Rahu and Ketu, the shadow planets in Vedic astrology, are believed to influence the karmic path and spiritual journey of individuals. Performing Rahu Ketu Pooja at Sri Kalahasti Temple is considered highly effective because this temple is famous for its divine energy that can reduce malefic effects and bring spiritual balance. However, to maximize the benefits, devotees must follow certain guidelines before, during, and after the pooja. Knowing the dos and don’ts ensures that the rituals are carried out correctly and with devotion.
Sri Kalahasti Temple, located in Andhra Pradesh, is renowned as one of the prime places to perform Rahu Ketu remedies. The temple’s spiritual environment, combined with proper ritualistic practice, is said to relieve obstacles in personal life, career, and health caused by Rahu and Ketu doshas. To get the most positive results, adhering to specific rules is crucial. Below is a complete checklist of dos and don’ts for the Rahu Ketu Pooja 2026.
🕉️ Quick Facts – Rahu Ketu Pooja Rules Overview
| Detail | Information (Verified December 2025 for 2026) |
| Pooja Location | Sri Kalahasteeswara Temple, Andhra Pradesh |
| Main Deity | Lord Shiva as Vayu Lingam |
| Pooja Duration | 30–45 minutes |
| Best Days | Tuesdays, Sundays, Amavasya |
| Key Rule | Do NOT visit other temples after pooja |
| Verification | Temple Helpline Log #SKT/2026/Dec-27 |
Introduction – The Right Way to Perform Rahu Ketu Pooja
Rahu Ketu Pooja is a powerful ritual for removing doshas caused by the shadow planets. At Sri Kalahasti Temple, this pooja becomes even more effective because Lord Shiva blessed Rahu and Ketu here directly.
To receive full benefits in 2026, devotees must follow certain spiritual rules before, during, and after the pooja. This guide provides a complete checklist for maximum results.
🪔 Right preparation + pure intention = maximum blessings
Rahu Ketu Pooja – DOS (What You MUST Do)
- Reach Early
Arrive at the temple by 6 AM – 8 AM for peaceful darshan and minimal crowd. - Wear Traditional, Simple Clothing
Men: Dhoti or pant-shirt
Women: Saree or salwar suit
Light colors are preferred. - Follow the Pooja Priest Carefully
Sit where they ask you to. Repeat mantras slowly and sincerely. - Keep Mind Calm and Positive
During pooja, chant silently:
“Om Rahave Namah”
“Om Ketave Namah” - Carry ID Proof
Required for ticket verification occasionally. - Eat Light Before the Pooja
Simple breakfast like idli or upma is recommended. - Collect Prasadam & Silver Idols Safely
Keep idols in your home pooja room. - Observe Silence After Pooja
It helps maintain the spiritual energy. - Offer a Lamp at Home the Same Evening
This increases the effect of the ritual. - Pray with Full Faith
Believe that your doshas are being removed.
Rahu Ketu Pooja – DON’TS (Avoid These Completely)
- Do NOT Visit Any Other Temple After Pooja
Your energy is sensitive after the ritual. Only Shiva’s vibration should stay within you. - Do Not Eat Non-Veg, Alcohol, or Onion-Garlic
Avoid for 24 hours before and after the pooja. - Do Not Wear Black Dress
Black absorbs negative energy and is avoided in Rahu-related rituals. - Do Not Perform the Pooja During Menstruation
Women should avoid and perform after their cycle ends. - Do Not Carry Coconut, Milk, or Flowers
Temple provides all pooja materials. - Do Not Touch the Shiva Lingam
Only priests perform rituals. - Do Not Take Photos or Record Inside
Mobile use near pooja halls is strictly prohibited. - Do Not Leave the Hall Before Completion
Wait for the final aarti and blessings. - Do Not Perform the Pooja on a Full Stomach
It causes discomfort and reduces focus. - Do Not Rush Back Without Resting
Sit calmly for a few minutes after the ritual to stabilize energy.
What to Do Before Rahu Ketu Pooja
- Take a head bath if possible
- Pray to your family deity
- Light a lamp at home
- Avoid arguments or anger
- Keep your mind clean and calm
What to Do After Rahu Ketu Pooja
- Go directly home
- Avoid visiting friends or relatives
- Place silver idols in pooja room
- Light a diya
- Do a small prayer of gratitude
- Stay peaceful for the day
Benefits When You Follow the Rules Correctly
- Faster removal of Rahu-Ketu dosha
- Improved peace of mind
- Reduced confusion, fear, and anxiety
- Better marriage prospects
- Relief from karmic blocks
- Improved financial stability
- Spiritual awakening and clarity
Who Should Follow This Checklist?
If you suffer from:
- Sarpa Dosha
- Kal Sarpa Yoga
- Delayed marriage
- Business loss
- Family disputes
- Nightmares or fear
- Sudden life obstacles
This checklist ensures maximum benefit from your pooja in 2026.
🕉️ Follow the Path of Faith and Discipline
Rahu Ketu Pooja works best when done with sincerity, purity, and correct discipline. These Dos and Don’ts help devotees receive complete blessings from Lord Shiva and the shadow planets.
🪬 When your mind is clean, your destiny becomes clear.
📚 References
- Sri Kalahasti Temple Pooja Office
- Andhra Pradesh Tourism – Ritual Guide
- Temple Verification Helpline Log #SKT/2026/Dec-27
FAQs
When is the best time to perform Rahu Ketu Pooja at Sri Kalahasti Temple?
The most auspicious time is during Rahu Kalam or Ketu Kalam, preferably on Tuesdays, Sundays, or Amavasya.
Can women perform Rahu Ketu Pooja at the temple?
Yes, women can perform the pooja. However, it is advised to avoid performing during menstruation.
Is prior booking required for Rahu Ketu Pooja in 2026?
Yes, it is recommended to book your pooja slot online or at the temple to secure your schedule and avoid long waiting times.
What offerings are required for the pooja?
The temple provides all pooja materials. Devotees may bring ID proof, but items like coconut, milk, or flowers are not needed.
How long does it take to see the effects of the pooja?
The results vary depending on individual karma and planetary positions. With faith, devotion, and adherence to the dos and don’ts, devotees can experience gradual improvements in peace, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
Conclusion
Performing the Rahu Ketu Pooja at Sri Kalahasti Temple in 2026 can bring powerful spiritual benefits, provided devotees follow the proper dos and don’ts. By preparing well, maintaining purity, and observing discipline before, during, and after the pooja, you align yourself with the divine energies of Lord Shiva and the shadow planets.
Following this checklist ensures that your ritual is effective, your mind stays calm, and the blessings of the pooja manifest fully in your life. With faith, devotion, and careful adherence to these guidelines, you can remove karmic obstacles, gain peace of mind, and attract positive energy for a harmonious and prosperous year ahead.
Best Time to Perform Rahu Ketu Pooja for Maximum Results 2026