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An astrology glossary is a reference guide that defines and explains the key terms, concepts, and entities used in Vedic astrology (Jyotisha). This comprehensive glossary is designed for beginners, students, enthusiasts, practitioners, and curious readers who want to understand astrological terminology. Each entry includes clear definitions, pronunciations, practical examples, and related terms for further exploration. Whether you are just starting your journey or deepening your knowledge, this glossary is your essential companion to the language of Vedic astrology.
Table of Contents
What Is an Astrology Glossary and Who Is It For?
An astrology glossary is a reference guide that defines and explains the key terms, concepts, and entities used in Vedic astrology (Jyotisha).
This glossary is designed for:
- Beginners – who are just starting their journey into Vedic astrology and need clear, simple definitions
- Students – who are studying Jyotisha and need a quick reference for technical terms
- Enthusiasts – who want to deepen their understanding of astrological concepts
- Practitioners – who need a reliable reference for their work
- Curious Readers – who encounter astrology terms and want to understand them
The terms in this glossary are organized alphabetically and grouped by category for easy reference.
How to Use This Glossary
Each entry includes:
- Term: The word or phrase being defined
- Pronunciation: (for Sanskrit terms) How to say it
- Category: The area of astrology it belongs to
- Definition: A clear explanation of what it means
- Example: A practical example of how it is used
- See Also: Related terms for further exploration
A
Ayanamsha
Pronunciation: ah-yah-num-sha
Category: Astronomical Calculation
Definition: The angular difference between the Tropical zodiac (fixed to the seasons) and the Sidereal zodiac (fixed to the stars). In Vedic astrology, the ayanamsha is subtracted from tropical planetary positions to calculate sidereal positions.
Example: On January 1, 2026, Lahiri Ayanamsha is approximately 24°22′. To convert a tropical Sun position to sidereal, subtract this value.
See Also: Lahiri Ayanamsha, Sidereal Zodiac, Tropical Zodiac
For more on Ayanamsha, explore the complete Lahiri Ayanamsha guide.
Ashlesha Nakshatra
Pronunciation: ash-lay-sha
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 9th Nakshatra, ruled by Mercury and associated with the Serpents. It represents depth, transformation, and healing. Individuals born under Ashlesha are often intense, transformative, and have a deep capacity for understanding.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Ashwini Nakshatra
Pronunciation: ash-wee-nee
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 1st Nakshatra, ruled by Ketu and associated with the Ashwini Kumaras (divine horsemen). It represents speed, healing, and new beginnings. Individuals born under Ashwini are energetic, quick, and healing in nature.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Ashtakoota (Guna Milan)
Pronunciation: ash-ta-koo-ta
Category: Compatibility
Definition: The system of evaluating marriage compatibility by matching the 8 Kootas (categories) of two individuals. Each Koota has a maximum score, and the total score (out of 36) determines the level of compatibility.
Example: A score of 25-36 indicates excellent compatibility; 18-24 indicates good compatibility; 12-17 indicates average compatibility; below 12 indicates poor compatibility.
See Also: Rashi Matching, Guna Milan
For accurate compatibility analysis, use the Rashi Matching Calculator.
Atmakaraka
Pronunciation: at-ma-ka-ra-ka
Category: Planet
Definition: The planet with the highest degree in your birth chart. It is the most important planet for your soul’s journey and represents your life purpose and spiritual path.
Example: If Jupiter has the highest degree in your chart, Jupiter is your Atmakaraka, indicating that wisdom and expansion are central to your soul’s journey.
See Also: Graha, Karakatwa
Ayana
Pronunciation: ah-yah-na
Category: Astronomical Concept
Definition: The “path” or “movement” in Sanskrit. In Vedic astrology, it refers to the movement of the Sun through the zodiac. The term is part of “Ayanamsha” — the portion of movement between the two zodiac systems.
See Also: Ayanamsha
B
Bhakoota
Pronunciation: bha-koo-ta
Category: Ashtakoota
Definition: One of the 8 Kootas in Ashtakoota (Guna Milan). It evaluates children, family prosperity, and overall happiness. Maximum score: 7 points.
See Also: Ashtakoota, Guna Milan
Bhava (House)
Pronunciation: bha-va
Category: House
Definition: One of the 12 divisions of the birth chart, representing specific areas of life. The houses are counted from the Lagna (Ascendant).
Example: The 1st house (Lagna) represents self and personality; the 10th house represents career and status.
See Also: 12 Bhavas, Lagna
For a complete understanding of houses, explore the complete Bhava Guide.
Bhava Chalit
Pronunciation: bha-va cha-leet
Category: Chart Calculation
Definition: The divisional chart (also called the “Navamsa”) that provides a more detailed view of a specific area of life. The Navamsa is specifically used for marriage and spiritual analysis.
See Also: Navamsa, Divisional Chart
Budha (Mercury)
Pronunciation: boo-dha
Category: Planet
Definition: The planet Mercury in Vedic astrology. It represents intellect, communication, memory, and commerce. Mercury rules Mithuna (Gemini) and Kanya (Virgo).
See Also: Graha, 9 Planets
For a complete understanding of planets, explore the complete Graha Guide covering all 9 Vedic planets.
C
Chandra (Moon)
Pronunciation: chun-dra
Category: Planet
Definition: The planet Moon in Vedic astrology. It represents the mind, emotions, nurturing, and mother. The Moon rules Karka (Cancer).
See Also: Graha, Rashi
Chara Rashi
Pronunciation: cha-ra ra-shee
Category: Modality
Definition: “Cardinal” sign — one of the three modalities in Vedic astrology. Chara Rashis (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) are initiating, active, and action-oriented.
See Also: Rashi, Modality
For more on modalities, explore the complete Rashi Modality guide.
Chitra Nakshatra
Pronunciation: chit-ra
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 14th Nakshatra, ruled by Mars and associated with Vishvakarma (the divine architect). It represents creativity, design, and innovation. Individuals born under Chitra are creative, innovative, and have a strong sense of aesthetics.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Chitrapaksha Ayanamsha
Pronunciation: chit-ra-pak-sha
Category: Ayanamsha
Definition: Another name for Lahiri Ayanamsha. It is based on the star Chitra (Spica), which is fixed at 180° in the sidereal zodiac.
See Also: Lahiri Ayanamsha
D
Dasha
Pronunciation: da-sha
Category: Timing
Definition: The planetary period system in Vedic astrology that determines the timing of life events. The most commonly used system is Vimshottari Dasha, which cycles through the 9 planets over 120 years.
Example: The Dasha period of a planet activates the house placements of that planet in your birth chart.
See Also: Vimshottari Dasha, Graha
Dhanu (Sagittarius)
Pronunciation: da-nu
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 9th sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Jupiter. It represents adventure, wisdom, and optimism.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Dhanu Rashi (Sagittarius) guide.
Dhanishta Nakshatra
Pronunciation: dha-nish-ta
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 23rd Nakshatra, ruled by Mars and associated with the Vasus. It represents prosperity, wealth, and success. Individuals born under Dhanishta are ambitious, successful, and have a strong desire for prosperity.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Dusthana Houses
Pronunciation: doos-tha-na
Category: House Group
Definition: The malefic houses in the birth chart — the 6th, 8th, and 12th houses. These houses represent challenges, obstacles, and difficulties, but also opportunities for growth and transformation.
Example: The 8th house is a Dusthana house that represents transformation, inheritance, and longevity — not just death.
See Also: Bhava, Kendra, Trikona
Dwisvabhava Rashi
Pronunciation: dwee-sva-bha-va
Category: Modality
Definition: “Mutable” sign — one of the three modalities in Vedic astrology. Dwisvabhava Rashis (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces) are adaptable, flexible, and ever-evolving.
See Also: Rashi, Modality
G
Gana
Pronunciation: ga-na
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The nature or temperament of a Nakshatra. There are three Ganas: Deva (divine), Manushya (human), and Rakshasa (demon). The Gana is used in compatibility analysis.
Example: Ashwini, Mrigashira, and Punarvasu are Deva Nakshatras; Bharani, Rohini, and Ardra are Manushya Nakshatras; Krittika, Ashlesha, and Magha are Rakshasa Nakshatras.
See Also: Nakshatra
Ghatika Lagna
Pronunciation: gha-ti-ka lag-na
Category: Lagna
Definition: A derived Ascendant used for analyzing wealth, career, and professional success. It is calculated from the position of the Sun and changes every hour.
See Also: Lagna, Hora Lagna
Graha
Pronunciation: gra-ha
Category: Planet
Definition: A “planet” in Vedic astrology. The term means “one who grasps” — referring to the planets’ ability to influence human life. There are 9 Grahas: Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu.
See Also: 9 Planets, Graha Guide
For a complete understanding of planets, explore the complete Graha Guide.
Graha Maitri
Pronunciation: gra-ha mai-tri
Category: Ashtakoota
Definition: One of the 8 Kootas in Ashtakoota (Guna Milan). It evaluates friendship, intellectual alignment, and mutual understanding. Maximum score: 5 points.
See Also: Ashtakoota, Guna Milan
Guna Milan
Pronunciation: goo-na mee-lan
Category: Compatibility
Definition: The system of evaluating marriage compatibility by matching the 8 Kootas (categories) of two individuals. Also called Ashtakoota.
See Also: Ashtakoota, Rashi Matching
Guru (Jupiter)
Pronunciation: goo-roo
Category: Planet
Definition: The planet Jupiter in Vedic astrology. It represents wisdom, expansion, fortune, and higher knowledge. Jupiter rules Dhanu (Sagittarius) and Meena (Pisces).
See Also: Graha, 9 Planets
H
Hasta Nakshatra
Pronunciation: hus-ta
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 13th Nakshatra, ruled by the Moon and associated with Savitri. It represents skill, creativity, and expression. Individuals born under Hasta are skilled, creative, and excellent with their hands.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Hora Lagna
Pronunciation: ho-ra lag-na
Category: Lagna
Definition: A derived Ascendant used for analyzing wealth, career, and professional success. It is calculated from the position of the Sun and changes every hour.
See Also: Lagna, Ghatika Lagna
J
Janam Kundli
Pronunciation: ja-nam koon-dlee
Category: Birth Chart
Definition: The Vedic birth chart. It maps the exact positions of the 9 planets at the time, date, and place of birth. The foundation of all astrological analysis in Jyotisha.
See Also: Kundli, Birth Chart
For a complete understanding of your birth chart, explore the complete Kundli Explained guide.
Jyeshtha Nakshatra
Pronunciation: jay-ish-tha
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 18th Nakshatra, ruled by Mercury and associated with Indra. It represents power, authority, and leadership. Individuals born under Jyeshtha are powerful, authoritative, and natural leaders.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Jyotisha
Pronunciation: jo-tee-sha
Category: System
Definition: The Sanskrit name for Vedic astrology. It means “the science of light” — referring to the celestial bodies that illuminate our understanding of life.
See Also: Vedic Astrology
K
Kanya (Virgo)
Pronunciation: kun-ya
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 6th sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Mercury. It represents analysis, precision, and service.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Kanya Rashi (Virgo) guide.
Karana
Pronunciation: ka-ra-na
Category: Panchang
Definition: One of the five components of Panchang. Karana is half a Tithi — the time it takes for the Moon to move 6° ahead of the Sun. There are 11 Karanas.
Example: Vishti (Bhadra) Karana is generally considered inauspicious; Vanija Karana is favorable for business and commerce.
See Also: Panchang, Tithi
For a complete understanding of Panchang, explore the complete Panchang Guide.
Karakatwa
Pronunciation: ka-ra-kat-va
Category: Planet
Definition: The significations or areas of life that each planet governs. For example, the Sun governs the soul and authority, while the Moon governs the mind and emotions.
Example: The Sun’s Karakatwa includes the soul, vitality, authority, father, and eyes.
See Also: Graha, Planet
Karka (Cancer)
Pronunciation: kar-ka
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 4th sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by the Moon. It represents nurturing, emotional depth, and family.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Karka Rashi (Cancer) guide.
Kendra Houses
Pronunciation: ken-dra
Category: House Group
Definition: The angular houses — the 1st, 4th, 7th, and 10th houses. These are the most important houses in the birth chart. Planets in Kendra houses are generally strong and influential.
Example: The 10th house (Kendra) represents career and status.
See Also: Bhava, Trikona, Dusthana
Ketu
Pronunciation: kay-too
Category: Planet
Definition: The South Node of the Moon in Vedic astrology. It represents spirituality, past karma, detachment, and liberation. Ketu is a shadow planet.
See Also: Graha, 9 Planets
Krittika Nakshatra
Pronunciation: krit-ti-ka
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 3rd Nakshatra, ruled by the Sun and associated with Agni. It represents purification, power, and passion. Individuals born under Krittika are passionate, ambitious, and determined.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Kumbha (Aquarius)
Pronunciation: koom-bha
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 11th sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Saturn. It represents innovation, humanitarianism, and vision.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Kumbha Rashi (Aquarius) guide.
Kundli
Pronunciation: koon-dlee
Category: Birth Chart
Definition: The Vedic birth chart. Also called Janam Kundli. The foundation of all astrological analysis in Jyotisha.
See Also: Janam Kundli, Birth Chart
L
Lagna (Ascendant)
Pronunciation: lag-na
Category: Lagna
Definition: The sign rising on the eastern horizon at the exact moment of birth. The Lagna is the foundation of the birth chart and determines the 1st house.
Example: If Karka (Cancer) is rising on the eastern horizon at your birth, your Lagna is Karka.
See Also: Lagna Calculator, Ascendant
Use the Lagna Calculator to determine your Ascendant sign.
Lahiri Ayanamsha
Pronunciation: la-hee-ree ah-yah-num-sha
Category: Ayanamsha
Definition: The official Indian government standard sidereal correction system in Vedic astrology, named after astronomer Nirmal Chandra Lahiri. It is also called Chitrapaksha Ayanamsha.
Example: For 2026, Lahiri Ayanamsha is approximately 24°22′.
See Also: Ayanamsha, Chitrapaksha Ayanamsha
Explore the complete Lahiri Ayanamsha guide.
M
Magha Nakshatra
Pronunciation: ma-gha
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 10th Nakshatra, ruled by Ketu and associated with the Pitrs (ancestors). It represents leadership, authority, and legacy. Individuals born under Magha are respected, dignified, and carry themselves with authority.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Makara (Capricorn)
Pronunciation: ma-ka-ra
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 10th sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Saturn. It represents ambition, discipline, and achievement.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Makara Rashi (Capricorn) guide.
Mangal (Mars)
Pronunciation: mun-gal
Category: Planet
Definition: The planet Mars in Vedic astrology. It represents energy, action, courage, and aggression. Mars rules Mesha (Aries) and Vrishchika (Scorpio).
See Also: Graha, 9 Planets
Meena (Pisces)
Pronunciation: mee-na
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 12th sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Jupiter. It represents imagination, compassion, and spirituality.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Meena Rashi (Pisces) guide.
Mesha (Aries)
Pronunciation: may-sha
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 1st sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Mars. It represents courage, leadership, and action.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Mesha Rashi (Aries) guide.
Mithuna (Gemini)
Pronunciation: mi-thoo-na
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 3rd sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Mercury. It represents communication, curiosity, and versatility.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Mithuna Rashi (Gemini) guide.
Muhurta
Pronunciation: moo-hoor-ta
Category: Timing
Definition: An auspicious time selected for a specific event or activity. It is determined by considering the date (Tithi, Vara, Nakshatra) and time (Lagna, Nakshatra placement).
Example: A Vivaha Muhurta is an auspicious time for a wedding.
See Also: Panchang, Choghadiya
Mula Nakshatra
Pronunciation: moo-la
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 19th Nakshatra, ruled by Ketu and associated with Nirriti. It represents transformation, healing, and liberation. Individuals born under Mula are powerful healers and transformers.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
N
Nadi
Pronunciation: na-di
Category: Ashtakoota
Definition: One of the 8 Kootas in Ashtakoota (Guna Milan). It evaluates health, genetic compatibility, and progeny. Maximum score: 8 points. Nadi is the most important Koota.
See Also: Ashtakoota, Guna Milan
Nakshatra
Pronunciation: nak-sha-tra
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: A lunar mansion in Vedic astrology — one of 27 divisions of the zodiac, each spanning 13°20′. The Nakshatra system is the foundation of Vedic astrology.
Example: The Moon’s Nakshatra at birth determines your Janma Nakshatra (birth star).
See Also: 27 Nakshatras, Nakshatra Guide
For a complete understanding of Nakshatras, explore the complete Nakshatra Guide covering all 27 birth stars.
Navamsa
Pronunciation: na-vam-sa
Category: Divisional Chart
Definition: The 9th divisional chart (D-9) in Vedic astrology. It is used specifically for marriage, relationship, and spiritual analysis.
See Also: Divisional Chart, Bhava Chalit
Nirayana
Pronunciation: nee-ra-ya-na
Category: Zodiac System
Definition: The Sidereal zodiac in Vedic astrology. It is fixed to the actual constellations in the sky, accounting for the precession of the equinoxes.
See Also: Sidereal Zodiac, Sayana
P
Pada
Pronunciation: pa-da
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: One of the 4 quarters of a Nakshatra. Each Pada spans 3°20′. The 27 Nakshatras × 4 Padas = 108 Padas create the complete syllable system used in traditional Hindu naming.
Example: The starting syllable of a baby’s name is determined by the Pada of their birth Nakshatra.
See Also: Nakshatra, 108 Padas
For more on naming by Nakshatra, explore the complete Rashi Baby Names guide.
Panchang
Pronunciation: pan-chang
Category: Calendar System
Definition: The traditional Vedic calendar system comprising five key components: Tithi, Vara, Nakshatra, Yoga, and Karana. It is used for determining auspicious timings and daily planetary influences.
See Also: Panchang Guide, Tithi, Vara, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana
Explore the complete Panchang Guide.
Pravrajya Yoga
Pronunciation: pra-vraj-ya yo-ga
Category: Yoga
Definition: A Yoga indicating spiritual inclination and renunciation. It suggests a tendency toward a spiritual or ascetic life.
See Also: Yoga
Purva Phalguni Nakshatra
Pronunciation: poor-va fal-goo-nee
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 11th Nakshatra, ruled by Venus and associated with Bhaga. It represents creativity, love, and pleasure. Individuals born under Purva Phalguni are creative, loving, and enjoy life’s pleasures.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Pushya Nakshatra
Pronunciation: poosh-ya
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 8th Nakshatra, ruled by Saturn and associated with Brihaspati. It represents nourishment, prosperity, and protection. Individuals born under Pushya are nurturing, protective, and have a strong sense of duty.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
R
Rahu
Pronunciation: ra-hoo
Category: Planet
Definition: The North Node of the Moon in Vedic astrology. It represents desires, sudden changes, ambition, and material success. Rahu is a shadow planet.
See Also: Graha, 9 Planets
Rakshasa Gana
Pronunciation: rak-sha-sa ga-na
Category: Gana
Definition: One of the three Ganas (natures) in the Nakshatra system. Rakshasa Nakshatras (Krittika, Ashlesha, Magha, etc.) are intense, powerful, and transformative.
See Also: Gana, Nakshatra
Rashi
Pronunciation: ra-shee
Category: Rashi
Definition: The zodiac sign occupied by the Moon at birth. The Rashi represents your mind, emotions, and inner self. In Vedic astrology, the Moon sign is more important than the Sun sign.
Example: If the Moon was in Mesha (Aries) at your birth, your Rashi is Mesha.
See Also: Rashi Calculator, 12 Rashis
Use the Rashi Finder tool to calculate your Moon sign accurately. For a complete understanding of all Rashis, explore the complete Rashi Characteristics guide.
Rashi Milan
Pronunciation: ra-shee mee-lan
Category: Compatibility
Definition: The system of evaluating marriage compatibility by matching the Rashi (Moon signs) of two individuals. Also called Guna Milan or Ashtakoota.
See Also: Ashtakoota, Guna Milan
Use the Rashi Matching Calculator for compatibility analysis.
Revati Nakshatra
Pronunciation: re-va-tee
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 27th Nakshatra, ruled by Mercury and associated with Pushan. It represents completion, nourishment, and spiritual fulfillment. Individuals born under Revati are compassionate, nurturing, and spiritually fulfilled.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Rohini Nakshatra
Pronunciation: ro-hee-nee
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 4th Nakshatra, ruled by the Moon and associated with Brahma. It represents growth, creativity, and nourishment. Individuals born under Rohini are creative, nurturing, and have a strong appreciation for beauty.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
S
Sayana
Pronunciation: sa-ya-na
Category: Zodiac System
Definition: The Tropical zodiac in Vedic astrology. It is fixed to the seasons (the Spring Equinox). This is the system used in Western astrology.
See Also: Tropical Zodiac, Nirayana
Shani (Saturn)
Pronunciation: sha-nee
Category: Planet
Definition: The planet Saturn in Vedic astrology. It represents discipline, karma, structure, and responsibility. Saturn rules Makara (Capricorn) and Kumbha (Aquarius).
See Also: Graha, 9 Planets
Shukra (Venus)
Pronunciation: shook-ra
Category: Planet
Definition: The planet Venus in Vedic astrology. It represents love, beauty, relationships, and material comforts. Venus rules Vrishabha (Taurus) and Tula (Libra).
See Also: Graha, 9 Planets
Shravana Nakshatra
Pronunciation: shra-va-na
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 22nd Nakshatra, ruled by the Moon and associated with Vishnu. It represents wisdom, learning, and listening. Individuals born under Shravana are wise, good listeners, and have a strong desire to learn.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Sidereal Zodiac
Pronunciation: si-deer-ee-al zo-dee-ak
Category: Zodiac System
Definition: The zodiac system fixed to the actual constellations in the sky. It accounts for the precession of the equinoxes. This is the system used in Vedic astrology.
See Also: Nirayana, Sidereal Zodiac
Simha (Leo)
Pronunciation: sim-ha
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 5th sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by the Sun. It represents confidence, creativity, and leadership.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Simha Rashi (Leo) guide.
Sthira Rashi
Pronunciation: sthi-ra ra-shee
Category: Modality
Definition: “Fixed” sign — one of the three modalities in Vedic astrology. Sthira Rashis (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius) are stable, consistent, and unwavering.
See Also: Rashi, Modality
Surya (Sun)
Pronunciation: soor-ya
Category: Planet
Definition: The planet Sun in Vedic astrology. It represents the soul, vitality, authority, and self-expression. The Sun rules Simha (Leo).
See Also: Graha, 9 Planets
Swati Nakshatra
Pronunciation: swa-tee
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 15th Nakshatra, ruled by Rahu and associated with Vayu. It represents freedom, movement, and flexibility. Individuals born under Swati are independent, freedom-loving, and adaptable.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
T
Tara
Pronunciation: ta-ra
Category: Ashtakoota
Definition: One of the 8 Kootas in Ashtakoota (Guna Milan). It evaluates health, destiny, and longevity. Maximum score: 3 points.
See Also: Ashtakoota, Guna Milan
Tithi
Pronunciation: ti-thi
Category: Panchang
Definition: The lunar day — one of the five components of Panchang. Tithi is the time it takes for the Moon to move 12° ahead of the Sun. There are 30 Tithis in a lunar month, divided into two fortnights.
Example: Shukla Paksha (waxing Moon) Tithis are generally favorable; Krishna Paksha (waning Moon) Tithis are generally less favorable.
See Also: Panchang, Lunar Day
Trikona Houses
Pronunciation: tri-ko-na
Category: House Group
Definition: The trine houses — the 1st, 5th, and 9th houses. These houses are considered auspicious and represent fortune and dharma. Planets in Trikona houses bring good fortune and positive outcomes.
Example: The 5th house (Trikona) represents creativity and children.
See Also: Bhava, Kendra, Dusthana
Tropical Zodiac
Pronunciation: trop-i-kal zo-dee-ak
Category: Zodiac System
Definition: The zodiac system fixed to the seasons (the Spring Equinox). This is the system used in Western astrology. It does not account for the precession of the equinoxes.
See Also: Sayana, Tropical Zodiac
Tula (Libra)
Pronunciation: too-la
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 7th sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Venus. It represents balance, harmony, and relationships.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Tula Rashi (Libra) guide.
U
Upachaya Houses
Pronunciation: oo-pa-cha-ya
Category: House Group
Definition: The growth houses — the 3rd, 6th, 10th, and 11th houses. Planets in Upachaya houses improve over time. Challenges in these areas become easier to manage as the person matures.
Example: The 10th house (Upachaya) represents career, which improves with effort and experience.
See Also: Bhava
Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra
Pronunciation: oot-ta-ra fal-goo-nee
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 12th Nakshatra, ruled by the Sun and associated with Aryaman. It represents commitment, partnership, and unions. Individuals born under Uttara Phalguni are committed, loyal, and focused on building lasting relationships.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
V
Vara
Pronunciation: va-ra
Category: Panchang
Definition: The weekday — one of the five components of Panchang. Each day is ruled by a specific planet.
Example: Ravivar (Sunday) is ruled by the Sun; Somvar (Monday) is ruled by the Moon.
See Also: Panchang, Weekday
Varna
Pronunciation: var-na
Category: Ashtakoota
Definition: One of the 8 Kootas in Ashtakoota (Guna Milan). It evaluates spiritual compatibility and ego alignment. Maximum score: 1 point.
See Also: Ashtakoota, Guna Milan
Vashya
Pronunciation: vash-ya
Category: Ashtakoota
Definition: One of the 8 Kootas in Ashtakoota (Guna Milan). It evaluates mutual attraction, control, and influence. Maximum score: 2 points.
See Also: Ashtakoota, Guna Milan
Vimshottari Dasha
Pronunciation: vim-shot-ta-ree da-sha
Category: Timing
Definition: The most commonly used Dasha system in Vedic astrology. It cycles through the 9 planets in a fixed sequence over 120 years.
Example: The Vimshottari Dasha sequence is: Ketu (7 years), Venus (20), Sun (6), Moon (10), Mars (7), Rahu (18), Jupiter (16), Saturn (19), Mercury (17).
See Also: Dasha
Vishakha Nakshatra
Pronunciation: vi-sha-kha
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The 16th Nakshatra, ruled by Jupiter and associated with Indra-Agni. It represents purpose, determination, and achievement. Individuals born under Vishakha are focused, determined, and driven to achieve their goals.
See Also: Nakshatra, 27 Nakshatras
Vrishabha (Taurus)
Pronunciation: vri-sha-bha
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 2nd sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Venus. It represents stability, patience, and material security.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Vrishabha Rashi (Taurus) guide.
Vrishchika (Scorpio)
Pronunciation: vrish-chi-ka
Category: Rashi
Definition: The 8th sign of the Vedic zodiac, ruled by Mars. It represents intensity, transformation, and depth.
See Also: Rashi, 12 Rashis
Explore the complete Vrishchika Rashi (Scorpio) guide.
Y
Yoga (Astrological)
Pronunciation: yo-ga
Category: Yoga
Definition: A planetary combination in the birth chart that indicates specific strengths, challenges, or life events. Yogas are formed when planets are placed in certain houses or in certain relationships with each other.
Example: Dhana Yoga indicates wealth and financial prosperity; Raja Yoga indicates power and leadership.
See Also: Yogas in Kundli
Yoni
Pronunciation: yo-nee
Category: Nakshatra
Definition: The animal symbol associated with a Nakshatra. Each Nakshatra has a Yoni that represents its instinctual nature and sexual compatibility.
Example: Ashwini Nakshatra has a Horse Yoni; Bharani has an Elephant Yoni.
See Also: Nakshatra
For a complete understanding of Nakshatras and their Yonis, explore the complete Nakshatra Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Vedic and Western astrology?
The main difference is the zodiac system: Vedic uses the sidereal zodiac (fixed to the stars), while Western uses the tropical zodiac (fixed to the seasons). Vedic also focuses more on karma, timing, and predictive techniques. In practice, your Vedic Sun sign is often one sign earlier than your Western Sun sign. You can use the Sun Sign Calculator to find your Western zodiac sign.
What is the most important component of a birth chart?
The Lagna (Ascendant) is often considered the most important component because it determines the 1st house and all subsequent houses. However, the Rashi (Moon sign) and planetary placements are also essential. Explore the complete Kundli Explained guide for more.
What is the difference between Rashi and Lagna?
Rashi is your Moon sign — the sign the Moon was in at your birth. It represents your mind and emotions. Lagna is your Ascendant — the sign rising on the eastern horizon at your birth. It represents your physical body and personality. Use the Rashi Finder tool and Lagna Calculator to find yours.
What is a Nakshatra and why does it matter?
A Nakshatra is a lunar mansion — one of 27 divisions of the zodiac that the Moon passes through. It adds specificity to the Rashi and is used for compatibility, naming ceremonies, and deeper personality analysis. Explore the complete Nakshatra Guide.
What is a Yoga in astrology?
A Yoga is a planetary combination in the birth chart that indicates specific strengths, challenges, or life events. Yogas are formed when planets are placed in certain houses or relationships with each other.
What is Dasha?
Dasha is the planetary period system in Vedic astrology that determines the timing of life events. The most commonly used system is Vimshottari Dasha, which cycles through the 9 planets over 120 years.
What is Panchang?
Panchang is the traditional Vedic calendar system comprising five key components: Tithi, Vara, Nakshatra, Yoga, and Karana. It is used for determining auspicious timings and daily planetary influences. Explore the complete Panchang Guide.
What is Ayanamsha?
Ayanamsha is the angular difference between the Tropical zodiac (fixed to the seasons) and the Sidereal zodiac (fixed to the stars). In Vedic astrology, the ayanamsha is subtracted from tropical planetary positions to calculate sidereal positions. Explore the complete Lahiri Ayanamsha guide.
What is Lahiri Ayanamsha?
Lahiri Ayanamsha (Chitrapaksha Ayanamsha) is the official Indian government standard sidereal correction system in Vedic astrology, named after astronomer Nirmal Chandra Lahiri. It is the most widely used ayanamsha system in Vedic astrology.
What is the difference between a planet and a Graha?
In Vedic astrology, Graha is the term for a “planet.” The 9 Grahas are Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu. Rahu and Ketu are shadow planets — the North and South Nodes of the Moon. Explore the complete Graha Guide.
