Shani Dev, the planet Saturn in Hindu mythology, holds a significant place in the astrological beliefs of Indians. Known as the lord of justice and karma, Shani is believed to reward or punish based on one’s actions. Across India, many temples are dedicated to Lord Shani and they attract thousands of devotees who want to seek Shani’s blessings. These temples are usually crowded on Saturdays as it is considered the day of Lord Shani.
For those searching for “shani temple near me” or planning a spiritual journey to the most renowned Shani temples in India, this blog explores India’s 10 most famous Shani temples that stand as testimonies to faith, and spiritual significance for thousands of Indians.
Located in Shingnapur village, Shani Shingnapur is unarguably the most famous Shani temple in India. This village has maintained a centuries-old tradition of not having locks or doors, believing in Lord Shani’s protection against theft. This temple’s main deity is a 5 ft black rock standing on an open platform, believed to be a self-emerged (swayambhu) form of Shani Dev. Many Devotees offer oil to the deity, symbolizing lightening their karmic burdens, and the temple sees massive crowds during Amavasya (new moon day) and Saturdays.
The Thirunallar Shani temple is one of the most visited Shani temples in South India. Dedicated to Lord Shani and Lord Shiva (as Darbaranyeswarar), this temple is believed to be the place where Lord Shani offered prayers to Lord Shiva to relieve himself from the curse. The temple is particularly famous for the “Shani Peyarchi” ceremony when Saturn transitions from one zodiac sign to another. Devotees visit this temple to perform remedial rituals to reduce the negative effects of Sade Sati (7.5 years of Saturn’s influence) and other planetary positions.
The Shani Dev temple in Hathla village is renowned across North India for its powerful deity. According to local belief, the temple houses a naturally formed black stone idol of Lord Shani. The temple gained popularity due to numerous incidents of wishes fulfilled after sincere prayers at this site. The serene surroundings and the spiritual ambiance make it a must-visit for those seeking Lord Shani’s blessings.
Sri Vidya Saraswathi Shani temple in Wargal is unique as it houses multiple deities, with Lord Shani being one of the primary ones. The temple is architecturally impressive and draws devotees from across Telangana and neighboring states. What makes this temple special is the combination of Goddess Saraswathi and Lord Shani in one complex, representing knowledge and karma respectively. The temple follows traditional Agama Shastra rituals, and special ceremonies are conducted on Saturdays and during Amavasya days.
The Shani Mahatma temple in Madhure is one of the most renowned temples near Bangalore dedicated to Lord Shani. The temple features a majestic black stone idol of Shani Bhagwan adorned with rich garlands and ornaments. According to local legends, the temple was established after several divine interventions and miraculous events in the area. Devotees visit the temple to get relief from Shani Dosha (negative influence of Saturn) through specialized rituals conducted by the temple priests. The architecture reflects traditional Dravidian style with intricate carvings and a towering gopuram.
According to local beliefs Solashi Shani temple is considered the original birthplace (janmasthan) of Lord Shani. The temple houses idols of Potraj, Shani Dev, and Lord Shiva. What makes this temple special is its historical significance and the belief that prayers offered here can neutralize the malefic effects of Sade Sati more effectively than at other Shani temples. One can also participate in nearby treks of Kalyangad and Jarandeshwar.
The Pavagada Shani Mahatma temple is one of the most famous Shani temples in Karnataka, attracting devotees from across South India. The temple has a 6-feet-tall idol of Lord Shani, believed to possess tremendous power. According to locals, the idol was discovered by farmers while plowing the land centuries ago. The temple is known for its elaborate Saturday rituals, including the oil abhishekam ceremony. Many devotees testify to experiencing relief from career obstacles and financial problems after offering prayers at this temple.
Mandapalli Shaniswara Temple in Andhra Pradesh is a powerful spiritual site rooted with divine intervention. It is said Lord Shani destroyed two demons here to protect sages and later installed a Shiva Lingam to atone for Brahmahatya. Though originally Someshwara Temple, it’s known as Shaniswara Temple due to Shani’s presence and blessings. With five divine shrines in one complex, this temple is both a remedy for life’s struggles and a gateway to spiritual salvation.
The Kokilavan Shani temple near Mathura is a sacred temple dedicated to Lord Shani and his guru, Barkhandi Baba. According to legend, Shani Dev performed penance here after being denied a glimpse of infant Krishna—who later blessed the site as holy. The temple features a rare idol of Shani Dev on a crow and a divine, self-manifested presence. Many locals believe the temple’s atmosphere is charged with devotional energy. Devotees visit this temple usually on saturday’s and offer mustard oil, sesame and blue flowers to seek Lord Shani blessings.
As one of the most renowned Shani temples in Hyderabad region, the Shani Temple attracts devotees from across India. Other than Lord Shani, the temple includes dieties such as Shiva, Sai Baba and Hanuman. This temple is mainly visited by devotees for oil abhishekam, Japam, Tarpanam and Grah Shanti Hawan.
These 10 Shani temples across India represent not just religious sites but cultural landmarks that have shaped local traditions and beliefs. Whether you’re searching for a “shani temple near me” in metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Chennai, or Hyderabad, or planning pilgrimages to these famous sites, each temple offers a unique spiritual experience.
Devotees believe that sincere prayers at these temples can help mitigate the challenging effects of Shani’s influence in one’s life. The best day to visit Shani temples are Saturdays, especially during the Shani Pradosh period or during Amavasya (new moon day), which are considered auspicious times to seek Lord Shani’s blessings.
Remember that beyond rituals and offerings, Lord Shani is ultimately believed to be a server of justice based on one’s karma. These temples serve as reminders of the importance of righteous living and accepting life’s challenges with equality.
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