Introduction 1

CHAPTER - 1
INTRODUCTION

Astrology is application and study of positions of the heavenly bodies at the

time of birth of individual. Positions of these heavenly bodies in the sky are mapped
in the form of a horoscope. Specific positions of these heavenly bodies in the
horoscope are believed to indicate the individual’s characteristics and abilities. The
Sun, the Moon, the Planets and Stars themselves influence the occurrence of various
events in person’s life.

Astrology can be mainly sub divided into

i. Western Astrology (Based on Sun Sign)
ii. Indian Astrology also known as Vedic Astrology (Based on Moon Sign)

1.1 Western Astrology

Western Astrology is dated back to the life of ancient Greece and Rome
where it had powerful impact. With the rise of Christianity western astrology was
criticized and went to near extinction, but appeared back again in the middle ages.
The scientific community of the seventeenth century condemned astrology to
extinction, from which its revival in current times could hardly have been predicted.

Western astrology has been influenced firstly by Jung in 20th century and has
mainly focused on the psychological nature of individuals and secondly by the
discovery of new planets, asteroids, whose effect on human beings has been
determined through statistical measurements by experts. Western Astrology is
mainly concerned with person’s character, psychology and personality.

Western astrology considers only the person’s date of birth. It construct the
horoscope, based on exact moment of person’s birth and the effect of various
heavenly bodies at that time. Western Astrology considers the Sun Sign as the base
for all predictions. The Sun Sign uses time of birth and date of birth to perform
predictions. Western zodiac is tropical. In the tropical zodiac, the beginning point of
aries or zodiac is considered when the Sun crosses the earth’s equator.
Introduction 2

Western Astrology has progressed through research by taking into account

the cosmic influences of each major planet or major asteroid discovered. The effect
of new planets and asteroid is added to the natal charts and its effect is included in
the interpretation. Western Astrology uses progressions and transits of 26 specific
stars in identifying the time of major events or incidences in a person’s life.

Figure 1.1: Sample horoscope in western astrology adapted from wikipedia

1.2 Indian Astrology or Vedic Astrology

The original source of Vedic Astrology can be traced to the Rig Veda which
is one of the oldest known Vedas, containing the spiritual information of India. In
Vedic Astrology the principles have mostly remained unaltered from centuries.
Vedic Astrology is one of the oldest forms of astrology which explains the effect of
planetary movements and positions on humans and other entities on earth. Vedic
astrology is existing from 5000-7000 years back.

Mythologies are present in ancient hindu literature related to Rashi / Zodiac

signs, Grahas / Planets and Constellations / Nakshatras which describe various
astrological rules. However it was considered by people that the mythology was
method to explain very complex physical laws to the common ancient people, which
were beyond the understanding of the humans. Unfortunately, the laws behind this
ancient method have yet to be fully understood by science. Our current knowledge
Introduction 3

of astrology relates it to statistics and probability. Statistics helps in finding out the
correlation between two or more seemingly independent events or variables without
identifying the reason behind the correlation. If astrological chart of 1000 people are
analysed for similar events in life then it can be observed that some astrological
rules are true in 70% to 80% of them. In this case we can say that the certain
combinations of planets are statistically significant for the occurrence of a specific
event in one's life. Certain planetary combinations in one's horoscope results in a
forecast, which are apparently accurate in 70 to 80 percent of charts containing said
combinations. Why this happens has yet to be explained, but the evidence suggests
that events can be predicted with statistical consequence.

Predictions in Vedic Astrology use the Moon Sign as the base. The Moon
Sign uses the date, place and time of birth to bring greater precision in predictions.
All horoscopes and forecasts are based on person’s Moon Sign. According to Vedic
astrology there are 27 constellations made up of 12 zodiac signs, 9 planets and 12
houses with each house and planet representing some aspect of human life.
Depending on persons birth, the 12 signs are distributed among the 12 houses and 9
planets are placed in various houses. This representation of the snapshot of the signs
and planets is called a horoscope chart.

Figure 1.2 presents diagram of a horoscope. Values 1, 2, … 12 present in

figure represents the Zodiac Signs. Planet Moon is represented Mo, Mercury as Me,
Venus as Ve, Mars as Ma, Jupiter as Ju, Saturn as Sa, Sun as Su, Rahu as Ra, Ketu
as Ke
Introduction 4

Ma
Mo
Me Sa 3 1
Ve Su 4 Ra As 12

2
5 11
8

6 Ke 10
7 9

Ju

Figure 1.2: Sample horoscope for Vedic Astrology

Vedic zodiac is Sidereal. In Sidereal system define the zodiac signs based on
27 constellations, or fixed star groups. Aries, the first zodiac sign, is aligned with the
constellation called Aswini. Vedic astrology understands only nine planets Sun,
Moon, Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and the two nodes called Rahu and
Ketu. These rahu and ketu are nodes, identified as two points on orbit of sun which
the Moon cuts every month as it revolve round the earth in 29.5 days.

In Vedic Astrology along with 12 signs the 360 degree circle is divided into
27 constellations called nakshatras, which was initially identified with particular
stars, but now cover 13 degrees 20 minutes span. Vedic Astrology uses dasha that is
planetary periods to identify major events or incident’s in person’s life. The periods
of all nine planets is divided into 6 to 20 years totaling 120 years, the influence of
planets in their own period is very predominate in the individual's life.

To find the position of planets, sun and moon for a horoscope the astrologer
needs to know the exact birth place, the date of the birth and the exact birth time, of
the person. The planets placed on the horoscope are the Sun, Moon, Saturn, Venus,
Jupiter, Mars, Mercury, Rahu, Ketu. The Earth is not considered in the horoscope
because it is the place in the universe from where we see the other planets.
Astrology consider the Sun and Moon as planets.
Introduction 5

The horoscope is divided into twelve houses. Each house represents some or
the other aspect of life, such as health, status, career, romance, family etc. each
horoscope will have vacant houses because there are nine planets. Vacant houses
talks about the aspect of life for which we don’t require to worry. The possible
number of charts which can be made with the combination of these planets, houses
and rashis is 45 millions. The position of the sun during person’s birth determines
person’s sun sign. The effect of planets are studied with respect to their effect on the
sun sign. Moon sign is studied along with the position of Moon and rest of planets
and in the horoscope. The astrological chart or horoscope is used to perform
astrological prediction of a person’s life and events in life. Horoscope describes the
map of the planets and zodiac signs at the time of a person’s birth.

Three main branches of Vedic Astrology are as follows

1. Siddhanta/Astronomy: It is mathematical aspects of astrology called as
astronomy & has its application in astrology. A good astrologer is expected
to be proficient in these. It is considered as a prerequisite for astrologer
2. Samhita/Mundane astrology: It used to predict important events related to
countries such as war, earth quakes, political events, meteorology, financial
positions, election astrology, house & construction related matters, animals,
portents & omens etc.
3. Hora/Predictive astrology: Hora is a hour period of time which is ruled by a
particular planet. Hora astrology have different sub branches as described
below
i. Jaatak Shaastra or Hora Shaastra or Natal Astrology: It handles the
prediction made based on every person’s horoscope.
ii. Muhurt or Muhurtha or Electional Astrology: It deals with selection
of beneficial time to initiate any activity or event for specific
accomplishments in everyday life.
iii. Swar Shaastra or Phonetical Astrology: It performs predictions on the
basis of name and sounds.
iv. Prashna or Horary Astrology: It does predictions based on time when
a question is asked by enquirer.
Introduction 6

v. Ankjyotisha or Kabala or Numerology: It is branch of astrology that

does prediction based on numbers which is associated with person’s
date of birth.
vi. Nadi Astrology: It is an ancient written work having detailed
predictions for individuals that is Bhrigu Samitha Based.
vii. Tajik Shaastra or Varsha Phal: It attempts to predict in detail the
likely happenings in one year of an individual's life
viii. Jaimini Sutras: It is based on the written work by famous Indian
astrologer Acharya Jaimini and predicts the timing of events.
ix. Nastjaatakam or Lost Horoscopy: It performs the construction or
tracing of lost horoscopes.
x. Streejaatak or Female astrology: It is special branch of astrology
dealing with female’s time of birth.

Figure 1.3: Sample Horoscope in North Indian Style

Introduction 7

Figure 1.4: Sample Horoscope in South Indian Style

1.2.1 Houses/Bhavas
Horoscope consist of 12 houses or bhavas, based on the location of one’s
ascendant or lagna in the zodiac sign defines the first house in chart. Each planets,
rashis and the nakshatras have its own basic qualities. Analysis of a person’s chart is
done from the lagna point of view, based on the position of these rashis and planets
from lagna, helps to understand different aspects and events of person’s life and
provide them a personal touch. The sign in which lagna or ascent is placed become
first house.

In every horoscope there are two types of houses that is good and bad. The
good houses are triangles and squares of the horoscope. The triangles are 1, 5 and 9
houses. Squares are 1, 4, 7 and 10. First house is square corner as well as triangle
hence it is consider very auspicious and powerful. Rest six houses in the horoscope
are considered as average and bad. House number 6, 8 and 12 are consider bad.
1. First House: Lagna or first house is also called as Tanu sthana or Dhama
bhava and is very auspicious house in horoscope. It is considered to represent
person’s head, health, character, longevity and nature of the person. It is a
kendra a trikona.
Introduction 8

2. Second House: Second house of horoscope is also called Dhana sthana. It is

considered to represent person’s wealth, family, speech, face, speech, mouth,
speech, charity and death.
3. Third House: Third house of horoscope is also called Bhatru sthana. It is
considered to represent of person’s younger brothers and sisters, servants,
courage, talents and skills, communications, sports, short distance travels and
business.
4. Fourth House: Fourth house of horoscope is also called Matru sthana. It is
considered to represent person’s mother, relatives, home, office or factory,
domestic and house related happiness, emotions, land property, conveyances,
mental peace, chest, lungs and education.
5. Fifth House: Fifth house of horoscope is also called as Putra sthana. It is
considered to represent person’s children, intellect, education, creativity,
pooja, mantra and tantra.
6. Sixth House: Sixth house of horoscope is also called as shatru sthana. It is
considered to represent person’s health, injuries, illness, loans, sports,
maternal uncle, enemies and opposition.
7. Seventh House: Seventh house of horoscope is also called as kalatra sthana,
It is considered to represent person’s spouse, reproduction, sex life, genital
organs, enjoyments, partners, kundalini shakti and death.
8. Eighth House: Eighth house of horoscope is also called as ayu sthana. It is
considered to represent person’s destruction, physical pains, accidents,
inheritance, death, legacies and insurance.
9. Ninth House: Ninth house of horoscope is also called as bhagya sthana. It is
considered to represent person’s luck, guru, father, prosperity, knowledge of
the scriptures, religious and spiritual progress, sadhana, pilgrimages, foreign
travel, foreign trade and grandchildren.
10. Tenth House: Tenth house of horoscope is considered to represent person’s
profession, authority, business, power, achievements and honors.
11. Eleventh House: Eleventh house of horoscope is considered to represent
person’s gains and income, money, elder brothers and sisters, long distance
travels, air lines, friends and entertainment.
Introduction 9

12. Twelfth House: Twelfth house is considered to represent person’s losses,

expenses, imprisonment, foreign countries, death, sadhana and moksha or
final liberation.

Nine planets are placed in the twelve houses in horoscope. They produce
different results and at times totally opposite results due to placements of planets and
aspects between these planets.

Figure 1.5: Chart describing the houses effecting various aspect of persons life

Laxmi sthanas are 1st, 5th, and 9th houses in horoscope are the most
powerful and auspicious houses called Trikonasor or trine houses. They are also
called Lakshmi Sthanas because they rule all kinds of prosperities.

Kendras or quadrants are 1st, 4th, 7th, and 10th houses in horoscope are also
auspicious and powerful houses after konas.
Dusthanas or bad houses are 6th, 8th, and 12 houses in horoscope.
Dharma houses are 1st, 5th, and 9th houses in horoscope.
Artha houses are 2nd, 6th, and 10th houses in horoscope.
Kama houses are 3rd, 7th, and 11th houses in horoscope.
Moksha houses are 4th, 8th, and 12th houses in horoscope.
Introduction 10

1.2.2 Grahas or Planets

The Grahas or Planets according to the Vedas are the instruments of god, by
which the law of karma operates. Brief overview of significance of Grahas/ Planets
in astrological chart is described below.
1. Sun or Surya or Ravi: Sun travels a rashi in one month and takes one year
to complete the round of the zodiac. It’s gem is ruby and metal is gold and
colour is red. It is hot and angry. It is the pitrukaraka or planet connected
with father. It is a royal planet and consider to be king in astrology. It
represents the soul, will power, father, paternal relations, the king or the
status of high officials. Sun represents the eastern direction. The change in
seasons is also linked to the suns entry into various signs and nakshatras.

2. Moon or Chandra: The moon is the fastest moving of the nine planets and
takes approximately two and half days to travel a rashi. It’s gem is pearl,
metal is silver, colour is white and direction north-east. It is also a royal
planet and is considered queen in astrology. It represents the mind, emotions,
sensitivity, the mother, house and domestic comforts, milk, sea and all things
connected with the sea, hotel and food industry, textiles and apparels. When
the sun and moon are in the same rashi it is called amavasya or new moon
day or the 1st day of the dark fortnight. The lunar days changes with every
12 degree difference between the sun and the moon. When the sun and the
moon are in the exact opposite signs or 180 degrees apart, it is called
poornima or the full moon day or the 1st day of the bright fortnight. He is the
matrukaraka or planet connected with mother. The sign in which your Moon
is placed in the birth chart is called your janma rashi or birth zodiac. The star
constellation in which your Moon is placed is called your janma nakshatra.

3. Mars or Mangala: Mars takes about 45 days to travel one rashi. Its gem is
coral, metal is copper, colour is red and direction is south. It is the
commander in astrology. It represents energy, courage, younger brothers &
sisters, armed forces, the police forces, commanders, administrators, men in
high position, land, engineering, metals, real estate agents and surgery. It is
the bhatrukaraka or planet connected with brother.
Introduction 11

4. Mercury or Budha: As per astrological calculations mercury is at a distance

of 27 degree from sun. It travels a rashi in nearly a month. Its gem is
emerald, metal is bronze, and colour is green and direction is north. It
represents speech, maternal uncles, intelligence, short journeys, trade,
medical profession, computers and the web, accounts, mathematics,
journalism, astrology and knowledge of the shastras, printing and publishing.

5. Jupiter or Guru: Jupiter takes nearly one year to travel a rashi. It is

putrakaraka that is planet connected with person’s children. Its gem is yellow
sapphire, color is yellow, metal gold and direction northeast. Jupiter is also
called as the devaguru or the guru of the god. It represents higher knowledge,
priests, spirituality, teachers, temples, research & scientists, lawyers &
judges, children and knowledge of the sastras and astrology.

6. Venus or Shukra: As per astrological calculation venus is at a distance of

48 degrees of the sun. Venus takes nearly a month to travel a rashi and
completes the round of the zodiac in 12 months. Its gem is diamond, metal is
silver, colour is white and direction is southeast. It is the planet considered to
be connected with spouse. It is also called daityaguru or the guru of the
demons. It represents spouse, kidneys, sex life, sex organ, music, dance, arts,
gems and jewellers, wines, gambling places, bars, acting, fashion, cosmetics
and beauty products.

7. Saturn or Shani: Saturn is the slowest planet out of all other planets. It
takes nearly two and half years to travel a rashi and completes the round of
the zodiac in 30 years. Its gem is blue sapphire, metal is iron, colour is blue
and direction is west. He is the Udyoga karaka or planet connected with
profession. It is considered as servant in astrology. It represents hard work,
old men, sorrow, servants and the lower level workers, people in the iron and
steel industry, municipality and drainage works. A well placed Saturn can
bestow excellent power, name, prestige and fame and a badly placed Saturn
can devastate you.
Introduction 12

8. Rahu or Dragons Head or North Node: Rahu takes nearly one and half
years to travel a rashi and travels the round of the zodiac in 18 years. Its gem
is gomedh, metal is mixed-metal and colour is black. It represents foreigners,
foreign travel, foreign countries, old men, grandparents, engineering and the
technical trades, smoke, theft, drinking, gambling, the underworld and the
bad elements in the society.

9. Ketu or Dragons Tail or South Node: Ketu takes approximately one and
half years to travel a rashi and travels round the zodiac in 18 years. Its gem is
cat's eye and colour is brown. Ketu is always in the opposite sign to Rahu,
that is exactly 180 degrees away. It represents grandparents, spiritual
inclinations, technical trades, electronics and superstitions.

1.2.3 Rashis or Zodiac Signs

Zodiac in Indian Astrology is divided into twelve equal parts and each such
part has an extension of 30 degrees of arc. Such a division is called a sign or rashi.

1. Mesha or Aries: Ruler of Aries sign is Mars. It ranges from 0 to 30 degree.

Person born under this sign are ambitious, independent and forceful in their
character. They are dynamic and can face any difficult situations using their
vast physical and mental energy. They enjoy personal glory and are
dominating in nature. They have habit of exaggerating things are often short-
sighted in their approach. They lose patience and may speak lies to achieve
their motives. They are headstrong and have lack of self-control in nature.
The dasha periods of Moon, Mercury, Saturn, Venus and Rahu are bad for
person born in Mesha sign. The dasha period of planets Jupiter and Sun are
good for person. Their mutual aspect or conjunction is very good.

2. Vrishab or Taurus: Ruler of Taurus sign is Venus. It ranges from 30 to 60

degrees. The individual of this sign have good personality, looks and are
emotional by nature. They have great attachment towards their people and
friends. They are very luxurious in their habits. They are passionate,
energetic and proud. They get excited by compliments. People with
Introduction 13

Vrishabha Rashi are fond of music and mantras. They will be involved in
long journeys. They have inbuilt business abilities. They have to be careful
and have to avoid self-indulgence. Throat, heart bladder and heart are
sensitive organs and may have medical problems. The dasha periods of Sun,
Mercury, Saturn and Rahu are good for person born in Vrishab Rashi. The
dasha period of planets Jupiter, Venus, Moon and Ketu are bad for person.
Saturn is the benefactor.

3. Mithun or Gemini: Ruler of Gemini is Mercury. It ranges from 60 to 90

degrees. Art and literary work intrigues the people of these sign. These
people are spiritual, versatile, inventive, very analytical and have various
varies interests. The people of Mithun sign are intelligent and receive
benefits through their relatives. These people will face lot of difficulties if
Mars, Saturn, Rahu or Ketu affect the horoscope. These people may suffer
from pneumonia, asthma, pleurisy and anemia. The dashas period of planets
Venus, Rahu and Ketu are good for person. The dasha period of planets
Mercury, Jupiter, Sun and Mars are bad for person..

4. Karka or Cancer: Ruler of Cancer sign is Moon. It ranges from 90 to 120

degrees. The individual of this sign is flexible in nature, have interest in
mysteries, like travelling. The individual will have a secretive in nature and
have good hold on many languages. The individual will be extremely
sensitive and have great influence of parents. The individual may have
problems in married life and suffer from loss of issues. The individuals will
suffer from health related issues for lung and heart. The dasha periods of
planet Mars, Jupiter and Ketu are good for the person. Mars is the
benefactor. The dasha period of planet Venus, Mercury and Rahu are bad for
person.

5. Simh or Leo: Ruler of Leo is sun. It ranges from 120 to 150 degrees. The
person born in this rashi have capability to guide and inspire others. The
person have magnetic personality and get governmental recognition. They
are extremist in love and philosophy and like to visit places with natural
Introduction 14

beauty. The person may suffer from health problems related to heart,
stomach, tooth and poor blood circulation. The dasha period of planets Sun,
Mars and Rahu are good for person. The dasha period of planets Mercury,
Venus and Ketu are bad for the person.

6. Kanya or Virgo: Ruler of Virgo is Mercury. It ranges from 150 to 180

degrees. The person born under this sign is very practical, social, friendly.
The person is scholarly personality, learned and show interest in ancient
sciences. The persons believe strongly in justice for all. The person may
suffer from health problems related to intestine, liver and alimentary canal.
The dasha periods of planet Saturn, Venus and Ketu are good for person. The
dasha periods of planet Jupiter, Moon, Mars and Rahu are bad for person.

7. Tula or Libra: Ruler of Libra is Venus. It ranges from 180 to 210 degrees.
The person born under this rashi is god fearing, spiritual in nature and always
interested in gaining knowledge. They judge after listing from both side and
have gentle manner. They have less children. The person may suffer from
health problems related to liver and kidney. The dasha periods of planets
Moon, Jupiter, Sun and Ketu are bad for the person.

8. Vrischik or Scorpio: Ruler of Scorpio is Mars. It ranges from 210 to 240

degrees. The person born under this sign are emotional, possessive, secretive
and cunning. They have few friends and many relatives. They face problems
in love affairs and sex life. The person may suffer from health problems
related to colic, piles and have to face trauma. The dasha periods of planets
Jupiter, Sun, Moon, Rahu and Ketu are good for the person. The dasha
periods of planet Mercury, Saturn, Mars and Venus are bad for the person.

9. Dhanu or Sagittarius: Ruler of Sagittarius is Jupiter. It ranges from 240 to

270 degrees. The person born under this sign are friendly, independent and
cheerful in nature. They are intelligent, deep thinker, have strong passion and
hot tempered. They show great interest in out door sports. These people can
handle men and matter very well. They may face problem in family life.
Introduction 15

They will suffer with diseases related to excess of heat in the body. The
dasha periods of planets Sun, Moon and Mars are good for person. The dasha
periods of Moon and Venus are bad for person.

10. Makar or Capricorn: Ruler of Capricon is Saturn. It ranges from 270 to

300 degrees. The person born under this sign are ambitious, have good
common sense, adamant in nature. They have many enemies and overcome
difficulties to achieve goals. They rise from normal beginning to great
heights in career. They don’t trust others easily. They may face financial
crisis and financial losses. They may have difference of opinion with family
members and may separate from parents. They should avoid illegal
transactions and sinful deeds other wise their mental peace will be lost. The
dasha period of planets Venus and Mercury are good for person. The dasha
periods of planets Mars, Moon, Jupiter and Ketu are bad for person.

11. Kumbh or Aquarius: Ruler of Aquarius is Saturn. It ranges from 300 to 330
degrees. Many great thinkers and saints have born under this sign. Person
born under this sign are idealist, they are impacted by their friends. They
may do unexpected travels and may face problem at family front. If
significant planets favour then this persons can become perfect servants of
mankind contributing their knowledge and wisdom for the success of human
beings. They may become self centred and unconcerned in case of lack of
spirituality. They may suffer from health problems related to legs, eyes, ears
and teeth. They may face problem related to lack of blood circulation. The
dasha periods of planets Sun, Venus, Saturn and Rahu are good for person.
The dasha periods of planets Jupiter, Moon and Mars are bad for the person.

12. Meen or Pisces: Ruler of Pisces is Jupiter. It ranges from 330 to 360
degrees. The persons born under this sign are emotional and analytical in
nature. They are affectionate and loving towards family and friends. They try
to help others. They have moods that keeps on fluctuating. They may have
many siblings. The kids of this persons are lucky. They will succeed in life if
they pursue artistic or intellectual lines. They may suffer from cold and
mucous discharges. They may suffer from ailments due to long journeys. The
Introduction 16

dasha period of planets Mars, Moon and Ketu are good for person. The dasha
periods of planets Venus, Sun and Mercury are bad for person and these
periods will be very critical in their lives.

Rashi is the sign that was occupied by the moon at the time of a person’s
birth. Natural order and rulers of rashi are given below:

Table 1.1: The Ruling planets of various Zodiac Signs

S. No Rashis or Zodiac Signs Ruling Planets or Grahas
1 Mesha or Aries Mangal or Mars
2 Vrishab or Taurus Shukra or Venus
3 Mithun or Gemini Budh or Mercury
4 Karka or Cancer Chandra or Moon
5 Simh or Leo Surya or Sun
6 Kanya or Virgo Budh or Mercury
7 Tula or Libra Shukra or Venus
8 Vrishchik or Scorpio Mangal or Mars
9 Dhanu or Sagittarius Guru or Jupiter
10 Makar or Capricorn Shani or Saturn
11 Kumbh or Aquarius Shani or Saturn
12 Meen or Pisces Guru or Jupiter

1.2.4 Nakshatras
The circle of the nakshatras is one of the earliest elements found in Vedic
Astrology because the Moon returns to the same stars with in every 27 days. The 27
nakshatras also extend along the sign from 0° to 360°. Nakshatras are owned by
various planets, the planets rahu and ketu also own the nakshatras. Each nakshatra is
divided into four padas or charanas. Each nakshatra is of 13°20'. Initially, the
nakshatras were used primarily for muhurta, the practice of choosing the best time to
initiate an action, such as getting married, starting a war, building a house, and so
on. Over time, the nakshatra placement of the moon became the core element in the
calculation of many dasha systems, and was also used to indicate the major life
themes in a natal chart.
Introduction 17

1. Aswini: It ranges from 00-13020. It is ruled by ketu. Deity of Aswini are

twin brothers Aswin kumaras known as Doctors of God. Its symbol is horse
head. Person born in Aswini are truthful, humble, intelligent and are helpful
by nature. They have sacrificing tendency.
2. Bharani: It ranges from 13020-26040. It is ruled by Shukra. Deity of Bharani
is Yama, lord of death, called the king of dharma. Its symbol is Yoni
(Vagina). Person born in Bharani have self control, frank in opinions,
business minded. In case of malefic influence they can become criminals and
cruel in nature.
3. Krittika: It ranges from 26040-10000. It is ruled by Sun. Deity of Bharani is
Agni, the God of fire. Its symbol is knife or spear. Person born in Krittika
have strained relations with relatives and friends. They are full of creative
energy, ambitious and self motivated. They are fond of spicy food.
4. Rohini: It ranges from 10000-23020. It is ruled by Moon. Deity of Rohini is
Brahma Dev or Prjapati. Its symbol is Cart or Chariot. Person born in Rohini
are creative, experts, good speakers, stubborn in nature and at times jealous
in nature.
5. Mrigashirsha: It ranges from 10000-23020. It is ruled by Mars. Deity of
Mrigashirsha is soma which is the vedic name for the moon. Its symbol is
Deer’s head. Person born in Mrigashirsha have strong body, creative nature,
can learn new things quickly. They may have personal and financial
problems.
6. Ardra: It ranges from 06040-20000. It is ruled by Rahu. Deity of Ardra is
Rudra, the god of destruction. Its symbol is Teardrop, diamond, a human
head. Person born in Ardra are soft, strong, There profession is related to
travel and foreign places. They get angry and are also affected by sickness.
7. Punarvasu: It ranges from 20000-03020. It is ruled by Jupiter. Deity of
Punarvasu is aditi, the mother of all goodness. Its symbol is Bow and Quiver.
Person born in Punarvasu has abundance friends, good in nature, helpful. They
keep on facing trails, failure and success.
8. Pushya: It ranges from 03020-16040. It is ruled by Saturn. Deity of Pushya is
Brihaspati, or Priest to the gods. Its symbol is Cow's Udder, Lotus, Arrow
and Circle. Person born in Pushya is fortunate, wealthy, possess vehicle.
Introduction 18

They are religious by nature. They tend to suffer from skin troubles, cough
and cold.
9. Ashlesha: It ranges from 16040-300. It is ruled by Mercury. Deity of
Ashlesha is Sarpa, the Serpent god. Its symbol is Serpent. Person born in
Ashlesha makes successful politicians and have good communication skills.
They are good at administration. They are Moody, short tempered and
wicked.
10. Magha: It ranges from 00-13020. It is ruled by Ketu. Deity of Magha is Pitr,
the Father. Its symbol is Royal Throne. Person born in Magha respects
others, devoted, trustworthy and have moral standard. They may suffer from
asthma, cancer or epilepsy.
11. Purva Phalguni: It ranges from 13020-26040. It is ruled by Venus. Deity of
Purva Phalguni is Bhaga, God of good fortune. Its symbol is Front Legs of
Bed, Hammock, Fig Tree. Person born in Purva Phalguni is brave, lucky,
clever and generally good looking. They tend to suffer from headache, sinus,
blood pressure.
12. Uttara Phalguni: It ranges from 26040-10000. It is ruled by Sun. Deity of
Uttara Phalguni is Aryaman, God of favour. Its symbol is Four legs of bed,
Hammock. Person born in Uttara Phalguni are kind hearted, have patience,
very ambitious and happy with family. They tend to get success in
construction, event planning, hospitality and publicity related work. They
may suffer from dental and gastric problems.
13. Hasta: It ranges from 10000-23020. It is ruled by Moon. Deity of Hasta is
Savitr, a form of the Sun. Its symbol is Hand or fist. Person born in Hasta are
generally famous, religious minded and possess wealth. They are tall and
thin. They are good in organising and managing things. They tend to suffer
from cough, cold, sinus and heart aliments.
14. Chitra: It ranges from 23020-06040. It is ruled by Mars. Deity of Chitra is
Vishvakarma, the Chief of Construction. Its symbol is Bright Jewel or Pearl.
Person born in chitra are expert in politics, extra intelligent and healthy.
They may suffer from psychiatric and brain disorder.
Introduction 19

15. Swati: It ranges from 06040-20000. It is ruled by Rahu. Deity of Swati is

Vayu, the God of Wind. Its symbol is Shoot of Plant, Coral. Person born in
Swati are broad minded, cultered, famous, passionate and wealthy. They can
perform well in legal, stock broker, travel and transport fields. They may
suffer from heart trouble, hernia, bladder infection.
16. Vishakha: It ranges from 20000-03020. It is ruled by Jupiter. Deity of
Vishakha is Indra and Agni. Its symbol is Triumphal arch, potter's wheel.
Person born in Vishakha are religious minded, good communicator, have
lack of concentration. They generally purse as Researchers, Military Leaders,
Writers, Lawyers. They may suffer from paralysis, kidney trouble, and
trouble related to stomach.
17. Anuradha: It ranges from 03020-16040. It is ruled by Saturn. Deity of
Anuradha is Mitra, a form of the Sun, connected to Friendship. Its symbol is
Triumphal archway, lotus. Person born in Anuradha are famous, enthusiastic,
expert in arts and good health. They achieve success away from home. They
perform well in area of event management, Acting, Law, Music. They suffer
from soar throat, constipation, stomach.
18. Jyeshtha: It ranges from 16040-30000. It is ruled by Mercury. Deity of
Jyeshtha is Indra, the Chief of God. Its symbol is Circular Amulet, Umbrella,
Earring. Person born in Jyeshtha have good physique, good physical stamina,
brave, agriculturists. They may be good engineers, philosophers, detectives
and policemen. They suffer from sleepness, pain in joints.
19. Mula: It ranges from 00000-13020. It is ruled by Ketu. Deity of Mula is
Nirrti, the Goddess of Destruction. Its symbol is Bunch of roots tied together,
elephant goad. Person born in Mula are ambitious, wavering, writers,
travellers and talkative. They may be writers, spiritual teachers, doctors and
pharmacists. They may suffer from pain in hip, pain in joints, liver related
issues and obesity.
20. Purva Ashadha: It ranges from 13020-26040. It is ruled by Venus. Deity of
Purva Ashadha is Apah, the goddess of water. Its symbol is Elephant tusk,
fan, winnowing basket. Person born in Purva Ashadha are intelligent,
Introduction 20

convincing and good debaters. They generally peruse career as teachers,

writers, foreign trades, actors and in movies.
21. Uttara Ashadha: It ranges from 26040-10000. It is ruled by Sun. Deity of
Uttara Ashadha is Vishvadevas the sons of the God Dharma. Its symbol is
Elephant Tusk, Small Bed. Person born in Uttara Ashadha are preachers,
respected, noble, wavering mind and short tempered.
22. Sravana: It ranges from 26040-10000. It is ruled by Moon. Deity of Sravana
is Vishnu, Preserver of Universe. Its symbol is Ear or Three Footprints.
Person born in Sravana are financially successful, talkative, tactful and don’t
compromise. They suffer from T.B and skin diseases.
23. Dhanishta: It ranges from 26040-10000. It is ruled by Mars. Deity of
Dhanishta is Vasu, Preserver of Universe. Its symbol is Drum or
flute. Person born in Dhanishta have excellent behaviour, Rich, practical and
kind hearted. They have unhappy married life. They suffer from anaemia,
cough and cold.
24. Shatabhisha: It ranges from 06040-20000. It is ruled by Rahu. Deity of
Shatabhisha is Varuna, the God of Celestial Water. Its symbol is Empty
circle, 1, 000 flowers or stars. Person born in Shatabhisha are god fearing,
brave, clever and principled. The career suited for them are research and
scientific.
25. Purva Bhadrapada: It ranges from 20000-03020. It is ruled by Jupiter. Deity
of Purva Bhadrapada is Ajaikapada, the Lord of the Dance. Its symbol is
Front of a Funeral Cot, Two Faced Man. Person born in Purva Bhadrapada
are risk takers, charming, intelligent and expert in art. The career suited for
them is revenue department or any department where cash is transacted.
26. Uttara Bhadrapada: It ranges from 03°2016°40. It is ruled by Saturn. Deity
of Uttara Bhadrapada is Ahirbradhna, serpent or dragon of the deep. Its
symbol is back legs of funeral cot, snake in the water. Person born in Uttara
Bhadrapada are Rich, famous, merciful, devotional and knowledgeable.
27. Revati: It ranges from 16040-30000. It is ruled by Mercury. Deity of Revati
is Pushan, the Nourisher. Its symbol is Pair of Fish, Drum. Person born in
Revati are god fearing and religious. They are intelligent, amicable in nature
Introduction 21

and stubborn. They can be ambassador or politicians. They may suffer from
ulcers, orthopaedic and dental problems.

Table 1.2: Nakshatras and their Lords adopted from prchandna.tripod.com

S. No. Nakshatra Longitude Lord

(Sign-Deg-Min)
1 Ashwini 00-13020 Ketu
0 0
2 Bharani 13 20-26 40 Venus
0 0
3 Krittika 26 40-10 00 Sun
4 Rohini 10000-23020 Moon
5 Mrigashira 23020-06040 Mars
6 Ardra 06040-20000 Rahu
0 0
7 Punarvasu 20 00-03 20 Jupiter
0 0
8 Pushya 03 20-16 40 Saturn
9 Ashlesha 16040-300 Mercury
0
10 Magha 00-13 20 Ketu
0 0
11 Poorva Phalguni 13 20-26 40 Venus
0 0
12 Uttara Phalguni 26 40-10 00 Sun
13 Hasta 10000-23020 Moon
14 Chitra 23020-06040 Mars
15 Swati 06040-20000 Rahu
0 0
16 Vishakha 20 00-03 20 Jupiter
0 0
17 Anuradha 03 20-16 40 Saturn
0 0
18 Jyeshta 16 40-30 00 Mercury
19 Moola 00000-13020 Ketu
20 Purva Ashadha 13020-26040 Venus
21 Uttara Ashadha 26040-10000 Sun
0 0
22 Shravana 10 00-23 20 Moon
0 0
23 Dhanishtha 23 20-06 40 Mars
0 0
24 Shatabhisha 06 40-20 00 Rahu
25 Purva Bhadrapada 20000-03020 Jupiter
26 Uttara Bhadrapada 03020-16040 Saturn
0 0
27 Revati 16 40-30 00 Mercury
Introduction 22

A segment of the zodiac from 6°40' to 10°53' in the Makara rashi, involving
the last quarter of Uttara Ashadha nakshatra and the beginning of Sharavana, is
sometimes treated as a separate nakshatra by the name Abhijit. Thus increasing the
number of nakshatras to twenty eight. In such case Abhijit is considered as the
twenty second nakshatra, and the subsequent six nakshatras from Shravana are
numbered from 23 to 28, instead of 22 to 27.

1.3 Significance of Houses, Zodiac Signs and Planets

Each of nine planet’s i.e. Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn,
Rahu and Ketu generate different outcomes, and at times completely reverse
outcomes when placed in the twelve different rashis or zodiac signs. Planets may
have some good outcomes and some bad outcomes in each sign. This is a critical
fact of astrology which must be kept in mind. Placed at various distances from the
Sun, the planets Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Saturn and Venus become retrograde or
appear to move in the reverse direction. Sun and Moon do not have any retrograde
movement. The movement of Rahu and Ketu is always reverse to other planets.

1.3.1 Calculations of Planetary Strengths

One important element which typically is not considered at the time of
creation of horoscope is the power of the houses and planets. Vedic astrology uses
Shad bala for calculating the strength of the planets. The nine planets are always in
motion and possess specific place in the sky at any given time. They are placed in
specific sign, in a specific house and at creating angles with other planets. This gives
specific amount of strength or weakness to the planet. Planet can obtain following
six kinds of strengths.
 Positional Strength or Sthana Bala
 Directional Strength or Dig Bala
 Temporal Strength or Kaala Bala
 Motional Strength or Cheshta Bala
 Natural Strength or Naisargik Bala
 Drik Bala or Aspectual strength.
Introduction 23

Shada Bala is collection of above six types of planetary strength. The shada
bala of a planet informs us whether a planet is powerful enough to perform its role in
a person’s horoscope. A planet powerful in a shada bala has the tendency to provide
good or bad outcomes based on its characteristics. On the other hand, a poor planet
will provide illnesses and complications and will not be capable of giving outcomes.

1.3.2 The Trikona or Triangular groups.

The first triangle formed by Aries, Sagittarius and Leo are fire signs also
called as agni tatwa. The people having these signs are dominating, active,
adventurous and aggressive. They have good leadership and administrative qualities.
They have dharma aspect predominant.

The second triangle formed by Virgo, Taurus, and Capricorn are earth signs
also called as bhu tatwa. The people having these signs are down to earth, careful
and practical in nature. They have the artha aspect predominant.

The third triangle formed by Libra, Gemini, and Aquarius are air signs also
called as vayu tatwa. People having these signs are carefree, intelligent, jovial and
social and enjoy life. They have the kama aspect predominant.

The fourth triangle formed by Scorpio, Cancer and Pisces are water signs
also called as jala tatwa. People having these signs are emotional, romantic,
sensitive, artistic, spiritual. They have moksha aspect predominant.

1.3.3 The Kendra or Quadrangular groups

Aries, Libra, Cancer and Capricorn are chara or movable rashis. They form
the first quadrangle. People with chara rashis travel a lot and direct in their
approach. They are also active by nature and like changes.

Taurus, Scorpio, Leo and Aquarius are sthira or fixed rashis. They form the
second quadrangle. People with sthira rashis take their time to act, have fixed
thoughts, don’t like changes, and have fixed views and ways of performing things.
Introduction 24

Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces are dwichara or dual rashis. They
form the 3rd quadrangle. People with dwichara rashis are very intelligent and they
like exploring new paths and theories.

1.3.4 The Mutual Relationship and Behaviour of Planets

Planets like individuals have enmity, friendship and neutral relationship with
each other. This is of two types. One is the permanent and the other is
temporary. By friendship we mean the impact of planet will be increased. By enmity
we mean that the effect of planet will be counter acted by the other.

Table 1.3: Mutual relationship between various planets.

Planet Friends Neutral Enemies

Sun Mars, Moon, Jupiter Mercury Saturn & Venus

Mars, Jupiter, Venus,

Moon Mercury, Sun None
Saturn

Mars Moon, Sun, Jupiter Saturn, Venus Mercury

Mercury Venus, Sun Jupiter, Mars, Saturn Moon

Jupiter Moon, Sun, Mars Saturn Venus, Mercury

Venus Saturn, Mercury Jupiter, Mars Moon, Sun

Saturn Venus, Mercury Jupiter Moon, Sun, Mars

Planets become friends of each other or neutral to each other depending on

their sign positions. Planets in 10, 11, 12, 2, 3, 4 positions from other planet become
its temporary friends. Those in the remaining sign positions become temporary
enemies. While judging the horoscope the concept described in the above lines are
taken into consideration.

Thus for each planet the 12 signs of the zodiac are either in the Own house,
Neutral house, Friends house, Enemy house or Bitter enemy house.
Introduction 25

Table 1.4: Effect of Planets on other Planets

Permanent friend + Temporary friend = Best friend
Permanent friend + Temporary enemy = Neutral
Permanent enemy + Temporary enemy = Bitter enemy
Permanent enemy + Temporary friend = Neutral
Permanent Neural = Temporary friend = Friend
Permanent neutral + Temporary enemy = Enemy

1.4 Classification and Prediction Techniques

Classification and prediction are two forms of data analysis techniques that
can be used to make models that can anticipate important data classes or predict
future results on get set of data records. Such analysis can assist us with in depth
understanding of the data. Data classification and prediction is performed in two
steps. In the initial step classifier is built by analyzing or learning by classification
algorithms on training set made up of records and their associated class labels. This
step is also called as learning step. Classification and prediction task are performed
by the model in the second step. For the same first, the predictive accuracy of the
classifier is evaluated. Therefore, a test set is used, that is made up of test records
and their corresponding class labels. These records are chosen randomly from the
data set available. They are independent of the training records, means that they are
not used to construct the classifier. The accuracy of a classifier on a given test
records is calculated as the percentage of test records that are correctly classified by
the classifier. The class label of each test record is compared with the predicted class
by the learned classifier for same record. If the accuracy of the classifier is within
acceptable range, then the classifier is used to classify future data records for which
the class label is unknown. General Categories of Classification and Prediction
methods are described below.

1.4.1 Decision Tree Induction

Various decision tree induction methods are available such as Decision
Stump, ID3, C4.5, CART and so on. Decision tree induction methods uses greedy
approach in which decision trees are constructed using top down recursive divide
and conquer method. Major algorithms for decision tree induction also use top-down
approach. This algorithms starts with a set of training records and their associated
class labels. The training records are partitioned recursively into smaller subsets and
the tree is built.
Introduction 26

1.4.2 Probabilistic Classifiers

Bayesian and Naïve Bayes are probabilistic classifiers. This classifier can
predict probabilities of class membership that is the probability that a given tuple
belongs to a particular class. Bayesian Classification is based on Bayes’ theorem.
when applied to large databases the Bayesian Classifiers have shown high accuracy
and speed. Naïve Bayes classifiers assume that value of an attribute in a class is
independent of the values of other attributes. Assumption of this type is called class
conditional independence. This assumption reduces the overhead of the computations
involved.

Bayesian classifiers, allow the representation of dependencies among

attributes. Bayesian belief networks are also used for classification.
Baye’s Theorem
( | ) ( )
( | ) (1.1)
( )

( | ) ( | ) ( | ) ( | ) ( ) (1.2)

P(c|x) is the posterior probability of instance x in class c.

P(c) is the prior probability of target class c.

P(x|c) is the likelihood or probability of generating instance x given class c.

P(x) is the probability of occurrence of instance x.

1.4.3 Rule Based Classifier

In a Rule Based Classifiers, model the learned information is represented as
series of IF-THEN rules. First identification and examined is done to know that how
rules are used for classification. Rules can represent the information or knowledge in
efficient ways. A rule based classifier uses a group of IF-THEN rules for
classification. An IF-THEN rule is expressed in the form described below.

IF <condition> THEN <conclusion>.

Let R be rule. It can be assessed by its coverage and accuracy.
Let X be tuple from a class labelled data set D,
Let ncovers be the number of tuples covered by rule R
Introduction 27

ncorrect be the number of tuples correctly classified by rule R

and j be the number of tuples in D.

1.5 CBR and AI Techniques for Astrological Prediction

In manual prediction of astrology lot of time is utilized in performing
calculations on the horoscope for performing predictions which makes the prediction
task very tedious and cumbersome. In astrology different rules are defined by
astrologers for the prediction of different aspects of human life and events. Hence
there is no uniform methods or rules are defined by the astrologers across for
forecast of human life and its events which are available in astrology.

The horoscope has many combinations of planets and zodiacs present. As per
astrology each such combination makes a significant impact on the human life. In
present software there are few fixed rules define for these combination thus
providing the generalized prediction for everyone. Hence the prediction done by the
software are static in nature and do not cater the need of individual and even not
consider all aspects of life. These software’s do not have the capabilities of self
learning. As per best of knowledge very few scientific experiments are done on
astrological prediction. Hence the scientific validity of the rules has not been proved
till now.

Expert machines are built in various fields for analysis and predictions of the
data. These machines learn from the previous data and perform the required task
independently using various Artificial Intelligent Techniques for example weather
forecasting, medical diagnosis, financial analysis etc. Like other fields astrological
chart analysis and prediction can be treated as same and predictions can be made
accurately. But no research has been reported till now to create such a expert system
for astrological prediction.

Case based Reasoning along with classification and prediction algorithms of

artificial intelligence techniques are used in many applications to create software
with learning and prediction capabilities in various fields such as medical diagnosis,
weather forcasting, Financial Analysis, fraud detection, Legal field, metallogenic
Introduction 28

etc. The domain of many of this fields is similar and unknown like astrology. Hence
CBR and AI techniques can be used for astrological data classification and
prediction

1.6 Organization of Thesis

The thesis is organized in seven chapters. The description of chapter details
is as follows.

Chapter 2: In this chapter work related to study are explored, key work done and
methodologies used by various researchers. The literature review is done for
Astrology, Case Base Reasoning, applications of Artificial Intelligence using
classification techniques and AI techniques which is available for classification and
prediction.. Also a systematic review of various domains in which classification
techniques are used is also discussed.

Chapter 3: This chapter provides an overview and justification for the research
endeavor under taken. It contains the overview of the thesis outlining the specific
aim of the research. It provides the significance of the study by identifying
objectives, scope and contributions. Chapter concludes by stating necessary research
questions in order to focus the study and direct the answering of them towards the
research outcomes.

Chapter 4: This chapter covers the essential methodologies used in the research. It
also provides the in depth details of the various methods used in research work. It
provides the base for the research work under taken and justifies the choices made in
the research design.

Chapter 5: This chapter describes about the system design of ADSSAP (Analysis
and Decision Support System for Astrological prediction) and discusses about the
conceptual research design. It also covers the architectural design and the
components of the framework. These chapter also discusses about the
implementation of various phases of Case Based Reasoning and method of data
collection and creation for the research and the attributes used in this research. It
also provides an overview of estimation parameters used.
Introduction 29

Chapter 6: This chapter covers the final investigation and experiments for the
research work. Classification methods were applied on various sets of data. Results
were monitored. Eight research cases were implemented as experiments and each
case was performed using various algorithms and settings and results are presented
over here.

Chapter 7: The thesis is concluded in this chapter, with a summary of the key
findings from the research conducted over here. This chapter also explores the
limitation of the research work and scope of future work to be carried out.