the Vedic Lunar deity Graha Soma i.e. juice. The Soma name refers particularly to the juice of sap in the plants and thus makes the Moon the lord of plants and vegetation.

Chandra is described as young, beautiful, fair; two-armed and having in his hands a club and a lotus. He rides his chariot across the sky every night, pulled by ten white horses or an antelope. He is connected with dew, and as such, is one of the gods of fertility. He is also called Rajanipati (lord of the night) and Kshuparaka (one who illuminates the night), Indu (the bright drop). As Soma, he presides over Somvar or Monday. Chandra is known for having a series of disastrous love affairs. His first lover, Tara, was the wife of Brihaspati, the planet Jupiter. From their union, Tara became pregnant gives birth to Budha (a.k.a. the planet Mercury). Because of how he was conceived, Budha hated his father and as Chandra also knew that Budha is his illegitimate son, he began to hate his son, and their rivalry continues to this day. For the sin of abducting another god's consort, Brahma banished Chandra to the outer atmosphere. This story illustrates allegorically the prohibition of intoxicants for Brahmins. After that, Chandra, set out to marry the twenty-seven daughters of Daksha. Daksha allowed this on the condition that the moon not favor any daughter over the others. Chandra failed to do this, and Daksha placed a curse on him that took away his luster, which s for the moon's waxing and waning. These stories are symbolic and portray the deeper relationship dynamics amongst all these factors. In Vedic astrology Chandra represents Sattva Guna, brain and mind, emotions, sensitivity, softness, imagination, queen and mother. Chandra rules over the sign Karka (Cancer), while he is exalted in Vrishabha (Taurus) and in his fall in Vrishchika (Scorpio). The waxing moon is considered to be benefic, and the waning moon is considered to be malefic. The bright moon is considered a benefic of the highest order, while the dark moon is considered a malefic. Chandra is lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Rohini, Hasta and Shravana. In Hindu astrology, the moon is considered to be one of the best planets to be born under as it promises wealth and happiness.

Characteristics of Chandra are: Wives – Rohini; Colour – White; Gender – Female; Element – Water; God – Varuna; Pratyadi Devata – Gowri; Metal – Silver; Gemstone – Pearl/ Moonstone; Body part – Blood; Taste – Salt; Food – Rice; Season – Winter; Direction – North west; Day – Monday; Tone – Ma. Mangal (Mars)

Mars is also called Angaraka ('one who is red in colour') or Bhauma ('son of Bhumi') in Sanskrit. He is the god of war and is celibate. He is considered the son of Bhumi, the Earth Goddess.

He is painted red or flame colour, four-armed, carrying a trident (Sanskrit: trishula), mace (Sanskrit: gada), lotus (Sanskrit: Pa) and a spear (Sanskrit: shula). His mount (Sanskrit: vahana) is a ram. He presides over 'Mangala-varam' i.e. Tuesday. In Vedic astrology Mangala is considered a malefic of the first order. He rules over the signs Mesha (Aries) and Vrishchika (Scorpio), is exalted in Makara (Capricorn) and has his fall in Karka (Cancer). Mangala is the lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Mrigashirsha, Chitra and Shravishta or Dhanishta. The Sun, Moon and Jupiter are all considered friendly to him, while he is hostile to Mercury. Venus and Saturn are neutral. Mangala represents Tamas Guna, drive and physical energy, self-confidence and ego, strength, anger, impulsiveness, heroism and adventurous nature. Mangala rules over blood, muscles and bone marrow. He is associated with battle, war and soldiers. He is a teacher of the occult sciences (Ruchaka Mahapurusha Yoga). There is a famous pilgrim place Mangalnath (in Ujjain,Madhya Pradesh, India). Others are Amalner(Maharashtra) and another in Vaitheeswaran Kovil, Tamil Nadu. Characteristics of Mangal are: Wife – Shaktidevi; Colour – Red; Gender – Male; Element – Fire; God – Subramanya; Pratyadi Devata – Murugan; Metal – Brass; Gemstone – Red Coral; Body part – Marrow; Taste – Acid; Food – Pigeon pea; Season – Summer; Direction – South; Day – Tuesday; Tone – Re. Budha (Mercury)

In Hindu mythology, Budha is Mercury, a son of Chandra (the moon) with Tara or Rohini. He is also the god of merchandise and protector of Merchants.

He is represented as being mild, eloquent, and having a greenish complexion. He is depicted holding a scimitar, a club and a shield, riding a winged lion. In other illustrations, he holds a sceptre and lotus and rides a carpet or an eagle or a chariot drawn by lions. Budha presides over 'Budhavar' or Wednesday.

Chandra was a student with Brihaspati, the Teacher of devas. Tara was the wife of Brihaspati. Tara fell in love with the beauty of Chandra and started living with him, deserting Brihaspati. When Brihaspati asked her to come back, she refused. Brihaspati became angry, and a war eventually started between Chandra and Brihaspati. Sukracharya, the teacher of the Asuras, ed Chandra in the battle, while The devas ed Brihaspati. As the battle was due to desire (kama) for Tara, it was known asTarakaamayam. Lord Brahma, the creator of the universe, feared the war might abolish the world. Hence, he came down and stopped the war. He convinced Tara, took her away from Chandra, and gave her back to Brihaspati. Budha, a beautiful child, was born to Tara. Both Brihaspati and Chandra claimed to be the father of Budha, but Tara kept silent. Budha himself got angry over this tussle and asked his mother to tell the truth. Tara said that Chandra was the father of Budha. Budha married Ila, the daughter of Vaivasvata Manu and fathered a son Pururava. In Vedic astrology Budha is considered a benefic, unless he is ed with a malefic planet, in which case he becomes malefic also. Mercury rules over Mithuna (Gemini) and Kanya (Virgo), is exalted in Kanya and in his fall in Meena (Pisces). Budha is friendly with Saturn and Venus, hostile to the Moon, Mars and Jupiter, and neutral towards the other planets. Budha represents Rajas Guna and Communication skills,intellect, communication, analysis, the senses (especially the skin), science, mathematics, business, education and research. The written word and journeys of all types fall within his domain. Budha is lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Ashlesha, Jyeshtha, and Revati (nakshatra). Characteristics of Budha are: Wife – Ila; Colour – Green; Gender – Neutral; Element – Earth; God – Vishnu; Pratyadi Devata – Vishnu; Metal – Zinc; Gemstone – Emerald; Body part – Skin; Taste – Mixed; Food – Mung bean; Season – Autumn; Direction – North; Day – Wednesday; Tone – Sa. Brihaspati ( Jupiter)

Brihaspati (Sanskrit - "lord of prayer or devotion") also known as Deva-guru(guru of the gods). He is considered the personification of piety and religion, and the chief 'offerer of prayers and sacrifices to the gods' (Sanskrit: Purohita), with whom he intercedes on behalf of humankind.

He is the guru of the Devas (gods) and the arch-nemesis of Shukracharya, the guru of the Danavas (demons). He is also known as Ganapati (leader of the group [of planets]), and Guru (teacher), the god of wisdom and eloquence, to whom various works are ascribed, such as the Brahaspatya sutras. He is described as of yellow or golden color and holding the following divine attributes: a stick, a lotus and beads. He presides over 'Guru-var' or Thursday. Brihaspati is the son of Rishi Angiras (according to the Rig Veda 4.40.1) and Surupa according to the Shiva Purana. He has two brothers named Utathya and Samvartana, and has three wives. His first wife, Shuba, gave birth to Bhanumati, Raaka,Archishmati, Mahamati, Mahishmati, Sinivali, and Havishmati, his seven daughters. His second wife, Tara, gave birth to seven sons and a daughter. Through B?ihaspati's third wife, Mamata, he had two sons, Kacha and Bharadwaja.

Brihaspati attained the position of preceptor of the Devas by performing penances on the banks of Prabhas Tirtha. Lord Shiva granted him this position, as well as his position as one of the Navagrahas (Nine Planets). There is a wide debate whether Kacha was B?ihaspati's offspring or his brother. But the Mahabharata states that Kacha was his brother. All Brahmins belonging to the Bharadwaja Gotra are believed to be his descendants. In Jyotisha (Hindu astrology), Brihaspati is the name for the planet Jupiter. Brihaspati is considered to be the most beneficial amongst the planets. Brihaspati rules over the signs Dhanu (Sagittarius) and Meena (Pisces), he is exalted in Karka (Cancer) and in his fall in Makara (Capricorn). The Sun, Moon and Mars are considered friendly to Brihaspati, Mercury is hostile and Saturn is neutral.

Brihaspati in Vedic astrology is considered to be of the element ether (space) or Akasha Tattva (i.e. Akasha = Space /Sky / Ether; Tattva = Essence/ Category/Truth). This element indicates vastness, growth and expansion in a person's life. Brihaspati also represents the Sattva Guna, balance of past karma, religion, philosophy, knowledge and issues relating to offspring. He is concerned with education, teaching and the dispensation of knowledge. Humans with Jupiter dominating in their horoscope could grow fat as life progresses and their empire and prosperity increases; and diabetes is an ailment directly related to this sign. According to traditional Hindu astrology, worship or propitiation of Brihaspati or Guru (Jupiter) results in cure from ailments affecting the stomach and helps ward off sins.

Brihaspati is lord of three Nakshatras or lunar mansions: Punarvasu, Vishakha, and Purva Bhadrapada. Characteristics of Brihaspati are: Wife – Tara; Colour – Gold; Gender – Male; Element – Ether; God – Indra; Pratyadi Devata – Brahma; Metal – Gold; Gemstone – Yellow Sapphire; Body part – Brain; Taste – Sweet; Food – Chickpea; Season – Winter; Direction – North East; Day – Thursday; Tone – Dha. Shukra (Venus)

Shukra in Sanskrit means "clear, pure" or "brightness, clearness". He is the son of Bhrigu and Ushana. He is preceptor of the Daityas, and the guru of the Asuras with the honorific Guru Shukracharya. He is identified with the planet Venus, He presides over Shukravar i.e. Friday.

He is of white complexion, middle-aged and of agreeable countenance. He is described variously as mounted on a camel, horse or crocodile. He holds a stick, beads and a lotus and sometimes a bow and arrow.

In Vedic astrology Shukra (Venus) is considered a benefic and rules over the signs Vrishabha (Taurus) and Tula (Libra). It is exalted in Meena (Pisces), and in its fall in Kanya (Virgo). The planets Mercury and Saturn are considered friendly to Shukra, the Sun and Moon are hostile and Jupiter and the rest are considered neutral. In astrology Shukra represents Rajas Guna, love, romance and sexuality, artistic talents, the quality of the body and material life, wealth, the opposite sex, pleasure and reproduction, feminine qualities and the fine arts, such as music, dance, painting and sculpture. Those with Shukra strong in their charts are likely to appreciate nature and enjoy harmonious relationship. However, an excessive influence can cause them to indulge too much in the pleasures of life without accomplishing much of real worth. Shukra is the lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Bharani, Purva Phalguni and Purva Ashadha. Venus is an indicator of spouse, love, marriage, comfort, luxury, beauty, prosperity, happiness, all conveyances, art, dance music, acting, ion and sex. Shukra blesses the people with power to control their sense organs (Indriyas) and enables to obtain name and fame. Afflictions to Venus can cause eye diseases, venereal complaints, indigestion, pimples, impotency, loss of appetite and rashes on the skin. In Vedic astrology, there is a dasha or planetary period known as Shukra Dasha which remains active in a person's horoscope for 20 years, this is the longest dasha among all planets. This dasha is believed to give more wealth, fortune and luxury to a person's life if they have Shukra positioned well in their horoscope. In addition Shukra is an important benefic planet in the horoscope. Shukra is associated with a month in the Hindu calendar called Jyeshtha (May–June, personified as the guardian of Kubera's treasure). Characteristics of Shukra are: Wives – Sukirti and Urjaswathi; Colour – White/ Yellow; Gender – Female; Element – Water; God – Indrani; Pratyadi Devata – Indra; Metal – Silver; Gemstone – Diamond; Body part – Semen; Taste – Sour; Food – Kidney beans; Season – Spring; Direction – South East; Day – Friday; Tone – Ni. Shani (Saturn)

The word shani embodies Saturn, also denotes the seventh day or Saturday in most Indian languages. The word shani comes from Sanaye Kramati Sa? i.e. the one who moves slowly, because Saturn takes about 30 years to revolve around the Sun.

Shani is a deva and son of Surya and his wife Chhaya, hence also known as Chayyaputra. He is the elder brother of Yama, the Hindu god of death, who in some scriptures corresponds to the deliverance of justice. Surya's two sons Shani and Yama judge. Shani gives us the results of one's deeds through one's life through appropriate punishments and rewards; Yama grants the results of one's deeds after death.

It is said that when Shani opened his eyes as a baby for the very first time, the sun went into an eclipse, which clearly denotes the impact of Shani on astrological charts. He is known as the greatest teacher and well wisher for the righteous as well the greatest punisher for those who follow the path of evil, betrayal, backstabbing and unjust revenge. He is depicted dark in colour, clothed in black; holding a sword, arrows and two daggers and mounted on a crow, which is Shani's vahana i.e. vehicle. Shani represents Tamas Guna, learning the hard way, Career and Longevity. Few prominent Shani temples are Shani Shingnapur Maharashtra, Thirunallar at Tamil Nadu. Characteristics of Shani are: Wife – Neeladevi; Colour – Black/ Blue; Gender – Neutral; Element – Air; God – Brahma; Pratyadi Devata - Yama; Metal – Iron; Gemstone – Blue Sapphire; Body part – Muscles; taste – Astringent; Food – Sesame; Season – All seasons; Direction – West; Day – Saturday; Tone – Pa. Rahu (North Lunar Node)

Rahu is the head of the demonic snake that swallows the sun or the moon causing eclipses, according to Hindu scriptures. He is depicted in art as a dragon with no body riding a chariot drawn by eight black horses. The rahu kala is considered inauspicious.

According to legend, during the Samudra manthan, the asura Rahu drank some of the amrita (divine nectar). Sun and moon realized it and they alerted Mohini (the female avatar of Vishnu). Before the nectar could his throat, Mohini cut off his head. The head, however, remained immortal due to the effect of amrita and became Rahu. It is believed that this immortal head from time to time swallows the sun, causing eclipses. Then, the sun es through the opening at the neck, ending the eclipse. The body also turned into Ketu due to a boon, and it in turn swallows the moon on timely basis to cause a lunar eclipse. Astronomically, the Moon in its orbit, on a northerly course from South to North, crosses the ecliptic (the apparent path of Sun). This point of intersection is known as Rahu or "Dragon's head". 180 degrees away from this point, the Moon on its southerly course crosses the ecliptic. This point is called "the dragon’s tail" or Ketu. Thus, Ketu and Rahu denote the points of intersection of the paths of the Sun and the Moon as they move around the celestial sphere. Therefore, Rahu and Ketu are respectively called the north and the south lunar nodes. The fact that eclipses occur when the Sun and the Moon are at one of these points is explained in stories as the swallowing of the Sun and the Moon by the demon snake. Thus, Rahu and Ketu do not have physical identity but only mathematically calculated sensitive points. Rahu is friends with Ketu, Saturn, Mercury and Venus. It is the enemy of Sun, Moon, Mars, and Jupiter. It is important to note that Rahu is more inimical to the Sun as compared to the Moon. Rahu is lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Ardra, Swati and Shatabhisha.

In Vedic astrology Rahu is seen as an asura or demon who does his best to plunge any area of life he controls into chaos, mystery, and cruelty. He is associated with the world of material manifestation and worldly desire, as well as random, uncontrolled growth without wisdom or understanding. Rahu is a legendary master of deception who signifies cheaters, pleasure seekers, operators in foreign lands, drug dealers, poison dealers, insincere & immoral acts, etc. It is the significator of an irreligious person, an outcast, harsh speech, falsehoods, uncleanliness, abdominal ulcers, bones, and transmigration. Rahu is instrumental in strengthening one's power and converting even an enemy into a friend. He represents Tamo Guna, dualities and illusions being a naughty child of Maya. It relates to the Seventh Ray energy of esoteric astrology, as it represents a force displaying all the possibilities within the realm of existence.

In some astrological positions he is bestows of prosperity and wealth and ultimate knowledge. Characteristics of Rahu are: Wife – Simhi; Colour – Smoky; Gender – Female; Element – Air; God – Nirriti; Pratyadi Devata – Durga; Metal – Lead; Gemstone – Hessonite; Body part – Head; Taste – Nil; Food – Urad pulse; Season – nil; Direction – South West; Day – Saturday; Tone – Nil. Ketu (South Lunar Node)

'Ketu' is said to be the body of Rahu, after the head of theasura was cut off by God Vishnu. In Hindu mythology, Ketu is generally referred to as a "shadow" planet. It is believed to have a tremendous impact on human lives and also the whole creation. In some special circumstances it helps someone achieve the zenith of fame. Ketu is often depicted with a gem or star on his head signifying a mystery light.

In ancient Tamil astrological scripts, Ketu was considered as incarnation of Indira (The head of Devas).During a war with Asuras, Indira was defeated and took a ive form and a subtle state as "Ketu". It was the time, Indira spent realizing his past mistakes, failures and that lead to spirituality towards Lord Shiva. Ketu represents Tamo Guna and supernatural influences. It was considered, "Ketu" being responsible for Moksha (Liberation of Soul), Sanyasa ( Give away material comfort), Self Realization, Gnana (Fore-seeing future), Wavering nature, Restlessness, Endocrine system and Slender physique. People with good aspects from "Ketu" were Great Doctors, Priests, Thinkers, Movie stars and Social workers. Though these people with good aspects of "Ketu" attain great heights, but they tend to be mentally detached, would not get material pleasure and joy through their great heights in social life. In Hindu astrology Ketu represents karmic collections both good and bad, spirituality and supernatural influences. Ketu is associated with the Meena Avatar (Fish Incarnation) of Vishnu. Ketu signifies the spiritual process of the refinement of materialization to spirit and is considered both malefic and benefic, as it causes sorrow and loss, and yet at the same time turns the individual to God. In other words, it causes material loss in order to force a more spiritual outlook in the person.

Ketu is akaraka or indicator of intelligence, wisdom, non-attachment, fantasy, penetrating insight, derangement, and psychic abilities. Ketu is believed to bring prosperity to the devotee's family, removes the effects of snakebite and illness arising out of poisons. He grants good health, wealth and cattle to his devotees. Ketu is the lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Ashvini, Magha andMula. Characteristics of Ketu are: Wife – Chitralekha; Colour – Smoky; Gender – Neutral; Element – Earth; God – Ganesha; Pratyadi Devata – Chitragupt; Metal – Mercury; Gemstone – Cat’s Eye; Body part – Skin; Taste – Nil; Food – Horsegram; Season – Nil; Direction – Nil; Day – Tuesday; Tone – Nil. Worship/ Pooja

Pooja is performed by offering red flowers to Surya bhagwan, White flowers to Sukra and Chandra Devta, Orange flowers to Mangal devta, Blue flowers to Rahu, Ketu and Shani Bhagwan, Yellow flowers to Bhrishaspati, and Green to Budh Baghwan. Tulsi malas are offered to each deity. Surya Puja

Surya Puja or Sun Worship is dedicated to Lord Surya. Grah Shanti Surya Puja or Sun worship is recommended to those, having malefic surya or wrongly placed sun as per the horoscope. Here is a list of things associated with the worship of Surya - the Sun God.

Surya is the only visible God whom we can see, perceive and pray. The Sun God is considered as the life-giver, ''Prannadata'' of the entire universe. Surya is essential for life. All Vedas regard Surya as the witness (Saakshi) of all actions. The Sun or Surya is also known as ''Atmakaraka''. Being a Sanskrit word, ''Atma'' means ''soul'' and ''Karaka'' means ''indicator''. The Sun is the ''indicator of the soul''. The Surya is the indicator of our ego, honor, status, fame, the heart, the eyes, general vitality, respect and power.

Surya Puja - Worshipping the Sun God

Surya Puja is a divine boon for those who face problems, hurdles and misfortune in their lives. Worship of Sun is beneficial when people get stuck, no matter how hard working, honest and intelligent they are good luck seems to ignore them. People who aspire for sound health, prosperity, good eyesight, strength and courage, success, cure of chronic diseases like leprosy, heart ailment, nervous weakness, asthma etc. should worship the Sun. This planet is known for his Power, strength and glory.

An ill-placed Sun could also lead to difficulties in health, relating to heart or blood pressure/ blood circulation. In such a case, it is advisable to recite Surya Japa or Dhyan Mantra. After planning to perform the Surya Puja, one should wear clean red clothes on Sunday and offer lotus flower to the God, facing the east direction.

"Aum Hrim Hrim Suriyaye Namah Aum'' People can observe fast on Sundays and can take salt-free food (one time meal before sunset). It is regarded as beneficial. One should meditate on the rising sun. If not possible, they should meditate on a ruby.After reciting and meditating on the Sun, one should offer water adding a few rice grains and vermillion to the Sun Lord. It is really beneficial for every person. The Sun is the god of light and intellect, may god bless you with all the grace. Read more to know about the Sun and its affects.

The Sun - Position The nature of Surya is fiery. The Sun is the most powerful of all the stars. It is believed that the stronger the Sun the bigger the ego, so much in fact that there might be small place for other people to exist in such egoistic brilliance. Thus, it is where the excess vanity of the Sun exerts a malefic influence. A well-located Sun provides intelligence, perception, strength of will and character. It creates endurance, stamina, vitality, positive spirit, direction, courage, conviction, confidence, leadership, independence and straight- forwardness.

An ill-placed Sun gives lack of intelligence, poor perception, weakness of will and character. It creates lack of endurance, low vitality, melancholy, fear, dependency or servitude, deviousness or dishonesty. An overly strong but ill-disposed Sun creates pride, arrogance, tyranny and control. It creates much of the same problems as Mars (or Saturn), when too strong. A weak but spiritually inclined Sun makes us friendly, desiring to do good and self-effacing.

Significance of the Sun Surya is considered to be the most powerful planet in astrological parlance as any planet placed with it gets combust. But, whenever Rahu or Ketu comes at 14 degrees from the Sun, a solar eclipse occurs around New Moon (meaning Rahu or Ketu eclipse the Sun). As per Medical astrology, the Sun rules head and brain among body parts and boils, pimples and fever among diseases.

The Sun or Surya is the lord of Leo in the Zodiac. Surya exalts in the sign of Aries and falls in the sign of Libra. The sun stays one month in each Rashi and takes 365 days or 1 year to complete a round of 12 Rashis. The Sun is in his strongest placement directly overhead in the 10th House.

Surya is also strong in the other Kendras, or Angles. These are the Houses 1, 4, and 7. The Sun also works well in what are called the ''Upachaya'', or growing houses. These are the Houses 3, 6 and 11. The Sun is particularly beneficial for the fire sign Ascendants of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius. Surya Puja on Sunday is considered to bring in manifold benefits to the worshippers.