Saturn, regarded in astrology as the planet of karma and justice, is set to turn retrograde from 27 July 2026 and will remain in this reverse motion for roughly four and a half months, a phase astrologers consider particularly significant for how the planet's effects play out.
How long will Saturn stay retrograde
According to the Hindu Panchang, Saturn's retrograde transit begins on 27 July 2026. The planet will continue moving in reverse until around 5 am on 11 December, when it resumes its direct motion. That puts the total retrograde period at close to 138 days. In astrology, a retrograde planet is one that, viewed from Earth, appears to move backward through the zodiac, and its influence during such a phase is considered noticeably stronger than usual.
Which zodiac signs are most affected
Saturn's Sade Sati is currently active on three signs, Aquarius, Aries and Pisces. When Saturn's retrograde motion coincides with an ongoing Sade Sati for these signs, astrology treats it as an especially sensitive window, and natives of these three signs are advised to stay particularly alert about their work, health and relationships during this period.
Remedies to follow while Saturn is retrograde
Astrology suggests that certain remedies, if followed during Saturn's retrograde phase, can help soften its negative effects. These include
- Regularly reciting the Shiv Chalisa during Saturn's retrograde period is said to please Saturn.
- Worshipping a peepal tree on Saturdays is recommended to reduce Saturn's adverse effects.
- Reading the Bhagavad Gita daily is also said to lessen Saturn's inauspicious influence.
- Performing proper worship of Hanuman, Shiva and Saturn on Saturdays is advised.
- Lighting a lamp in front of a tree in the evening, using mustard oil mixed with black sesame seeds, is considered auspicious.
- Treating elders and household helpers with kindness and respect, rather than mistreating them, is advised.
- Offering water to a peepal tree and a shami tree on Saturdays is recommended.
- Donating black urad dal, mustard oil and black clothes on Saturdays is considered highly auspicious.
- Worshipping the shami tree during Saturn's retrograde period is also said to be beneficial.
- Helping the poor and needy, including feeding them, is encouraged.
- Daily recitation of the Hanuman Chalisa and Shiv Chalisa is also said to bring relief.
- Chanting the mantra Om Sham Shanishcharaya Namah 108 times is believed to bring Saturn's blessings.
- Wearing black clothing on Saturdays is suggested as a way to keep Saturn pleased.
- Reciting the Sundarkand during this period is said to help free one from life's difficulties.
Astrology also holds that Saturn is a just planet that rewards or corrects a person strictly according to their deeds, which is why patience, honesty and discipline are recommended through this retrograde phase.
