Navagraha Homam is a fire ritual performed to propitiate all nine planetary deities (Navagrahas): Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangala (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Guru (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu (North Node), and Ketu (South Node). It is performed to reduce the malefic effects of planets in one's horoscope, remove obstacles, and improve overall life circumstances.

When Should You Perform Navagraha Homam?

Navagraha Homam is recommended in several situations: when a malefic Dasha or Antardasha is running (especially Saturn's Sade Sati), when the birth chart shows afflicted planets in key houses, before important life events like marriage or a new business, as a general annual ritual for planetary harmony, and as a remedy suggested by an astrologer after horoscope analysis.

The Ceremony: What Happens

The Homam begins with Ganapati Puja, followed by Kalasha Puja and Navagraha Puja where each planet is invoked with its specific mantra, color, grain, and flower. The fire is then lit (Homam Kund) and nine different types of wood (samidhas) — each associated with a planet — are offered to the fire. The chief oblation involves offering sesame seeds, rice, ghee, and specific grains for each planet's Ahuti (offering). The ceremony concludes with Purnahuti (final offering) and Aarti.

Duration and Cost

A standard Navagraha Homam takes 3–4 hours with one experienced priest. An elaborate version with Laghu Rudram or Maha Mrityunjaya Japa takes 5–6 hours and requires 2–3 priests. In Hyderabad, a standard Navagraha Homam costs approximately ₹3,500–₹8,000 including the pandit's dakshina. The family typically arranges the homam samagri (materials list provided by the pandit).