Girhi Shanti

Griha Shanti (also spelled as Grah Shanti) is a Hindu ritual performed to pacify the adverse effects of planets (grahas) and seek their blessings for peace, prosperity, and well-being in the household. This puja is typically conducted before moving into a new house, during major life events such as weddings or childbirth, or when facing difficulties attributed to planetary influences.

Consultation with an Astrologer:

• Consult a knowledgeable astrologer to determine the auspicious date and time for performing Griha Shanti based on the individual's birth chart and planetary influences.

Preparation:

• Clean the house thoroughly, especially the area where the puja will be conducted.
• Set up an altar with images or idols of the relevant deities associated with the planets affecting the household.
• Gather necessary items: flowers, fruits, sweets, incense sticks, ghee lamps, turmeric, kumkum, rice, and a small amount of sacred water (Gangajal).

Kalash Sthapana (Installation of the Sacred Pot):

• Place a Kalash (a pot filled with water, mango leaves, and a coconut) on the altar. This represents purity and auspiciousness.

Invocation and Sankalpa (Intention):

• Begin by invoking Lord Ganesha to remove obstacles and ensure the success of the puja.
• Perform a sankalpa stating the purpose of Griha Shanti, including the names of the family members for whom blessings are sought.

Graha Devata Puja:

• Worship the respective planetary deities to pacify their influences:
  • Lord Shiva: Often worshipped to alleviate all planetary doshas.
  • Navagraha (Nine Planets): Worship each of the nine planets, offering specific items associated with each planet (e.g., sesame seeds for Saturn, red flowers for Mars).

Recitation of Mantras and Shlokas:

• Chant specific mantras dedicated to the respective planets and their deities. These mantras are chosen based on the family's astrological chart and the identified doshas.

Havan (Fire Ritual):

• Conduct a havan by offering ghee, sesame seeds, and other sacred items into the fire while chanting relevant mantras. This ritual purifies the environment and invokes the blessings of the planetary deities.

Offerings and Prayers:

• Offer flowers, fruits, sweets, and other items to the deities and planets being propitiated.
• Seek blessings for peace, prosperity, and well-being for all family members.

Aarti and Circumambulation (Pradakshina):

• Perform Aarti (waving of lighted lamps) to the deities while singing devotional songs.
• Perform Pradakshina (circumambulation) around the altar and idols to conclude the puja.

Conclusion and Prasad Distribution:

• Conclude the puja with prayers for blessings and well-being.
• Distribute Prasad (blessed food) to all participants, symbolizing the sharing of divine blessings.

Benefits of Griha Shanti Puja:

• Harmony and Peace: Aims to create a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere in the household.
• Protection: Provides protection from negative planetary influences and ensures overall well-being.
• Prosperity: Invokes blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness for all family members.
• Spiritual Growth: Promotes spiritual growth and devotion through the worship of planetary deities.