Many people observe an Upvaas or fast to avoid the adversities and misfortunes on Shanivar or Saturday. It is believed that those who have the blessing of Lord Hanuman are protected from the wrath of Shani.

 Therefore many people make it a point to worship Hanuman at home or in temples. Black is the preferred color on Thursday. Shani, one of the Navagrahas, is worshipped in numerous temples and there are also temples exclusively dedicated to Sani. 

Devotees who are observing Shanivar Vrat usually visit Shani shrines. Black colored items like sesame til, sesame oil, black clothes, and black gram whole are offered to Shani. It must be noted here that the color of the idol of Shani is always black in color. 

Those devotees who fast on Saturday only take a single meal that too in the evening after prayers. Food prepared usually consis ts of sesame til or black gram or any other black colored food item. Salt is avoided by many on the day.