Shani Dev puja niyam
On Saturday, mustard oil is offered to Shani Dev, a diya is lit under the peepal, and black til, urad, iron and blankets are given as daan. By tradition, one does not stand directly in front of Shani Dev's murti and look into his eyes.
✅ What to do
- Offer mustard oil to Shani Dev on Saturday.
- In the evening, light a mustard-oil diya under the peepal.
- Give black til, urad, iron, black cloth or a blanket as daan.
- Read Shani Chalisa and Hanuman Chalisa.
- Help labourers, the elderly and the needy.
❌ What not to do
- Do not stand directly in front of Shani Dev's murti and look into his eyes; take darshan slightly from the side.
- There is a tradition of not buying oil, iron and salt on Saturday.
- Do not insult or cheat anyone — Shani gives the fruit of karma.
These niyam (rules) are based on tradition and belief; they can differ between regions and families.
Frequently asked questions
Why is oil offered to Shani Dev?
According to the katha, Shani Dev, wounded in battle with Hanuman ji, found relief when oil was applied, and since then oil has been offered to him.