Key Concepts of Vedic Astrology:

1. Zodiac Signs (Rashis): There are 12 zodiac signs in Vedic astrology, similar to Western astrology, but they are calculated based on the sidereal zodiac. The signs are Aries (Mesha), Taurus (Vrishabha), Gemini (Mithuna), Cancer (Karka), Leo (Simha), Virgo (Kanya), Libra (Tula), Scorpio (Vrishchika), Sagittarius (Dhanu), Capricorn (Makara), Aquarius (Kumbha), and Pisces (Meena).

2. Planets (Grahas): Vedic Astrology considers nine planets, known as “Navagrahas,” which include the Sun (Surya), Moon (Chandra), Mars (Mangala), Mercury (Budha), Jupiter (Guru), Venus (Shukra), Saturn (Shani), Rahu (North Node of the Moon), and Ketu (South Node of the Moon). These planets influence different aspects of life depending on their placement in the birth chart.

3. Houses (Bhavas): There are 12 houses, each associated with a specific zodiac sign and planetary ruler. The first house represents the self, while the second house relates to personal possessions and finances. The third house pertains to communication and siblings, while the fourth house represents home and family. The fifth house is associated with creativity and romance, while the sixth house relates to work and health. The seventh house represents partnerships and marriage, while the eighth house pertains to shared resources and transformation. The ninth house is associated with higher education and travel, while the tenth house represents career and public image. The eleventh house pertains to social networks and friendships, while the twelfth house represents spirituality and subconscious patterns. Understanding the houses in astrology can provide insight into various aspects of a person’s life and personality.

4. Nakshatras: The zodiac is further divided into 27 Nakshatras or lunar mansions. Each Nakshatra is associated with specific attributes and ruling deities. The placement of the Moon in a particular Nakshatra at the time of birth is considered very important in Vedic astrology.

5. Dasha System: The Dasha system is a unique predictive tool in Vedic astrology that determines the timing of events in a person’s life. The most commonly used Dasha system is the Vimshottari Dasha, which is a 120-year cycle divided into sub-periods governed by each of the planets.

6. Yoga and Doshas: Yogas are specific planetary combinations that can lead to auspicious or inauspicious outcomes in life. Doshas, on the other hand, are negative influences, such as Manglik Dosha, which is believed to affect marital life.

7. Remedies: Vedic Astrology offers various remedies to mitigate the negative effects of planets, such as chanting mantras, wearing gemstones, performing rituals (pujas), and making charitable donations.

Vedic Astrology is deeply intertwined with Hindu philosophy and spirituality, and it is used not only for predicting future events but also for understanding one’s karmic path and spiritual purpose. It plays a significant role in various aspects of life in Indian culture, including marriage, career decisions, and health.