The Navagraha Mandala Mantra refers to a set of mantras associated with the sacred circle of the nine planets (Navagrahas) in Hindu astrology and tantric tradition. These mantras are primarily found in Jyotisha texts and Tantras, such as the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra and the Mantra Mahodadhi. The nine planets include Surya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), Mangala (Mars), Budha (Mercury), Brihaspati (Jupiter), Shukra (Venus), Shani (Saturn), Rahu (North Lunar Node), and Ketu (South Lunar Node). Each planet has its own beejakshara (seed syllable) and mantra, which are combined in the mandala to form a unified invocation.
For example, Surya's beejakshara is 'Hram', Chandra's is 'Hreem', and so on. The mandala itself is a geometric diagram (yantra) that represents the positions and energies of the planets, and the mantra is chanted to activate its power. According to the Devi Mahatmya, planetary deities are aspects of the Divine Mother, and propitiating them through the mandala brings harmony. The traditional purpose of this mantra is to mitigate astrological afflictions (graha dosha), balance planetary influences, and bestow blessings such as health, wealth, and spiritual progress.
It is recommended to chant the mantra on specific days corresponding to each planet (e.g., Sunday for Sun, Monday for Moon) or during planetary transits. The ideal count is 108 repetitions per planet, using a rudraksha or sphatika mala. Ritual setting includes a clean space, a mandala drawn with colored powders or on a metal plate, and offerings of flowers, incense, and lamps. Cautions: This mantra should be chanted with proper pronunciation and intention, as per the Mantra Mahodadhi, which warns that incorrect chanting may lead to adverse effects.
It is advisable to receive initiation (diksha) from a qualified guru before practice. The Navagraha Mandala Mantra is a powerful tool for planetary harmony and astrological balance, deeply rooted in the Jyotisha and Tantric traditions.
Salutations to Surya, the Sun, with the seed syllables hrāṁ hrīṁ hrūṁ saḥ.
The mantra contains the beejaksharas hrāṁ, hrīṁ, hrūṁ, and saḥ, which are seed syllables for Surya. These are part of the Navagraha mandala, where each planet has a specific beejakshara. The sequence hrāṁ hrīṁ hrūṁ saḥ is a common grouping for Surya in tantric texts.