Shani Thrayodashi - Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

Shani Thrayodashi is a highly significant occasion observed at the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, particularly when it coincides with a Saturday (Shanivar) and the Thrayodashi tithi (13th lunar day). This auspicious day is dedicated to Lord Shani (Saturn), believed to be a powerful graha (planet) influencing karma and justice, and is worshipped alongside Lord Lakshmi Narasimha, who is known to protect devotees from planetary doshas and misfortunes. Special Shani Shanti Homams, Navagraha archana, and Abhishekams are performed with sesame oil, black sesame seeds, and bilva leaves. Devotees light oil lamps and offer prayers seeking relief from Saturn-related challenges like Shani Dasha, Sade Sati, or financial and health issues. Observing this day at the temple is believed to bring immense peace, remove negative karma, and bestow spiritual strength, discipline, and divine grace. It is a powerful time to perform parihara (remedial) pujas for planetary peace and protection.

On the sacred day of Shani Thrayodashi, devotees arrive early at the Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple after a ritual bath. The puja begins with Ganapathi Pooja, followed by Sankalpam, invoking blessings to remove Saturn-related doshas. Special Abhishekam is performed to Lord Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy with sacred items like milk, curd, honey, turmeric, and sandal paste. Oil Abhishekam and black sesame archana are offered to Lord Shani, placed near the Navagraha shrine. Navagraha homam and Shani Shanti Homam are conducted by temple priests using black sesame seeds, mustard, and Durva grass. Devotees light oil lamps (deepams) with gingelly oil and offer black clothes, sesame seeds, and iron items as daanam. Prayers are recited from the Shani Stotra and Narasimha Kavacham. The puja concludes with deeparadhana and prasadam distribution. Fasting or a simple sattvic meal is observed by many devotees. This vidhi is believed to appease Lord Shani and bless devotees with peace.