Saturn Planet in Astrology is quoted as the taskmaster ruling hard work and discipline. It is also known as the planet of darkness. The effects it produces are delays, frustrations, difficulties and depressions. Saturn also governs age and death. Saturn rules the 10th and 11th houses in the natural zodiac wheel. These houses deal with ones status in the society.

Legend of Shani
The Hindu mythology conveys different stories for Shani. According to legends, Saturn was born to Lord Surya and Chhaya, also known as Swarna. During the time of Saturn"s birth, Sun fell severely ill due to Saturn"s inauspicious aspect. Hence, there have always been disputes between the father and son. According to Brahma Purana, Saturn was totally devoted to Lord Krishna and was mesmerized by him. Seeing this inclination, Sun married Saturn to Chitra rath"s daughter. Saturn"s wife was extremely strong, powerful and modest. It is believed that Saturn"s wife wanted a child and expressed her desire to Saturn one night. But, Saturn was so lost in his prayers to Lord Krishna that he completely ignored her. She kept waiting for hours and was ultimately furious. Hence, she cursed Saturn saying that anyone seen by him would be totally destroyed.

Nature of Individual with Saturn as Ruling Planet
Shani also rules inner conscience. A well-placed Saturn in the horoscope defines detachment, wisdom, integrity and spirituality. Its effects are quite prominent in the charts of monks and priests. Shani, also depicting hard work, rules in the charts of labourers, miners, masons, mechanics, civil servants, etc. Saturnine people also work as archaeologists, historians, coveters of museum, etc. A misplaced strong Saturn imparts a cold and cruel personality in the person. Its wrong placement also results in thefts, lawsuits and death by the way of seemingly cruel way of destiny.

Effects of Saturn
Saturn is one cold and dry planet, under which one can learn to be more responsible and disciplined. Every person has to go through at least some phases in life under the influence of this planet, famously known as "Sade Sati". If the phase is thoughtfully taken as a learning period, it gives ample of life-long advantage.

Saturn is the lord of signs Capricorn and Aquarius. It is at its peak in Libra, and debilitated in Aries. Mercury, Venus, Rahu and Ketu are his friendly signs. While Sun, Moon and Mars are considered to be his enemies, Jupiter is neutral to Saturn.

Colour for Saturn Planet: Blue, black.
Day for Saturn Planet: Saturday.
Gemstone for Saturn Planet: Blue Sapphire.
Deity/God for Saturn Planet: Lord Hanuman.

Saturn rules bones, teeth, knees and ears. Since it moves slowly, it causes recurring problems like cold, cough, bronchitis, rheumatism, tuberculosis, etc. When placed in a weak chart, Saturn makes a person depressed, an escapist, sorrowful, irresponsible creature, with tendencies towards drug abuse and alcohol.

Mantra for Saturn
"Nilanjana-samabhasam ravi-putram yamagrajam chaya-martanda-sambhutam tam namami shaishcharam"

The above mentioned Mantra for Saturn means; "I bow down to Saturn, who is blue like a storm cloud, the son of the Sun and the brother of Death, who can cast his shadow even over the Sun. Om I bow down to Saturn".

Importance of Saturn in Indian Astrology
To the common man in India, the very name of Shani brings a deep sense of fear and apprehension. Saturn Planet in Astrology is often regarded as the "Teacher". The basic philosophy Saturn conveys is by learning through all the difficulties in life, and rising above it as a more enlightened human being. Saturn often handles the success to the person after thoroughly checking and seeing that he is totally prepared to handle it well.

Whatever are the apprehensions attached with this planet, Saturn is not the planet to be feared of. After all, a success gained after winning over obstacles is the truly satisfying one, accompanied by a deeper and eternal knowledge about life. And that is the invaluable reward Shani imparts in ones destinies.