Saturn (Shani) will go retrograde (Vakri) in Pisces (Meen Rashi) from July 13, 2025, to November 28, 2025. This period, lasting approximately 138 days, is significant as Saturn, the planet of discipline, karma, and responsibility, will be moving backward in the sign of Pisces, which is ruled by Jupiter (Guru) and known for its spirituality, intuition, and idealism.
Understanding retrograde Saturn
I would like to share two verses offering crucial insights into the nature of retrograde planets:
"वक्रिणस्तु महावीर्या: । - सारावली"
This aphorism from Saravali states that retrograde planets possess great strength and potency. They are not weak; rather, their influence is amplified.
"ग्रहस्य वक्रत्वे न स्वभावो भिन्नो भवेत् ।
अपितु तस्य प्रभावश्च शक्तिश्च प्रबला भवेत् ॥
– सारावली टीका"
The commentary on Saravali further clarifies that a planet’s fundamental nature does not change when it becomes retrograde. Instead, its effects and power become more pronounced and forceful. So, when Saturn is retrograde, its inherent qualities — discipline, responsibility, limitation, karma, justice, and the influence on the masses and older structures — will be felt with intensified impact.
Saturn in Pisces
Now, let’s consider the specific placement of Saturn in Pisces. Pisces is a dual, watery, and mutable sign ruled by Jupiter. It represents spirituality, compassion, imagination, dissolution, hidden matters, and the collective unconscious. When Saturn, the planet of structure and reality, enters Pisces, a sign of fluidity and idealism, there’s often a tension between the two energies. Saturn tries to bring form and discipline to the formless and boundless nature of Pisces.
Impact on the World
The verse from Vashistha Samhita offers a dire prediction for Retrograde Saturn in Pisces:
"मीनगे वक्रे सूर्यसुनौ प्रक्षुभ्यन्ति क्षितीशा: ।
प्रचलितवसुधा सागरा सर्वनद्यश्च विनश्यन्ति चतुष्पदा: ॥
– वसिष्ठ संहिता टीका"
This translates to: "When the son of the Sun (Saturn) is retrograde in Pisces, rulers (Kshiteeshah) become agitated/ disturbed. The earth trembles, oceans and all rivers are agitated, and quadrupeds (animals) perish."
Based on this ancient prognostication, the world could experience several significant effects in 2025 due to Retrograde Saturn in Pisces:
Political and Leadership Unrest: The phrase "rulers become agitated/ disturbed" suggests widespread instability and turmoil among world leaders and governments. We might witness increased political conflicts, power struggles, and challenges to established authority. Dissatisfaction among the populace could also rise, leading to protests and social unrest.
Geological and environmental disturbances: The mention of "the earth trembles" strongly indicates an increased likelihood of earthquakes, landslides, or other significant geological events. Furthermore, "oceans and all rivers are agitated" points to potential disruptions in water bodies, such as flooding, tsunamis (if in coastal areas), or significant changes in river courses or water levels. This could also signify issues related to water pollution or scarcity.
Impact on animal life: The phrase "quadrupeds perish" is a grave warning. This could manifest as widespread animal diseases, significant loss of livestock, or disruptions to wildlife populations due to environmental changes or other unforeseen circumstances.
Collective karmic reckoning: Given Saturn’s role as the lord of karma and its retrograde motion intensifying its effects, this period could bring about a collective reckoning related to past actions. Themes of responsibility, justice, and the consequences of societal choices might come to the forefront.
Spiritual and social restructuring: Pisces also governs spirituality and collective consciousness. Retrograde Saturn here might force a re-evaluation of spiritual beliefs, ethical foundations, and social structures. There could be a push towards greater accountability in spiritual institutions or a disillusionment with false gurus and teachings.
Effects on Zodiac signs
Aries: This period may bring increased expenses, frequent travel, and a need for careful financial management. Health issues, especially persistent ones, might arise. Professionals and businesspeople may face challenges in management and organization. This also marks the beginning of the first phase of sade sati for Aries, bringing significant life lessons.
Taurus: Generally a beneficial period for Taurus. You may experience financial gains, success in long-pending tasks, and opportunities for expansion in business ventures. Relationships with friends and networks might be re-evaluated.
Gemini: Expect increased workload and pressure in your professional life. There could be recognition and fame, but it will come with significant effort. Pay attention to your parents’ health. Relationships with family members might experience ups and downs. Professional partnerships may also face conflicts over money matters.
Cancer: This period might bring emotional turbulence and deep inner transformations. Relationship with your father or father figures might be strained. Health problems could escalate, requiring vigilance. Success will depend heavily on the efforts you put in. Cancer natives will be concluding their sade sati period, potentially bringing relief from ongoing hardships.
Leo: This is the beginning of Shani Dhaiya for Leo, which can bring sudden changes or transformations in career. Be prepared for unexpected challenges and financial instability. Inheritance matters might come to the forefront. Focus on managing resources wisely and adopting a disciplined lifestyle.
Virgo: Relationships, both personal and professional, will be a major focus. There might be discord in love or marital relationships, affecting mental peace. Professional partnerships may face conflicts. It’s a time for adjustments and a disciplined approach to relationships. Health issues may also arise.
Libra: This period is generally considered auspicious. You might find solutions to existing debts and overcome adversaries. Health needs attention, and you may need to modify your lifestyle with yoga and meditation. Careful handling is required in matters pertaining to family or property disputes.
Scorpio: This marks the conclusion of Shani Dhaiya for Scorpio, potentially bringing relief. However, there can still be challenges in relationships and a need to focus on emotional security. Feelings of isolation or detachment from home may arise, along with responsibilities related to parents or real estate.
Sagittarius: Sagittarius natives will begin their Shani Dhaiya phase. Promotions are likely in career, but expect resistance or disputes with superiors. Issues related to home, family dynamics, and mother’s health might require attention. This is a good time for entrepreneurs, and new ventures in real estate can yield results.
Capricorn: This transit marks the end of sade sati for Capricorn, bringing a significant sense of relief and new opportunities. Unfinished work will be completed, and new ventures, particularly in real estate, will be fruitful. Your words will carry weight, impressing colleagues. Self-care should be a priority.
Aquarius: This period will be highly beneficial for Aquarius natives as they experience the final phase of sade sati, which can bring clarity and breakthroughs. You can earn significantly from different deals, and long-pending tasks may finally get completed. There are chances of numerous benefits through foreign deals and share market.
Pisces: As Saturn retrogrades in your own sign (Lagna house), this is the peak phase of sade sati for Pisces. You may feel the weight of responsibility, emotional disconnection, and physical/mental exhaustion. It’s a critical opportunity for deep introspection and personal development. Identity changes or existential questions may arise. Focus on rebuilding yourself, shedding false personas, and confronting your fears. Patience and self-discipline are key.
(Ashish Mehta is Astro Vastu Consultant, Author, Speaker, and Vedic Life Coach)
