Your soul is the carrier of vibrations and energies specific to you. The soul undergoes cycles of rebirth manifesting its propensity and character in each life. That is why, the unfulfilled desires of your past life continues to be carried into your present life with strong intensity. Studying the stars and the planetary positions in your birth chart, a good Astrologer can tell you about your past life.

What makes you born at the event of particular planetary congregations?

According to Astrology, you carry the good or bad energies from the actions and deeds of your past life. Your Karma is the energy stored within you that makes you gravitate to Earth under certain planetary combinations. Strong planets such as Sun, Jupiter, Saturn and Mars have stronger presence among all the Zodiac planets. Think yourself fortunate if these planets bestow good influence on your life. Well their blessings are not just a stroke of luck or fluke.

So astrologers, through their years of study, can visualize the kind of energy that exists within a person. He or she can help a person improve through suggestions of various remedies. The art of predicting the effects of planets is important in this field, and good and accurate prediction can be made through years of dedication into the study of cosmic forces.

Karma and the Planets

Blessings of planets come to you as a reward of the good deeds you have done, good vibrations you have created in Nature from your good thoughts. So, the good indications in your birth-chart are also the indications of the goodness in you, the positivity and light you manifest. Remember, one type of good energy always attract another good one just as ‘matter always attract another matter’ in the Space.

When you were born you had attracted the energies of a particular planetary congregation.

What are the specific indications in your chart that tells you about your past life?

Astrologers believe that specific Houses in your chart and specific Planets are strong indicators of your past life:

1. The Ninth House

Among the twelve houses in your birth-chart, the Ninth house indicates your strong moral convictions - the good or the bad you embody. Ninth House is the house of

Your luck, fortune, and prosperity. Your pursuits and the success you stand to get from them. Your mental horizon: awareness, interests and inclinations towards search for knowledge,

discovery, travels, inventions and enlightenment. Your ability to delegate good judgement and righteousness.

When you manifest a dynamic character and a divine spirit, rest assured that you are enjoying the good effects of the Ninth House.

The extent to which you can enjoy the fruits of all the qualities of Ninth House depends on the amount of good energies you have accumulated through the good acts in your past life.

2. Influence of Jupiter and Saturn and the half-planet Ketu

Jupiter is the greatest benefic of all planets while Saturn the greatest malefic and thereby they are the strong indicators of one’s Karma. Ketu (the lunar node) is reckoned to be a shadow planet that represents good and bad Karmic energy one has

Jupiter: Good presence of Jupiter indicates the blessings you receive from God whereas as a weak Jupiter indicates your curses from God. Being lord of the Ninth house, Jupiter indicates your talents, mental propensity and your enthusiasm towards your pursuits – these abilities when they come to you as rewards, they are the fruits of your good Karma.

Saturn: Saturn is also called the Lord of Karma. He makes you undergo phases of intense hard-ship to gain what you desire. When you desire for something in life which your Karma does not permit, Saturn turns into a malefic task master.

Ketu: Ketu also leads one through a path of refinement that brings out the true qualities within a person. Good influence of Ketu helps one to manifest good abilities and talents, whereas an afflicted Ketu makes life rigorous in realizing ones potential talents.

So when you think of your destiny, do not forget to look into the reservoir of your good and the bad Karmas.

he 11th house in one’s chart indicates one’s dreams, aspirations and capacity for happiness through fulfillment of desires. It indicates gains through one’s present birth Karmas. It is also known as the ‘The House of Good Fortune’.

The 11th House also signifies - friendships, older siblings, recovery from illness, elevation of husband, longevity of mother, spiritual accomplishments, financial stability, recognition, fructification of one’s efforts, social affairs, place one occupies in a group.

A Favorable 11th House in Birth Chart will ensure-

Success in any venture Support of friends Financial gains Smooth life Unexpected gains

Wealth Creation and 11th House

Wealth of a person is judged by studying the 2nd and the 11th House. The 2nd House indicates fixed assets or family assets like property, land, business etc. and the 11th House signifies one’s capacity to generate wealth.

The combination of the 2nd house (regular income, fixed assets) and the 9th House (luck) in the 11th House in a Birth Chart creates a powerful confluence for wealth creation. It bestows one with a fortune to generate surplus and virtuous income.

Jupiter is the significator of money and if the planet is placed in 11th House in exaltation (powerful state) then the native will enjoy good financial status and will get success in all ventures.

The 7th house deals and indicates about business or partnership. If 7th House lord conjoins with 11th House or lord of the House then the native will gain good amount of money through business and partnership (but partnership should be avoided with relatives) without much hesitation.

Presence of exalted Sun (or Sun in his own sign) in the 11th House brings one substantial income and plenty of opportunities. Some of the well known personalities with Sun in 11th House are- Robert Pattinson, Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp, Michael Jackson, Marilyn Monroe, Bill Clinton, Nietzsche, Shakespeare, Michael Jordan, George Washington, Cher, Elizabeth Taylor.

The strength of the 11th House is evaluated on the basis of -

Favorable planets in the 11th House

The Lord of the 11th House placed in a favorable position in the Birth Chart Transit of favorable planets through the 11th House Yogas (favorable planetary combinations) in the Birth Chart in correlation with the 11th

House

People with strong 11th House rather love to live according to their own comfort, and are not usually strong believers of the prevailing doctrines around them. They have their own perspective and they attract others who share the same vision.

Other Planets in the 11th House

Presence of Moon in the 11th House will make a person highly learned and will possess praise worthy qualities. It will also allow the flow of wealth without much effort. Association of Mars with 11th House lord will make a native popular. If strong Mercury occupies the 11th house of a person’s Birth Chart, it will make him wealthy through virtuous deeds.

The planetary combination of Venus, Mercury, Jupiter and Moon in the 11th House of a person bestows Raja Yoga (be wealthy, honored and famous). A strong Saturn in the 11th House would make a person enjoy comforts of all kinds. A person with Rahu in the 11th House enjoys a long and a prosperous life. Presence of Ketu in the 11th House makes a person versatile, learned and wealthy.

Is Astrology Approved by the Scientific Community?

The majority of the scientific community denies the validity of astrological ideas and predictions.

But why should scientists be given a chance to comment on this very ancient practice that involves so many favorable testimonials and believers amongst us?

Astrology, to begin with, must be understood as a divine technique and tool. It is the science of the heavenly bodies. There are a number of things we can deny. After all science has denied the existence of a creator - God Himself! Science definitely does not have the test hypothesis results certifying that the creator exists, even now.

But, looking around you, is it possible for any scientist to replicate and create the sprouting seed or the growing human baby in the mother’s womb - all out of his chemicals in his laboratory? The answer is clearly in the negative.

From this, we know, science and scientific powers are limited.

What Astrology Is Capable of

Astrology is not a crude discipline. It uses the refined knowledge about the heavenly bodies as well as sophisticated tools such as star charts. It is possible to predict:

A person’s traits by a mere look at the 1st House of his Birth Chart. His aptitude for a particular career by analyzing his personal strengths and limitations

based on his 4th House. His success as a student and his success in marriage. There are numerous instances from many people’s personal experiences that their future

predictions have also come true.

Astrology is a knowledge science. For those of you who believe in it, it arms you with 1) a clear perception of what you are, 2) what you are likely to achieve in your lifetime and 3) what are the hurdles and obstacles that you may face. All these help you to succeed in your life.

In Vedic astrology, the planets are conceived as divine gods and goddesses themselves and in propitiating them it is possible to ask them to favor you. It is also possible to tide over bad karma that we say is responsible for trouble and difficulties by performing the ordained remedies or pariharas.

Ancient Truths Unveiled by Science!

When our ancestors said that the Moon had powers to influence crop growth, movement of tides, conception of babies and their birth, and changed personalities in individuals, these beliefs were casted away as superstitions by some. However, only when science matured and advanced was it able to prove that the magnetic forces of the Moon indeed had a bearing and influence on the incidents on Earth.

Science has proved the Sun also has an effect on life on Earth. It was science that confirmed what astrology stated thousands of decades back. That the solar flares occurring in the Sun affect the baby in the womb has become published evidence.

Going from the above data, it is likely that it will take a few more years for science to evolve and prove that all the planets do exert their influence on Planet Earth. Until then, when we do not have any concrete proof against astrology, we cannot do away with an ancient practice that has helped so many.

Many cultures in the world, including Hinduism, believe in Evil eye. The term is generally used to indicate negative vibes or emotions such as hatred, jealousy and others that can generate harmful energies to deter growth or good results.

Evil eye of a person towards another is believed to bring misfortune to the other person. Such distressful energies can be generated intentionally or without the knowledge of the person who is emanating negative vibes. Feeling distressed or acutely sorrow for another person’s well-being can itself generate negative vibes to deter the other person from being able to enjoy the fruits of his/her good luck.

Protective Measures against the First Gaze of a Person with Evil Eyes

It is believed that sometimes, first gaze of the person casting evil eyes can create harmful vibes. Various protective methods have been adopted in Hinduism to counter these distressing energies. Some of the common practices in India to ward off effects of evil eyes are:

Hang seven chilies and a lemon at the top of the front door. Hang Masks of demon face or a conch or a piece of turmeric, or piece of rock salt or a

combination of all of them on top of the front door. Keeping an aquarium in the hall of the house. Keep a coconut inside a black colored bag and hang it at the front door. Placing a black spot on the face of a baby

Protective Measures for a Person Affected by Evil Eyes

There are certain common practices, also known as Totkas, performed in Indian households, even today, to prevent ill effects on people under evil eyes. A few of them are:

Take a few red chilies in your palm and rotate it around the head of the affected child. Throw the chilies into fire. It will remove ill-effects from the child.

Take a large sized bucket/vessel, and fill it with plain water up to 60% to cover your ankles, when the feet are immersed in the bucket, add 5 tablespoon of rock salt, Pray to God with faith to remove the demonic/black magic effects from you. Also pray specifically for destroying the unholy effects of the negative energies.

On a Saturday or a Sunday, in the night take half Kg of milk in a bowl or if possible in a mud container. Move with it anticlockwise 51 times around the person affected by evil eye. Now serve this milk to any street dog or any other dog you may find near your house. It will remove evil eye and you would feel energetic and fresh.

Protective Shield of Yantras

There are certain devices known as the Yantras, through which divine powers can be sought to remove bad vibrations and bring in positive changes. They are good for removing evil energies and keeping enemies at bay. A few of them are:

Keeping a Matsya Yantra with an impression of a fish representing Lord Vishnu can bring rewarding changes to one’s career and personal life.

Keeping Mrityunjaya Yantra one can invoke the blessings of Lord Shiva for curing any health ailments.

Keeping Pratyangira Devi Yantra can invite good spirits and open the doors to happiness.

A marriage with one throwing the saucepan, the other the kettle? Marriage turning sour with both spouses pulling long faces and resenting each other?

Then, you may be a victim of nadi dosha!

What Is Nadi Dosha?

The day and time a person is born at determine the Birth Star of the person. Each Birth Star is divided into three nadis:

Aadi or first nadi Madhya or middle nadi and Antar or last nadi

For horoscopes to match and the couple remain cordial with each other, they should be born in different nadis. If born in the same nadi, this will cause nadi dosha and difficulties in marital relationship.

So, you may be left wondering why nadi dosha is this notorious and powerful that the love that should blossom between couples is never meant to be. The sweet little things of give and take between them never manifest

Like Poles Repel, Unlike Poles Attract

Born of the same nadi, marrying and thus, possessing nadi dosha, it happens to be that both partners exhibit the same tendencies. Both may be of angry disposition or both lazy or both terrible liars. And such like attributes repel and strain the relationship. They may often end up arguing if both are of the same short-tempered nature.

Like Poles Repel, Unlike Poles Attract

Yes. In some situations, people of the same nadis can marry and have a harmonious relationship. These situations arise when the bride and groom have:

Different Birth Stars The same Birth Star, but different Houses Same Birth Stars and House, but different padas (each star is sub-divided into four quarters or

padas

What You Need to Do for a Nadi Dosha Nivarana or Remedy

If people of the same nadi want to get married, then the nadi nivarana or remedial rituals must be performed. This includes reciting the Mahamrityunjaya mantra the prescribed number of times and donating to the Vedic priest cloth, some grains, and a cow.

Once this ritual has been completed, the couple can be married even if they are of the same nadis and look forward to a rewarding and happy married life!

Vedic Astrology helps in the study of destiny of individuals through astrological charts. Doshas or unfavorable position of the planets in the charts occurs owing to past life actions. When malefic planets like Saturn, Ketu, and Rahu are positioned in certain houses of the chart, they result in doshas. Mars and Sun too are responsible for doshas.

However there are different types of doshas in Vedic Astrology:

Manglik dosha – unfavorable placement of Mars in a chart Kalasarp dosha- unfavorable placement of Rahu and Ketu Shrapit dosha- unfavorable placement of Saturn and Rahu Nadi dosha- when two persons of similar nadi get married Pitra dosha- unfavorable placement of Sun, Moon, Rahu and Saturn Karthik Janm dosha- Weak Sun causes this condition.

Understanding Karthik Dosha

Karthik month starts in Mid October and ends approximately in Mid November, every year.

Sun`s transit to Libra - During this solar month of Karthik, the Sun transits the Libra sign. Sun is considered to be debilitated in Libra sign. Sun transits to inimical sign of Libra, during this period. Debilitated Sun is not good.

Significations of Sun - Health, vision, father, seniors, government related works, name and fame.

Those born during this period:

Native born in this month may have poor administrative qualities. He/she may have fear of taking responsibility in the relationship. They may not have good relationship with father in law and father. He/she may possess poor health, this may affect in the relationship. Even they may not posses interest in physical pleasure in the relationship. The person may be harsh in speech; this may give problems in the relationship.

Negative impact due to Karthik Dosha

The native may not get any help from Government. The seniors in the profession will not support or will not give any recognition. Getting name and fame is quite difficult for them. Health problem especially eyesight, digestion, energy and bone problems are indicated.

That is why when a native is born in month of Karthik he/she is known to have Karthik Dosha.

Remedies to overcome Karthik Dosha

Every day in the morning they have to pray lord Sun and prostrating the Sun will give energy. On Every Sunday praying to lord Sun in navagraha temple regularly will benefit the native. Praying lord Shiva and special pooja to the lord will benefit the native with good health. Helping any old or aged person by donating a walking stick, umbrella and Bhagavat Gita. This

would benefit the native with good recognition. Chanting these mantras on Sunday will give the native, peace and happiness in the personal life.

“Om Suriyani namaha”

“Om Marichiyae namaha”

“Om Sambouthiyae namaha”

They should be chanted on Sunday at 6am to 7am, 1 pm to 2pm, and 8 pm to 9pm.

Efficacy of Remedies

Mantras are sound waves that effect changes through positive vibrations and eliminating evil ones. Mantras are repetition of sacred syllables or words, whose sound waves activate a different center in the human body that corresponds to a particular planet. Those born during this period of time, should consult an astrologer and check out whether one is afflicted of this dosha. Proper remedies done devoutly and faithfully would yield positive results on the life of a native.

Numbers and life incidents! Who would have ever thought a relationship exists between the two? However, the ancient science of numerology does confirm that numbers have an influence on who you are and what is happening to you.

What is Numerology?

Numerology examines in detail what effects numbers have on people. It analyses the links between your name and birthdate and opens up a whole lot of information concerning you that even you may be unaware of! So, tap into this vital science and benefit remarkably.

Benefits of Numerology

1.Know Who You Are

Numerology has the ability to explain why you make certain choices and helps you know your strengths and weaknesses. Improve Your Relationships

Numerology analyzes what you bring into a relationship, for example, are you the much-too possessive kind? It also looks into what your close ones and friends need from a relationship. It helps you form positive, strong ties by giving you an insight of what the people involved expect from each other in a bond.

2. Leap Your Hurdles and Tap Into Your Opportunities

There are times you find yourself in a total mess. At other times, things are favorable. The Life Path Number in Numerology tells you when opportunities would knock at your door and when challenges may let you down. This vital piece of information helps you to be prepared in advance and face the situations aptly.

3. Know Your Specialty and Carve Yourself a Niche

Your Birthday number is analyzed as a whole number and not reduced to a single digit. This provides you with information on special talents that you brought into the world with you. It tells you your specialty. With this knowledge, you can carve a niche for yourself.

4. Align Yourself With Life’s Lessons

Karmic debt shows you the energies that are associated with life lessons that you need to learn in this birth. Karmic debt numbers are 4, 5, 7, 13, 14, 16 and 19. Know your karmic debt and align yourself with the lessons ought to be learned in your lifetime and evolve into a better person

5. Walk Life’s Tight Rope and Find Balance!

Balance is what we are all striving for. Sometimes, we deviate from this and end up in trouble. How to direct your emotional energies, your angers, frustrations and passions are all exposed by your balance number in your numerology chart. Through this, you can have better control of your reactions toward what life throws at you and stay poised!

6. Know What Your Expression Number Says

Your expression number is obtained by adding up all the numbers in your name. This number constitutes the basic foundation of who you are and your skills and abilities.

Conclusion

Life is all about living to your fullest potential. Only when you know yourself well, can you win the battles in life. Numerology helps you exactly in this mission. Work with the cycles of destiny that occur in life and make the most of them using your intellect and wisdom obtained from numerology!

asic aim of astrology is to offer accurate predictions. Predictions are made using either by Vedic Astrology, Horary, or nadi.

About Vedic Astrology

It is called Jyotisha or science of light. In Vedic Astrology, a horoscope is drawn based on the time of one`s birth, place and date. Vedic Astrology has 4 branches:

Jaataka or Janma Kundali or predictive astrology deals with Birth charts. Prashna or horary astrology deals with query charts. Muhurtha or electional astrology deals with auspicious moments for activities. Nimitta deals with the science of omens.

About Horary Astrology

Horary astrology is a branch of astrology that gives predictions based on the moment of time the question is asked.

Hora means moments of time. Horary astrology is also called Prashna astrology, where focus is just on one question at a time. It is believed that God would answer one`s question through the astrologer.

Sacred Texts

One can get a lot of information about horary astrology from `Brihat Parasara Hora Sastra` that is in the form of dialogue between sage Parasara and sage Maitreya, which dates 3700 B.C.

Varahamihira, a well known astrologer in the court of Great King Vikramadithya wrote, Daivaghya Vallabha which deals with prashna or horary astrology.

Difference between Vedic Astrology and Horary Astrology

Role of karma in the chart

The birth chart of Vedic Astrology indicates the results of past karma or actions. Planetary positions and their combinations are the reflection of one`s past deeds and they give their good and bad effects based on one`s deeds.

Prasna or Horary charts reveal to us whether a man reaps the fruits of his action of his previous birth or the fruits of his action of his present birth.

This can be found out by studying the birth chart and the prasna chart. If the horoscope has beneficial planetary positions and the prasna chart has unfavorable planetary combinations, then it is to be understood that the native is experiencing the evil karma of this birth.

But on the other hand, if the horoscope does not have beneficial planetary patterns, but the prasna chart shows benefic ones, then it is to be understood by the astrologer that the good noble actions done in this birth are helping the native.

Erection of chart

When a person asks the questions to the astrologer, that moment of asking is taken into consideration. Horoscope is drawn at the time of asking the query.

Based on the planetary positions at that time, date and place the horoscope chart is drawn. Likewise, if the set of questions are sent by post or through other means, then the chart is

drawn by the astrologer for predictions, taking the date, place and time when he reads the letter.

In Vedic Astrology, birth charts are drawn based on the time of birth. Horary Astrology does not need birth charts for predictions; rather chart is drawn on the moment of the query.

Accuracy of Birth time

Exact birth time alone can give accurate predictions. Since many fail to keep record of such details, limitations arise when one has to cast a horoscope.

At such times, horary astrology becomes very useful in answering important questions troubling one`s mind and helps taking decisions accordingly.

It takes into consideration the time of the birth of the query.

Role of omens

Finding and predicting according to omens, breath flow in the nostrils of the astrologer, querent`s mannerisms is done in Horary Astrology, which is not found in Vedic Astrology.

Vimshottari Dasa System

This is followed for predictions in both Vedic and Horary Astrology.

Astrology is a field of study that deals with planetary movements in the Universe and their influences on human life. An understanding of how planets move, congregate and become strong or weak at varied points of time is the core matter of its study.

Astrology perceives every human to be an expression of unique combinations of planetary bodies at a particular time in the Universe. Such planetary congregations trigger off interaction of heavenly energies, which is seen to manifest in humans. Hence, astrologers study about different cosmic bodies and events in the Universe to understand the correlation between the energy trapped within a human body and in the vast Cosmos.

So astrologers, through their years of study, can visualize the kind of energy that exists within a person. He or she can help a person improve through suggestions of various remedies. The art of predicting the effects of planets is important in this field, and good and accurate prediction can be made through years of dedication into the study of cosmic forces.

Different aspects of planets

1. Movement of planets: Zodiac is the great circle representing the path on which the planets move in the Cosmos and this 360 degree circle is divided into 12 equal parts, called Zodiac signs or Rasis

2. Different planets that Vedic astrologers study: Each sign is ruled by a Graha or Planet claiming Lordship or Ownership over it. In Vedic astrology, Sun and Moon are considered planets and Rahu and Ketu nodes of Moon. The other planets are Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn.

3. Zodiac that each planet possesses: While the Sun is the Lord of only the 5th sign, Leo; the Moon takes ownership of the 4th sign, Cancer, Mercury rules over Gemini and Virgo, Venus over Taurus and Libra, Mars over Aries and Scorpio, Jupiter over Pisces and Sagittarius, and Saturn over Aquarius and Capricorn.

4. Qualities of different planets: The energies that help in activating force in each planet are Tamasic, Rajasic and Sattwic.

Tamasic planets: Mars, Saturn, The Nodes (Rahu and Ketu) Rajasic planets: Mercury, Venus Sattwic planets: Sun, Moon, Jupiter

5. Five elements present in planets: Elements of Nature - Fire, Earth, Air, Water and Space influence planet’s and sign’s behaviors. Some of these elements are predominant in Zodiac and planets:

Fiery planets: Mars rules over Fire. Aries, Leo and Sagittarius with characteristics such as aggressive and bold nature.

Earthly planets: Mercury rules over Earth. Taurus, Virgo and Capricorn with characteristics such as hard working and practical.

Airy planets: Saturn rules over Air. Gemini, Libra and Aquarius with characteristics such as higher mental capabilities.

Watery planets: Venus rules over Water. Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces with characteristics such as emotional connections.

None of the signs denote Space but Jupiter rules over it.

Horoscope is the birth-chart of a person that shows the planetary locations in the Zodiac at the point of time when the person was born. An astrologer makes his prediction about a person by studying the qualities of the planets evident through his birth-chart.

What does an astrologer study in a birth-chart?

The Vedic Astrology is represented with a 12-square chart. This chart represents the following:

The 12 Zodiac signs that show the good or bad influences of planets based on their locations in relation to other planets.

The 12 Houses describes the aspects of a person’s life such as personality, material assets, family-members and so on.

The Karma or the good and bad effects of our actions and thoughts that will influence the energies in our body and its fallout in future.

The Constellations of 27 stars or Nakshatras placed in the chart and the prominent ones affecting the energy sources in humans.

The position of the Moon in the Zodiac decides the Zodiac of the person and the corresponding star most prominent in the same Zodiac is the birth star of the person.

Astrology is surely a vast subject but horoscope is the tool that helps to understand the practical applications of astrology in human life.

Panchang means spiritual calendar. Panchang gives one the knowledge of time. Vedas declare that knowledge of Panchang frees a person from all sins and gives salvation unto him.

Benefits Of Panchang

Pancha means five and anga means limbs or attributes. They are five attributes of time, namely: Vara, tithi, nakshatra, yoga and karana.

Knowledge of Vara bestows longevityKnowledge of tithi bestows wealthKnowledge of nakshatra removes sinsKnowledge of yoga cures diseasesKnowledge of karana gives success in work

Rishis tell us upon waking up; one must recite the panchang to derive the above spiritual benefits.

5 Attributes Of Panchang

1.Vaar means days of the week. Seven days of the week are ruled by the seven planets. Shadow planets, Rahu and Ketu are associated with Tuesday and Saturday.

Sunday is ruled by Surya( the Sun) Monday is ruled by Soma (the Moon) Tuesday is ruled by Mangala( Mars) Wednesday is ruled by Budha (Mercury) Thursday is ruled by Guru (Jupiter) Friday is ruled by Shukra (Venus) Saturday is ruled by Shani(Saturn)

2.Tithi is the day of the moon phase. There are 14 tithis in between every new moon and full moon

3.Nakshatras are lunar mansions. The path of the moon is split into 27 units and each unit is given a name of a nakshatra. Moon`s position in the zodiac is indicated by the name of the constellation or nakshatra. There are 27 nakshatras.

4.Karana is half of a tithi. There are 2 karanas in each tithi.

5.Yoga is the angle of the sun and the moon determining the auspiciousness of each day. There are 27 yogas. Some of the non- benefic yogas are: Vishkamba, Shoola, Vajra, vyatipada, Vyaghatha, Athiganda, Ganda, parigha, vaidhruthi.

A day in panchang means, the time duration from one sunrise to the next sun rise. This duration is about 24 hours.

Uses of Panchang

Panchang is used for fixing muhurthas (spiritually powerful time periods in each day) for auspicious events, preparation of horoscope, for sankalpa, fixing dates for vrattas and shraddas.

One can also know about the unfavorable periods in a day through panchang like Rahu kaalam and Yama kandam. They are inauspicious time periods unsuitable for material activities.

Position of the sun, moon and other planets are also known through panchang.

Are you running the much feared Seven and half year Saturn or you are about to enter that phase? Under such a circumstance, it is advisable you slow down and reflect on your priorities of life. Figure out, ideally, what would be the suitable steps to take at that point in life and follow them with devotion and mindfulness.

Here is why you should make yourself well composed during the cycle of Seven and half year Saturn.

If you want to draw an image of Saturn, he would represent a ‘Yogi in meditation’ - an ascetic who is emotionally detached, a demanding task master and a loner. Saturn is known to be the best judgment provider of all planets. So beware! In his presence, be his good, hard-working and obedient disciple.

Saturn is said to slow you down because His movement is the slowest of all planets. He transits each House in the Zodiac in a period of two and half years.

Seven and a half year of Saturn is the transit phase that affects you the most because his strong and over bearing presence is very close to your Moon sign. The period begins when He enters the 12th sign before your Moon sign and crosses through to the next house on the other side of your Moon sign. This is when you feel that He has come down very hard on you.

Would it be right to call Saturn a legendary malefic planet?

Saturn is feared to be the legendary malefic force, extremely stern with people - There is lot of truth in it but not the complete Truth.

Gifts of Saturn: If you are blessed by Saturn, He gives you longevity of life, gives you position of authority, and re-establishes positive spirit that brings order and consistency required in life. Saturn relieves you of bad Karmas of your past.

Above all, Saturn can bring in you a tremendous survival instinct – a drive to rise above the troubles in life and reach your goal steadfast.

Changes that Saturn brings: He is the planet of Ego so he crushes all that goes against his dictates. He does not tolerate any kind of falsehood, superficiality of life, weak emotions and negative thinking. One who rises above all this becomes the loved one of Saturn. The wealth that He gives you is well-deserved and to be enjoyed for long time.

Dark-side of Saturn: He brings diseases, perversity, poverty and ugliness of people to the surface. When Saturn is Malefic in a birth-chart,

He turns the native criminal, and causes sudden loss of wealth, premature death, and so on.

He causes degenerative and fatal diseases, makes people born as deaf, dumb, retarded physically and so on. People with retarded speech and mind also have badly placed Saturn and Ketu (due to people’s Karma in their past life).

He is too demanding for people who rise too easily during this period. He eventually casts them down and grinds them to face reality.

Psychologically Saturn makes you experience darkness, death and sorrow so that you can overcome them and rise up to seek the divinity of the Cosmos.

- How would a person with a dominant Jupiter in horoscope look like? The answer is, Big, in terms of his or her physical appearance. That is the most striking indication of a strong influence of Jupiter on an individual. Jupiter, the largest planet of the solar system, not just encourages expansion of the physical body, but also the growth and development of philosophical and intellectual mind.

That is the reason why a person with a strong Jupiter makes a good teacher, preacher, a good leader as he is benevolent and would deal fairly with all. He will be optimistic with a good sense of humor. Old Greeks considered Jupiter as the father of Gods.

Jupiter is dominant in a Birth Chart when it is placed in the sign Cancer, where it is most powerful. Placement of the planet in the sign Sagittarius or Pisces is also good as these are its own houses.

What Jupiter reveals about a person?

Jupiter guides one to achieve one’s highest fulfillment and happiness. It signifies abundance, good fortune, self-confidence and higher learning. The placement of the planet in an individual’s Birth Chart would give clues about the person’s disposition and tendencies.

In Aries, it makes a person optimistic, confident and independent. When placed in Ascendant (the house of self), Jupiter bestows the qualities of kindness and joviality. The person will be attractive and plays a dominant role in a group.

In Taurus, it makes a person charitable and hardworking, one who loves to see tangible results. Jupiter in the 2nd house would give opportunities to enhance material comforts in life. The person will be confident and lucky.

In Gemini would make a person versatile, friendly and curious. Cheerful and confident communicators have Jupiter in their 3rd house. They are adaptable and travel quite a lot.

Exalted in Cancer makes the natives fortunate to benefit from the most benevolent planet. They are sympathetic, charitable, intuitive and enjoy popularity among the masses. They enjoy rich life experiences. Jupiter in the 4th house makes a person confident, optimistic and hospitable. The person enjoys good fortune during the later years.

In Leo would make a person sincere and generous. They have strong opinion and perceptions. Jupiter in the 5th house promotes tendencies towards sports and games. Also, the individuals are warm and playful with children as well as in their romantic life.

In Virgo makes one disposed towards philanthropic interests. They have good critical and analytical skills. 6th house Jupiter makes a person jovial and cooperative. These people have a tendency to focus at the big picture but often overlook finer details.

In Libra bestows success in partnerships, be it concerning business or marriage. The diplomatic and mediation skills of these individuals help them to steer ahead in any challenging situation. The placement of the planet in the 7th house facilitates wealthy and understanding spouse. Natives with this combination are generous and can handle legal matters with ease.

In Scorpio has a strong will to overcome many obstacles in life. However, the natives are prone to inherit hereditary diseases. Having a 8th Jupiter makes a person emotional but he/she will be lucky with investments.

In Sagittarius, it makes the person enjoy freedom and also gain through it. The placement of the planet in the 9th house makes a person lucky in terms of higher education and foreign travel.

In Capricorn makes wonderful executives and managers provided Jupiter is not negatively aspected. Similarly, the planet blesses one to enjoy good public image, foreign travel and gains through career if it is placed in the 10th house.

In Aquarius will enjoy philosophical discussions and higher-minded values. If placed in the 11th house, the planet would help one accomplish goals and aspirations, especially if these are for social justice and development. The natives will have knowledgeable and trustworthy friends.

In Pisces attracts good luck and the natives are kind, caring and idealistic. They have a bent towards religion and mystical practices. Placement of the planet in the 12th house instills tendency to remain secluded and work for the benefit of the mankind.

Jupiter is the natural significator of the 2nd house (house of wealth, speaking), 5th house (education, skill and kids), 9th house (Luck and religion) and 11th house (House of achievements). It is considered that the mere presence of Jupiter in Ascendant or Kendra removes many afflictions in a Birth Chart.

Creating a Hora chart can be an interesting exercise of searching for Celestial planets and locating them on the Zodiac path. Locating the planets and taking a note of their exact degrees can tell you a lot about them. Am I trying to turn you starry eyed? Not really!

The thought of probing into the Zodiac may appear weird, but exploring the Zodiac represented in your Rasi birth chart can be fun. Just think, isn’t this a great way to develop a rapport and intimacy with the planets that are shaping your life?

“Yes, true, but why would I be inclined to create a Hora chart, especially when I have hardly heard about it!”

Well, a Hora chart gives you a peep into very important aspect of your life: the flow of money in your life and the wealth you are destined to enjoy.

Essentials of a Hora chart in Vedic Astrology

Technically speaking, a Hora chart is also one of the divisional or varga charts of an individual. It is another chart that is created out of your Birth chart to study whether the planetary energies support you for creating and enjoying wealth in your life. There are other varga charts for other topics.

The word Hora stands for Hour or the Planetary Hour and it plays a very important role in Vedic Astrology. It is also commonly referred by astrologers as the D2 chart.

Determining the Sun and the Moon Horas

Let us get down to the basics. Hora chart of an individual is ruled by the Sun or the Moon, that in figurative terms represent your Father and Mother. You were born to Earth from them remember!

Each sign in the Zodiac occupies a space of 30 degrees. Now, imagine that this space of 30 degrees is shared between your Father and Mother. So, 15 degrees of a sign is Sun Hora the other 15 degrees of a sign is Moon Hora.

Sun, Mars and Jupiter are stronger in Hora of the Sun whereas Moon, Venus and Saturn are stronger in Hora of the Moon. Strength or weakness of a planet in the D2 chart depends on the Hora it was placed at the time of your birth.

How about trying to create a Hora chart of Bill Gates?

As Hora chart tells about wealth, let us try to create the Hora chart of Bill Gates, a very wealthy man. This can be done by studying the planets in his Birth chart. He was born on 28th October, 1955, at 22:00 (10.00PM Pacific time) Seattle in Washington State, in USA and his Moon sign is Pisces.

Bill Gates Birth-chart:

Courtesy: AstroVed Free Reports 2014

Let’s locate the planets in his Birth chart. Begin with Aries sign and move in a clockwise direction. We see Ketu in Taurus, Jupiter in Leo, Mercury and Mars in Virgo, Venus, Sun and Saturn in Libra, Rahu in Scorpio and Moon in Pisces.

Now, note that starting with Aries every other or alternate sign in the Zodiac is considered masculine. This means Aries, Gemini, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius and Aquarius are masculine. In these signs, planets placed between 0 to 15 degrees are in the Hora of the Sun and those between 16 to 30 degrees fall under the Hora of the Moon. The remaining signs are considered feminine. This means Taurus, Cancer, Virgo, Scorpio, Capricorn and Pisces are feminine. In these feminine signs, the Horas are reversed. So, planets placed between 0 to 15 degrees are in the Hora of the Moon and planets in the second half in the Hora of the Sun.

Let’s follow these simple rules and figure out the Horas of the planets in Bill Gates’ Birth chart:

His Ketu is placed in the second half of feminine sign Taurus, so we assign it to the Hora of the Sun.

His Jupiter is in the first half of masculine sign Leo, so we assign it to the Hora of Sun.

His Mars and Mercury are in the second half of feminine sign Virgo, so both are in the Hora of the Sun.

The Sun is in the first half of masculine sign Libra, so it is in the Hora of the Sun. His Venus and Saturn are in the Hora of the Moon. His Rahu in the second half of Scorpio is in the Hora of the Sun and the Moon in the

first half of Pisces is in the Hora of the Moon.

We will now draw a South Indian Vedic chart to show the Hora placement for Bill Gates in his D2 divisional chart. In a Hora chart, all planets assigned to the Moon Hora are placed in Cancer sign (Moon is the ruler of Cancer), and all planets assigned to Sun Hora are placed in Leo sign (Sun is the ruler of Leo). Below is a diagram to Bill Gates’ Hora chart results.

Bill Gates Hora chart:

Here we should note that astrological rule for Hora chart is: Jupiter, Mars and Rahu are stronger in the Hora of the Sun. Whereas, Venus, Saturn and Moon are stronger in the Hora of the Moon.

After we have placed the planets in the signs of Cancer and Leo as appropriate, we see that his chart shows that planets Jupiter, Mars, Rahu and the Sun are in the sign Leo ruled by the Sun. Planets Venus, Saturn and Moon are in the sign Cancer ruled by the Moon. Effect of Mercury is neutral in the chart. According to rule of the Hora chart, Mercury is strong in both Horas if a person is born during a sunrise or a sunset. Bill Gates was not born in either of those times. He was born many hours after sunset.

Look at how all his planets except Mercury, perfectly fit the rule of Hora chart, the ‘Wealth chart’. Wow! No wonder he is one of richest men in the world.

Now, you will be certainly curious to know how many planets will support you for enjoying wealth. You can run your own Birth chart for free at http://www.astroved.com/report.aspx?type=chart After you take a look at your chart, draw your own Hora chart and take a closer look at your planets and find out which Hora is supportive of wealth in your life. Well, for a deeper analysis you will certainly need an astrological consultation from a Vedic astrology expert.

When we talk of ways of healing, what comes to our mind is the field of medicines that for ages has been reducing physical pain and suffering in this world. The most common known method of healing is to prescribe medicines and therapies to get rid of the diseases. Astrology stands apart in this respect; it proposes that one understand his or her environs: the external and inner Self, and the aberrations or anomalies that manifest the diseases.

Astrology heals all problems through a process of healing body and mind of individuals. Hence, it is about providing the appropriate guidance to initiate them in the process of self-healing.

Domain of Vedic Astrology:Do you get overwhelmed with amazement whenever you think of this Universe and its potential? If you consider this world to be a creative wonder, so it is! More so when you realize that nothing strays from a proper order and Law of Nature!

Astrology gives us an insight into Prakriti, the creative force of Purusha, the pure consciousness. In essence, it guides us towards attainment of Purusha so that we can unleash the tremendous potential of Prakriti.

How understanding your birth-chart, initiates a process of healing: What do you learn from astrological analysis of your birth-chart:

The pattern of your life, your strengths, and weaknesses. It shows how you were born out of particular cosmic incidence of celestial bodies of the Zodiac and what vibrations you carry from them.

Influences of Sun, Moon, Jupiter, Mercury and other planets and how they form part of our psyche and our body.

The karmic energies that you carry within you. Anger, love, hatred, pity, tolerance and intolerance, desire and lack of it, your hopes, and attitudes and so on, create a pattern of energy within you.

Awareness of the energies you carry makes it convenient for you to focus on what you desire to do in life, removing all confusions about understanding life. When your life is aligned with your soul, you will have quantum leaps of energy to accomplish your goals.

Guidance from Astrology: According to Astrology, human-beings should finally sync-in with nature, understand what the role they were born to undertake and find freedom from all confusions of their assumptions about reality. Astrology tells you how you can tap the power of the planets and interact with them:

Vedic rituals are performed in particular discipline, with vibrations of mantra, on auspiciousness times to connect with planetary energies.

Yoga and meditation are the processes of purging negative energies in you to make it easier to connect with the Nature. A good understanding of oneself makes individuals steady and increases their inner strength.

Food and life-style that is compatible with the energies in you to find optimum health of body and mind.

Remedies from Astrology: Astrology suggests ways to connect to these celestial powers under various circumstances based on tendencies each individual exhibits. In case of affliction of planets in birth-chart, or during the time of Major and minor planetary periods, astrologers suggest ways suggested by our enlightened saints and rishis. The acts of rectification or Pradosham times are the windows of opportunity to remove negative karmic energies that limit our potential in this current life.

Each one of us have our own tendencies and characteristics that drive us through our lives. They form the building blocks of our habits, nature, attitude and finally the way we think and how we manifest our reality. Understanding the characteristics in individuals not only helps in self-discovery but also in developing individual abilities for improving life.

Twelve Zodiac signs display the positive and negative aspects of various planets. The signs Aries and Scorpio are ruled by Mars, Taurus and Libra by Venus, Gemini and Virgo by Mercury, Cancer by Moon and Leo by Sun. Saturn rules over Capricorn and Aquarius.

Characteristics of individuals are primarily based on their ascendant signs and planets holding influence over such signs:

Aries: It is the first sign of the Zodiac and similarly an Aries personality is always an initiator. They have self-confidence that always come forward to lead or take the initial steps for a process to begin. They are honest, extrovert, full of energy and can speak their mind under any

circumstances. But they are also impatient, at times unnecessarily dare-devil and easily involve themselves in power struggles.

Taurus: Taurus born loves to seek the joys of life. They love comforts derived of material possessions and also relishes sensual pleasure of enjoying arts, things that are beautiful and good food. Though they seek extravagance, they are also reliable, loving and dependable

Gemini: Gemini’s changeable nature or duality in their nature makes them very flexible, lively, social and intelligent. Their insatiable curiosity and wide interest make them seek knowledge. They are always learning and gathering information, and love to be challenged intellectually. But beware of their sudden change of moods, you maybe surprised to find them quite rude and insensitive.

Cancer: Cancerians are the sensitive, understanding and complacent ones. They help in creating an environment of harmony and stability. They are very emotional, and attached to their home, family and close friends with whom they love to spend intimate time at a secure and warm corner.

Leo: A Leo’s confidence, warm and social nature, and eagerness to take lead of others, make them prominent personalities. They are the ones who will work with utmost effort and with a strong desire for being appreciated. Their protective nature may become overbearing and egoistic.

Virgo: Virgos are observant and have an eye for details – the right person to study a plan whether it is the lay out plan of your house, or plans for the next project, or for a vacation, because they are good planners and organisers. Virgos have clear thinking and good understanding of a situation and they leave no stone unturned in doing so. Virgos are perfectionists. They are also dependable and easy-going.

Libra: Librans are full of vibrant ideas, encouraging new ideas, initiatives. A Libran is a relaxed kind of person, who enjoy communicating their thoughts and encouraging people into thinking. Well they are found many times battling in their mind trying to find the right balance for emotions, opinions, and judgments. Hence they are good at setting up strategies and organizing.

Scorpio: Scorpios have magnetic personalities, have good understanding skills, and are very attached to their close relations. Though they prefer to maintain a low profile, they are born revolutionaries, independent and quite possessive about what they like. They are very serious about their work and usually get deeply engaged in studying things thoroughly.

Sagittarius: Sagittarians are quite open, friendly and their cheerful attitude always is a plus for their closeness with everyone. However, their negative traits could be being tactless, careless, irresponsible and restless. They have inclinations for learning, travelling, undertaking philosophical pursuits and their optimism, curiosity and openness make them adventurous and sketch pictures larger than life.

Capricorns: Capricorns are calm, disciplined, hardworking, self-determined and self-possessed and rigid in their outlook. They are highly romantic, loyal and usually marry their true love. They protect their family from the world as they are very much attached to them.

Aquarius: The natives of Aquarius are commonly interesting, intelligent and logical people possessing clear thinking. They are extremely sensitive as well as passionate. They are strong willed and may turn forceful under certain circumstances. They make very warm and serious companions, who are very attached to their loved ones.

Pisces: Pisceans are artistic and creative people. They are usually emotional, sensitive, trustworthy, enthusiastic and are compassionate in relationships. They are very romantic and extremely caring towards their partner. They are indecisive, timid and often lack clarity because above everything they are dreamers and unwisely intuitive.

Astrology is an understanding of time or precisely the moments of time in which action is undertaken, ideas emerge, words are spoken, records are broken, and miracles happen. Observing Time very deeply and understanding Time very closely can help us become successful in life.

Calendars keep account of Time: Lunar calendars are based on lunar cycles whereas solar calendars are based on movement of the Sun though the Zodiac.

Horas keep account of energies of Planets: According to Vedic astrology, Planets play an important role by manifesting their energies through the Days in the calendars like, Jupiter rules on Thursdays, Venus on Fridays and so on. Again, each hour of a day is under influence of one of the planets which are known as planetary hora:

Horas between Sunrise and Sunset: Hora of a day begins with the Sunrise and in each hour thereafter, energies of a particular planet would manifest. The hora of a particular planet followed a cyclic order. For example, if the Sun rises at 6.30 am, the hora from 6.30 to 7.30 would be the Hora of the Sun, the next hour would be of Venus, followed by Mercury, Moon, Saturn, Jupiter, Mars and after this hour the cycle repeats itself. On a Monday the first hour is the hora of Moon, on Tuesday its Mars and so on.

Horas between Sunset and Sunrise: Hora that starts from sunset on a Sunday is Jupiter, followed by hora of Mars, Sun, Venus, Mercury, Moon, Saturn and the cyclic pattern repeats after Saturn hora. On a Monday, the evening begins with Venus hora.

Horas important for specific tasks: Astrologers believe that tasks undertaken at certain times of the day will bring success to individuals who undertake particular tasks at specific times of the day in a particular hora. Tasks that would provide favorable results in specific horas are:

Sun hora is good for political as well as spiritual pursuits, applying for jobs, trading, meeting important officials and so on.

Moon hora is good for undertaking activities related to agriculture, gardening, food, property dealing, romance, buying and wearing ornaments and so on.

Mars hora is good for dealing with land, agriculture, buying or selling of vehicles, electrical and engineering works, adventurous sports, martial arts and so on.

Mercury hora is good for trade, business, works related to medicine, learning, teaching, studying scriptures, printing and publishing and so on.

Jupiter hora is good for joining job, to start business, meet elders, begin course in learning, marriage related meeting and so on.

Venus hora is good for love, marriage, buying and selling ornaments or clothes, for recreation and purchasing or wearing ornaments and so on.

Saturn hora is good for labor related matters, and dealing with oil and iron.

If you want to make conscious decisions or undertake activities under the influence of good energies, it is extremely useful to look into the horas and find how horas affect your life. For instance Mars horas are generally regarded to be bad, but it could be good particularly if you are in the period of Mars and it is favorably situated in your horoscope.

When you understand the energies of planets in your life and how to seek their affects in your regular life, you will be better placed for effective decisions.

Vaastu originates from the word ‘Vas’ which means to reside and Vaastu means the basic architecture of the building and the position where it is located. Shastra is translated as a science or knowledge. So, Vaastu Shastra is the science of architecture.

The unique science of Vaastu encompasses the study of art, astronomy and astrology. It is also called the ancient mystic science for designing and building. The first mention of this science is found in Yajur Veda, which is supposed to be over 4000 years old.

According to the great sage, Vishwakarama who authored the book Vaastu Shastra about 3000 years ago

"Shastre nanena sarvasya, lokasya paramam sukham, Chaturvarga phalaprapti, salokascha bhavedruvam, Shilpashastra parignanam, marathayapi suratan varajet, Paramanandajanakam devanam idameeritham"

It means: This science is complete in itself and contains everything. It has the capability to bring happiness to the whole world. This science is capable of bestowing the four essentials of life, namely Dharma (living according to edicts), Artha (material possession), Kama (pleasures) and Moksha (liberation from worldly attachment). With the knowledge of this science, man becomes divine. This science is capable of giving divine bliss.

Vaastu for Peace and Happiness

Everything in the world is made up of the five basic elements called the ‘Panchmahabhootas’. They are earth, water, fire, air and ether. Nature has given proper place to these elements and Vaastu Shastra provides the guidance about the ways we can maintain this equilibrium to channelize positive energy and enjoy lasting peace and happiness.

"The house is our means of encountering the cosmos. The task of architecture is to open vision into other dimensions of our consciousness." Juhani Pallasmaa, Finnish architect

Importance of Directions in Vaastu

Apart from harmonizing the Panchmahabhootas, the position of rooms, doors, windows and furniture inside a building and even the manner of conducting one’s activities plays an important role in the activation of positive vibrations.

Demarcation of a plot in Vaastu is done according to the sacred Vaastu Purush Mandala, the energy grid of a plot. Purush refers to the energy and power of a cosmic man and Mandala is the concentric diagram having spiritual and ritual significance.

Birth of Vaastu Purush and His importance in architecture

As per the ancient texts Vaastu Purusha is present in each and every plot of land whether big or small. His head remains hanging down and his body occupies the entire length and breadth of the ground.

An interesting story in Matsya Purana narrates the birth of Vaastu Purusha. Once, while fighting the demons, Shiva was sweating profusely. A strange man was born out of the drops of Shiva’s sweat. He was hungry and was able to appease Lord Shiva to grant him a boon to eat away all the three worlds.

The man got possession of all the three worlds and started devouring them. The deities got terrified and prayed to Shiva for protection. Lord Shiva pressed the man under his foot. The man surrendered to Lord Shiva and pleaded for forgiveness. Shiva named him Vaastu Purush and asked him to go to earth and bestow peace and happiness to the inhabitants.

The deities then caught the Vaastu Purush and threw him on earth facing downwards.

Parts of the body of the Vastu Purush were named after the Deities who touched them. E.g. Lord Bramha touched the navel of the Vastu Purush so it was given the name of Bramha. So the centre of the house where Vastu Purusha’s navel comes is called as "Bramhasthan".

Vaastu Shastra identifies eight cardinal directions, along with center, which are the access ways of specific energy needed for the improvement in specific area of one’s life. Vaastu Purush is the presiding deity and the eight directions have their own guardians. The activities assigned to each direction are to please the respective guardian and incur their blessings.

Direction Deity Planet Activities

East Indra SunDirection for growth. Entrance of the house, study, place of worship should face the east. Lockers and treasure boxes in the house should open towards the east.

West Varun Saturn Entrance in this direction should be avoided or else it leads to losses. It is good to have staircase, garage or overhead tank in west.

North KuberaMercuryDirection for wealth and career. There should be big openings in north to welcome the flow of positive energies. A slope in the north is good for financial gains. Students should study facing north.

South Yama MarsBig openings in south should be avoided. It should be kept heavy and loaded. It is said that heavy walls on the south will keep the occupants safe from Yama.

Northeast Shiva JupiterIt is a direction for purity and divinity. The direction is best for worshiping and meditation. Toilets, bedrooms and store rooms should be avoided.

Northwest Vayu Moon

It is a direction for movement. Tall structures in this direction should be avoided as it will cut the flow of air. Extension in the northwest is considered inauspicious.

Southeast Agni Venus It is good to have kitchen in the southeast. An underground tank or well in this direction leads to loss of wealth.

SouthwestNiriti Rahu

It is an inauspicious direction ruled by the king of the demons. It is good to have master bedroom in this direction. The direction promotes leadership attributes and bestows decision making qualities, so it is advisable for the head of the family to stay in southwest direction.

Relevance of Vaastu

Vaastu Shastra is the art and science of utilizing the different energies in the nature in a way that supports optimum benefits for humans. The ancient rishis have studied the psychological effect of these rays on a person’s mood and in his ability to conduct the affairs of the day and laid down the guidelines which if properly understood and practiced will ensure peace and prosperity for the occupants.

hese days we refer to Vaastu Shastra generally for deciding the direction through which we can allow favorable energies to flow into our houses. It addresses our concerns like, what direction we should be facing while carrying out certain activities like eating, praying, sleeping and so on.

Vaastu Shastra also guides us in knowing the proper position for doors, windows, furniture, electronic goods and others in our houses and offices so that we can prevent being caught amidst conflicting energies.

Vaastu awareness shot into prominence because it is believed that things kept in particular directions generate healthy energy and good luck in house or office.

What guidance does Vaastu consultant generally give us?Designing interiors of your house in consultation with Vaastu shastra is considered a wise decision - how to design your flat or house so that the kitchen can be in the appropriate side, or which is the appropriate direction for your main door, or the appropriate position of your bathrooms and so on.

A Vaastu consultant will guide you to find the appropriate placement for things in your house such as television, computer, bed, sofa sets, storage shelves, lockers, plants, stove and so on. So it guides you about where to keep your dining table in the house so that you would be facing the East while eating, or, where in your house you can build your cupboards so that it generates good wealth energy and so on.

Why we need Vaastu Shastra consultation?Five primordial elements (such as Earth, Water, Air, Fire and Space) comprise our Nature and they constitute all living things too. These five elements of Nature generate certain energies such as Solar energy, Lunar energy, Electric energy, Thermal energy, Wind energy, Light energy and Magnetic energy.

Vaastu Shastra studies each of the basic elements and the energy they emit. Such studies can help us in many ways:

Based on the energy waves, Vaastu can tell us about the directions considered favorable for certain aspects of our lives. For e.g.

Building cupboards for valuables and lockers located in the north side of the house provides good energy for wealth creation.

Kitchen in the South-east direction brings healthy energy and so on. As North-east corner of the house is considered holy, the place should be utilized for holy

purposes such as worshipping god. If somebody is suffering from chronic illness based on the patient’s horoscope, the

Astrologer will be able to identify the place in the house where the sick person should be positioned or the place where patient’s medicine can be placed. The medicine will have the positive energy of the planets and help the patient recover or be diagnosed with correct cause of the ailment to proceed with correct treatment.

Sometimes two or three of the energies may come into conflict and create a disharmony or adverse effects. To avoid such occurrences Vaastu advises that TV, computers and telephones should not be kept in the North-east corner of the house, Southward portion of the house should be more elevated than the northern side to preserve magnetic energy from the north, or South-west facing doors should be avoided and so on.

How astrological analysis contribute to Vaastu studies? Every one of us carries a certain kind of energy and our birth-charts represents the type of

energy of the cosmos we carry within us. So studying planetary energies within us and knowing the favorable directions of the energies will help in bringing us happiness and good-luck. So Astrology and Vaastu is an amalgamation of Personalized planetary energies and the benefits they derive from Natural directions.

It is a guidance to make use of the space and direction in our house for better living and improvement in any area of life. It will identify the favorable and fortunate direction in your house. The Astrologer will be able to map your positive energies with respect to natural direction for any area of your life and also that of your family members.

How to do Shiva Puja

Lord Shiva is the unchanging consciousness or the soul in man. Parvati is the maya sakthi or the illusive power that appears as mind and matter.

Syllable `sh’ means permanent bliss, `I’ stands for male energy, `va’ stands for female energy.

Merits Of Shiva Puja

Worship of Lord Shiva removes distress and poverty, grants learning and wealth, bestows all desires. It also gives the devotee transcendental knowledge, by elevating the power of thought and en-kindling the light of discrimination.

Vedas declare that worshiping Shiva in the linga form helps one gain highest merit in this life and in the future lifetimes. Accumulated sins of many lifetimes get washed away by sincere devotion and prayers to the lord.

It is said that nothing is as holy as Shiva puja.

Simple Puja To Lord Shiva

Buy a new Shiva linga and install it at a prayer altar. Monday is an important day to do Shiva puja.

He can be worshipped during Pradosham, the 13th day of every bright and dark phase of the moon, every fortnight.

Take bath in the morning and wear neat, clean clothes. Shiva is worshipped by offering or pouring water, milk, honey, curd, ghee, vibhuthi or

sacred ash and sandalwood paste. This is called abhisekam. He should be offered bilwa leaves and flowers like lotus, sankhapushpi and jasmine. Food offerings should be made to the lord. Light an incense and burn a lamp with oil or ghee. Mantras to be recited:

"Om namah shivaya" and maha mrityunjay mantra

Om Trayambakam Yajaamahe,

Suganthim Pushtivardhanam

Urvaarukmiva Bandhanaan

Mrityor Moksha Mamritaat

Rudraksha beads should be kept during worship. Mere sight of rudraksha creates auspiciousness. When one wears a rudraksha, his sins are destroyed.

Then light or camphor should be waved before the linga along with ringing of bells and conch shells.

Partaking of food offerings or Prasad bring peace and prosperity. Likewise, Water of abhisekam is very sacred and destroys many sins and purifies the heart. It should be taken with great devotion and faith.

Incurable diseases can be cured when abhisekam is done to the lord. All desires get fulfilled.

Material Benefits of Offerings

1. Milk is offered, one is blessed with purity and piousness

2. Curd gives the blessing of good children and prosperity

3. Honey gives one the gift of melodious voice

4. Sugar gives happiness and removes enmity

5. Ghee gives the blessing of salvation and victory

6. Water grants one the purity of mind

7. Sandal wood paste gives one the grace of Goddess Mahalakshmi

ASTROLOGY AND SHIVA PUJA

One enjoys good fortune of Shiva Yoga in a horoscope, when the lord of the 10th house is in the 5th house, the lord of the 9th house is in the 10th house, and the lord of the 5th house is in the 9th house. Due to this yoga, the native would be a commander of armies or enjoy high position, a big business magnate and also possess divine wisdom.

Hara Yoga is formed in a horoscope when there are favorable planets in the 4th, 8th or 9th houses from the lord of the 7th house. This yoga gives victory over enemies and all sorts of material pleasures.

To secure the blessings of Planet Jupiter, one has to do abhisekam to Shiva linga daily for a week with Ghee.

One attracts victory in endeavors when Shiva is worshipped on Arudra nakshatra.

When planets like Sun, Mars, Jupiter, and Rahu are not placed well in a horoscope, Lord Shiva has to be propitiated.

Mondays in the month of Karthik (mid Nov- mid Dec) and in the month of Shravan (mid July – Mid August) are auspicious to worship Lord Shiva.

Women pray to Shiva for welfare of their husbands and sons.Unmarried women pray for getting a loving husband.

Signification of 10th house

The tenth house or the house of the sky primarily reveals one`s chosen public role or career. It is called the house of career. It reveals the level of sovereignty and prestige one attains through it. It also describes the father, indicates debts and the likelihood of living far away from home or in foreign places.

The tenth house stands for respect, prestige, fame, authority, name, fame and ego.

It also defines the role that one chooses to play in society.

When the 10th house of the horoscope is examined, it helps to understand the areas and the extent to which a person can stand above others commanding honor and respect, act as a source of guidance and protection.

The house reveals the native`s prospects of staying in foreign lands and about debts.

The house is ruled by Capricorn, the ever climbing mountain goat. It represents our motivation and drive to contribute to society at large, to establish a social image.

How it benefits a native

All information and prospects about career and vocation can be studied from this house. If the planets are strong in this house, then career would be bright, but if they are weak then there would be hitches. A person becomes professionally strong due to the planets placed well in the tenth house. Promotions, advancement in career, appointments, permanency in job can be studied from this house.

Ascendant lord in tenth house or tenth house lord in ascendant of a natal chart would make the person do independent business. The planets occupying the tenth house determine the nature of business that be carried upon.

According to Vedic Astrology, Sun and Saturn are the planetary indicators of the tenth house. Sun is strongest in the tenth house and a person becomes highly successful due to its presence. A strong Saturn in the tenth house makes the native enjoy high status in society and lead a good life.

The tenth house is called karma Bhava or the actions. It represents our actions and mission in our life. It teaches us not to use power and authority in vain and pride against less fortunate and under priviledged. It is house of power and authority.

The tenth house acts as the strongest angular house or pillar or Kendra giving support to the strength of the astrological chart as a whole.

Yamanaath traayathe ithi Yantraha’ – Yantra is one which protects from troubles.

Yantra is geometrical form of the infinite divine power of a mantra through which communication with the desired deity is established. It is made of material energy with the combination of five elements: earth, water, fire, air and space.

It is a magical diagram used to get specific results. Being the abode of deities, it has the power to remove bad luck and bring well being into one`s life.

Mystical powers of Yantras

Yantra is a sacred energy form that emits a very specific frequency and energy pattern that correspond to higher levels of consciousness. They are secret keys for establishing resonance with the spiritual energy fields of the universe.

They are instruments that create access from material plane to non-material divine worlds of deities.

Yantras are symbolic energy patterns of a deity, mantras in the yantra are the consciousness or spirit.

Esoteric constitution of Yantra

All Vedic yantras have a uniform pattern containing a central point, circle, triangle, star, lotus, and square. Yantras are made up of numbers, a certain set of symbols and mantras.

Bindu- In Hindu philosophy, bindu represents the point where the entire universe originated. It represents the energy of the element ether. It is Shiva himself.

Triangle or trikona – It is the symbol of shakti, the feminine energy of creation, a primary sign that encloses space. It represents the energy of the element fire.

Shatkona – It is the combination of two triangles, an inverted triangle and upward facing triangle. An inverted triangle represents the yoni or the sakthi principle and the triangle with its apex pointing upward represents the linga.It represents the Shiva-Sakthi principle.

Circle or chakra – It represents the cyclic nature of life, creation, preservation and destruction. It has the energy of the element water.

Square or bhupura– It is the depiction of the manifest world or the physical body. It has the energy of the earth element.

Lotus or Petals - They are the absolute force of the supreme self and a symbol of purity. Yantras with such patterns help cleanse the various energy centres in our body.

Bija mantras - They represent the root mantras corresponding to the different chakras. Each yantra has a corresponding mantra.

Energization of Yantra

It is a geometric figure inscribed on a metallic plate or paper and is the confluence of the powers of the concerned deity. It is prepared under Vedic guidelines on a particular time, place and day.

Before any yantra is worshipped it must be given life through a process called Pranaprathishta.

The geometric patterns are converted into spiritual channels to access invisible forces of the invoked deity and benefit the individual who reveres it.Only when energized with Vedic rituals, does it become powerful. It has to be purified by chanting Sidhi mantras with utmost skill and earnestness.

It is said that the deity resides in the yantra and obeisance to the yantra should be done regularly to maintain its sanctity and power, increase its benefic result and bestow the desired intent for the rest of one`s life.

Benefits of Yantras

They are instruments used to achieve higher spiritual goals and material prosperity. It is a visible means to gain health, wealth, power, prosperity, progeny, knowledge etc. Positive energy flows from the yantra and helps in the attainment of specific desire and goals. It helps remove black magic and negative energies. It is used to enhance the quality of life, attract love, to heal diseases, recover from business

losses; get married at the right time, marital harmony, for educational purposes, to rectify vaastu defects, progress in meditation, attainment of high positions and many more.

Vedic Astrologer recommends yantras to negate the inauspicious planetary influences and increase the planets` beneficial aspects in one`s life.

Nimittani cha pasyami viparitani Kesava" ~says Arjuna to Lord Krishna in an anxious manner indicating that the omens are bad, before the war at Kurukshetra. Nimitta means omen.

Saguna sastra is a branch of astrology that studies about omens. It is also called nimitta astrology. Sakuna means omen that indicates a forthcoming happening and is not a cause for it.

Everything is ordained by supreme God and nature whispers the good and bad that we have to face in the form of omens.

Saguna Sastra

Saguna sastra is astrology of omens where an astrologer can predict the forthcoming events based on the omens. It is about beliefs that when we set out towards a journey and whomever we meet, which can be persons, animals or birds, reptiles from the opposite direction or sounds of birds and animals indicate success or failure in our endeavor. Sage Garga has written a treatise about good and bad omens.

When a black cat crosses- bad omen

When a black cat crosses our path, it is an omen. Black represents planet Saturn. This planet causes failures and delays in our tasks and ventures. When a black cat crosses the path, it means that the particular task at hand would not be fruitful or would get delayed. It means that planet Saturn is not working favorably for him or her.

When one happens to experience such an omen, then one can sincerely offer prayers to God and light a lamp for Lord Ganesha to ward off the ill effects of planet Saturn.

It is good omen to see a cow, cow with calf, horse, elephant, before setting on a journey but a bad omen when a black cat comes across the path, according to saguna sastra.

Beliefs across different cultures

Different cultures across the world have superstitious beliefs ascribing to either good luck or bad luck when a black cat crosses. For example there are sayings that implicate good luck when Black cat crosses the path.

Old English Charm “Black cat, cross my path - good fortune bring to home and hearth. When I am away from home, bring me luck wherever I roam”English Proverb Whenever the cat of the house is black, The lasses of lovers will have no lack."

Folklore

Folklore from Sussex in England says that Black cats are suspected to be witches and crossing one`s path would mean bad luck. In China, it is believed that they bring in famine and poverty. However, Latvian farmers believe that black cats are spirit of Rungis, the God of harvest and when they find black cats in their granary, they become overjoyed.

Good Luck - when it crosses one`s path

In Germany, it is believed that if a black cat crosses left to right, then it is good luck.

If a black cat walked away from someone, then it is good luck, according to the beliefs of the 19th century pirates.

Bad luck – when it crosses one`s path.

It is bad luck when black cat crosses the path. To ward of bad luck, it is believed that if one should walk backwards in ten steps and turn around 3 times.

In Germany, if the black cat crosses right to left, then it is bad luck. If a black cat towards someone, then it is good luck, according to the beliefs of the 19th

century pirates. Gamblers believe that if a black cat crosses their path while going to play then luck

would not favor them. When driving if a black cat crosses it is believed that one should turn around and go back

to avoid ill luck. In western and southern Europe, black cat crossing one`s path is bound to bring

misfortune.

Omens indicate happenings. If good, one is happy, but if it is bad one tends to get fearful. Positive thoughts should be reinforced with belief that one`s resolve to live life fearlessly should become prime most with surrender to the universal laws in operation. Determined attitude is all that counts.