Pooja Guide · Reviewed by Sri Kumar Gurukkal
Navagraha Homam
Worship and a homam to the nine planetary deities (Navagraha) — traditionally observed to pray for harmony and balance, and for relief during a period influenced by the grahas.
What it is
The Navagraha are the nine “graha” of traditional Hindu cosmology — the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rāhu and Ketu. The homam offers prayers and oblations to each, and is often observed alongside another remedy or before a major undertaking.
Why families perform it
It is traditionally performed to pray for harmony, balance and wellbeing, and to seek relief during a challenging period. In keeping with our standards, we describe it as a prayer for balance — never as something that removes or cancels difficulties.
When it is performed
As advised for a difficult period, before a significant event, or as periodic worship. If you are unsure whether it suits your situation, simply ask Gurukkal.
What happens during the homam
A typical sequence includes the sankalpam, the invocation of the nine grahas, the homam with the mantras and offerings appropriate to each graha, the pūrṇāhuti, āratī and prasādam. The specifics vary by tradition.
How your family participates
The host performs the sankalpam and offerings under Gurukkal’s guidance; the family joins the prayers.
How guests can take part
Guests may sit with the family and join the prayers. Gurukkal can briefly explain the meaning of each graha for those who wish to understand.
What to prepare
A safe fire setup, samidha and ghee, and the grains and cloth offerings as advised. Gurukkal sends a personalised samagri list once your request is confirmed.
Questions to discuss with Gurukkal
Whether a particular graha should be emphasised; whether to combine it with a birth-star śānti; and the timing that suits you.
Related poojas
Tradition represented: Tamil Sivachariyar · Vedic & Āgamic. Reviewed by Sri Kumar Naganathan Gurukkal. Last reviewed: 12 August 2026.