In the realm of Vedic astrology, January 9, 2026, is marked as a day of significant planetary tension due to a major celestial event. This day will witness the Superior Conjunction of Mars, where the red planet moves directly behind the Sun from Earth's perspective. While astronomers see this as an orbital alignment, astrologers interpret it as a period when Mars, the "Planet of War," reaches its peak energy but is rendered invisible or "hidden" by the Sun's overpowering glare.
The Planetary Battle: Why Mars and Saturn Become Foes
During this potent alignment, Mars's energy is considered highly volatile and unpredictable. Its traditional rival in Indian astrology, Shani (Saturn), is said to mirror this aggression, setting the stage for a clash. According to both traditional Vedic texts and the Lal Kitab, Mars and Saturn are considered "Great Enemies." Mars governs fire, passion, sharpness, and all things red, while Saturn rules over iron, hard labour, discipline, and karmic justice.
When these two powerful forces converge during a conjunction, the resulting energy is believed to be malefic and disruptive. Introducing new iron or sharp objects into your environment on such a day is metaphorically akin to adding fuel to a fire. This action is thought to activate a "Shani Dosha" or Saturn's affliction, potentially leading to a series of misfortunes throughout the month, including accidents, sudden financial losses, or frequent breakdowns of machinery and appliances.
Three Key Items to Avoid Purchasing on January 9
To preserve harmony and good karma, astrological guidance strongly recommends postponing major purchases, especially of certain categories, until after this tense transit passes. The core advice for Friday, January 9, 2026, is centred on preservation, not acquisition.
1. Kitchen and Sharp Tools: This is not the day to buy knives, scissors, needles, or heavy iron cookware like a tawa or kadhai. Since Mars rules sharp objects, their energy is considered unstable.
2. Hardware, Machinery, and Vehicles: Avoid purchasing any item dominated by iron or steel. This includes significant buys like a new car or bicycle, as well as smaller hardware such as nails, hammers, screws, and tools. The metal's vibrational quality is believed to be negatively charged.
3. Black-Coloured Items: The colour black is traditionally associated with Saturn. Given Mars's "angry" state during this conjunction, buying black garments, accessories, or leather goods could inadvertently attract the conflicting energies into your personal space.
The Simple Lal Kitab Remedy for Neutralising Negative Energy
What if you have already made a purchase or your profession requires you to handle iron and sharp tools on this day? Renowned Vedic astrologer Acharya Neeraj Dhankher, Founder and CEO of Astro Zindagi, explains a simple cooling ritual from the Lal Kitab.
The remedy involves a "Water-on-Iron" ritual. Before using any new iron tool or cooking on an iron surface on January 9, take a few drops of fresh water and sprinkle them gently over the object. While doing this, visualise the fiery, aggressive energy of Mars being cooled and soothed by the calming, lunar energy represented by the water. This symbolic act is believed to extinguish the object's malefic potential and prevent it from causing Shani-related troubles in your home or workplace.
Neeraj Dhankher, with over 29 years of astrological counselling experience, emphasises that this period tests self-control. Saturn, the taskmaster, views impulsive buying and actions on this day as a lack of discipline, which may invite minor ill-effects or "Dhaiya." By being mindful, one can navigate this potent astrological event with greater ease and peace.
