On Kundali

Introduction

Kundali (also known as Jataka, jatakam, Janma Kusti or Janmapatra) is an astrological chart. It represents the position of the The Navagraha at the moment of a person's birth. At the moment of birth, the each Navagraha will be located in one of the twelve Rashi.

A Kundali typically show the positions of the Navagraha in Rashi. A Kundali has twelve cells to represent twelve Rashis.

Fundamentally, the Kundali is only a diagram depicting positions of Navagraha at a particular moment in time (birth time of a person). Hence it cannot be called unscientific. However, the practise of reading a Kundali to predict future events has no known scientific basic.

The Navagraha

The Navagraha are the nine celestial bodies and deities that, according to Vedic Astrology, exert significant influence on human life on Earth.

The Navagraha are: Surya(Sun), Chandra(Moon), Mangala(Mars), Budha(Mercury), Brhaspati(Jupiter), Shukra(Venus), Shani(Saturn), Rahu and Ketu.

Rahu and Ketu, unlike the others, do not represent a physical celestial body. They represents the two lunar nodes. To understand lunar nodes - Moon's orbital plane and earth's orbital plane are not co-planar. Moon's orbital plane has a `5 degree` tilt. The nodes represent the two points where the moon's orbital path crosses the earth's orbital path. Rahu represents ascending node of the moon and Ketu represents descending node of the moon.

Understanding regional variances

Astrologers across India use different conventions for constructing the kuṇḍali diagram. There are three primary formats: the South Indian style, the North Indian style, and the East Indian style (West Bengal and Odisha).

Kundali matching

Kundali matching, or horoscope matching, is a key step in traditional Indian marriage arrangements. It involves comparing the astrological charts of the bride and groom to assess their compatibility based on various factors such as emotional harmony, health, financial stability, and progeny. This evaluation is done by analysing planetary positions and their influences.

The most common method for Kundali matching is the Ashtakoota system, which evaluates compatibility through eight key aspects, each with a specific weightage. These aspects ensure a balanced and harmonious relationship.

The Ashtakoota system is used in Vedic astrology for Kundali matching to evaluate the compatibility between a prospective bride and groom. It is widely followed in the North India. It assesses eight key aspects (kootas) of compatibility, each with a specific number of points (totalling 36).

1. Varna: Compares the spiritual compatibility and ego levels. There are four Varnas: Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya, and Shudra.
2. Vashya: Evaluates mutual attraction and control in the relationship. The signs are classified into five categories: Chatushpada (quadruped), Dwipad (biped), Jalchar (water dweller), Keet (insect), and Vanchar (wild animals).
3. Tara: Analyses health and well-being by comparing the birth stars. The stars are grouped into nine Taras.
4. Yoni: Assesses sexual compatibility and mutual love by comparing the animal symbols associated with the birth stars.
5. Graha Maitri: Measures mental compatibility and friendship based on the planetary lords of the moon signs.
6. Gana: Evaluates temperament compatibility. There are three Ganas: Deva (divine), Manushya (human), and Rakshasa (demonic).
7. Bhakoot: Analyses emotional compatibility and the effect on prosperity by comparing the moon signs.
8. Nadi: Considers genetic compatibility and the likelihood of health issues in offspring. There are three Nadis: Adi (Vata), Madhya (Pitta), and Antya (Kapha).

A total score of 18 or more is generally considered good for marriage, with higher scores indicating better compatibility. This system aims to ensure a balanced and harmonious relationship by evaluating these critical factors.

Another such system is the Dashakoota system, which is more prevalent in South India. It assesses ten key aspects of compatibility. In addition to the Astakoota, it also considers:

1. Mahendra: Ensures the overall welfare and prosperity of the couple, signifying long-term benefits and stability.
2. Stree-Dirgha: Focuses on the longevity and prosperity of the wife, ensuring her well-being and happiness in the marriage.

In Dashakoota the total points is 10, one for each koota. A score of 5 and above is generally considered good for marriage.

On predictions (Bhavishya)

Rashi future prediction, also known as zodiac forecasting, delves into the astrological traditions where the positions and movements of celestial bodies are believed to influence individual lives and destinies. By analysing the birth Rashi, or moon sign at the time of one’s birth, astrologers provide insights into various aspects of life, including career, health, relationships, and personal growth.

One key difference between the Rashi system and the Western sun zodiac is the primary celestial body used for predictions. The Rashi system focuses on the moon sign, which changes approximately every 2.5 days, while the Western zodiac is based on the sun sign, which changes monthly. This distinction means that Rashi predictions are often seen as more personalised and reflective of an individual’s inner self, whereas sun sign forecasts in the Western tradition are broader and pertain to general personality traits and life patterns.

Astrologers compute Rashi predictions by examining the birth chart, which maps the positions of celestial bodies at the time of birth. They consider aspects like planetary transits, dasa (planetary periods), and specific yogas (planetary combinations). For example, in the birth kundali, a Shani (Saturn) transit is marked by Saturn’s current position relative to its place at birth. This transit is believed to indicate periods of challenge and growth, as Saturn’s influence traditionally relates to discipline and obstacles. Similarly, a Guru (Jupiter) dasa signifies expansion and prosperity, influenced by Jupiter’s position and movement.

It’s important to note that while Rashi predictions are rooted in cultural practices and can offer guidance and comfort to many, they have no known scientific basis. They should be approached with an open mind and a balanced perspective.