Location
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Graha
Shani (Saturn)
Deity
Sri Darbaranyeswarar
Goddess
Praneswari Amman
Timings
6:00 AM – 1:00 PM, 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Best time
Saturdays; Shani Peyarchi (once in 2.5 years)
District
Karaikal (Puducherry)
Address
Darbaranyeswarar Temple, Thirunallar, Karaikal, Puducherry 609607
History
The most visited Navagraha temple, famed for King Nala's release from Saturn's affliction after bathing in the Nala Theertham tank. The Shani shrine here draws millions during Shani Peyarchi.
Significance
Supreme temple for Shani Dosha, Sade Sati, Ashtama Shani, career blocks, delays, chronic obstacles and ancestral karma.
Pariharam
Bathe in Nala Theertham first, then worship Shiva before Shani. Offer sesame oil lamp, black sesame, black cloth and horse gram on Saturday; feed crows and the poor.
Festivals
Shani Peyarchi
Every 2.5 years · Largest crowd of the year
Brahmotsavam
February – March · 10-day festival
Nearby stays & food
Hotel Shani Residency
Stay · 0.8 km · Pilgrim-friendly, near tank
Nala Veg Restaurant
Food · 0.6 km · Unlimited meals