Kamal Ghorui
As per Vedic astrology, it is believed that Kala Chana also known as Black Chickpeas are associated with the planet Saturn and consuming this chana may please Lord Shani Dev and pacify Karmic patterns. In ancient India food was mindfully consumed keeping in mind its elements(tatvas) that had a profound connection with the divine, each of these foods had a story to tell!
Why is kala chana associated with saturn?
As per Hindu mythology and vedic shastra, there have been many foods and staples that are revered for their power to transform karmic debts and reduce negativity. One such kitchen staple is a kala Chana, which is associated with Lord Shani dev and is offered to him as a holy offering. It is believed that consuming this is also a potent remedy to pacify Saturn’s stern karmic gaze and foster discipline, prosperity, and resilience.
How is this tradition related to Lord Shani dev?
The practice of offering Kala Chana to Lord Shani dev is deeply rooted in ancient Hindu traditions, wherein it is believed that consuming or donating this sattvic legume on Saturdays can align one’s diet with cosmic energies, and also help in mitigating Lord Shani’s dosha that often leads to sufferings, delays or hardships in every aspect of life.
How must it be consumed?
There’s no denying that mythology and ayurvedic principles have been mindfully aligned as every food has a different impact on health and well being. According to the books of Ayurveda, kala chana is no less than a superfood that is rich in protein and iron, and is known for balancing Vata doshas.It is believed that boiling kala chana with salt and offering it to Lord Shani Dev or simply consumed Saturn’s energy towards a steady progress. This is why many devotees chant “Om Sham Shanicharaya Namah” while consuming Kala chana hoping that it will help dissolve ancestral debts and karmic patterns like Sade Sati burdens.
Can it actually please Lord Shani dev?
According to Hindu mythology, Shani Dev is the son of Lord Surya and Goddess Chhaya; and as mentioned in the Skanda Purana, it was believed that one gaze of Lord Shani dev can humble even the gods. And this tiny legume can mirror his dark, enduring essence, which is black like his iron form and symbolizes transformation from scarcity to abundance, akin to how black sesame seeds pacify him in tantric rites. Lastly, beyond rituals, eating kala chana can also provide a shield against Saturn’s malefics effects such as chronic fatigue, joint pains, or financial stagnation yield to its grounding potency.
