Planetary Transits6 min read
Understanding Sade Sati: It's Not a Curse
D
Dr. A. SharmaJanuary 22, 2026
The Stern Teacher, Not the Enemy
Sade Sati is the 7.5-year period when Saturn (Shani) transits through the 12th, 1st, and 2nd houses from your Moon sign. In Vedic culture, it is often feared as a time of suffering. However, this is a misunderstanding. Saturn is the planet of Justice and Karma.
The Three Phases
- Phase 1 (Rising): Saturn enters the 12th house from Moon. Expenses rise, and one might feel isolated or detached. It's a time for spiritual cleaning.
- Phase 2 (Peak): Saturn is on the Moon. This affects health and mental peace. It forces you to face reality and work hard.
- Phase 3 (Setting): Saturn moves to the 2nd house. Financial lessons are learned. You start seeing the fruits of your hard work.
Why It Happens
Sade Sati happens to bring you back on track. If you have been lazy, unethical, or arrogant, Saturn will break those habits—painfully if necessary. But if you are disciplined, honest, and hardworking, Sade Sati can actually be the period where you rise to power. Prime Ministers and CEOs often reach their peak during their Sade Sati!