The 27 Nakshatras
The Nakshatras are 27 lunar mansions that divide the zodiac into segments of 13°20' each. These celestial abodes of the Moon provide profound insights into personality, destiny, and the subtle influences that shape our lives. Each nakshatra has its own deity, symbol, and unique characteristics.
Ashwini
Horse's Head
Bharani
Yoni
Krittika
Razor
Rohini
Chariot
Mrigashira
Deer's Head
Ardra
Teardrop
Punarvasu
Bow
Pushya
Circle
Ashlesha
Serpent
Magha
Throne
Purva Phalguni
Hammock
Uttara Phalguni
Bed
Hasta
Hand
Chitra
Pearl
Swati
Sword
Vishakha
Arch
Anuradha
Lotus
Jyeshtha
Earring
Mula
Lion's Tail
Purva Ashadha
Fan
Uttara Ashadha
Tusk
Shravana
Three Footprints
Dhanishta
Drum
Shatabhisha
Empty Circle
Purva Bhadrapada
Two Front of Bed
Uttara Bhadrapada
Two Back of Bed
Revati
Fish
Understanding Nakshatras
Gana (Temperament)
- Deva: Divine, refined nature
- Manushya: Human, balanced nature
- Rakshasa: Fierce, powerful nature
Yoni (Animal Symbol)
Each nakshatra is associated with an animal that represents its primal energy and is used in marriage compatibility analysis.
Ruling Planet
Each nakshatra is ruled by one of the nine planets, which strongly influences its characteristics and the Vimshottari Dasha system.
Nakshatras by Planetary Ruler
Ketu
Ashwini, Magha, Mula
Venus
Bharani, Purva Phalguni, Purva Ashadha
Sun
Krittika, Uttara Phalguni, Uttara Ashadha
Moon
Rohini, Hasta, Shravana
Mars
Mrigashira, Chitra, Dhanishta
Rahu
Ardra, Swati, Shatabhisha
Jupiter
Punarvasu, Vishakha, Purva Bhadrapada
Saturn
Pushya, Anuradha, Uttara Bhadrapada
Mercury
Ashlesha, Jyeshtha, Revati
Why Nakshatras Matter
Moon Nakshatra (Janma)
Your birth nakshatra (where the Moon was placed at birth) is considered more important than your Sun sign in Vedic astrology. It reveals your mental and emotional nature.
Dasha System
The Vimshottari Dasha begins from the nakshatra of the Moon and determines the sequence and timing of planetary periods throughout life.
Marriage Compatibility
Nakshatra matching (Koota Milan) is essential in Vedic marriage compatibility, analyzing the harmony between partners' Moon nakshatras.
Muhurta Selection
Certain nakshatras are favorable for specific activities. Understanding them helps in choosing auspicious times for important events.