Vrindavan, 2017.05.25 (VT): Today is Shani Jayanti, the appearance day of Shani Dev (the deity of Saturn). Every year on this day, a huge Shani Mela is held at the Shani Temple in Kokilavan. Kirtan, homa and prasad distribution are held on the occasion. Shanidev is sometimes called the son of Surya Dev (the sun) and Chhaya Devi. His birthday is on the Amavasya of Jyeshtha month.
Shanidev
When Lord Krishna was born, all the gods visited the home of Nand Maharaj to have darshan of the divine child. Shanidev also came to see Him, but the people were afraid of Shanidev because of his intimidating reputation. He was not able to enter Nand Baba’s house to have darshan.
Shanidev was very sad that he could not see the Lord, so he entered the forest and started performing austerities (tapasya).
Shanidev prayed to Lord Krishna, “Why do people think I am malignant and cruel? I am only doing my dharma and giving people the results of their own karma. But people are so afraid of me, the avoid even my shadow. And now I cannot even receive your darshan because of my reputation.”
Krishna smiled and comforted Shanidev. He blessed him that whoever would visit him here in the forest of Kokilavan in Braj would be freed from all their worries and afflictions, and would attain bhakti (devotion).
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