Ketu (Sanskrit: , IAST: Ket) ( ) is the descending lunar node.

'Ketu' is said to be the body of Rahu, after the head of the asura was cut off by God Vishnu. In Hindu mythology, Ketu is generally referred to as a "shadow" planet. It is believed to have a tremendous impact on human lives and also the whole creation. In some special circumstances it helps someone achieve the zenith of fame. Ketu is often depicted with a gem or star on his head signifying a mystery light. Astronomically, Ketu and Rahu denote the points of intersection of the paths of the Sun and the Moon as they move on the celestial sphere. Therefore, Rahu and Ketu are respectively called the north and the south lunar nodes. The fact that eclipses occur when the Sun and the Moon are at one of these points gives rise to the myth of the swallowing of the Sun and the Moon by the demon snake. In ancient Tamil astrological scripts, Ketu was considered as incarnation of Indira (The head of Devas).During a war with Asuras, Indira was defeated and took a passive form and a subtle state as "Ketu". It was the time, Indira spent realizing his past mistakes, failures and that lead to spirituality towards Lord Shiva. It was considered, "Ketu" being responsible for Moktcha (Liberation of Soul), Sanyasa ( Give away material comfort), Self Realization, Gnana (Foreseeing future), Wavering nature, Restlessness, Endocrine system and Slender physique. People with good aspects from "Ketu" were Great Doctors, Priests, Thinkers, Movie stars and Social workers. Though these people with good aspects of "Ketu" attain great heights, but they tend to be mentally detached, would not get material pleasure and joy through their great heights in social life. Gandhi and Buddha were some examples.

Astrology
In Hindu astrology Ketu represents karmic collections both good and bad, spirituality and supernatural influences. Ketu is associated with the Meena Avatar (Fish Incarnation) of Vishnu. Ketu signifies the spiritual process of the refinement of materialization to spirit and is considered both malefic and benefic, as it causes sorrow and loss, and yet at the same time turns the individual to God. In other words, it causes material loss in order to force a more spiritual outlook in the person. Ketu is a karaka or indicator of intelligence, wisdom, non-attachment, fantasy, penetrating insight, derangement, and psychic abilities. Ketu is believed to bring prosperity to the devotee's family, removes the effects of snakebite and illness arising out of poisons. He grants good health, wealth and cattle to his devotees. Ketu is the lord of three nakshatras or lunar mansions: Ashvini, Magha and Mula. The people who come under the influence of Ketu can achieve great heights, most of them spiritual. In his wife Sihik, Vipracitti begot one hundred and one sons, of whom the eldest is Rhu and the others are the one hundred Ketus.