Why is Lord Shiva referred to as the lord of "Navagrahas"
In Indian astrology, the Navagrahas, or nine celestial bodies, are believed to have a powerful influence on a person’s fortune, destiny, and overall well-being. These include the Sun, the Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, the Solar Eclipse (Rahu), and the Lunar Eclipse (Ketu). According to astrological beliefs, each of these planets is associated with a specific temple, most of which are dedicated to Lord Shiva. These nine temples, collectively known as the Navagraha temples, are visited by devotees who seek to reduce negative planetary effects and bring balance and prosperity into their lives.
Why Lord Shiva
Lord Shiva is also referred to as the Lord of Navagrahas, the nine planetary deities of Hindu astrology, as it is said that Shiva has the ultimate power over all the cosmic powers, including the planets that can affect a human being. Lord Shiva is a power that transcends time and space; hence, this supreme position brings him above the Navagrahas, declaring him as their controller and master. Shiva is the destroyer of Karma, and his blessings are required to get rid of troubles, ailments and impediments in life due to planetary positions, restoring balance, peace, and harmony to one’s journey.
Mythology surrounding Navagrahas
In scriptures, such as the Shiva Purana, there are narratives and mentions of Lord Shiva and the Navagrahas. According to legends, when the planetary gods grew conceited because of their power to control human lives and to instill in them humility and respect, Lord Shiva humbled their pride
Shiva worship as a cure for planetary troubles
Worshipers usually approach the great Lord Shiva to soften the malefic influence of the Navagrahas. The Shiva mantras, such as the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra or practices like ritual bath (abhishekam), are thought to pacify the planets and nullify their negative impact.
Navagraha temples in India
India contains numerous temples dedicated to the Navagrahas. Among the most noted are the Navagraha temples near Kumbakonam in the state of Tamil Nadu, where numerous temples are consecrated to Lord Shiva.
Surya (sun)- Suriyanar koil
Chandra (Moon)- Kailasanathar temple
Mangala (Mars)- Vaitheeswaran Koil
Buddha (Mercury)- Swetharanyeswarar Temple
Guru (Jupiter)- Apatsahayesvarar templ
Shukra (Venus)- Agneeswarar temple
Shani (Saturn)- Dharbaranyeswarar temple
Rahu- Naganathaswamy temple
Ketu- Naganathaswamy temple
Out of 9 such temples, 8 of them are where Lord Shiva is the central deity.