The Ketu Ashtottara Shata Namavali is a set of 108 names of Ketu, the descending lunar node, revered as a shadow planet (Chayagraha) in Vedic astrology. The primary textual source for this stotra is the *Ketu Ashtottara* found in the *Padma Purana* and *Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra* (Chapter on Graha Stotras). Ketu is depicted as a headless body or a serpentine form, symbolizing detachment and spiritual liberation. The beej mantra for Ketu is 'Om Ketave Namah', where 'Ketu' derives from the root 'kit' meaning 'to dwell' or 'to shine', indicating his role as a beacon of spiritual light.
Each name in the ashtottara, such as 'Dhvaja' (flag-bearer) and 'Shikhi' (crested), highlights his iconography as a smoky, flag-bearing deity riding a vulture. According to the *Mantra Mahodadhi* (Chapter 7), chanting the Ketu Ashtottara 108 times during the waning moon phase or on Saturdays alleviates Ketu dosha, which manifests as confusion, hidden enemies, and sudden setbacks. The *Devi Mahatmya* (Chapter 11) associates Ketu with the goddess Chinnamasta, emphasizing his role in cutting ego and granting moksha. Traditional purposes include overcoming obstacles from past-life karma, enhancing psychic abilities, and attaining spiritual wisdom.
Recommended chanting context: early morning after bathing, facing south, using a rudraksha mala of 108 beads. Avoid chanting during eclipse periods or without proper purification. The mantra is also chanted for protection from accidents, snake bites, and poison, as per *Jyotish Ratnakara*. Regular recitation with devotion is said to bring liberation (moksha) and remove the malefic effects of Ketu in the horoscope.
Salutations to Ketu, the descending lunar node.