Vedic Remedies for the Sun (Surya Graha Shanti)

In Vedic astrology, the Sun (Surya) is the king of the planets, representing our soul (Atma), vitality, father, and authority. When the Sun is well-placed, it bestows confidence, leadership, and success. However, an afflicted Sun can create significant challenges. This guide explains the traditional remedies to pacify an afflicted Sun and harness its positive energy.

When is a Remedy for the Sun Needed?

You may need to perform remedies for the Sun if it is afflicted in your birth chart. Common indications of an afflicted Sun include:

• Ongoing issues with father, government, or superiors at work.
• Lack of self-confidence, low vitality, or a weakened immune system.
• Health problems related to the heart, eyes, or bones.
• A tendency towards arrogance, egoism, or domineering behavior.
• Specific chart placements, such as the Sun being debilitated, conjunct with Rahu/Ketu (Shapit Dosha), or associated with other challenging astrological conditions.

Types of Remedies for the Sun

Vedic tradition offers several ways to harmonize the energy of an afflicted planet. The primary methods for Surya Graha Shanti are Mantra, Yagya, and Dana (Charity).

1. Surya Mantra Chanting

Chanting mantras is a powerful way to connect with the planetary deity. For the Sun, the most common mantras are:

Puranokta Mantra

"Japaa Kusuma Sankaasam Kaasyapeyam Mahadyutim
Tamo 'rim Sarva Paapaghnam Pranatosmi Divaakaram"

Bija (Seed) Mantra

"Om Hram Hrim Hraum Sah Suryaya Namah"

It is recommended to chant these mantras a total of 6,000 times over a period of 11 to 40 days. For correct pronunciation and procedure, it is best to learn from a qualified Guru or Pundit.

2. Surya Graha Shanti Yagya (Homa)

A Yagya (also known as Homa or Havan) is the most complete and long-lasting remedy. It is a sacred fire ritual performed by learned priests to invoke the blessings of the deity. A Surya Yagya involves chanting specific mantras, offering herbs and other sacred materials to the fire, and concludes with feeding Brahmins. This ritual cleanses negative karma and is believed to provide relief for 10-15 years or more.

3. Other Simple Remedies (Upayas)

• Offer Water to the Sun (Surya Arghya): Offering water to the rising sun from a copper vessel every morning is a simple yet highly effective remedy.
• Chant Aditya Hridayam: This powerful hymn dedicated to the Sun God is known to bestow victory and success.
• Donate: On Sundays, donate items related to the Sun, such as wheat, jaggery (gur), or copper, to the needy.
• Respect Your Father: Serving and respecting your father is one of the most powerful remedies for strengthening the Sun in your chart.