Navagraha – The Nine Planets in Hindu Astrology and Temples

Key TakeawaysNames of Navagraha in Order and Their MeaningSurya (Sun)Chandra (Moon)Mangal (Mars)Budh (Mercury)Guru (Jupiter)Shukra (Venus)Shani (Saturn)Rahu (North Node)Ketu (South Node)

Colours of Navagraha and Their SymbolismSurya (Sun)

Chandra (Moon)

Mangal (Mars)

Budh (Mercury)

Guru (Jupiter)

Shukra (Venus)

Shani (Saturn)

Rahu (North Node)

Ketu (South Node)

Navagraha Positions in Astrology and TemplesTemple View

Balancing Planetary Energy

Navagrahas in Temples: Worship and RitualsFamous Navagraha Temples

Spiritual Role of the Navagraha in Daily Life

Scientific vs Spiritual View of Navagraha

Conclusion

In Hindu belief, life is guided not only by our actions but also by the planets. The Navagraha, which means “nine planets,” are seen as powerful forces that influence health, relationships, career, and spiritual growth.

These nine include the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu. Each graha has its own colour, energy, and role. Together, they are worshipped in temples and studied in astrology to understand how they shape daily life.

In this blog, we’ll look at the names of the Navagraha in order, their colours, positions, and temple rituals. You’ll see how these nine deities connect astrology with your everyday life and why they remain such an important part of Hindu tradition.

Key Takeaways

The Navagraha are the nine planets in Hindu belief that guide health, work, love, and karma, consisting of seven planets and two shadow planets, Rahu and Ketu. Each graha has its own name, colour, and energy, which influence different parts of life and have a significant impact on health, success, relationships, and destiny. In temples, the Navagrahas are placed in a circle with Surya, the Sun, in the centre. Worship with mantras, colours, offerings, and pradakshina is believed to reduce struggles and invite blessings. Famous temples in Tamil Nadu, like Suryanar Kovil, Thirunallar Shani Temple, and Tirunageswaram, are major centres for Navagraha worship.

Names of Navagraha in Order and Their Meaning

Surya (Sun)

Surya is the source of light, energy, and life. In Navagraha installations, Surya is often given the central place, symbolizing his supreme importance and divine role.

He represents health, vitality, willpower, and leadership. Surya's chariot, drawn by seven horses, symbolizes the seven colors of white light and the seven days of the week, connecting him to the weekly cycle.

In astrology, the Sun shows your soul, inner strength, and how you shine in the world. Worship of Surya is believed to bring confidence, good health, and authority. In temple layouts, Surya is often placed in Surya's east, and notable Sun temples dedicated to him can be found in Uttar Pradesh.