Budha Graha – Mercury in Navagraha | Iconography, Significance & Temples

 

Budha Graha – Mercury in the Navagraha Family

Name & Day

• Budhavaram (Telugu) → Wednesday in English.
• Planetary Name: Mercury (Latin origin – associated with three paces: Slow, Quick, Medium).

Iconography & Attributes

• Vahana (Vehicle): Lion or mythical Yaali.
• Appearance: Golden in colour, radiant, drawn by eight horses swift as the wind.
• Parentage: Son of Tara (wife of Brihaspati).
• Weapons:
• Mace
• Sword
• Shield
• Fourth hand in Varada Mudra (gesture of boon-giving).
• Qualities: Mild, eloquent, influencing intellect, communication, humor, and reasoning.

Scriptural References

• Mentioned in Agni Purana and Mahabharata.
• Revered as a Graha that governs logic, speech, and wisdom.

Temples (Budhakshetrams)

• Swetharanyeswarar Temple, Thiruvengadu (Tamil Nadu):
• Located on Sirkazhi–Poompuhar road, ~60 km from Kumbakonam.
• Considered the primary Budhakshetram among Navagraha temples.
• Sundareswarar Temple, Kovur (near Chennai):
• Also dedicated to Budha Graha.

Significance

• Worship of Budha Graha is believed to:
• Enhance intellect and communication skills.
• Remove obstacles related to speech, reasoning, and misunderstandings.
• Bring clarity in thought and eloquence in expression.