About Navagraha Temple – Ujjain
The Navagraha Temple, located in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, is one of the most prominent temples dedicated to the nine celestial planets (Navagrahas) – Surya, Chandra, Mangal, Budh, Brihaspati, Shukra, Shani, Rahu, and Ketu. Known for its powerful rituals and remedies, the temple is considered highly significant for devotees seeking relief from planetary afflictions and doshas in their horoscope.
Situated on the banks of the sacred Shipra River, the temple attracts thousands of devotees daily who come to perform Navagraha Shanti, Grah Dosh Nivaran, and other astrological remedies. The serene environment, combined with the divine energy of the nine planets, makes the temple a unique spiritual destination in Ujjain – the city of Mahakal.
History of the Temple
The Navagraha Temple of Ujjain holds immense historical and astrological importance. According to Hindu scriptures, Ujjain has been a center for astronomical and astrological studies since ancient times. The temple was built to honor the nine planets and to provide a sacred space for performing remedies to balance their energies. It is believed that great sages and astrologers, including Maharishi Sandipani (Guru of Lord Krishna), emphasized the significance of planetary worship in Ujjain. Over the centuries, the temple has become a powerful center for planetary pujas and rituals.
Significance of the Temple
The Navagraha Temple is regarded as a sacred site where devotees can seek relief from Grah Dosh, Pitra Dosh, Sade Sati, Kaal Sarp Dosh, and other astrological challenges. Each planet is represented by a separate shrine, allowing devotees to worship them individually. Performing Navagraha Shanti Puja here is believed to remove malefic effects of planets, enhance positive energies, and bring health, wealth, success, and harmony in life. The temple is especially important for those undergoing planetary Mahadashas or facing obstacles due to unfavorable planetary positions.
Architecture of the Temple
The Navagraha Temple is designed with shrines for each of the nine celestial deities, adorned with their unique symbols and colors. The idols are placed in harmony with astrological principles, creating a spiritually charged environment. The temple architecture blends traditional Hindu styles with astrological significance, featuring yantras, sacred geometries, and inscriptions related to planetary mantras. The atmosphere of the temple, with the sound of Vedic chants and the fragrance of incense, enhances the devotional experience.
Temple Timings & Rituals
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Aarti & Rituals:
- Morning Aarti: 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM
- Navagraha Shanti Path: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM
- Evening Aarti: 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM
- Special Rituals: Grah Dosh Nivaran Puja, Shani Shanti, Kaal Sarp Dosh Puja, and Rahu-Ketu Shanti are regularly performed.
Offerings of the Temple
Devotees offer flowers, oil, black sesame seeds, red cloth, fruits, and sweets to the respective planetary deities. Special offerings vary depending on the planet being worshipped – such as mustard oil and black cloth for Shani, red flowers for Mangal, white rice for Chandra, and yellow items for Brihaspati. Chanting of Navagraha Mantras, lighting lamps, and performing parikrama are considered highly auspicious.