Shani Vajrapanjara Kavacham
Shani Vajrapanjara Kavacham is a powerful Sanskrit hymn dedicated to Lord Shani (Saturn), one of the Navagrahas in Hindu astrology. This kavach is recited for protection from the malefic effects of Saturn, especially during challenging astrological periods such as Shani Sade Sati and Dhaiya. The term “Vajrapanjara” means “adamantine armor,” symbolizing an unbreakable shield that safeguards devotees from adversities caused by Saturn.
Origins and Significance
The hymn is found in ancient scriptures and is believed to have been revealed by Sage Vishwamitra. According to tradition, Lord Shiva imparted this kavacham to Sage Vishwamitra, who then spread its knowledge to benefit humanity. The recitation of this kavach is said to neutralize the negative influence of Saturn and bring discipline, patience, and perseverance into one’s life.
In Vedic astrology, Shani (Saturn) is considered a strict but just planet. He rewards hard work and honesty but punishes laziness and dishonesty. Those experiencing hardships due to Saturn’s placement in their horoscope seek solace in the chanting of Shani Vajrapanjara Kavacham.
Shani Vajrapanjara Kavacham In English
nīlāmbarō nīlavapuḥ kirīṭī
gṛdhrasthitāstrakarō dhanuṣmān ।
chaturbhujaḥ sūryasutaḥ prasannaḥ
sadā mamasyādvaradaḥ praśāntaḥ ॥
brahmā uvācha ।
śṛṇudhvaṃ ṛṣayaḥ sarvē śani pīḍāharaṃ mahat ।
kavachaṃ śanirājasya saurairidamanuttamam ॥
kavachaṃ dēvatāvāsaṃ vajra pañjara saṃṅgakam ।
śanaiśchara prītikaraṃ sarvasaubhāgyadāyakam ॥
atha śrī śani vajra pañjara kavacham ।
ōṃ śrī śanaiścharaḥ pātu bhālaṃ mē sūryanandanaḥ ।
nētrē Chāyātmajaḥ pātu pātu karṇau yamānujaḥ ॥ 1 ॥
nāsāṃ vaivasvataḥ pātu mukhaṃ mē bhāskaraḥ sadā ।
snigdhakaṇṭhaścha mē kaṇṭhaṃ bhujau pātu mahābhujaḥ ॥ 2 ॥
skandhau pātu śaniśchaiva karau pātu śubhapradaḥ ।
vakṣaḥ pātu yamabhrātā kukṣiṃ pātvasitastathā ॥ 3 ॥
nābhiṃ grahapatiḥ pātu mandaḥ pātu kaṭiṃ tathā ।
ūrū mamāntakaḥ pātu yamō jānuyugaṃ tathā ॥ 4 ॥
pādau mandagatiḥ pātu sarvāṅgaṃ pātu pippalaḥ ।
aṅgōpāṅgāni sarvāṇi rakṣēn mē sūryanandanaḥ ॥ 5 ॥
phalaśrutiḥ
ityētatkavachaṃ divyaṃ paṭhētsūryasutasya yaḥ ।
na tasya jāyatē pīḍā prītō bhavati sūryajaḥ ॥
vyayajanmadvitīyasthō mṛtyusthānagatōpivā ।
kalatrasthō gatōvāpi suprītastu sadā śaniḥ ॥
aṣṭamasthō sūryasutē vyayē janmadvitīyagē ।
kavachaṃ paṭhatē nityaṃ na pīḍā jāyatē kvachit ॥
ityētatkavachaṃ divyaṃ saurēryannirmitaṃ purā ।
dvādaśāṣṭamajanmasthadōṣānnāśayatē sadā ।
janmalagnasthitān dōṣān sarvānnāśayatē prabhuḥ ॥
iti śrī brahmāṇḍapurāṇē brahmanāradasaṃvādē śanivajrapañjara kavachaṃ sampūrṇam ॥
Benefits of Reciting Shani Vajrapanjara Kavacham
- Reduces the Negative Effects of Saturn: Those suffering from Shani Dasha, Sade Sati, or Dhaiya can gain relief by chanting this hymn.
- Brings Strength and Stability: The kavach imparts mental strength, endurance, and patience, helping devotees face life’s difficulties with courage.
- Removes Obstacles in Career and Finances: Saturn is the karma planet, and his blessings help in career growth, business stability, and overcoming financial struggles.
- Protects from Accidents and Diseases: As Saturn governs health and longevity, regular recitation ensures physical well-being and shields against chronic diseases.
- Brings Justice and Fairness: Those facing legal issues or injustice often pray to Shani Dev for righteous outcomes.
- Enhances Spiritual Growth: The kavach cultivates discipline, detachment, and wisdom, leading the devotee towards spiritual progress.
How to Chant Shani Vajrapanjara Kavacham
- Best Day for Recitation: Saturdays are ideal for chanting this kavach.
- Best Time: Sunrise or sunset hours are considered highly effective.
- Number of Recitations: Reciting the kavach 11, 21, or 108 times enhances its impact.
- Offerings: Light a mustard oil lamp and offer black sesame seeds, black gram (urad dal), and blue flowers to Lord Shani.
- Fasting and Devotion: Observing a fast on Saturdays and visiting a Shani temple increases the benefits.
- Posture and Concentration: Sit in a calm place, preferably facing west, and chant with full devotion.
Shani Vajrapanjara Kavacham is a divine armor that shields devotees from misfortunes, hardships, and negative planetary influences. By chanting this powerful hymn with faith and sincerity, one can overcome difficulties, attain peace, and lead a disciplined and righteous life.
