Shukra

About Shukra

Shukra is the white-robed sage who became the planet Venus. Son of the rishi Bhrigu, he is Shukracharya — guru of the asuras, the counterpart to Brihaspati who teaches the gods. His own hymns picture him pale as snow, kunda jasmine, and lotus fiber, holding a rosary and smeared with sandalwood paste. He alone holds the Mrita Sanjivani vidya, the secret mantra that revives slain demons. He famously opposed Vamana's binding of King Bali. As a Navagraha he rules Friday; devotees chant his beej mantra to ease an afflicted Venus and gain rain, grain, and steady married life.