Astrology has always been an integral part of Hinduism, and the Navagrahas or the nine celestial bodies hold immense importance in Indian astrology. The Navagrahas are Believed to influence human lives and have a significant impact on one’s destiny. Each of the Navagrahas has a unique story and significance in Hindu Mythology. Exploring the stories behind the Navagrahas can give us a better understanding of their significance in Hindu culture and astrology. In this article, we will delve into the fascinating world of Navagrahas and exploring the stories behind the navagrahas. From the powerful Sun God, Surya to the mysterious Rahu and Ketu, the story of each planet holds a unique place in Hindu mythology. Join us on this journey as we uncover the stories behind the Navagrahas and gain a deeper understanding of the role they play in our lives.

Surya (Sun)

According to Hindu mythology, Surya is the son of Sage Kashyap and Aditi, and the brother of Indra, the king of gods. Surya is depicted as riding a chariot across the sky everyday, bringing light and warmth to the world. In the epic Ramayana, Lord Rama is said to have worshipped Surya to gain strength and courage in his battle against the demon king Ravana. Surya is also associated with the practice of Surya Namaskar, a sequence of yoga postures that are performed to pay homage to the sun and improve physical and mental well-being.

Chandra (Moon)

The god of the moon and the son of Sage Atri and Anusuya. Chandra was cursed by his father-in-law, Daksha, and lost his radiance due to the curse. As a result, Chandra was ashamed and hid in the ocean. Later, he performed penance and regained his radiance with the blessings of Lord Shiva. Chandra is also associated with the legend of Lord Krishna, who is said to have adorned a peacock feather on his head after defeating the demon king, Kaliya. The peacock feather is believed to have been given to Lord Krishna by Chandra as a mark of respect.

Mangal (Mars)

Mangal, also known as Kuja or Angaraka, is the god of war and represents strength, courage, and determination. In Hindu mythology, Mangal is believed to be the son of Lord Shiva and goddess Parvati. According to legend, Mangal was born when Lord Shiva’s sweat fell on the ground during a fierce battle with the demon Andhakasura. Mangal is depicted as a red-colored deity with four arms, riding a ram. It is believed that worshipping Mangal can help overcome obstacles and attain success. In Vedic astrology, the position of Mangal is believed to have a significant impact on a person’s life, including their marriage, career, and health.

Budha (Mercury)

The god of intellect and communication, and is considered as the wisest among the Navagrahas. In Hindu mythology, Budha is believed to be the son of the moon god Chandra and his wife Tara. According to legend, Budha was born when Chandra abducted Tara, the wife of Brihaspati, the god of wisdom. Budha is depicted as a youthful deity, holding a sword, a shield, and a lotus. He is worshipped for success in education, career, and business. In Vedic astrology, the position of Budha is believed to have a significant impact on a person’s intelligence, communication skills, and financial prospects. Budha is also associated with the planet Mercury, which is named after him.

Brihaspati (Jupiter)

Brihaspati, also known as Guru or Devaguru, is the god of wisdom and the teacher of the gods. In Hindu mythology, Brihaspati is believed to be the son of the sage Angiras and his wife Shraddha. According to legend, Brihaspati was born with great knowledge and wisdom, and he became the teacher of the gods, imparting his knowledge to them. Brihaspati is depicted as a golden-colored deity, holding a rosary and a water pot. He is worshipped for knowledge, intelligence, and success. In Vedic astrology, the position of Brihaspati is believed to have a significant impact on a person’s wealth, education, and marriage.

Shukra (Venus)

Also known as Shukracharya, is the god of love and beauty, and represents wealth, luxury, and prosperity. In Hindu mythology, Shukra is believed to be the son of the sage Bhrigu and his wife Ushana. According to legend, Shukra gained his knowledge of the occult by performing penance to Lord Shiva. Shukra is depicted as a fair complexioned deity, holding a staff, a rosary, and a water pot. He is worshipped for success in love, relationships, and creative pursuits. In Vedic astrology, the position of Shukra is believed to have a significant impact on a person’s romantic life, artistic talents, and financial status.

Shani (Saturn)

Also known as Sani or Saturn, is the god of justice and represents discipline, hard work, and endurance. In Hindu mythology, Shani is believed to be the son of the sun god Surya and his wife Chhaya. According to legend, Shani was born with a dark complexion and was hated by his father. Shani is depicted as a dark complexioned deity, holding a sword, a bow, and an arrow. He is worshipped for protection against misfortunes and obstacles, and for attaining success through hard work and determination. In Vedic astrology, the position of Shani is believed to have a significant impact on a person’s career, health, and social status.

Rahu

He is a shadow planet in Hindu mythology, known as the north node of the moon. According to legend, Rahu was once a demon who disguised himself as a god and drank the nectar of immortality during the churning of the ocean. Lord Vishnu, who knew of Rahu’s deceit, cut off Rahu’s head before the nectar could pass his throat. However, Rahu’s head became immortal and is believed to cause eclipses when it swallows the sun or the moon. Rahu is depicted as a serpent-bodied deity with no body and holding a sword and a shield. He is worshipped for overcoming fears and anxieties and for achieving success despite obstacles. In Vedic astrology, the position of Rahu is believed to have a significant impact on a person’s karma and destiny.

Ketu

He is also a shadow planet in Hindu mythology, known as the south node of the moon. According to legend, Ketu was once a demon named Swarbhanu who disguised himself as a god and drank the nectar of immortality during the churning of the ocean. Lord Vishnu, who knew of Swarbhanu’s deceit, cut off his head before the nectar could pass his throat. However, Swarbhanu’s head became immortal and is believed to cause eclipses when it swallows the sun or the moon. Ketu is depicted as a serpent-bodied deity with nobody and holding a mace and a flag. He is worshiped for spiritual growth, detachment, and overcoming obstacles. In Vedic astrology, the position of Ketu is believed to have a significant impact on a person’s past life karma and spiritual evolution.

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