A learned friend asked me this question and I was inspired to look for answers. I myself was a bit shocked that this did not cross my mind. Nevertheless. For any answer, we have to go to a accessible and understandable credible source.
Reference Text
To answer this, I have referred to the Mahabharata, specifically the simplified version by C. Rajagopalachari. I had read the book a few times in the past, easy to understand and accessible. I strongly recommend the book to whoever wants a good perspective on the epic. I could further enrich this essay with details from other advanced works of the Mahabharata later, if I wish to add the details. Back to the question
The complexity
The question of whether it was justified to ask Duryodhana for half the kingdom comes from the complex history of succession and political dynamics within the Kuru family. Dhritarashtra, as the elder son of Vichitravirya, should have rightfully become the king of Hastinapura. However, due to his blindness, Pandu, his younger brother, was crowned king. Was Pandu holding the fort for Dirtarashtra ? Then, this raises a question: Should Duryodhana, as the son of Dhritarashtra, have been considered the heir apparent instead of Yudhishthira, the son of Pandu? Furthermore, after Yudhishthira loses everything in the infamous game of dice, was the request for half the kingdom still justified?
Pandu, the King of Hastinapura
Pandu is portrayed as the actual King of Hastinapura, not just a caretaker for Dhritarashtra. If Pandu had merely been holding the fort, it would imply that he was ruling temporarily until Duryodhana was ready. However, after Pandu was cursed during a hunting incident, he handed over the kingdom to Bhishma and Vidura to manage and left to the forests with his two wives. He did not pass the throne to Dhritarashtra. After Pandu’s death alone, Dhritarashtra invariably became the king, but the administration was carefully overseen by Bhishma and Vidura.
We also need to consider that while Pandu was alive and ruling, Dhritarashtra and his family—his wife and 100 children—enjoyed the material wealth of the kingdom. This highlights the difference between kingship and property ownership, though in this reference of Mahabharata does not explicitly explain this distinction. There isn’t much known about Dhritarashtra’s exact role in the kingdom.
Kunti’s Return to Hastinapura
After Kunti returned with her five children following their birth in the forest, and after Pandu’s death, both the Pandavas and the Kauravas lived peacefully at Hastinapura. However, Duryodhana, even at a young age, grew increasingly worried that after his blind father’s death, Yudhishthira, the eldest Pandava, would ascend the throne. It became clear that Yudhishthira was widely regarded as the rightful heir. This belief led Duryodhana to make several attempts on the Pandavas’ lives, including the infamous wax house incident.
Pandavas are Alive
When Dhritarashtra learned that the Pandavas were alive after their marriage to Draupadi, he knew they would return and would ask for the Kingship. Duryodhana, aware of the Pandavas’ strength, sought advice from Karna and others on how to prevent Yudhishthira from becoming king. Karna and the rest of Duryodhana’s camp knew that the Pandavas could not be defeated in battle. Duryodhana then approached Dhritarashtra.
Half the Kingdom is Rightfully the Pandavas’ Share
Dhritarashtra consulted Bhishma, Drona, and Vidura, and they advised him that, according to legal norms, “half the kingdom” rightfully belonged to the Pandavas. This is the first instance in the epic where the concept of “lawful” inheritance is explicitly mentioned. Following their advice, Dhritarashtra had to come across as someone fair, and he quickly came up with an idea, and decided to give the Pandavas the ruined city of Kandavaprastha as their share.
Originally, everyone had assumed that Yudhishthira would inherit the throne of Hastinapura, and not a ruined city. This probably marked the first act of deceit toward the Pandavas. Dhritarashtra ordered the Pandavas to take control of Kandavaprastha and rule there. Yudhishthira was made the king of the city, which they later saw unprecedented growth and prosperity and was renamed Indraprastha. Over 36 years, the city flourished and became a symbol of wealth, prosperity, and growth.
Jealousy and Deceit
As Indraprastha grew prosperous, Duryodhana became jealous and desired to take it back. However, knowing the Pandavas’ strength, he realized that direct warfare was not an option. Duryodhana approached Shakuni for help. Initially hesitant, Shakuni eventually agreed to aid Duryodhana in his plan to undermine the Pandavas. They decided to invite Yudhishthira to a game of dice. Since the invitation came from King Dhritarashtra through Vidura, it was difficult for Yudhishthira to decline.
At the game, Shakuni rolled the dice on behalf of Duryodhana, making the game inherently unfair. When Yudhishthira pointed this out, they mocked him, and eventually, he was forced to concede as per the epic.
From Friendly Game to Loss of Kingdom
What started as a friendly game between cousins ended with Yudhishthira losing his kingdom, along with Draupadi. Dhritarashtra was condemned by the elders of the kingdom for allowing such a deceitful game, and the shameful act of what they did to Draupadi, which inturn shamed the kingdom and their ancestors. Fearing the consequences of the events, Dhritarashtra hastily decided to return Indraprastha to Yudhishthira, knowing that the Pandavas’ loss was achieved through deceit. He suddenly was overwhelmed by the karma outcomes on Duryodhana. [Krishna, later refers to this game and mentions that if he were in the congregation, he would have advised the elders then and there and avoided the unpleasant incident that followed.]
Yudhishthira and his brothers returned to Indraprastha.
Yudhishthira Invited Again to play
Duryodhana, unable to accept the outcome of his father’s decision, demanded another game. Yudhishthira was invited again, and this time the stakes were different: twelve years of exile plus an additional year in disguise. Yudhishthira lost and went into exile. There was no mention of losing Indraprastha in this second game, so it is unclear whether he was meant to lose both his kingdom and face exile. During their exile, Duryodhana took control of Indraprastha.
Post-13 Years of Exile
After the Pandavas’ 13 years of exile, a gathering was held for Abhimanyu’s marriage at Upaplavya. During the gathering, Krishna spoke about what was fair for the Pandavas, and the issue of “half the kingdom” was raised once again. Krishna highlighted the deceitful nature of the game and argued that Yudhishthira should be given back his kingdom. During the exile earlier, Balarama had expressed sorrow over how Duryodhana, despite his sin, was living happily, while Yudhishthira, who followed dharma, was suffering. However, in this instance, Balarama also believed that Yudhishthira should have known the risks of participating in the game. He stated that Yudhishthira could only request the return of his kingdom, not demand it.
Ultimately, the meeting concluded that preparations for war should begin, but Krishna would go on behalf of Yudhishthira to seek peace. Duryodhana, too, prepared for war.
Summary
In my view, the entire conversation was originally for Indraprastha alone, not Hastinapura. Even if Indraprastha had been returned to Yudhishthira (though Duryodhana had emptied the vaults by then), Duryodhana still controlled Hastinapura. Duryodhana was unwilling to part with Indraprastha, not even a “needle’s worth” of space.
Krishna’s perspective was that the entire game was deceitful, and that the Pandavas at least deserved Indraprastha. This led to the failure of peace talks and the subsequent war.When it came to war, then it became that of full inheritance and not just Indraprashta.
We must refer to advanced texts for a deeper understanding of this conclusion.
—-OM TAT SAT—-
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Several sources have discussed the impact on four major planetary transits occurring between now and May 2025. So I am not going to repeat them. Saturn moves first on March 29, followed by Jupiter on May 15, and finally, Rahu/Ketu by the end of May 2025. The following advice pertains to April 2025.
Why April 2025 ?
The key period of concern is April 2025. When Saturn enters Pisces on March 29, 2025, it will be within 2 degrees of Rahu, creating the possibility of Rahu overshadowing Saturn. At the same time, Venus will be in retrograde, and soon after, Mercury will also begin its retrograde motion toward Rahu, while Saturn continues moving toward Rahu in direct motion. As a result, throughout April 2025, three planets—Mercury, Venus, and Saturn—will be under Rahu’s influence.
While the Moon crosses Rahu every month, its rapid movement (about 3 degrees in a few hours) minimizes prolonged effects. However, Mercury and Venus, despite being fast-moving planets, are moving toward Rahu instead of away from it this time. Saturn, the slowest-moving planet, is also gradually approaching Rahu, intensifying the impact. And that’s the only basis of this advisory. Now, advisory is meant to provide a caution and to make informed choices, and not to cause fear and inaction.
For individuals with Taurus, Libra (ruled by Venus), Gemini, Virgo (ruled by Mercury), Capricorn, and Aquarius (ruled by Saturn), this transit period requires extra caution.
Aries (Mesha)
Aries is under the 7.5 years of Saturn’s influence. Saturn also rules the 10th and 11th houses, indicating a need for vigilance in work. Pay close attention to home security, as the risk of theft persists. Focus on health and general matters, and avoid travel or taking important decisions on Janma Rasi/Ashtamachandra days. Be vigilant at work, avoid confrontations and arguments as it can get out of proportion. This time around, you may not get your way!
Venus is the Lord of 2nd and 7th. Be cautious on investments/savings/expenses. Mercury is the Lord of 3rd and 6th. Again, new initiatives will be delayed. So be patient. Keep a watch on the health of your spouse.
Brief note on Transit: Be more vigilant if you are running the Saturn Dasa or the Rahu Dasa. The beginning of the 7.5 years is already starting on a challenging note, so if you are in addition running these Dasas, then, there are challenges ahead. What worked till yesterday, will not work now. You have to readjust, recalibrate and overcome these challenges. Rahu in the 11th house is a good transit and further Jupiter aspecting the Rahu from May 2025 also provides relief. You will get back some of the profits back. Ketu in the 5th house will allow children to come back to your home for a brief time and this can last to 18 months
Scorpio (Vrischigam):
If you’re planning to buy a new home or relocate, make informed choices. If possible, consider delaying the process by a month. If an immediate move is necessary, ensure all documents are thoroughly verified.
Keep a close watch on children, as the shadow effect is occurring in the 5th house. Avoid crowded places with them, or ensure enough adults are present to supervise individually. The 5th Lord, Jupiter, remains outside the eclipse zone, offering some relief.
Pay attention to your mother’s health, and plan vacations wisely—especially those involving water-related adventure sports. Venus, ruling the 7th and 12th houses, indicates that your spouse’s health may require care. You might also experience unexpected expenses and sleep disruptions. To manage this, avoid overloading your schedule and approach tasks mindfully.
Mercury, ruling the 8th and 11th houses, signals the need for careful attention to both health and finances during this period.
Brief Transit Note: For Scorpio natives, relief from Kandaka Shani is on 29th March 2025, bringing overall ease after April 2025. In May 2025, Jupiter will transition into the 8th house (Ashtama Guru). While this position is not traditionally favorable, Jupiter, being a benefic planet for Scorpio, will still provide financial protection, influencing both expenses and savings. Additionally, Jupiter’s aspect on the 4th house—where Rahu will transit in May 2025—suggests a positive shift. Though Ashtama Guru presents challenges, Jupiter’s presence ensures a degree of stability and support.
Taurus (Rishabha)
For Taurus (Vrishabha) natives, this transit period requires careful attention to work, finances, and family matters. Saturn, ruling the 9th and 10th houses, may bring challenges to professional life, necessitating focus, caution, and diligence in handling responsibilities. Father’s health should be closely monitored. Mercury rules over the 2nd and 5th houses require financial vigilance, also in matters related to family, wealth and children. Be cautious with online transactions, banking, and digital payments to avoid fraud. Avoid travel on Janma Rasi/Ashtamachandra days, and exercise caution when signing documents. Important decisions should not be rushed to prevent accidents or mishaps. Plan family vacations around planetary relief dates to minimize disruptions.
Brief note on Transit: It’s important to remember that you are currently under the influence of Janma Guru, which may be contributing to mental tension. However, this phase will end in May 2025, bringing much-needed relief.
Saturn will move into your 11th house, but in April 2025, it will be under the shadow of Rahu, which could create challenges related to profits and finances. Stay vigilant in all financial matters during this period. As Saturn is the Lord of the 9th and 10th houses, he will bless you with good outcomes throughout the next 2.5 years. You will see a return of profits, wealth and happiness.
Rahu’s transit into your 10th house may give a sudden rise, and also sudden fall, you will be much protected by Jupiter in the 2nd house who by then will be aspecting Rahu., While Ketu’s movement into your 4th house could impact your home life. If you have been living away from home and have applied for a transfer, opportunities for relocation may arise starting in June 2025.
Additionally, in May 2025, Jupiter will transit into your 2nd house, offering significant relief. Its aspect on Rahu in the 10th house will help stabilize career-related matters and financial growth.
Libra (Thulam)
For Libra (Tula) natives, this period emphasizes security, financial caution, and family well-being. With Saturn governing the 4th and 5th houses, extra care should be taken regarding home safety and children’s well-being. Ensure that security measures, such as cameras, are in place, and house-related documents are handled carefully. Financial caution is needed due to Mercury’s Lordship over the 9th and 12th houses. Father’s health may require attention, and regular check-ups are recommended. Avoid impulsive spending, and ensure financial decisions are well thought out. Venus governs 1st and the 8th house, so you must be extremely mindful as your Rasi Lord is unable to fully support you.
Brief note on Transits: You are currently under the influence of Ashtama Guru, and it will take another two months to fully recover from the effects of the previous year’s transit. However, relief is on the horizon. With Jupiter transiting into your 9th house, it will positively aspect your Rasi and 5th house, bringing stability and growth.
Adding to the good news, Ketu will move out of your 12th house by the end of May, marking a significant turning point. This combined transit will offer much-needed relief, helping you finally see success after the challenges you’ve been facing.
Saturn’s shift into your 6th house will strengthen you, boosting confidence and happiness. However, since Saturn is your 4th Lord moving into the 6th house, there is a possibility of legal matters arising. Additionally, if your children are at the right stage in life, they may move out of the home during this period.
With Ketu exiting the 12th house, you will experience reduced mental tension, improved sleep, and better financial control. Your spending is likely to shift toward things that genuinely enhance comfort and well-being.
Gemini (Mithunam)
For Gemini (Mithuna), Saturn’s influence over the 8th and 9th houses highlights the need for attention to personal well-being, Health and the health of the father. Venus, ruling the 5th and 12th houses, suggests controlling expenses and overseeing children’s safety and well-being. Financial commitments should be delayed until after planetary relief. Avoid travel on Janma Rasi/Ashtamachandra days and exercise caution with important decisions to avoid accidents or mishaps.
Brief note on Transits: It’s important to note that Saturn is transiting into your 10th house, marking the beginning of Kandaka Shani. However, this phase starts with a tormented Saturn under the shadow of Rahu, making it crucial to exercise extra caution at the start of the transit, as its effects could be long-lasting. Additionally, Rahu will be in your 9th house, potentially distancing you from religious beliefs, which may not be favorable for the next 18 to 28 months. You will also experience Janma Guru, with Jupiter positioned in your birth Rasi. You will start worrying for simple aspects, about your family members, and will have the tendency to make incorrect or impulsive decisions. On a positive note, Ketu’s movement into the 3rd house will provide some relief, serving as the only silver lining during this period
Virgo (Kanni)
For Virgo (Kanya), Saturn’s rule over the 5th and 6th houses indicates potential challenges at work and in responsibilities toward children. With Venus governing the 2nd and 9th houses, savings and financial planning should be approached cautiously, and father’s health should be closely monitored. Avoid travel on Janma Rasi/Ashtamachandra days and exercise caution when signing documents. Avoid rushing through important decisions to prevent accidents or mishaps.
Brief note on Transits: For Virgo, the Saturn transit into the 7th house also called Kandaga Shani is not favorable for relationship with your spouse. However, this phase starts with a tormented Saturn under the shadow of Rahu, making it crucial to exercise extra caution at the start of the transit, as its effects could be long-lasting. Trivial fights caused by others will have a unprecedented impact on your relationship. Also, Ketu in May is transiting into your 12th house, further causing sleeplessness, expenses and even hospitalization. Jupiter in a Kendra from Virgo will provide some relief but it is going to be a challenging 18 to 30 months.
Be more cautious if you are running the Dasa of Saturn, Rahu, Guru or Ketu.
Cancer (Katagam)
For Cancer (Karka), Saturn’s ruling over the 7th and 8th houses highlights the need for attention to personal and spouse’s health. Mercury, ruling the 3rd and 12th houses, suggests caution regarding major expenses and delaying significant financial commitments. Younger siblings may need extra attention. Venus governs the 4th and 11th houses, and there is a risk of financial setbacks, including theft or unexpected losses. Family dynamics, particularly with elder siblings, may also require attention. Avoid family travel in April, as planetary influences indicate potential disruptions. Change of home must be considered mindfully.
Brief Note on Transits: You’ll be relieved to know that you are coming out of Ashtama Shani. However, Rahu’s entry into the 8th house is generally not favorable. Fortunately, Jupiter’s transit to Gemini, your 12th house, will bring some protection by aspecting Rahu and stabilizing the 8th house’s influence.
With Jupiter in the 12th house, your expenses will be directed toward comfort and well-being, ensuring that your spending serves a meaningful purpose. However, Ketu’s presence in the 2nd house may impact your financial stability. Be cautious with investments and avoid dipping into long-term savings for daily expenses.
Leo (Simha):
Saturn, ruling the 6th and 7th houses, is directly under the shadow of Rahu in April 2025. Extra caution is needed while driving for both yourself and your spouse. Attend to any fever promptly. Avoid travel on Janma Rasi/Ashtamachandra days. Ashtamachandra is extremely crucial as Moon also will be eclipsed and this not only applies to you this month, but throughout the transit.
Focus on health, and avoid eating outside or traveling to unclean places. Be mindful of health and avoid attempting anything new during this month. Venus is the ruler of 3rd and 10th responsible for new initiatives and work. So be prepared for delay and do not rush into anything new. Wait patiently. Mercury is the ruler for 11th and 2nd house. Large purchases/investment decisions can wait till the month end. Pay advance if needed but wait.
Brief notes on Transit: You are entering Ashtama Shani, a period that requires extra caution, as its effects can be long-lasting. This phase begins with Saturn under the shadow of Rahu, making the initial months particularly intense.
Additionally, Ketu will move into your Rasi, while Rahu shifts into your 7th house. This combination may lead to conflicts with your spouse, increased mental tension, errors in judgment, and heightened anger. Practicing patience and mindfulness will be crucial during this time.
Jupiter’s current placement in the 10th house is unfavorable, but by the end of May, it will transit into your 11th house, bringing much-needed relief. This shift will unlock pending rewards, promotions, profits, or previously inaccessible finances.
Overall, the next 30 months will be challenging, but Jupiter’s influence will provide occasional periods of respite, helping you navigate this phase with greater stability.
Pisces (Meena):
Saturn is moving into your Janma Rasi, casting its impact directly on Pisces. This month, exercise caution in all aspects of life—travel, relationships, documentation, and safety. However, with your Rasi Lord positioned in the 3rd house, outside of this shadow effect, you will find some relief.
Venus, the ruler of your 3rd and 8th houses, may cause delays or stalls in new initiatives. Be mindful when investing your time, effort, or money in the early stages—keep commitments minimal and wait until April for more informed and relaxed decisions.
Mercury, governing your 4th and 7th houses, suggests that business partnerships may not be ideal at this time. If considering one, proceed with caution, especially in April. Additionally, avoid traveling with family, and plan vacations thoughtfully.
Brief note on Transit: You are now in the second phase of Saturn’s 7.5-year cycle (Sade Sati). If you stay mindful in early April 2025, when Saturn will be under the shadow of Rahu, you can help moderate its effects. The good news is that Ketu moving into your 6th house in May will bring some relief. However, with Rahu transiting into your 12th house, you may face unexpected expenses, heightened desires, and a tendency toward luxury. Stay vigilant and manage your finances wisely. Brace up for 5 years of challenges and equip yourself with prayers and healthy habits.
Sagittarius (Dhanur)
New initiatives may face delays, so it’s advisable to avoid significant investments until after April 30th. If necessary, you may pay an advance, but refrain from pushing too hard for immediate results. Exercise caution with house-related matters and avoid exchanging important documents.
Prioritize your health and avoid travel or making major decisions on Janma Rasi or Ashtamachandra days. Venus, as the ruler of your 6th and 11th houses, suggests potential health concerns—if you experience fever or discomfort, consult a doctor immediately. Financial gains may diminish or be lost, so remain vigilant.
Mercury, ruling your 7th and 10th houses, highlights the need to monitor your spouse’s health closely. At work, proceed with extreme caution—minor issues could escalate unexpectedly.
Brief note on Transit: Saturn will move into your 4th house as Kandaka Shani, marking a phase of challenges. This transition begins with Saturn under the shadow of Rahu, making April 2025 a particularly crucial time to stay cautious. Avoid taking anything for granted, and focus on prayers, good habits, and a charitable mindset to navigate this period smoothly.
Ketu’s presence in the 9th house may bring certain obstacles. In May 2025, the transits of Rahu and Jupiter will provide much-needed support. As your Rasi Lord, Jupiter will directly aspect your sign for one year, bringing relief in health matters, unlocking pending finances through its 11th house aspect, and blessing your 3rd house of initiatives.
Rahu’s placement in the 3rd house is generally favorable, but ensure that any new ventures are backed by a practical reality check—distinguishing between what is truly important and what is not. With mindful decision-making, this period can still bring progress despite initial challenges.
Capricorn (Makaram)
Capricorn (Makara) natives should focus on work, family, and health, as Mercury rules the 6th and 9th houses, and Venus influences the 5th and 10th houses. Professional matters require extra diligence, and family-related responsibilities, particularly concerning children and father’s health, should not be neglected. Avoid travel on Janma Rasi/Ashtamachandra days and exercise caution with important decisions.
Brief Transit note: However, after March 2025, you will be fully relieved from the effects of Sade Sati (7.5 Saturn), bringing a sense of ease.
In May 2025, Jupiter will move into the 6th house, while Rahu and Ketu will transit the 2nd and 8th houses, respectively. While relief from Saturn’s influence is significant, these planetary shifts will introduce new challenges. Be especially mindful of financial decisions over the next 18 months. A luxurious wedding or an opportunity for home improvement may arise unexpectedly—carefully assess your needs versus wants before making major commitments.
Prioritize your health during this period. Consider undergoing a full medical check-up and consulting your doctor to prevent or minimize potential health concerns and hospital visits.
Aquarius (Kumbham)
For Aquarius (Kumbha), Mercury’s influence over the 5th and 8th houses suggests that unexpected events may arise, requiring patience and careful handling. Venus, ruling the 4th and 9th houses, indicates that parental health—especially that of your mother and father—should be a priority. Keep a close watch on children’s well-being as well.
Avoid traveling on Janma Rasi/Ashtamachandra days, and exercise caution when making important decisions. Saturn, the Lord of your Rasi, is coming directly under the shadow of Rahu in the 3rd house, which may cause delays or disruptions in new initiatives.
Brief Transit Note: While Saturn is your Rasi Lord, it also governs the 7.5-year Sade Sati period, bringing both challenges and blessings. In May 2025, Rahu will transit into your Rasi, potentially causing fever-like symptoms and increasing your inclination toward excessive leverage. To navigate this period smoothly, practice mindfulness, meditation, and other calming techniques over the next 18 months.
On the positive side, Jupiter’s transit into your 5th house will provide significant relief and help counterbalance Rahu’s influence, bringing stability and support.
Ketu’s placement in the 7th house may facilitate reconnection with your spouse, especially if you have been living in separate locations. If you have applied for a transfer, it is likely to come through. However, be mindful of your spouse’s health, as it may require extra care during this time.
Remedies (For all rasis)
Focus inward. It is a good time to focus inward
Visit the Lord Shiva Shrines
Visit the Vishnu-Lakshmi Shrines
Visit Kalabhairavar and Durga temples
Be mindful
Go for long walks
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The Indian calendar is intricately and accurately tied to astronomical events, fascinatingly influencing even our understanding of the days of the week—from Sunday to Saturday—a topic I will delve into in an upcoming blog. Today, however, I focus on how our birthdays align with astronomical events, recurring beautifully each year. While the Gregorian birth date also occurs annually, this article explores the unique aspects of these systems and provides insights into how we can embrace and celebrate birthdays according to both calendars.
Birthday as per Gregorian calendar
The Gregorian calendar, introduced by Pope Gregory XIII in October 1582, is the most widely used calendar globally today. It incorporates astronomical events such as the Earth’s orbit around the Sun, rounding off for practical ease rather than aiming for pinpoint accuracy. This simplifies the tracking of anniversaries such as birthdays, approximating their annual occurrence based on the Earth’s orbit. Despite this approximation, the calendar provides a stable and widely accepted framework for organizing events globally, ensuring consistency in scheduling international activities and holidays. Therefore, the return of the birth date in a given month is celebrated as the birthday.
Birthday as per the Indian Calendar
In contrast, the Indian Calendar is deeply rooted in astronomical observations of the Sun, Moon, Earth and the 27 fixed stars. These stars, which remain fixed in the sky, serve as reference points for tracking planetary movements and their mutual distances. When a child is born, these astronomical events are noted, and we await the recurrence of the same celestial alignment the following year, termed as the Star Birthday or Nakshatra Birthday. A child’s birth is celebrated based on the solar month and the specific Nakshatra (constellation) under which the Moon resides during its orbit around the Earth. This unique alignment recurs annually, marking the significance of the Star-Birthday or Nakshatra-Birthday.
Is this relevant today?
Ancient scriptures emphasize the rarity and sanctity of human birth among the multitude of species on Earth, considered a blessing or the fruit of virtuous deeds. The celebration of birthdays reflects this reverence, akin to the cyclic unity of the Moon with its Nakshatra during its waxing and waning phases relative to the Sun and Earth. Traditionally, birthdays are observed with gratitude for life’s opportunities and are marked by spiritual introspection, prayers, and acts of charity towards the less fortunate.
Celebrating Both Birthdays
The Gregorian calendar-based birthday becomes an occasion for festivities with friends, family, and colleagues, celebrating the joy of existence and accomplishments. It plays a significant role in the social fabric, fostering bonds and marking milestones in life.
Conversely, the Indian Calendar-based birthday offers a moment for personal reflection, spiritual growth, and connection with the universe at large. This day holds a deeper significance for inner contemplation and seeking spiritual insights. Experiential wisdom advises us to utilize this time wisely for inner peace; when the Moon aligns in the same degree as during birth, it suggests a heightened sensitivity and caution. It reminds us to tread carefully in travel, decision-making, and other important matters, emphasizing the need for a secure and stable environment. Therefore, traditionally, it is observed quietly with visits to temples, religious rituals, a home-made feast, and seeking blessings from elders and the family deity, as well as by being benevolent and charitable towards others less fortunate.
Every 19 years, the Gregorian calendar’s approximation corrects itself to align with cosmic events, meaning that on the 19th birthday, both the birthdate and the Star birthday will coincide. It is recommended to focus on activities suitable for the Star birthday on this occasion, while celebrating socially at a later time as expected.
By choosing the right activities, we are able to leverage both these days to our benefit.
How to know your birth star ? How to know its annual return ?
To find your Nakshatra, you can refer to your horoscope or use online tools readily available. Determining its annual return date involves consulting an almanac or Indian calendar, which may require familiarity with these resources. I offer assistance in finding your Star Birthday and provide details of its next two occurrences through a simple form, with no charges incurred. All you need to do is fill up the form here
In the future, I plan to equip you with tools to identify this on your own through a self-service blog. Rest assured, your privacy is my priority, and any data shared will solely be used for providing the requested information.
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We need the exact location of planets for every horoscope. The combination of Birthdate, birthtime, and birthplace helps us to narrow down to exact data points to track their positions and plot them in your horoscope. This information is obtained by consulting what we call as ephemeris. However, what is the use of plotting the planets without plotting the subject, i.e. you ?
In order to plot you most accurately, we seek your birth details.
Birthdate: There are several data points that is derived from you birthdate consisting of date, month and year. It is used to plot the positions of planets in degrees, minutes and seconds on the given day. Birthdatehelps to mark the apparent location of the Sun in terms of its degrees across the Zodiac. The Sun moves by one degree each day. (the Sun’s movement is apparent movement only as observed from the earth), and thus your solar month is also obtained.
Birthplace: Birthplace helps us to arrive at the time of Sunrise based on the location of your birth represented by its latitude and longitude. We see the Sunrise at different times across continents, for example, Asia and North America. Even within countries, for example, India, the Sunrise timings are different between states and cities, in that, the Sunrise in Delhi is at a slightly different time compared to that in Tamil Nadu, and even within Tamil Nadu, the time of Sunrise varies within its cities. Sunrise is an important data point that will help plot you in the horoscopy.
Birthtime: Birthtime within the given birthdate, and birthplacehelps to measure the Earths’ rotation on its axis, with respect to the Sunrise, indicating the rising Zodiac, and the exact position of Ascendant/Lagna at the time of your birth. Here the Earth refers to your birthplace.
And the Lagna represents you. Without the Lagna, the rest of the horoscope will merely be a map of planets on a given day and time. This is calculated by approximately calculating two hours to go over each Zodiac of 30 degrees each and complete rotation in 24 hours from Sunrise to the next day Sunrise.
As each day passes, the Lagna, for example, at 7 AM on any day would have moved by another degree the next day at 7 AM, due to earth’s revolution around the Sun, and therefore the date,time and place becomes mandatory data points to prepare your horoscope.
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Ascendant or Lagna: The first term that you need to know before you consult your astrologer is the term “Ascendant” or “Lagnam” or “Lagna”. Most often you will be familiar with your star (nakshatram) and your rasi (which is your moon sign) which is also useful.
In your chart, if you find a sign crossed and Asc. or Lag. mentioned in it, that is the first house. This can fall in any of the 12 signs in the Zodiac. The Asc. is the first house, and you can count from the 2nd house to the 12th house in the clockwise direction (in a south Indian chart). In the below example, the first house falls in Taurus (Rishabham), and will be referred as “Taurus Ascendant” (Rishabha Lagnam). Astrologers (astrology software) use three data points to calculate the Ascendant.
A sample chart with Asc., the Sun & the Moon
A chart or horoscope preparation is complete only after we determine the Ascendant. And in simple language, this Ascendant is you in this celestial map, and therefore, predications can be relevant for you. Without plotting you (the Ascendant/Lagna), the horoscope is only a map of planetary positions over the fixed stars.
Ascendant or Ascendant sign should not be confused with the Sun Sign or Moon Sign. The Ascendant sign, the Sun sign, and the Moon signs are three different data points.
However, for some, based on the date, place and, time of birth more than two of these points can fall into the same sign and astrologers will recognize them separately and use all the three data points irrespective of where it falls within the Zodiac.
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