How do I keep a Saturday (Śanivāra) vrat for Śani Dev?

one simple meal after sunset, sesame oil to Śani or the peepal tree, black sesame or urad in dāna, and Hanumān worship too.

People often keep the Saturday vrat during Sāḍhe Sātī or a Śani period, but it is equally a vrat of discipline and humility. It is commonly started on a śukla pakṣa Saturday, ideally in Śrāvaṇa, for 19 or 51 Saturdays.

On the day: bathe, offer sesame or mustard oil to Śani’s image or a black stone, or pour water and light a lamp under a peepal tree in the evening. Black sesame, urad, iron or dark cloth are given in dāna, and many feed crows, dogs or the poor. Śani is pleased by service to labourers and the needy. Hanumān is also worshipped, because tradition says he freed Śani and Śani promised not to trouble his devotees. Food is taken once, usually after sunset, often khichdi with urad.

There is no need for fear. Śani is the teacher of patience and honesty; a steady, kind life is the real offering.

Common counts: 19 or 51 Saturdays · Source: common family practice

Dharma Q&A — vratas, festivals & temples · Ask a Jyotishi your own question