In Vedic Astrology, the Nakshatras are the mystical 27 divisions of the zodiac, each carrying its own unique energy, symbol, ruling deity, and planetary influence. More ancient than the twelve zodiac signs, Nakshatras form the soul of Jyotish Vidya—offering deeper insights into one’s personality, karmic patterns, and destiny.
🌌 What Are Nakshatras?
The word Nakshatra is derived from Naksha (map) and tara (star), meaning “map of the stars.” The 360-degree celestial circle is divided into 27 parts of 13°20′ each, beginning from Ashwini Nakshatra and ending with Revati Nakshatra. These are further grouped under the influence of the Moon, making them essential in calculating your birth chart and dasha periods.
🪐 Why Are Nakshatras Important?
Unlike zodiac signs which tell “what” is happening, Nakshatras reveal the “why” behind it—they indicate:
- Subtle psychological traits
- Past life karma
- Nature of relationships
- Career inclination
- Health vulnerabilities
Your Janma Nakshatra (birth star) plays a central role in understanding your emotional nature and mental blueprint.
| No. | Nakshatra | Ruling Planet (Graha) | Symbol | Presiding Deity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ashwini | Ketu | Horse’s head | Ashwini Kumars (Physicians of Gods) |
| 2 | Bharani | Venus | Yoni (female organ) | Yama (God of Death) |
| 3 | Krittika | Sun | Razor or Flame | Agni (Fire God) |
| 4 | Rohini | Moon | Chariot | Brahma (Creator) |
| 5 | Mrigashira | Mars | Deer’s head | Soma (Moon God) |
| 6 | Ardra | Rahu | Teardrop | Rudra (Storm God) |
| 7 | Punarvasu | Jupiter | Bow & quiver | Aditi (Mother of Gods) |
| 8 | Pushya | Saturn | Cow’s udder/Flower | Brihaspati (Guru of Devas) |
| 9 | Ashlesha | Mercury | Serpent | Nagas (Serpent Deities) |
| 10 | Magha | Ketu | Royal throne | Pitris (Ancestors) |
| 11 | Purva Phalguni | Venus | Hammock/Front legs of bed | Bhaga (God of fortune) |
| 12 | Uttara Phalguni | Sun | Back legs of bed | Aryaman (Noble Companion) |
| 13 | Hasta | Moon | Palm or Hand | Savitar (Sun God) |
| 14 | Chitra | Mars | Jewel or Pearl | Tvashtar (Divine Architect) |
| 15 | Swati | Rahu | Young sprout/Sword | Vayu (Wind God) |
| 16 | Vishakha | Jupiter | Archway | Indra & Agni (Dual Deities) |
| 17 | Anuradha | Saturn | Lotus | Mitra (God of Friendship) |
| 18 | Jyeshtha | Mercury | Circular Amulet | Indra (King of Gods) |
| 19 | Mula | Ketu | Roots tied together | Nirriti (Goddess of Destruction) |
| 20 | Purva Ashadha | Venus | Elephant tusk | Apah (Water Deity) |
| 21 | Uttara Ashadha | Sun | Twin tusks | Vishwadevas (Universal Gods) |
| 22 | Shravana | Moon | Ear | Vishnu (Preserver) |
| 23 | Dhanishta | Mars | Drum | Eight Vasus (Elemental Gods) |
| 24 | Shatabhisha | Rahu | Circle/100 physicians | Varuna (God of Cosmic Waters) |
| 25 | Purva Bhadrapada | Jupiter | Sword or Man on cot | Aja Ekapada (One-footed Goat) |
| 26 | Uttara Bhadrapada | Saturn | Twin fish | Ahir Budhnya (Serpent of the Deep) |
| 27 | Revati | Mercury | Fish | Pushan (Protector of Travelers) |
🔍 Janma Nakshatra & Life Prediction
Knowing your Nakshatra helps in:
- Naming ceremonies (Namkaran Sanskar)
- Marriage compatibility (Nakshatra matching)
- Muhurta selection (auspicious timing)
- Understanding your Vimshottari Dasha
🧭 Nakshatra-Based Remedies
Certain Nakshatras indicate doshas or karmic burdens. Vedic astrology prescribes remedies such as:
- Mantras and stotra chanting
- Charity and donation on specific days
- Wearing specific gemstones
- Following specific disciplines based on your birth star
✨ Final Thoughts by Angira Jyotish
Nakshatras are not just stars—they are cosmic teachers. Understanding them is like unlocking your karmic story. Whether you’re an astrology student or seeker, learning about your Nakshatra is the first step toward self-discovery.
🔮 Want to know your Janma Nakshatra and what it means for your destiny?
Book a personalized reading today with Rudraksh Angira
