Shani Trayodashi Dates 2026

When Trayodashi tithi, in either Shukla or Bahula Paksha, falls on a Saturday, the day is called Shani Trayodashi. It is considered one of the best days to worship Lord Shani and to seek relief from Shani dosha. Since Trayodashi evening is also Pradosham, the day is called Shani Pradosham too.

About Lord Shani

Shanaishchara is the son of Surya and Chhaya Devi. Among the Navagrahas he is seen as the impartial judge who gives the fruits of one's karma. Trayodashi is dear to Lord Shiva and Saturday is dear to Shani, so worshipping both on a day when the two coincide is believed to ease transit troubles such as Elinati Shani (Sade Sati), Ashtama Shani and Ardhashtama Shani. Puranic stories say Shani does not trouble sincere devotees of Shiva and Hanuman.

How to Perform the Puja

• Take an early oil bath with sesame oil.
• At the Navagraha mandapam, perform abhishekam to Shani with sesame oil and offer black sesame and blue flowers.
• Chant "Om Sham Shanaishcharaya Namah" or recite the Shani Stotram composed by King Dasharatha.
• Light a sesame-oil lamp and donate black sesame, nuvvula undalu or a black cloth.
• In the evening Pradosha kalam, attend abhishekam and bilva archana at a Shiva temple.
• Reciting Hanuman Chalisa and visiting Anjaneya Swamy is also auspicious on this day.

Fasting and Observances

Many people eat only once on this day, or eat after the Pradosha puja. Elders say Shani is pleased when we avoid alcohol and non-vegetarian food and help the poor, the elderly and labourers. Some families also feed crows on this day.

Shani Trayodashi in Telugu Lands

The Sri Mandeswara Swamy temple at Mandapalli in the Konaseema region is well known for relief from Shani dosha, and large numbers of devotees go there for sesame-oil abhishekam on Shani Trayodashi. Elsewhere, Navagraha shrines and Shiva temples hold special pujas.

May Lord Shani and Lord Shiva remove your hardships and reward your efforts fairly.