🔍 What Is Kaalsarp Dosh?
Kaalsarp Dosh is a term used in Vedic astrology. It’s said to occur when all seven major planets (Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn) in a person’s birth chart (kundli) are placed between Rahu and Ketu, two shadow planets associated with karma and illusion.
Think of Rahu and Ketu as the "head" and "tail" of a serpent. When the rest of the planets are trapped between them, it symbolizes a person being caught in the grip of a snake — spiritually, emotionally, or karmically.
🧠 Why Is Kaalsarp Dosh Considered Problematic?
People who believe in astrology say Kaalsarp Dosh can cause:
Delays in career, marriage, or childbirth
Financial struggles
Health issues
Emotional stress
Bad luck despite hard work
It’s viewed as a result of past-life karma, and it’s believed that unless neutralized, this dosh (fault) can block progress.
🕉️ What Is Kaalsarp Puja?
Kaalsarp Puja is a ritual performed to reduce or nullify the negative effects of Kaalsarp Dosh. It involves worshiping Lord Shiva (particularly in the form of Nagaraja or the serpent god) and seeking relief through mantras, offerings, and symbolic rituals.
It’s usually done in specific temples known for this puja — Trimbakeshwar (Nashik) being among the most popular sites.
🔁 When Should It Be Performed?
On Amavasya (no moon day), Nag Panchami, or during specific planetary transits.
After checking the individual’s kundli with an experienced astrologer.
Usually in the early morning hours (Brahma Muhurat).
🧾 How Is Kaalsarp Puja Done?
Here’s a simplified version of the typical ritual process:
1. Sankalp (Intention)
The devotee declares their intention to perform the puja, often after a ritual bath. The priest invokes divine energies to guide the process.
2. Kalash Sthapana
A copper pot is installed symbolizing divine presence, along with drawing a rangoli or mandala pattern.
3. Pitra Puja
Offerings are made to ancestors to seek their blessings and to clear ancestral karmic debts.
4. Rahu-Ketu Shanti
Special mantras are chanted to appease Rahu and Ketu.
5. Nag Puja
Serpent gods are worshipped, usually symbolized by silver or stone idols placed in water or soil.
6. Abhishekam
Lord Shiva is bathed with milk, honey, water, and other offerings while chanting powerful Vedic mantras like the Maha Mrityunjaya mantra.
7. Havan (Fire Ritual)
An oblation is offered into the sacred fire to invoke divine energies and burn away karmic baggage.
8. Visarjan & Prasad
The idols and offerings are respectfully immersed or disposed of, and prasad (sacred food) is distributed.
🕒 The full puja generally lasts 2 to 3 hours and is done under a trained priest’s guidance.
✋ Who Should Perform Kaalsarp Puja?
It’s generally recommended if your horoscope shows a Kaalsarp Dosh, and you’re experiencing:
Repeated failures despite effort
Major life blocks with no logical cause
Restlessness or health problems that defy explanation