What is Vedic Astrology?

Vedic Astrology, also called Jyotish Shastra, is the traditional Hindu system ofastrology. It is one of the six Vedangas (limbs of the Vedas) and is rooted inancient Indian scriptures like the Rig Veda. Jyotish means"light" or "divine illumination", and it aims to reveal thepath of one’s life based on karma (past deeds) and cosmic influencesat the time of birth.

KeyComponents of Vedic Astrology

1. ZodiacSigns (Rāśis – 12 Signs)

Each of the 12 zodiac signs is associated withparticular traits. These are:

1. Aries (Mesha)
2. Taurus (Vrishabha)
3. Gemini (Mithuna)
4. Cancer (Karka)
5. Leo (Simha)
6. Virgo (Kanya)
7. Libra (Tula)
8. Scorpio (Vrischika)
9. Sagittarius (Dhanu)
10. Capricorn (Makara)
11. Aquarius (Kumbha)
12. Pisces (Meena)

Vedic astrology uses the sidereal zodiac,which aligns more closely with the actual constellations.

 2. Houses(Bhavas – 12 Areas of Life)

Each birth chart is divided into 12 houses,representing different aspects of life:

1. Self, body, personality
2. Wealth, family, speech
3. Siblings, courage, communication
4. Home, mother, peace of mind
5. Children, creativity, love
6. Enemies, health, debts
7. Marriage, partnerships
8. Longevity, transformation
9. Fortune, dharma, spirituality
10. Career, karma, public image
11. Gains, aspirations, friends
12. Losses, moksha, foreign travels

3. Planets(Grahas – 9 Celestial Influences)

In Vedic astrology, there are 9 primaryplanets (Navagrahas):

Rahu and Ketu are not physical planetsbut lunar nodes with deep karmic significance.

 4. Nakshatras(27 Lunar Constellations)

The Moon’s position in one of the 27Nakshatras at the time of birth gives detailed insight into a person’snature and destiny. Each Nakshatra spans 13°20' and has unique ruling deities,symbols, and qualities. Example Nakshatras:

1. Ashwini
2. Rohini
3. Magha
4. Anuradha
5. Revati

TimingSystems in Jyotish

➤ VimshottariDasha (Planetary Periods)

➤ Gochara(Transits)

• The movement of planets in the sky relative to the natal chart.
• Important transits include:

Uses ofVedic Astrology

PersonalGuidance

• Career choices
• Marriage compatibility (Kundali Milan)
• Education and talents
• Health predictions
• Children and family

➤ SpiritualGrowth

• Identifying karmic lessons
• Life purpose (Dharma)
• Moksha potential

➤ RemedialMeasures (Parihara)

To reduce negative planetary effects andenhance positives, Vedic astrology prescribes:

• Pujas & Homas (e.g., Navagraha Shanti, Rudra Abhishekam)
• Mantra chanting (e.g., “Om Namah Shivaya”, “Om Shraam Shreem Shraum Sah Ketave Namah”)
• Wearing gemstones (based on lagna and planetary strength)
• Charity and service (daan)
• Vratas (fasting) on days ruled by afflicted planets

Branches ofVedic Astrology

1. Natal Astrology (Jātaka Shāstra) – Predictions based on individual birth charts.
2. Muhurta Shāstra – Choosing auspicious times for events (weddings, travel, investments).
3. Prashna Shāstra – Answering questions based on time the query is asked.
4. Nimitta Shāstra – Interpreting omens and signs.
5. Medini Jyotisha – Mundane astrology (world events, natural disasters, politics).