Understanding Nakshatras
The word Nakshatra comes from Sanskrit: "Naksha" (map) + "Tra" (guard), literally meaning "that which does not decay" or "star."
Key Facts:
- • Total Nakshatras: 27 (some traditions include a 28th, Abhijit)
- • Span: Each Nakshatra covers 13°20' of the zodiac
- • Padas: Each Nakshatra is divided into 4 padas (quarters) of 3°20' each
- • Ruling Deity: Each Nakshatra has a presiding deity that influences its nature
- • Ruling Planet: Each Nakshatra is governed by one of the nine planets
The 27 Nakshatras
| # | Nakshatra | Ruling Deity | Symbol |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ashwini | Ashwini Kumaras | Horse's Head |
| 2 | Bharani | Yama | Yoni |
| 3 | Krittika | Agni | Razor/Flame |
| 4 | Rohini | Brahma | Chariot/Cart |
| 5 | Mrigashira | Soma | Deer's Head |
| 6 | Ardra | Rudra | Teardrop/Diamond |
| 7 | Punarvasu | Aditi | Bow and Quiver |
| 8 | Pushya | Brihaspati | Cow's Udder/Lotus |
| 9 | Ashlesha | Nagas | Coiled Serpent |
| 10 | Magha | Pitris | Royal Throne |
| 11 | Purva Phalguni | Bhaga | Front Legs of Bed |
| 12 | Uttara Phalguni | Aryaman | Back Legs of Bed |
| 13 | Hasta | Savitar | Hand/Fist |
| 14 | Chitra | Tvashtar | Bright Jewel/Pearl |
| 15 | Swati | Vayu | Young Shoot/Coral |
| 16 | Vishakha | Indra-Agni | Triumphal Arch |
| 17 | Anuradha | Mitra | Lotus Flower |
| 18 | Jyeshtha | Indra | Circular Amulet/Earring |
| 19 | Mula | Nirriti | Bundle of Roots |
| 20 | Purva Ashadha | Apas | Elephant's Tusk/Fan |
| 21 | Uttara Ashadha | Vishvadevas | Elephant's Tusk |
| 22 | Shravana | Vishnu | Three Footprints/Ear |
| 23 | Dhanishta | Vasus | Drum/Flute |
| 24 | Shatabhisha | Varuna | Empty Circle/1000 Flowers |
| 25 | Purva Bhadrapada | Aja Ekapada | Front Legs of Funeral Cot |
| 26 | Uttara Bhadrapada | Ahir Budhnya | Back Legs of Funeral Cot |
| 27 | Revati | Pushan | Fish/Drum |
Why Nakshatras Matter
Birth Chart Analysis
- • Reveals deeper personality traits
- • Shows karmic patterns and life purpose
- • Indicates mental and emotional nature
Compatibility Matching
- • Guna Milan (matching points system)
- • Assesses emotional compatibility
- • Evaluates long-term harmony
Muhurta (Electional)
- • Choosing auspicious wedding dates
- • Starting new ventures
- • Naming ceremonies
Predictive Astrology
- • Nakshatra-based Dasha system
- • Transit predictions
- • Timing of events
How to Find Your Nakshatra
Your Nakshatra is determined by the exact degree of the Moon at your birth time and location.
Method 1: Online Calculator
Use a Vedic astrology birth chart calculator with your exact birth date, time, and location.
Method 2: Consult an Astrologer
A professional Vedic astrologer can calculate and provide detailed insights.
What You Need
- • Exact birth date
- • Exact birth time
- • Birth location
