In the Tamil calendar, the month of Purattasi holds deep spiritual significance. The Saturdays of this month, known as Purattasi Sani, are considered highly auspicious for the worship of Lord Venkateswara of Tirupati. The word “Sani” is derived from Sanikizhamai, meaning Saturday. While Purattasi is sacred for many reasons, its connection with Lord Venkateswara makes it particularly important. In North India, this month is referred to as Ashwin, and it is during this period that festivals like Mahalaya Paksha (Pitru Paksha) and Sharada Navratri are observed.
Devotees of Lord Venkateswara often adopt special practices during this month. Many observe a strict vegetarian diet, avoiding onion and garlic, while others abstain from non-vegetarian food entirely. This discipline is seen as a way of purifying the body and mind to receive the Lord’s blessings. The belief is that Lord Venkateswara descended from Vaikunta to Earth in this month, and so, grand poojais and celebrations are held annually at Tirupati during Purattasi.
Although the entire month is considered sacred, Purattasi Saturdays are especially important. A popular legend highlights this significance. It is said that in Tirumala, there once lived a humble devotee of Lord Venkateswara. Even during his sade sati phase, a period marked by hardships due to the influence of Lord Shani : he remained steadfast in his devotion. Despite losing wealth and facing many difficulties, his faith never wavered.
Impressed by his devotion, Lord Shani tried to test and even trouble him, but the devotee stood firm in his worship. Finally, Lord Venkateswara intervened, protected his devotee, and confronted Shani. Realizing the power of the Lord, Shani sought forgiveness and promised not to trouble devotees who observe the Purattasi Sani Viratham. From that time, it is believed that Lord Shani reduces his malefic influence on those who sincerely worship Lord Venkateswara during Purattasi Saturdays.
The Purattasi Sani Viratham is observed with fasting, poojais, and offerings to the Lord. Devotees prepare traditional dishes such as maavilakku, sweet pongal, tamarind rice, sundal, coconut rice, curd rice, sesame rice, and vadas for neivedyam.
Rituals include decorating a sombu (vessel) with sacred symbols, offering food on banana leaves, lighting lamps, chanting mantrams, and reciting the Vishnu Sahasranama. The pooja concludes with offering tulsi water and sharing the prasadam.
The benefits of observing Purattasi Sani Viratham are believed to be many.
- Devotees receive the blessings of Lord Venkateswara, the negative effects of Shani are reduced, and obstacles in life such as illness, financial struggles, or delays in marriage are eased.
- Beyond spiritual benefits, the discipline of the viratham also encourages a simpler, healthier lifestyle that purifies both body and soul.
Mantrams that can be chanted during this period :
- Sangadangal Theerpai Shani Bagavane, Mangalam Ponga Manam Vaitharul Vai
- Shani Gayatri Mantram - "Om Sanaischaraya vidhmahe Sooryaputraya dhimahi tanno manda prachodayat"
Purattasi Sani, therefore, is more than just a ritual and prayers. It is a time to strengthen our trust and faith and, surrender worries to the Lord, and experience the divine protection of Lord Venkateswara, who assures his devotees that sincere worship never goes unanswered.
Source / Image Credit : Om Spiritual Shop, Prema's Culinary