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Royal Family, United Kingdom

Prince Harry: The Unfinished Karma of the Exiled Prince

Prince Harry is apparently making a comeback in Britain. The interesting question is not whether he can return but to try and understand why the pull of Britain remains so strong.

I have never been convinced that Harry’s departure represented the completion of his karma with the UK. When I discussed his horoscope in a BAVA presentation  – Role of Karma Tara in 2022, I ended by saying precisely that: “As far as his karma with UK is concerned, it’s not over yet. Watch this space.”

The reason lay partly in the commencement of Jupiter daśā in 2025 and his Karma tara Uttara Phālgunī  in Leo . Karma Tārā is the tenth nakṣatra from the Moon and carries the memory of the karma we are meant to perform.

 

Marriage changed the direction of his karma

Harry’s Moon is in Kṛttikā, making Uttara Phālgunī his Karma Tārā. His Sun at 29°19′ Leo falls in Uttara Phālgunī and is also his Ātmakāraka. This makes the Karma Tārā unusually important: it contains the planet representing the deeper direction of the self.

Uttara Phālgunī ‘s deity is Aryaman, associated with marriage, kinship and the obligations created through relationships. Aryaman also protects these bonds from hostile forces and seeks to make their path anṛkṣaraḥ, “free from thorns”. 

This was particularly true in Harry’s case. Marriage did not simply give him a wife and family; it changed the direction of his karma. Whatever one’s view of his decisions, Harry clearly believed that he was protecting his wife and family, even when doing so brought him into conflict with his inherited obligations to the Royal Family. He so wanted to prevent the situation that he felt that his mother Princess Diana found herself in. That itself belongs very naturally to Aryaman.

The eclipses of 2019 marked the developing rupture. Two fell in Sagittarius, the Ascendant of Harry, William and the Queen, while the December total solar eclipse in Mūla was particularly significant for Harry, activating the nakṣatra of Jupiter, his Lagna lord. By October, Harry had already publicly acknowledged the growing distance from William, saying that they were “certainly on different paths at the moment”, and by January 2020 he had stepped back from royal life.

Exile did not produce detachment

At the Leeds Astrology Conference – “Discovering the anatomy of the mind” in 2023, I described Harry as  someone who had lost his homeland, his job and purpose. I also described  his behaviour as akin to an insecure, anxious and avoidant pattern. Yet what happened afterwards made the ambivalence increasingly obvious. Harry left, but continued to speak about the institution he had left. Spare itself demonstrated how psychologically present the Royal Family remained. This was not detachment. It was displacement. That distinction matters. A person who has completed something can walk away from it. Harry appeared unable either to remain within his old world or to become entirely free of it.

There was already an indication of this in an analysis I published in January 2020 on my website “Wither Prince William and Harry”, when I examined the Drekkana (sibling) charts of Harry and William. From the analysis it emerged that Harry’ sought William’s approval and that, despite their capacity for conflict, Harry retained a strong instinct to protect his elder brother. William’s D3 did not show the same degree of commitment towards Harry.

The subsequent breakdown in their relationship therefore does not necessarily contradict Harry’s attachment. In some ways it demonstrates it. Anger, accusation and repeated engagement can coexist with a powerful desire for connection.

The problem for Harry has perhaps never been simply leaving the Royal Family. It has been finding an identity once he had left it.

Then came Ketu

This is why the transit of Ketu in 2025 interests me.  Harry’s Ātmakāraka Sun sits at 29°19′ Leo in his Karma Tārā. Ketu crossed that Sun on 18 May 2025.

Ketu separates. It can remove the structures through which identity has previously been expressed. And Harry had already experienced an extraordinary stripping away of identity: prince without a working royal role, soldier without his former military appointments, son and brother living thousands of miles from his family. Around the Ketu transit another connection with purpose was severed when he stepped away from Sentebale, the charity he had co-founded in memory of his mother.

By 2025 Harry had been abroad for years. The more interesting question is what remained when the process of separation had run its course. And this is precisely when his planetary period changed.

Jupiter daśā

In both my earlier presentation at BAVA and at Leeds, I specifically noted the possibility of shift in stance  with Jupiter daśā that would begin in 2025. That period has evidently arrived.

Jupiter is both Harry’s Lagna lord and 4th lord, strongly placed in the Lagna. The 4th house represents the mother as well as the motherland, and Jupiter here carries the mother’s blessing. It is therefore interesting that during Jupiter daśā support for Harry in Britain appears to be coming through his mother’s family, particularly Earl Spencer.

There is also an earlier Jupiter activation worth remembering. In January 2016, Jupiter stationed exactly at 29°10 in Uttara Phālgunī before turning retrograde on Harry’s Karma Tārā, and on 11 February Rahu exactly crossed the Karma Tārā. Then there was conjunction of Jupiter and Rahu in adjacent star Purva Phalguni in in June 2016. Soon after Harry met Meghan in July 2016.

Rahu was particularly appropriate. Meghan was foreign, unconventional and outside Harry’s established social world. Rahu describes the disruptive and boundary-breaking way in which the karma of marriage entered his life.

The śaktis of the two Phālgunīs also work together. Pūrva Phālgunī carries the reproductive energy associated with union and procreation, while Uttara Phālgunī carries cāyanī-śakti, the power through which something gathers until its phala is realised. The meeting was therefore only the beginning. Marriage and children followed, while the wider consequences of the relationship progressively transformed Harry’s family relationships, public role and connection with his homeland.

That earlier activation is important because Jupiter is now heading towards the same Karma Tārā. This time it will go further and cross Harry’s Ātmakāraka Sun at 29°19′ Leo three times – 21 November 2027, 5 March 2028 and 20 July 2028

This is the transit I am watching. Jupiter, his Lagna and 4th lord, will repeatedly activate his Ātmakāraka in the Karma Tārā during Jupiter daśā.

Coming home may mean more than returning

It would be tempting to predict that Jupiter will simply restore Harry to royal life. The more interesting possibility is a restoration of purpose, belonging and connection with the motherland. 

The 2016 activation of the Karma Tārā preceded a relationship that changed the direction of Harry’s life. The coming activation occurs under very different circumstances: Jupiter is now the daśā lord, and it will cross the Ātmakāraka itself three times.

The Ātmakāraka represents the deeper purpose and direction of the individual, while Jupiter as Lagna lord represents Harry himself and, as 4th lord, connects him with mother, homeland and belonging. Jupiter’s repeated transit over the Ātmakāraka can therefore activate questions of identity and purpose while simultaneously bringing the themes of the 4th house into that process.

There is another layer to Jupiter’s role. Natal Jupiter is in Mūla, whose śakti uproots what must be removed for new growth to become possible. Jupiter daśā may therefore restore purpose and belonging, but not necessarily by restoring Harry’s old life. Something may first have to be uprooted and reconstituted in a different form.

The present talk of a comeback may therefore be only the beginning. The period I would really watch is November 2027 to July 2028.

This does not necessarily suggest an easy period. Harry is running Scorpio Nārāyaṇa Daśā until September 2030, carrying the turbulent and disruptive energy of Mars and Ketu. Cancer follows from 2030–33 and may bring further transformation, but I would look to the subsequent Gemini period for greater clarity and light.

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Mundane, Solar Eclipse

Solar Eclipse Update – Revisiting Zelenskyy’s horoscope two years on

The attached slide is from my BAVA Conference presentation in October 2024 on Kevala Yogada, where I used President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s chart as one of the case studies. At the time, my interest was in understanding why certain individuals find themselves drawn into circumstances far greater than their own personal interests, where perseverance, sacrifice and steadfastness become central to fulfilling their dharma.

In this chart, the Ātmakāraka Moon is in its own sign and is also the Lagna lord (Moon being the co-ruler of Taurus), giving rise to Kevala Yoga. Since the Moon is connected to the Lagna, it becomes Kevala Yogada, linking the mind with the deeper purpose of the soul. The strength of that conviction can become a powerful force for change, but it can equally make such individuals difficult to deflect from the course they have chosen.

The configuration of planets in 3rd, 4th and 5th houses is  associated with exceptional tapasya, courage and endurance (Yama Yoga). Combined with the Moon-Mars conjunction, it explains the extraordinary determination and resilience that have characterised his leadership during the conflict. The  Moon AK signifies the mind, emotional resilience and public support. But its conjunction with Mars brings the ability to combat. Looking at the events of the past few years, these qualities are reflected in the way Zelenskyy has continued to pursue his chosen course despite extraordinary national adversity and human loss.

As I noted in the lecture, every major development in Zelenskyy’s public life unfolded during Moon daśā that commenced in 2018, consistent with the Moon being both the Ātmakāraka and Kevala Yogada. I also suggested that although Mars daśā that will be commencing from July 2028 might bring a different expression of the same purpose, the more significant  change in the external environment would come with Gemini Nārāyaṇa Daśā in January 2027.

I had pointed out that the Yama Yoga  involving the 3rd, 4th and 5th houses can sometimes be modified by strong influences operating from either side. In Zelenskyy’s horoscope, I identified the Jupiter-Mercury exchange as providing that mechanism, becoming activated with the onset of Gemini Nārāyaṇa Daśā. At the time, I suggested that this might coincide with increased US involvement, peace negotiations, or even Zelenskyy leaving Ukraine for the United States, marking a significant shift in the course of the conflict.

Why revisit this chart now?

The solar eclipse of 12 August 2026 falls in Āśleṣā, directly activating Zelenskyy’s natal Moon, which is the Lagna lord, Ātmakāraka and the very planet that forms the basis of his Kevala Yogada.

Given the Moon’s central role in this chart, I regard this eclipse as a harbinger of a significant turning point. Eclipse effects typically unfold across a six-month window, and looking at his natal Moon’s degree, I would say the months following the eclipse are extremely critical. For Zelenskyy, matters relating to leadership, public standing and judgement may undergo profound change. This period assumes even greater significance in light of the February 2027 solar eclipse, which falls on Ukraine’s natal Moon in Dhaniṣṭhā. By eclipse reckoning, this makes the very same six-month period leading up to February 2027 critical for the nation itself.

The external environment surrounding Ukraine has begun to shift. A number of political and diplomatic developments suggest that conditions are becoming more fluid. These developments are precisely why I find myself revisiting the analysis I presented in 2024, when I identified the onset of Gemini Nārāyaṇa Daśā in early January as the period most likely to bring a significant shift in the external environment.

For those interested, this discussion it appears at approximately 1:13–1:17 in the BAVA conference recording.

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Uncategorized

Eye on the Sky – Chaitra Śukla Pratipada 2026

Chaitra Śukla Pratipada, the first lunar day following the New Moon in Pisces, marks the beginning of the lunar year known as Samvatsara and serves as the foundational chart from which the collective destiny of nations is assessed. The year is Parabhava, meaning “defeat” or “downfall,” concluding the eighth lustrum ruled by the Viśvadevas. Traditionally, it is associated with conflict, fire, weaponry, disease, sorrow, and heightened vulnerability among intellectuals, the marginalised, and livestock. Its symbolism aligns closely with the current global climate, characterised by war, geopolitical tension, trade disputes, strategic rivalry, and increasingly fragmented cooperation as the year begins on March 19.

As noted in the solar eclipse analysis, Rahu and Ketu transiting the Aquarius–Leo axis (May 2025–December 2026) intensify the tension between collective systems and individual authority. Ruled by Saturn and the Sun respectively—planets representing opposing principles of discipline and ego, structure and leadership—this axis reflects a struggle between institutional control and personal power. Rahu in Aquarius accelerates societal restructuring through political movements, ideological reform, and technological disruption, often producing gains through unconventional or crisis-driven channels. Consequently, capital has favoured sectors such as precious metals, technology, defence, and aerospace. Conversely, Ketu in Leo signifies detachment from status and centralised authority, frequently manifesting as weakened leadership, abrupt resignations, or the erosion of personality-driven regimes. Since mid-2025, several nations have experienced regime instability or political collapse, reflecting this broader theme of diminishing personal power.

Saturn’s transit through Pisces since March 2025 has slowed the healing and resolution normally associated with this sign. While Pisces seeks reconciliation, Saturn imposes delay, caution, and realism, prolonging negotiations and peace processes. Its combustion heightens public sensitivity and restraint, demanding accountability and practical reform over idealism. The concurrent presence of an exalted Venus provides a moderating influence, encouraging diplomacy, compassion, and humanitarian considerations that may soften otherwise severe outcomes.

At the same time, planetary concentration across three houses forms a Śūla Yoga, creating urgency, pressure, and decisive turning points. Jupiter’s aspect from Gemini supports dialogue and adaptability, while Venus with Saturn favours negotiated settlements. All planets lie between Rahu and Ketu, forming a Kāla Amṛta Yoga that compresses planetary energies and intensifies destiny-driven developments, often placing strain on governments and institutions and exposing structural weaknesses that demand reform.

Against this broader backdrop, the Chaitra Śukla charts of major powers and alliances illustrate how these collective pressures are likely to manifest at the national level. The principal themes are summarised below, with detailed analysis provided in the sections that follow.

The principal astrological configurations for each national chart are summarised below before the detailed interpretations.

 

Country / Entity Rising Sign Natal House Activated Ascendant Lord Placement Hora Lord Hora Lord Placement Key Themes
UK Sc 4th house – public, land, domestic governance Mars in 4th house

with Mercury

 Su 5th house of power, creativity Domestic focus.  Governance and fiscal pressures dominate, producing political rivalry causing existential crisis with heavier reliance on taxation and debt restructuring. Healthcare and public systems face strain, though selective gains may arise through financial and speculative activity.
EU Sc 3rd house – agreement neighbours, alliances Mars in 4th house with Mercury influenced by Rahu Su 5th house of power, creativity Focus on bloc cohesion, negotiations, and alliance management. Expect change in leadership or objectives; gains may arise through regulatory enforcement, conflict-war, and restructuring and speculative activities.
USA Li 12th house – foreign affairs, expenditure, borders Venus in 6th house (Marana Karaka Sthana) Me 5th house of power and creativity External obligations, border concerns, and institutional vulnerabilities drive political aggression and volatility, bringing hidden liabilities. Leadership stabilises after early stress, while defence, aerospace, infrastructure and technology-linked sectors support financial resilience despite broader turbulence.
NATO Li 2nd house – funding, resources, member contributions Venus in 6th house with Saturn Me 5th house of power and creativity Financial sustainability and burden-sharing come under scrutiny, necessitating disciplined reorganisation and changes to funding structures and membership commitments. Leadership consolidates, but operational and coordination challenges persist.
China Ta 5th house – state power, reputation, strategy Venus exalted in 11th house with Sun and Saturn Ve 11th house Commercial conditions remain comparatively resilient with opportunities for gains, supported by fiscal strength, though legacy pressures from industrial overcapacity and real estate continue. Leadership remains strong, though challenges are likely to emerge with the shift of the Rahu–Ketu axis later in the year. Sporadic disruptions and border tensions may persist.

 

Chaitra Śukla  Pratipada for UK 2026-2027

The ascendant for London, United Kingdom, falls in the fixed sign of Scorpio, which represents the fourth house of happiness, the public, property, and agriculture in the nation’s natal chart. The ruler of Scorpio, Mars, is positioned in the fourth house along with Mercury, the lord of the day, placing emphasis on domestic affairs. The Sun, acting as the Hora Lord, brings the significance of  authority and governance into play. The combination of Mars and Mercury indicates intense political rivalry, likely taking place behind the scenes since both planets occupy the constellation of Shatabhisha. Rahu’s influence adds elements of hostility and misinformation. Rahu and Mercury, as lords of the eleventh house of gains, positioned in the fourth house, suggest a strong dependence on the public and taxation for revenue. However, due to retrograde movement, policies arising during this period may face challenges and require revision.

The presence of exalted Venus conjoined the Sun and Moon promotes diplomacy and cooperation in foreign affairs, consistent with its rulership over the seventh and twelfth houses. Saturn’s association, however, tempers this with caution and procedural discipline, suggesting that any rehabilitation or reform measures will be gradual, formal, and administratively controlled rather than swift.

The concentration of planets creates a pressured and reactive policy climate, with firm measures that may feel demanding for the public. Nevertheless, Jupiter’s aspect on the fourth house provides a degree of protection. Positioned as the ruler of the second and fifth houses and placed in the eighth, Jupiter indicates financial stability through an increase in creative debt management and speculative financial markets.

The recent solar eclipse peaking in the hour of Sun in February 2026 signalled an existential challenge for Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his cabinet, a strain that has become increasingly visible over the past six months. Analysis of the forthcoming eclipses further highlights vulnerabilities within healthcare systems, particularly the NHS, along with continued stress on broader business conditions.

Chaitra Śukla  Pratipada for EU  2026-2027

The Chaitra Śukla chart for the EU rises in Scorpio, which corresponds to the third house of contracting, immediate neighbours and agreements in its natal horoscope. This places primary emphasis on consolidation, strategic partnerships, and the strengthening of bloc cohesion. Mars in the fourth house alongside Mercury, influenced by Rahu, indicates internal political competition, tactical manoeuvring, and episodes of misinformation and domestic dissatisfaction. With Aquarius governing the sixth house,  gains may arise through conflict or war, regulatory enforcement, or institutional restructuring.

The Hora Lord being Sun and placed in the 5th house of power brings authority and governance in to play.  Exalted Venus supports diplomacy and cooperation, while Saturn tempers progress with procedural caution, suggesting that reforms will be gradual and negotiated.  Jupiter’s aspect offers protection, favouring creative financial restructuring and speculative activities despite underlying pressures.

The February eclipse peaked in the hour of Sun signalling changes within leadership and the forthcoming one in August indicates issues with border areas.

Chaitra Śukla  Pratipada for US 2026-2027

The ascendant falls in Libra, corresponding to the twelfth house of the natal chart, which governs expenditure, foreign relations, neighbouring nations, immigration, and border control. This immediately places emphasis on external obligations, fiscal outflows, and matters concerning national boundaries. The ascendant lord, Venus, occupies the sixth house in Marana Karaka Sthana, directing attention toward war, obstacles, and structural vulnerabilities within national institutions. Its condition indicates strain across administrative and social frameworks. Further affliction from Saturn and the Sun points to entrenched or legacy challenges, particularly in foreign and immigration policy, border management, and relations with other states.

Mercury, as both the day lord and Hora Lord assumes central importance for the year. Representing the head of state, Mercury is retrograde in Aquarius in the fifth house, conjoined Mars and Rahu. This configuration suggests heightened political competition, strategic manoeuvring, and repeated efforts to consolidate authority and manage alliances. The recent war in the middle east will result in huge liabilities for USA as Mercury rules over the 8th house.

Jupiter’s aspect to the fifth house provides a moderating influence, helping preserve financial stability despite turbulence. Mars, as second lord, placed favorably, supports gains through war,  engineering, infrastructure, logistics, and market-driven or speculative sectors, while Ketu’s position in the eleventh indicates windfall opportunities and wealth accumulation from technology and aerospace industries.

Overall, the chart favors decisive and assertive governance, often reactive and security-focused, suggesting a nation compelled to act boldly under pressure, particularly in matters of defense, enforcement, and strategic control.

The February solar eclipse marked a challenging phase for political leadership, as well as for judicial and academic institutions, while simultaneously strengthening defense and security sectors. Subsequent eclipses in August 2026 and February 2027 indicate an initial weakening of leadership followed by consolidation and recovery of authority, whereas military and defense advantages may gradually face operational or structural strain.

Chaitra Śukla  Pratipada for NATO 2026-2027

NATO operates under the same annual chart framework as the United States, as its place of incorporation is Washington, D.C. In this chart, the ascendant falls in Libra, corresponding to the second house of wealth, funding, and collective resources. This immediately directs attention toward questions of financial sustainability, shared contributions, and the cohesion of member states—specifically, who participates, at what cost, and under what obligations.

The ascendant lord, Venus, occupies the sixth house in Marana Karaka Sthana, indicating stress, disputes, and operational strain despite its exalted dignity. While Venus normally promotes cooperation and alliance-building, its placement in the house of conflict suggests that partnerships may be tested through disagreements over burden-sharing and strategic priorities. Venus is conjoined Saturn, lord of the fourth and fifth houses, further emphasising institutional pressure and responsibility. Together in the sixth, this combination points to structural strain within the alliance and the need for disciplined reorganisation. Additional affliction from the Sun highlights entrenched or legacy issues that could threaten cohesion if left unresolved. An exchange between the Sun and Ketu suggests shifts in funding patterns, with new financial sources or contributors emerging even as older ones diminish or withdraw.

Mercury, is both the day lord and the Hora lord  represents the leadership of NATO.  Mercury is retrograde in Aquarius in the fifth house and hemmed between Mars and Rahu. This indicates intense political manoeuvring, strategic competition, and complex negotiations, requiring deft management of alliances and repeated efforts to consolidate authority. Mercury’s rulership over the ninth and twelfth houses underscores themes of foreign relations, borders, and multinational cooperation, all of which demand careful handling. Again, Jupiter’s aspect provides some protection and stability.

The Śūla Yoga indicates NATO may be compelled to act decisively under stress, particularly in matters of security, defence coordination, and funding structures.

The solar eclipse in February signalled a strong period for Mars-related sectors such as defence and security forces. However, the subsequent eclipses indicate a weakening of  this position due to operational challenges  while leadership should strengthen.

Chaitra Śukla  Pratipada for China  2026-2027

The ascendant for Beijing falls in Taurus, corresponding to the fifth house of creativity, reputation, and state power in China’s natal chart. Its ruler, Venus, also serving as Hora lord, is exalted in the eleventh house of gains and opportunities, conjoined the fourth lord Sun and the ninth lord Saturn. This alignment, linking the ascendant lord with the lords of domestic stability and destiny in the house of gains, supports profitable ventures. However, the Sun–Saturn conjunction also highlights legacy or structural burdens, particularly within the real estate sector and long-standing over-capacity issues.

Jupiter, as day lord and dispositor of the eleventh house, represents those in positions of authority. Placed in the second house of treasury, it favours wealth accumulation and fiscal strength, though its rulership of the eighth also suggests reliance on debt, leverage, or external capital. Meanwhile, Mercury, Mars, and Rahu in the tenth house indicate intense competition, assertive policy execution, and strategic manoeuvring at the highest levels of governance. Jupiter’s aspect provides moderation and protection, helping maintain balance amid aggressive activity.

The February 2026 eclipse suggested that leadership could consolidate or emerge strengthened, though this advantage may be temporary. As eclipses shift to the Cancer–Capricorn axis, activating China’s natal 1/7 houses, pressure increases on both leadership and economic partnerships. The August 2026 eclipse points to sudden disruptions affecting business, legal, or judicial sectors while simultaneously strengthening the military and security apparatus. The February 2027 eclipse further signals potential leadership adjustments—possibly due to health concerns or internal strain—alongside renewed border tensions. Despite these challenges, commercial activity and broader economic performance are likely to remain comparatively resilient.

ॐ तत् सत्

This is the original analysis of Vijaya Jyoti, copyright © 2026 vijaya.jyoti.com. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced or transmitted without proper attribution to the author and source.

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Solar Eclipse

Eye on the Sky – Solar eclipses of 2026

The first eclipse to occur in Aquarius will take place in February 2026. Notably, although the nodal axis will be transiting Aquarius–Leo, the second solar eclipse of the year, in August 2026, will fall in the sign of Cancer, and there will be no solar eclipse in Leo during this cycle. The first solar eclipse of 2026 will be an annular eclipse (Ring of Fire) on 17 February 2026, occurring in Dhaniṣṭhā Nakṣatra  (4th pada) in Aquarius. This will be followed by a total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026, falling in Aśleṣā Nakṣatra  (3rd pada) in Cancer.

The Nodal Axis: Aquarius (Kumbha) – Leo (Siṁha)

A brief note on the nodal axis of Aquarius and Leo: these signs are ruled by Saturn and the Sun, respectively—planets that are diametrically opposed in the dig chakra and symbolise contrasting principles of authority, discipline, ego, leadership, and social order. As a result, this axis often coincides with heightened tensions between individual power and collective forces. With Rahu in Aquarius, there is an intensified drive to reshape society itself. This energy frequently challenges entrenched hierarchies and norms through political movements, ideological reform, and technological innovation. The recent rapid advancement and widespread acceptance of Artificial Intelligence exemplify this influence. During this period, gains often arise through non-traditional or foreign means, though such success may be accompanied by moral ambiguity, instability, or excessive fear and desire. That is why investments in gold, silver, technology, defence, and aerospace sectors appear particularly have been favoured under this influence.

By contrast, Ketu’s transit through Leo operates in a more inward and disruptive manner, often signifying loss, renunciation, or disinterest in power and recognition. This can manifest as sudden withdrawals from positions of authority or the collapse of ego-driven identities. Since May 2025, we have witnessed regime changes or political collapses in Iran, Venezuela, Myanmar, Nepal, Bangladesh, and Madagascar, reflecting this theme.

This aligns closely with the upcoming Samvatsara, spanning 19 March 2026 to 6 April 2027, known as Parābhava, meaning defeat, disgrace, contempt, or overthrow. Classical texts associate this year with afflictions arising from fire, weapons, disease, sorrow, and dangers particularly affecting intellectuals and cattle.

Solar Eclipse Type Time UTC/GMT Duration Sign Nakṣatra Degree Visibility Lunar Eclipse
17th Feb 2026 Annular 12.13.05 2m20s Aquarius Dhaniṣṭhā- 4th 4°37 Annular -Antarctica, partial -Parts of Southern America, Part of Southern Africa 2-3rd March
12th Aug 2026 Total 17.47.05 2m18s Cancer Aśleṣā – 3rd 25°55 Total -Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Partial – Western Europe, W Africa, Europe 27-28 Aug

https://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/SEdecade/SEdecade2021.html

Musings from 2025

There have been both hits and misses in my predictions from last year. Writing in 2024, I anticipated that the conjunction of Rahu and Saturn in Pūrva Bhādrapadā  would lead to widespread protests, wars, military actions, and the forceful suppression of civil movements. Indeed, we have seen regime changes in Syria, Iran, and Venezuela, alongside protests and civil unrest not only in developing nations but also within the United States.

However, some expectations remain unfulfilled. A temporary ceasefire or peace agreement between Ukraine and Russia has yet to materialise, and the anticipated regime change in Israel has not occurred. That said, an existential crisis for NATO, particularly with the Greenland issue at the forefront, has emerged broadly in line with my earlier assessment.

The United Kingdom continues to struggle with debt and financial pressures, while challenges to judicial authority persist in the United States, even as the country experiences significant financial prosperity—again aligning with earlier forecasts.

Predictions for 2026

Countries and individuals with ascendants along the Aquarius–Leo axis remain in the closing phase of nodal transformation through 6 December. The 1/7 axis typically forces decisive outcomes—alliances, leadership roles, and financial positions resolve rather than linger. As Varāhamihira notes, eclipses here tend to weaken rulers or strain state finances. With the UK’s progressed ascendant in Leo and the eclipse peaking near midday, pressures around debt, taxation, and executive leadership persist, keeping the government under sustained scrutiny.

The February annular eclipse in Aquarius, compressed between Mars and Saturn and tied to a difficult Jupiter–Rahu exchange, stresses trade, commerce, and institutional relationships. For the UK these manifests through partnerships and business, for the US through domestic security and internal cohesion, and for China through fiscal and monetary channels. Collectively, it signals tightening markets, commodity volatility, and ideological friction, producing credibility tests for leadership across the Anglosphere, inward fiscal focus in Europe, and firmer central consolidation in China—reform under constraint rather than expansion.

The August total eclipse in Cancer shifts the locus to borders, expenditure, food supply, and public welfare. Hemmed by Mars and Ketu, it suggests abrupt developments and strategic recalibration, particularly for defence alliances and security structures. Leadership is challenged particularly for US and NATO as the eclipse peaks at the hour of Sun, but may emerge leaner and more consolidated. UK continues fiscal and healthcare restructuring, China manages commercial realignment, and the EU emphasises stability. As the nodes enter the Capricorn–Cancer axis in December, attention correspondingly pivots toward states with those ascendants (China, Spain, Iran, France, and Germany), marking the next cycle of geopolitical emphasis.

Detailed country-specific effects are summarised in Tables 2 and 4 within the individual eclipse analyses.

Annular Solar Eclipse Feb 17, 2026 in Aquarius in Dhaniṣṭhā  

The ascendant calculated for the peak of the eclipse is Gemini has the presence of a retrograde Jupiter, which offers a degree of protection. The eclipse occurs in Aquarius, a sign also aspected by Jupiter; however, this mutual aspect between Jupiter and Rahu, the lord of the eclipse, is considered inauspicious. The presence of Venus and Mercury in the same house as the eclipse suggests  challenges for business and trade. Sectors related to commodities and agriculture are likely to experience difficulties. Aquarius, being hemmed between Saturn and Mars, carries oppressive  energy and, as the seventh house in the natal chart of the United Kingdom, indicates strain and unfavourable conditions for partnerships, commerce, and international relations.

Further examination shows that the eclipse reaches its peak around midday, an indication of strain for Prime Minister Keir Starmer and his cabinet. Nevertheless,  matters governed by Venus and Saturn are expected to produce some positive results, particularly benefiting women, healthcare, travel, low-income groups, the elderly, and border regions.

The eclipse falls on the 4th pada of Dhaniṣṭhā in the sign of Aquarius.  The Nakṣatra  Dhaniṣṭhā symbolises the prosperity and wealth and is presided by the deity Ashta vasus – ruling rhythm, and the elemental balance of nature  The 4th pada falls in the Scorpio navamsa, adding intensity, aggression, and a combative tone to the event’s expression. An eclipse in Aquarius considered unfavourable to mountain-dwelling people, the western direction, those involved in hard labour, thieves, herdsmen and barbarians. Eclipse is in the month of Phalguna is deemed adverse  for  noble woman, makers of weapons, rulers and hermits, dancer and crops.

I have tabulated the effect of the eclipse for some countries by casting a chart for the peak hour.

Table 2: Predictions based on the Solar Eclipse on Feb 17th 2026 in Aquarius
Country Eclipse Ascendant Eclipse Ascendant in Natal chart Eclipsed house Aquarius in Natal chart Suffering Planet Comments
UK Gemini 11th house 7th Sun Unfavourable for relationships, business  and diplomacy, challenges to PM and cabinet,
USA Aquarius 4th house 4th Ju/Me Domestic matters in focus with strife and dissatisfaction, unfavourable for Trump but more so for judiciary and intellectual institutions
China Virgo 9th house 2nd Ve Challenges with respect to travel, hospitality and women, Cabinet is challenged but leadership emerges stronger
EU Gemini 4th house 6th Su Focus on domestic matters and financing and challenges to leadership but may emerge victorious
Nato Aquarius 6th house 6th Ju/Me Operational challenges, leadership will over- come conflict

 

For individuals, if the natal Sun, Moon or Ascendant is placed in Dhaniṣṭhā, it may be a time to increase awareness about finances, health and direction in life. The impact of the eclipse is felt roughly six months before or after the eclipse. Table 3 lists some key personalities that have their Ascendants, Sun or Moon in Dhaniṣṭhā

Table 3 : Statesmen/ Celebrities with Ascendants or Sun and Moon in Dhaniṣṭhā In Aquarius
Ascendant in Dhaniṣṭhā Sun in Dhaniṣṭhā Moon in Dhaniṣṭhā
Amitabh Bacchan John McEnroe Jair Bolsonaro
Mark Rutte King Jean Carlos 1
Mike Bloomberg Victoria Beckham
Paris Hilton Woody Allen
Swami Niranjan Saraswati

 

Total Solar Eclipse – 12th August 2026  in Cancer in Aśleṣā

The ascendant at the time of the eclipse is Sagittarius, which represents the fifth house of reputation and creativity in the United Kingdom’s natal chart. Its ruler, Jupiter, is positioned in the eclipsed house Cancer with Mercury, the lord of the seventh house governing business and partnerships. This alignment is unfavourable for both the general public and commercial activity.

The eclipse occurs in Cancer, corresponding to the twelfth house of expenditure, which is also associated with border regions and neighbouring countries. The eclipsed house is flanked by Mars and Ketu, a configuration that can bring sudden disturbances or tensions along the borders. The planetary positions form a garland pattern, enclosed between Mars and Venus, a combination known to heighten emotional intensity and instability. Both Saturn and Mars aspect the ascendant, reinforcing the theme of disturbances.

The eclipse peaks in the hour of Venus, therefore women, health care  hospitality and travel will have negative effect. NHS may see a huge transition. Working class will benefit.

This is a total solar eclipse in Cancer, occurring in the 3rd pada of Aśleṣā Nakṣatra . Eclipses in Cancer are traditionally adverse for agriculture and food supplies – grain and cattle (milk-producing animals) and also fisherman & sailors and those in nurturing professions like healthcare, while those occurring in the lunar month of Shravana are considered harmful to autumnal crops (barley, rye, wheat) and forest-dwelling or hunting communities. Aśleṣā Nakṣatra , ruled by serpents (Nagas), carries an energy of secrecy, depth, and mastery over poisons—a symbolism that can manifest as both healing and manipulation. The 3rd pada, falling in the Aquarius Navamsa, enhances strategic intelligence and hidden manoeuvring, suggesting a period marked by covert negotiations and , behind-the-scenes activity.

Table 4 : Predictions based on the Solar Eclipse on August 12th 2026
Country

 

 

 Eclipse Ascendant Eclipse Ascendant in Natal chart Eclipsed house Cancer in Natal chart Suffering Planet Comments
UK Sagittarius 5th house 12th house Ve Sudden disturbances likely, unfavourable for hospitality and healthcare
USA Libra 12th house 9th house Su Challenges to leadership, but gains to security and defence
China Gemini 6th house 7th house Ju Potential disruptions in relationships or business, defence and technology areas to prosper, academia and intellectual pursuits to suffer
EU Sagittarius 4th house 11th house Sa Focus on domestic issues, financial stability and alliances and gains, border areas will struggle
NATO Libra 2nd house 11th house Su Re-writing membership and securing funding, leadership will be challenged

 

If the natal Sun, Moon or Ascendant is placed in Aśleṣā  may be a time to increase awareness about finances, health and direction in life. The impact of the eclipse is felt roughly six months before or after the eclipse. Table 5 lists some key personalities that have their Ascendants, Sun or Moon in Ashelsha

Table 5 : Statesman/ Celebrities with Ascendant, Sun or Moon in Aśleṣā
Ascendant in Aśleṣā  Sun in Aśleṣā Moon in Aśleṣā 
Catherine, Princess of Wales Barack Obama Ghislaine Maxwell
Richard Branson Marine Le Pen Nicolas Sarkozy
Novak Djokovic Roger Federer Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Sonia Gandhi Meghan, Duchess of Sussex Paul McCartney
Iran Gordon Brown
Mauritius

 

Remedies

The Solar energy or Agni (Fire element) gets weakened in an eclipse. Agni or precisely jātargni aids in digestion, therefore one should observe fasting at the time of the eclipse as the digestive process will be weak. After the eclipse, bathing is prescribed invoking the devas and loka-palas beckoning the seas and rivers to wash of the digressions to remove the suffering caused by inauspicious planets. This bathing is more essential if the Sun, Moon or the Ascendant is in the eclipsed sign and in the Nakṣatra  of Dhaniṣṭhā or Aśleṣā.

From the tradition I have been taught, seekers and those affected are asked to worship Jupiter or Shiva who is the “Father of the Universe” to reduce bad energy and restore the glory of Sun. We recommend praying to the teaching form of Shiva called Dakṣiṇāmūrti with mantra

ॐ दक्षिणामूर्ति रतरोम्

om dakṣiṇāmūrti ratarom

or

ॐ नमो भगवते दक्षिणामुर्तये मह्यं मेदां प्रज्ञां प्रयच्छ स्वाहा

om namo bhagavate dakṣiṇāmurtaye mahyaṁ medāṁ prajñāṁ prayaccha svāhā

Giving to charity on this day is also highly encouraged.

References

  • Based on the principles taught by Jyotish Guru Pandit Sanjay Rath
  • Bṛhat Samhitā – Varahamihīrā, M. Ramakṛishna Bhat, Part 1, Motilal Banarasidass Publishers Pvt. Ltd, Delhi, India
  • Eclipse Data from https://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/solar.html
  • Time and Date.com Solar & Lunar Eclipses Worldwide (timeanddate.com)
  • Shri Jyoti Star – Vedic software

ॐ तत् सत्

 

This is the original work of Vijaya Jyoti, copyright © 2026 vijaya.jyoti.com. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced or transmitted without proper attribution to the author and source.

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Guru Purnima

Samādhāna – Absorption

 

Guru Pūrṇimā is a special day in the life of spiritual seekers as we express gratitude to our Acharyas and Guru for teaching  and sharing knowledge and wisdom. It falls on the full moon day usually when the Sun is in Gemini and Moon is in Sagittarius in the sidereal calendar in the lunar month of Āṣāḍha.

6 years ago, on this same occasion I started writing on the topic of the importance of practising  “Sādhanacatuṣṭaya” or the four-fold qualification prescribed for students that facilitates para vidya – spiritual learning. https://vijayajyoti.com/guru-purnima/. Being aware of these requirements is a preliminary step in the path of spiritual progress. The more qualifications we gain, the better will be the assimilation of knowledge and the in the practice of it. When there is a conflict in theory and practice, then it is advised that one must re-visit these qualifications to see what is being not followed.

While it is said that three qualities of the four – Viveka (discrimination between the real and unreal), Vairāgya (spirit of renunciation)  and Mumukṣutva (deep desire to be liberated)  may actually cause obstacles in the path of a material and mundane life with attachments; the fourth one, śaṭ sampatti – the six-fold qualification or discipline (Śama, dama, titiksha, uprati, Śraddhā and samādhāna) is very helpful even to succeed in daily life. This article explores last of the six  – the quality of  Samādhāna – absorption as my offering for the day.

 

What is samādhāna and why is it important?

The literal meaning of samādhāna is concentration or absorption from words  “sam” – which means together, entirely, wholly, perfectly, absolutely, or thoroughly and “ādhāna” – is placing receiving or putting. At the more basic level, it involves directing the intellect to be focused on the objective after consciously relieving oneself from all distractions of a wandering mind earlier described by the practice of śama (equanimity) https://vijayajyoti.com/guru-purnima-2/ and dama (austerity in the use of senses) https://vijayajyoti.com/dama-austerity-in-use-of-the-senses/.

Tattva Bodha, an introductory text of Vedanta written by Adi Śaṅkarācārya defines Samādhāna in Verse 6.1  as “chitta-ekagratha”, the one-pointedness of the mind that is needed for any pursuit whether material or spiritual.

Single pointedness is the ability to have the goal in one’s sights. A successful bowman has to have his eye only for the target. To recount a story from the epic Mahābhārata, Droṇācārya the royal preceptor wanted to test his students the Kaurava and Pāṇḍavā princes under his tutelage. He placed a wooden bird on top of a high tree and asked each of his students to take aim at its eye. As the princes came forward to shoot, he asked each of them what they saw. The responses varied as some described the bird, the surrounding trees and sky. Disappointed,  he asked them to step back.  Only Arjuna his favourite student with an unwavering focus on the object and the goal replied  “I see only the eye of the bird.” He was allowed to shoot and declared the winner.

Knowing how to focus and concentrate all our efforts on a single task, goal or process can be life-changing. The common saying is where you place your attention is where your energy goes – “Neurons that fire together, wire together”. Modern Neuroscience offers a scientific lens to examine the spiritual practices of the Upanishad and Yoga sutras. The nervous system is made up of individual, discrete nerve cells, not a continuous network and when a neural pathway is used repeatedly, the connection between neurons strengthens, making it easier for signals to travel along that pathway allowing the brain to re-wire itself with new information, knowledge, skill and habits.

Śrī Kṛṣṇa too in Bhagavadgītā praises the steady intellect of a spiritual aspirant over the ones that have dissipated minds are multi-tasking involved in multifarious activities in the world.

व्यवसायात्मिका बुद्धिरेकेह कुरुनन्दन |

बहुशाखा ह्यनन्ताश्च बुद्धयोऽव्यवसायिनाम् || 41||

O descendent of the Kurus, the intellect of those who are on this path is resolute, and their aim is one-pointed. But the intellect of those who are irresolute is many-branched.

For those whose goal is liberation, the advanced Vedanta texts such as Viveka Cūḍāmaṇī  describe Samādhāna as the consistently directing the intellect towards the ultimate encompassing reality –  the Brahman with steadfastness and detachment from the mind’s vagaries.

सर्वदा स्थापनं बुद्धेः शुद्धे ब्रह्मणि सर्वदा ।
तत्समाधानमित्युक् चित्तस्य लालनम् ॥ २६ ॥

Always establish the intellect in pure Brahman, that is called Samādhāna (meditative absorption), not the pampering of the mind.

The Muṇḍakopaniṣad also uses the metaphor of archery to illustrate the spiritual pursuit. The seeker is instructed to arm themselves with the bow – the knowledge of the Upaniṣads. The arrow is the seeker himself  who has been sharpened by absorption of  the knowledge while constantly directing his intellect to be focused on Brahman, must aim to strike, and when he does will be inseparable from Brahman like the arrow with its target when hit.

प्रणवो धनुः शारो ह्यात्मा ब्रह्म तल्लक्ष्यमुच्यते ।

अप्रमत्तेन वेद्धव्यं शरवत्तन्मयो भवेत् ॥ ४ ॥

The Pranava is the bow, the Atman is the arrow and the Brahman is said to be its mark. It should he hit by one who is self-collected and that which hits becomes, like the arrow, one with the mark, i.e.. Brahman.

Sage Pātānjali  in his yoga sutras (Verses 3.12 and 3.13) introduced another subtle point in the discussion. He described one-pointedness as one of the five states of mind and advocated that one has to raise awareness and maintain the one-pointedness or stillness of the mind that emerges between rising and falling thoughts in meditation.

From the philosophy of Vedanta that prescribes the path of Jñāna yoga, the practice of samādhāna includes the long terms goal of commitment and staying on the path and simultaneously following the short-term process of assimilation and absorption of the knowledge while listening to the scriptural texts. One should be able to categorise the topic appropriately while assimilating during the process of  Śravaṇa. Here, it may be necessary to distinguish the difference between  Śraddhā https://vijayajyoti.com/sraddha-faith-or-confidence/  which also involves staying on the path with unwavering alertness and samādhāna which involves making the mind stable while being absorbed with knowledge.

The prakaraṇagrantha  text  Sarva Vedānta  Siddantha Sāra Sangrah written by Adi Shankaracharya describes the importance of samādhāna during the process of  “Śravaṇa” – listening to the Vedantic texts.

श्रुत्युक्तार्थावगाहाय विदुषा ज्ञेयवस्तुनि।

चित्तस्य सम्यगाधानं समाधानमितीर्यते।।२१८

One should dive deep into what the Śruti says. One should be completely absorbed in it, in order to attain the knowledge of the ultimate Reality. It is such total absorption that is called concentration.

Thus, the focused mind endowed with knowledge from Śravaṇa allows for deep contemplation and introspection, making it a powerful tool for self-realization and spiritual growth. At the very highest level from the point of Vedanta, the samādhāna of a jñānī is the total absorption of mind equalling samādhi, nevertheless still a tool getting him closer to ultimate realisation.

Obstacles to Samādhāna

Samādhāna is not only dedication and commitment to any goal but the process  allows for absorption of the knowledge so that it becomes continuous and spontaneous. The nature of mind is that it continuously expands and wanders to satisfy its curiosity in the manifold external objects that are available to us. I find difficult to recall last time I read something without needing to go back to reread the contents. For those who watch TV, when was the last time you watched something on the TV or computer without needing to look at your phone?  Similarly, very few of us are really aware of where our mind is travelling while we are listening. The  modern-day skill of multi-tasking and also endless distractions of social media leads to scattering and dissipation of the mind.

The brain has the ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections throughout life. Modern day requirement of multitasking, while often perceived as efficient, can negatively impact neuroplasticity. When constantly switching between tasks the brain strengthens neural pathways associated with switching and distraction and superficial thinking and make it harder to focus on one task for extended periods.  It has been found that a brain rewired for multi-tasking makes memory poor.

Further, there is a gap between the knowledge that we hear/learn and our practice as we are often limited by our inherent tendencies (vāsana) that we are born with that which colours our narrative of life. Led by the vāsana, we employ defence patterns (such as denial, repression, displacement and projection) to enact our script and support our agenda which creates blocks in realising any goal.

Without a steady mind capable of sustained reflection upon the teaching, self-knowledge will remain nothing but an abstract concept. The committed seeker has single-pointedness of mind and a clear goal in sight.

Essential conditions  for Samādhāna

An essential condition for  samādhāna is paying attention to the quality of listening. Deep and focused listening or Śravaṇa is the first step in learning and assimilation of any knowledge. The quality of the presence of mind, directly affects the quality of listening and the quality of absorption. That is why these days corporate organisations invest in coaching their executives and star performers in the art of listening and to being completely present while being aware thoughts and efficiently separating their observation from judgement.

Further, we always focus, commit and give energy to what we value, appreciate and are devoted to.  That is why in many traditions a pleasing visual object or a word is used to start in the initial process of focussing or meditation.  This later leads to for a spiritual seeker into the path saguna Ishwara dhyana- meditation of a deity of our choice  before settling into the path of Nirguna formless Brahman.

To conclude,  when there is Samādhāna, the mind is steady and stable in an absorbed state as an unflickering lamp attached to the highest path.

यथा दीपो निवातस्थो नेङ्गते सोपमा स्मृता |

योगिनो यतचित्तस्य युञ्जतो योगमात्मन: ||BG 6.19||

Just as a lamp in a windless place does not flicker, so the disciplined mind of a yogi remains steady in meditation on the Supreme.

ॐ तत् सत्

References

  1. Svāmi Paramārthānanda’s teachings on Tattva Bodha, Bhagavad Gītā , Muṇḍakopaniṣad,  Viveka Cūḍāmaṇī, and Sarva Vedānta  Siddantha Sāra Sangrah
  2. Light on the Yoga sutras of Pātānjali by BKS Iyengar
  3. The Holy Gīta – Commentary by Swami Chinmayanada
  4. The Brain That Changes Itself by Norman Doidge
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Chaitra Śukla Pratipada, Mundane, United Kingdom, United States

Eye on the Sky – Chaitra Śukla Pratipada 2025

The chaitra śukla pratipada  is the first lunar day after the New Moon in Pisces from which chart the destiny of countries for the upcoming year is read. This is starting point for a new year called Samvatsara. The chaitra śukla pratipada for 2025 coincides with the Solar eclipse again like in the previous year which is not fortunate . However, this time we are entering a benign samvatsara of  Viśvāvasu that means “wealth of all” or “the beneficent one” leaving behind  the difficult year of krodhi (meaning anger)

The Chaitra śukla  on March 29th comes at a time when the leaders of the world are huddling together to meet and have intense negotiations about bringing the end of war while thinking how to benefit their own countries. This is symbolised by 6 planets in Pisces and the other three connected by exchange or aspect. Moreover, there will be a sarpa yoga (malefics in 3 quadrants) for dual signs which will make the events harsh and binding. Saturn’s the planet that doles out karma will  transit into Pisces the same day, not only make the sarpa yoga stronger but also result in hemming the planets between the nodes (creating a kala amrita yoga) in the sky.  The release from this can  only happen after 28th July when Mars will move out of Leo and Ketu’s influence. This is when we can expect to see some concrete steps to implement ceasefire, even as they may be temporary.

While the chaitra śukla  is on Saturday, the celebration  of the new year – Ugadi is the next day,  Sunday in India and the UK whereas it is on the same day in the USA. The lord of the day or Vareśa will be Saturn as it is in the last degrees of Aquarius and in the process of slipping into Pisces, hence not very stable. Vareśa represents the King and the Heads of the State in every horoscope, therefore the need of the hour for these statesmen is to be nimble or it can be read that they may also change positions in the last minute.

The Sun and Moon are in Uttarabhādrapadā in Pisces and this provides an opportunity for a deep-awakening after intense suffering. Mars is in Gemini and vargottama, however it is with Saturn in the navāṃśa forming a yama yoga of destruction. Thus, Gemini should be the point of suffering and transformation for each of the countries. For UK this will be monetary gains and relationships, For US it be debts, for China it’s enemies and its own weaknesses, for Israel it is destiny and philosophy, for Russia it power and governance and Ukraine it is war, relationships  and business.

I have analysed below the Chaitra śukla  charts for UK, USA, China, Israel, Russia and Ukraine. I have also included the analyses of the solar eclipses and their natal charts to arrive at a proper judgement.

Chaitra Śukla  Pratipada for UK

The Ascendant is Gemini and in the benign Punarvasu nakṣatra  which means beginning of new light, so we can expect progress this year. Gemini is the 11th house of gains and friendship as the natal progressed ascendant (1801) for the UK is Leo. Mercury representing the UK is combust and debilitated but retrograde, so we will be trying very hard not be giving up. PM Starmer may be feeling threatened with 6L Mars in the ascendant but as Mars is also the 11L, UK will be trying to  get some monetary gains and re-establish connections from world events by getting a larger role in keeping up with defences. The importance of relationships is key at present as UK is running the māhā daśā of Libra and antara of Gemini. The challenge from US (indicated usually be Gemini) is visible as Venus is placed in the 7th house of Aquarius aspected by Rahu and Saturn from Gemini in the 11th house.

The 5 planets in the 10th house shows some intense negotiations with matters of governance and administration. The 3L Sun with directional strength dealing with matters of strategy and defence regarding immediate neighbours (read EU, Ukraine) is being eclipsed and the presence of Rahu shows manipulation and influence by vested interests. The 7L Jupiter representing interest of defence and war strategy of the UK in the 12th shows  increase in expense. Jupiter’s  exchange with 2L and 5L Venus (representing economic interests of healthcare, retail and travel) shows that defence matters will take precedence over the normal needs of the country. As Mercury is also 4L, UK will be looking to align with neighbouring countries in food and agricultural matters.

The presence malefic planets are in 3 quadrants – Sarpa yoga and kala amrita yoga with Saturn’s move into Pisces will  make the events binding events. The presence of benefics Venus and Mercury cannot mitigate the harsh effects as they are combust and retrograde.  We can expect some clarity after 28th July when Mars will move out of Leo.

The solar eclipse analysis confirms that business matters will remain weak in the UK with unexpected gains (8th house effects) and the general public will suffer.

Chaitra Śukla  Pratipada for EU

The Chaitra śukla  chart for EU is also Gemini with the same nakṣatra of Punarvasu and in the same pada. We can expect similar intensity in negotiations with defence strategy coming to the forefront. However,  the navāṃśa for EU is vargottama in Gemini with Mars (AMK) also vargottama indicating that Europe may want to take the lead in peace keeping and defence and are ideally looking for longer term solutions for the area. The combustion and retrogradation of Mercury indicates that the task will difficult and will need at least 3 attempts to complete.  For both Germany and France with natal ascendants are Cancer, Gemini is the 12th house showing the focus as expenses on strengthening borders. EU countries will have to step up defence spending with increasing reluctance of USA to beef up NATO.  EU will be running the māhā daśā of  Gemini until November 2027 which is the 12th house from the natal chart of EU, therefore we should expect them to remain embroiled with the borders and defence matters  until then.

Chaitra Śukla  for USA

The ascendant is in Pisces  in the nakṣatra of Uttarabhādrapadā, same as the eclipse, there should be victory in the end but not without suffering first. Pisces is the 5th house of power the progressed natal chart of USA(1776). Matters regarding defence and strategy of the neighbouring countries say, Canada and Mexico are at the forefront with the ascendant and 10L lord Jupiter the 3rd house.  The exchange of Jupiter with 3L and 8L Venus  is highlighting how US wants to transform existing contracts between them primarily to reduce its debts and it may not be that easy as Venus will be unrelenting as it is retrograde. There could be loss of relationships. US is running the māhā daśā of Taurus with Venus in the 8th house with the 10th Lord Sun  also signifying that they want to transform how they work with others.

6L Sun in the ascendant shows challenges possibly from a self-will, whereas  4L and 7L Mercury in the ascendant indicates that reducing food prices and defence expenditure are two broad areas in the agenda.  9th Lord and 2nd Lord Mars in the 4th house shows a strong property market, however people are angry about economic policy and its impact on the domestic economy.  We could see a reaction with rebellion as Mars and Saturn are both in Gemini in the navāṃśa.. The move of  11L Saturn into the ascendant soon after indicates some gains from border areas, possibly from fossil fuels and the stock market.

The solar eclipse analysis indicates that there will be challenges for President  Trump with authority and wielding of power, suffering for judiciary and intellectuals whereas overall financial gains including real-estate and business.

Chaitra Śukla  for China

The ascendant for China is Virgo and the nakṣatra is Hasta which signifies comforts. Virgo is the 9th house in the natal chart of China (1949) indicating destiny.  The lords of Virgo, Mercury and Rahu represent  the state of China. The placement of Mercury in the 7th house is a weak one whereas Rahu in the 7th house has directional strength indicating that diplomacy should be their best strategy.

Jupiter 4L and 7L is in the 9th house, indicating battles in policy or a trade war. The exchange of Venus 2L and 9L with Jupiter is fortuitous for treasury matter but not so much for the happiness of people as  Jupiter is also the 4L representing people too close to Saturn and Rahu that represent rebellion and riots. The chaos and  cluster of planets is in the 7th house of war, they are being drawn into it rather than causing it. 3L and 8L Mars indicates changes being forced in administration and governance and the conjunction of Mars with Saturn in the 12th house in the Navāṃśa. does not bode well for a happy outcome. The māhā daśā of Taurus and Gemini antara in the natal chart also brings focus on the 7th house of war and unhappiness of people due to oppression.

The first solar eclipse will happen close to  sun set time in Beijing and that will not be favourable for the economy or the State with significations of Saturn suffering such as border areas and rebellion. Areas of judiciary and intellectuals will suffer along with the army and those that are involved dealing with fire such firemen, combustion engineers and cooks closer to the 2nd eclipse in September.

Chaitra Śukla  for Israel

The ascendant is Cancer in Pushya that is a nourishing and benign nakṣatra.  Cancer is the 10th of the natal chart of Israel bringing focus on the power and seat of throne.

The ascendant lord Moon for the year represents Israel and it is in the 9th of policy and destiny. Working alone will lead to grappling in the dark and not yielded desired results.  A major relationship will end, while giving rise to possibility of new ones emerging with Saturn’s transit into Pisces. Both 8L Rahu and Saturn (by transit) indicates major transformation. 5L and 10L Mars in the 12th house indicating that army is active under the command of the government in the border areas causing huge outflows.  The exchange of 4L Venus representing domestic affairs with 9L Jupiter shows the repeated attempts are being made to gain at territory and peace without success as Jupiter also owns the 6th house.  While the 9L Jupiter is in the 11th house indicates gains for religion and judiciary, however exchanges with Venus  shows that happiness and peace will take precedence over righteousness.

The Solar eclipse analysis indicates that there will be a change in Government and people will be happier, ministers and commerce will gain.

Chaitra Śukla  for Russia/Ukraine

The two countries Russia and Ukraine have also a Cancer ascendant like Israel, however the ascendant nakṣatra is not benign and is Ashlesha that can bring calamities. The navāṃśa. rising is Aquarius which falls in the 8th house of Chaitra śukla  chart showing transformation and coursing a new path as major goal.

The general comments made while analysing the Israel’s chart is valid for Russia and Ukraine about the impact on destiny, expenses from fighting and the need for arriving at a solution. Mars and Saturn in Gemini navāṃśa. reflects the causalities and toll of loss of people and resources. While the two countries Russia and Ukraine share the same ascendant for the year, the impact varies as Cancer is the 11th house for the natal chart of Russia with Virgo ascendant that signals gains and acquisitions vs whereas for Ukraine with a natal ascendant of Sagittarius it shows 8th house of debts and transformation.  Ukraine is suffering as it is running the māhā daśā  of Sagittarius with Jupiter having lost in a war to Mercury in its natal horoscope. What is notable is the President Zelensky’s Moon is also placed in this star of Ashlesha and he is one of  the main architects of this war and peace process.

The solar eclipse analysis for Russia reveals that the head of state Putin will be severely challenged especially as the 2nd eclipse falls on the nakshtra of where his natal Sun is in Uttaraphalguni  with  more negative impact on ministers, commerce and cattle/resources. The same applies challenges to Zelensky the President of Ukraine , with transformation in the hearts of people after much suffering, positive change in governance and ministers. The second eclipse shows much suffering in the border areas for both countries indicating probability of actual division around 6 months surrounding September 2025.

 

ॐ तत् सत्

 

 

This is the original work of Vijaya Jyoti, copyright © 2025 vijaya.jyoti.com. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced or transmitted without proper attribution to the author and source.

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Solar Eclipse

Eye on the Sky – Solar eclipses of 2025

We continue to have solar eclipses in the Pisces/Virgo axis in 2025 even as Rahu/Ketu change signs on May 18th into the Aquarius/Leo axis.  The first solar eclipse for the year will be a partial solar eclipse on March 29th in the nakshatra of Uttarabhādrapadā (4th pada) in Pisces followed by another partial Solar eclipse on September 21st in Uttaraphalgunī  (3rd pada) in Virgo.

Both the eclipses fall around key dates of the astronomical calendar. The solar eclipse in March will coincide with the chaitra śukla pratipada (first lunar day after the New Moon in Pisces) from which chart the destiny of countries for the upcoming year is read. This is starting point for a new year which is called Samvatsara. We leave the difficult year krodhi meaning anger for the year of  Viśvāvasu. The meaning of Viśvāvasu, is the “wealth of all” or “the beneficent one”. The second eclipses is just a day before the  Autumnal equinox. As both eclipses are partial or savya in nature and the shadow will be lower, therefore I expect the result of all the effect maybe benign for the universe as a whole. I also say this because of Jupiter’s involvement in the eclipses, the first one by way of exchange with Venus and in the second eclipse by an aspect. Nevertheless, there is room for disgruntlement as both the solar eclipses are preceded by lunar eclipses.

Table 1 : Solar  Eclipses of 2025
Solar Eclipse Type Date Visibility UTC/GMT Nakshatra Degree Sign
Partial March 29 Europe, Russia, North East of US and Canada  North West Africa 10.48.36 Uttarabhādrapadā 14°47’ Pisces
Partial Sept 21 Southern Australia, New Zealand, Antarctica 19.43.01 Uttaraphalgunī 4°50 Virgo
https://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/SEdecade/SEdecade2021.html

 

The March solar eclipse will bring all the planets together. The back-and-forth conjunctions in Pisces  before and after the eclipse are total twelve in number and they signify a period of intense negotiations. The combination of Rahu and Saturn (two weeks after the eclipse) is said to bring storms and rebellion, particularly as the conjunction is in Pūrvabhādrapadā, the fiercer of the two Bhadra nakshatras. The last time Rahu and Saturn were together in Pisces was in 1968, a year of worldwide protests against war,  military states,  bureaucracies and the start of civil rights movements.  This led to positive change in institutions and adoption of more liberal policies with more inclusion.

In a similar fashion this eclipse in Uttarabhādrapadā can be intense and  bring issues that are fundamental to our thinking, feeling and action  to surface that lie deep below smouldering, however the end result could be benign bringing stability and growth to the three worlds. There is no awakening without suffering and better described in the words of the philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche “You must have chaos within you to give birth to a dancing star”.

Musings from 2024

As the March 2024 eclipse was in Pisces,  I had written that we can expect disturbances for industries such as deep- sea mining, waterways and shipping, travel by sea, port related activities and fisheries. The  collapse of Francis Scott Bridge,  Baltimore, Maryland on March 26th and the death of the workmen was one such incident and the shipping company made a settle of 100mn. Many deaths and devastation was caused in Central Europe due to flooding in 2024.

I had correctly predicted that the first eclipse in April favoured the challenger Donald Trump over the incumbent President Biden in the US Presidential election and the eclipse will bring some hidden matters into light on those who wield power including the judiciary while provoking the masses to think about what they have placed faith in. Joe Biden was weeded out the contest with more popular Kamala Harris as the Democrat party candidate for the US Presidential Election.  Both solar eclipses peaking in the hour of Sun  (indicating rulers) did  not bode well for Democrats and people voted for change. I expected NATO leadership ( incorporated in Washington) to suffer equally but we have  not seen it yet. I expected the autumn eclipse in October 2024 to create a ground for negotiate and divide the spoils of war. The US election result has provided that.

Back at home in the UK, I had also written that the second eclipse is more significant for the United Kingdom both from point of view of finances and leadership as well as provide a turning point for the Royalty in the UK, House of Windsor. The Autumnal budget has provided grounds to prove that balancing of budget in UK is not going to be possible in the short run. King Charles and the Princess of Wales Kate, both have resumed their duties.

Predictions for 2025

Countries and individuals having  ascendants in the Virgo/Pisces axis will be in the last stages of transformation. The movement of the nodes in the 1/7 axis often causes issues to resolve one way or the other, whether they may be for the better or worse. According to Varahamihīrā, eclipses in the 1/7 axis of countries generally brings a financial downturn or causes dangers to the rulers and government.  I expect that countries and institutions with Virgo ascendants that are engaged in battle such as Russia, Lebanon and NATO will reach a final phase of negotiations and there could be some ceasefire or peace even if it is temporary.   One can expect the change in leadership and governance and  I expect so particularly for Israel as the eclipse is peaking at the hour of Sun. The changes one expects in leadership in Russia and Ukraine is likely to more managed with extensive negotiations around the matters of border areas particularly at the time of second eclipse. Initial happiness might give away to unhappiness both sides. Existential crisis will prevail for NATO.

UK will continue to grapple with debt and finances. USA will have challenges with judiciary and authority but with a promise of financial prosperity. My analysis is drawn from interpretation of the horoscopes of different countries at the peak hour of eclipse and calculating the most suffering or winning planet and its significations. Tables 2 and 4 detail the effect of the eclipse on different countries and are included in the section of individual analysis of eclipses.

Partial Solar Eclipse on March 29th 2025

The eclipse  is in Uttarabhādrapadā, the penultimate star in the zodiac whose symbol is the back legs of a funeral cot that denotes our exit from the world. The planetary ruler of this asterism is Saturn and the deity is  Ahirbudhanya. ‘Ahi’ means the serpent and ‘budhana’ can mean  foundation or support for the world. Budhāna is also the one who has awakened and from the Rig veda, he is described residing in the sky in the clouds.  The eclipse is in the 4th pada of Uttarabhādrapadā where the Moon is in debilitated in the navāṃśa. The energy of Uttarabhādrapadā will be intense and mysterious, however providing an opportunity for a deep-awakening after intense suffering.

As the solar eclipse is still in Pisces, we can continue to expect disturbances for industries such as deep-sea mining, waterways and shipping, travel by sea, port related activities and fisheries. According to Varahamihīrā, an eclipse in the lunar month of Phalguna is not favourable for manufacturers of weapons and the ruling class.

Casting the chart for the peak eclipse in London, yields a Gemini Ascendant. The following are the major observations-

  • There is a sarpa yoga, presence of three malefics, Rahu, Ketu and Mars  in at least three quadrants aspecting each other. This combination will create binding events which brings about suffering.
  • The presence of two benefics Mercury and Venus should reduce the effect of sarpa yoga, but both are retrograde. They would have had their conjunction with Sun just days before; therefore, the business agenda will be more aligned with the State.
  • This should be period of intense negotiation and lobbying in business and politics. Sun and Moon have met with Rahu already in the days before the eclipse and a retrograde Mercury and Venus are moving in the same direction towards Rahu for a second meeting.
  • Jupiter in Taurus is a great benefic and owns the eclipsed house and is in exchange with Venus. This brings Jupiter’s contact with the eclipsed house which is a huge blessing for the world, but perhaps not for Jupiter as fairness may be compromised.
  • Saturn is the day lord of the eclipse and though it is not in the eclipsed house at the time of peak eclipse, it will move into it at 14.09.35, just hours after the eclipse ends at 12.43.45 hrs. Rahu and Saturn are in an orb together and their exact conjunction will happen on the early hours of April 14th around the time of the solar ingress. The conjunction of Rahu and Saturn is a cause of concern as it brings about turbulence.
  • The impact of the eclipse should be global as all the planets are involved in the eclipsed house by way of presence, aspect or exchange with the exception of Saturn which moves hours later.

I have tabulated the effect of the eclipse for some countries by casting a chart for the peak hour.

Table 2: Predictions based on the Solar Eclipse on March 29th 2025
Country Eclipse Ascendant Eclipse Ascendant in Natal chart Eclipsed house Pisces in Natal chart Suffering Planet Comments
UK Gemini 11th house 8 Me Focus on debt, finances and gains, unexpected gains from debt, though business and commerce may be still weak.
USA Pisces 5th house 5 Ju Challenges for Trump with authority and wielding of power, judiciary and intellectuals will suffer, overall financial gains including real-estate and business.
NATO Pisces 7th house 7 Ju Existential challenge for Mark Rutte and severe financial problems for NATO are indicated.
Russia Cancer 11th house 7 Su, Mo The head of state Putin will be severely challenged with  more negative impact on ministers, commerce and cattle/resources. Improvement and gains from border areas and travel.
Ukraine Cancer 8th house 4 Su, Mo Challenges to Zelensky, with transformation in the hearts of people after much suffering, positive change in governance and ministers
Israel Cancer 10th house 6 Su Netanyahu should lose power, change in Government is indicated and people will be happier, ministers and commerce will gain.

 

For individuals, if the natal Sun, Moon or Ascendant is placed in Uttarbhadrapada it may be a time to increase awareness about finances, health and direction in life. The impact of the eclipse is felt roughly six months before or after the eclipse. Table 3 lists some key personalities that have their Ascendants, Sun or Moon in Uttarabhādrapadā

Table 3 : Statesmen/ Celebrities with Ascendants or Sun and Moon in Uttarabhādrapadā
Ascendant in Uttarabhādrapadā Sun in Uttara Bhadra Moon in Uttarabhādrapadā
Hong Kong Elton John Bill Gates
Jair Bolsanaro Diane Von Fursternberg
Harry Weinstein Hilary Clinton
Lady Gaga Novak Djokovic
Nancy Pelosi Russel Brand
Saudi Arabia (1902)
USA Progressed
Thailand (1997)

 

Partial Eclipse on Sept 21st  2025

The second solar eclipse falls on 21st September a day before the Autumnal Equinox (length of the day is equalling that of the night) on a Sunday in Uttaraphalgunī  naskhatra (3rd pada) in the sign of Virgo. The presiding deity of Uttaraphalgunī is Aryaman, meaning  a noble man, the ruler of asterism is the Sun. Aryaman gives prosperity through marriage and unions. He contracts for resources that are necessary for successful unions or marriage.

An eclipse in Virgo is said to cause trouble to crops (particularly regions endowed with paddy fields) and also to poets, writers and musicians. The largest exporter of rice are India and the United States. An eclipse in the lunar month of Bhādrapada is said to bring prosperity to land but women may suffer miscarriages.

The eclipse Ascendant for the chart cast in London is Aries with its lord Mars not favourably positioned in the 7th (in MKS). This is not good for the overall-health of the economy, but debts may reduce. The eclipsed house is Virgo with a Mercury even when exalted is afflicted by its presence in the eclipsed house and aspected by Jupiter (also in MKS) and Saturn from the signs of Gemini and Pisces. The aspect of Jupiter is only disturbing for countries with ascendant as Aries at the peak time of eclipse. The eclipsed house is wedged between Mars and Ketu. Venus, though not present in the eclipsed house is nevertheless impacted by it as it is with the nodes and in Leo. I have tabulated the effects for some countries by casting a chart for the peak hour of eclipse for each of them.

Table 4 : Predictions based on the Solar Eclipse on September 21st  2025
Country

 

 

 Eclipse Ascendant Eclipse Ascendant in Natal chart Eclipsed house Virgo in Natal chart Suffering Planet Comments
UK Aries 9th house 2 Mo Public, ministers, agriculture and merchant will suffer while rulers, hospitality and travel will benefit
USA Sag 2nd house 11 Su, Mo Marginal challenges for Trump, Public, ministers and agriculture will suffer while hospitality and travel will benefit. Financial gains are indicated
NATO Sag 4th house 1 Su, Mo Marginal challenge for Mark Rutte with suffering for the countries in NATO
Russia Gem 10th House 1 Sat Maximum impact is on the border areas while Putin will be challenged particularly as his Sun is in Uttaraphalgunī
Ukraine Gem 7th house 10 Sat Maximum impact is on the border areas while some challenges and some positive change in governance
Israel Taurus 8th house 12 Sun Change of government and the border areas will benefit.

 

If the natal Sun, Moon or Ascendant is placed in Uttaraphalgunī it may be a time to increase awareness about finances, health and direction in life. The impact of the eclipse is felt roughly six months before or after the eclipse. Table 5 lists some key personalities that have their Ascendants, Sun or Moon in Uttaraphalgunī.

Table 5 : Statesman/ Celebrities with Ascendant, Sun or Moon in Uttaraphalgunī
Ascendant in Uttaraphalgunī Sun in Uttaraphalgunī Moon in Uttaraphalgunī
Tom Hanks Narender Modi Donna Karan
Jeb Bush Michael Douglas Deepak Chopra
Mark Zuckerberg Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex Luciano Benneton
NATO Saudi Arabia (1932) Thaksin Shinawatra
Sri Lanka

 

Remedies

The Solar energy or Agni (Fire element) gets weakened in an eclipse. Agni or precisely jātargni aids in digestion, therefore one should observe fasting at the time of the eclipse as the digestive process will be weak. After the eclipse, bathing is prescribed invoking the devas and loka-palas beckoning the seas and rivers to wash of the digressions to remove the suffering caused by inauspicious planets. This bathing is more essential if the Sun, Moon or the Ascendant is in the eclipsed sign and in the nakshatra of Uttarabhādrapadā or Uttaraphalgunī.

From the tradition I have been taught, seekers and those affected are asked to worship Jupiter or Shiva who is the “Father of the Universe” to reduce bad energy and restore the glory of Sun. We recommend praying to the teaching form of Shiva called Dakṣiṇāmūrti with mantra

ॐ दक्षिणामूर्ति रतरोम्

om dakṣiṇāmūrti ratarom

or

ॐ नमो भगवते दक्षिणामुर्तये मह्यं मेदां प्रज्ञां प्रयच्छ स्वाहा

om namo bhagavate dakṣiṇāmurtaye mahyaṁ medāṁ prajñāṁ prayaccha svāhā

Giving to charity on this day is also highly encouraged.

References

  • Based on the principles taught by Jyotish Guru Pandit Sanjay Rath
  • Bṛhat Samhitā – Varahamihīrā, M. Ramakṛishna Bhat, Part 1, Motilal Banarasidass Publishers Pvt. Ltd, Delhi, India
  • Eclipse Data from https://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/solar.html
  • Time and Date.com Solar & Lunar Eclipses Worldwide (timeanddate.com)
  • Shri Jyoti Star – Vedic software

 

ॐ तत् सत्

 

This is the original work of Vijaya Jyoti, copyright © 2025 vijaya.jyoti.com. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced or transmitted without proper attribution to the author and source.

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Mundane

Eye on the Sky – Thinking Fast and Slow, Analysing the Impact of Motion of Planets

The word gati  in Sanskrit has many meanings of consequence such as one’s path in life or destination.  In Jyotiṣa, the word gati usually refers to the speed of the planets. Planets oscillate at different speeds to their norm which can cause them to behave differently from their nature, so I thought to study and write about the impact of the deviating motions of the planets.

I derive inspiration for this article from a lecture from my very first week in Bhimtal in October 2010 listening to Guruji, Pandit Sanjay Rath  talking about graha gati – speed of planets. I recall that lecture vividly, he said  that a planet in its  natural speed is in samā gati like the Sun. “A planet that is quicker is termed śīghra or ati śīghra depending how much quicker it is moving. A planet that is quicker than its natural speed is eager and fleeting like the Moon or sometimes is running scared like a child akin to Mercury.  The planet that is slow is called mandā or ati mandā like Saturn”. We went no further than that in the class and it became fodder for my thought.

Before we go into deviations and relative speed,  I list below the regular speed of planets – samā gati. Amongst the planets Moon is the fastest taking only 2.5 days to transit  a sign whereas Saturn is slowest one taking 2.5 years to transit a sign.

 Planet Average Daily Movement in degrees (samā gati) Average days/years in a         sign
Sun    00°59’ 30 days
Moon    13°10’ 2.5 days
Mars    00°31’ 57 days
Mercury      1°23’ 22 days
Jupiter      0°04’ 1 year
Venus      1°12’ 26 days
Saturn      0°02’ 2.5 years

 

Further, Sūrya Siddhānta, Chapter 2, verses 12 and 13 describe the eight relative motions of planets –

वक्रानुवक्रा कुटिला मन्दा मन्दतरा समा । तथा शीघ्रतरा शीघ्रा ग्रहाणामष्टधा गतिः॥ १२ ॥

तत्रातिशीघ्रा शीघ्राख्या मन्दा मन्दतरा समा । ऋज्वीति पञ्चधाज्ञेया या वक्रा सानुवक्रगा ||१३||

vakrānuvakrā kuṭilā mandā mandatarā samā |

tathā śīghratarā śīghrā grahāṇāmaṣṭadhā gatiḥ|| 12 ||

tatrātiśīghrā śīghrākhyā mandā mandatarā samā |

ṛjvīti pañcadhājñeyā yā vakrā sānuvakragā ||13||

Vakrā (retrograde), anuvakrā (somewhat retrograde), kuṭila (transverse), mandā (slow), mandatarā (very slow), samā (even), then śīghratara (very swift), śīghra (swift) are eight kinds of gati of planets.  From them ati śīghra, śīghra, mandā, mandatarā and samā are known as five kinds of the straight (gati), those vakrā and anuvakrā are going backward (retrograding).

I will not be discussing the three motions related to retrograding, viz. vakra, anuvakra and kuṭila respectively in this article.

A decade later while studying behaviour psychology, I came across the work of Daniel Kahneman highlighting how human brains used two systems for decision making process – ‘thinking fast and slow’. Applying the concept to this study, actions or thoughts prompted by planets moving faster than their  normal speed can be construed as quick or automatic, emotional, stereotypic and perhaps unconscious. Whereas, the thinking or actions resulting from the influence of a planet slower than its natural speed can be deliberate, effortful, infrequent, logical, calculating, conscious or cold.

A further classification of planets around their guṇa-nature  is helpful to explain ‘why’ of the behaviour associated with their motion. As we can see below in the table, the motion of the sattva planets can be regular like that of Sun, fast like that of Moon and slow like that of Jupiter. Sattva planets seek contentment and are creative with little personal agenda. Rajas planets Venus and Mercury are dynamic,  have deep personal agenda and are fast moving.  The tamas planets are natural malefics – Saturn, Rahu and Ketu are all slow and capable of showing coldness or deliberate action. Mars is perhaps, the only one that is faster than other malefics as it wants to swiftly carry out the orders of the King or the State.

Planet Relative Speed Guṇa Caste/Behaviour
Sun Regular Sattva Kṣatriya) – Royal
Moon Very Fast Sattva Vaiśya – Intellectual Business
Mars Medium-Slow Tamas Kṣatriya) – Royal
Mercury Fast Rajas Vaiśya – Business
Jupiter Slow Sattva Brāhmaṇa – Intellectual
Venus Fast Rajas Brāhmaṇa – Intellectual
Saturn Very slow Tamas Śūdra  – Service

We can further understand that the effect of a planet that  is much faster (ati śīghra) than its normal speed (samā gati) is fleeting like that of the Moon. The behaviour  of such a planet can be viewed as rather automatic, instinctive, or can appear to be thoughtless, similar to the experience when one is not quite conscious about the path while walking back home from work. Such a planet can also grace or bestow favours quickly as the presence of Moon can  makes something happen.

In the similar manner, a planet slightly faster (śīghra gati) than its normal speed can also be seen as behaving like Mercury or Venus carrying with it a personal agenda.  The agenda of Mercury is more to do with money and that of Venus is inclusion or exclusion. It is also said that because of the elitist, manipulative and undefeatable nature of Venus, any planet that is stationary (Kuṭila) in motion is said to be the like Venus.

When planets are slower (mandā) than their normal speed they can behave more like Jupiter and be more inclusive and thoughtful. A planet that is very slow (mandatarā)  can behave like Saturn, and be more obstructing and colder.

Thinking Fast – What happens when slower planets become faster?

Jupiter is the planet of wisdom and faith and the significator of children. It is planet of sattvic disposition – that is calm and bestowing naturally and therefore the preceptor of divinely beings. When Jupiter is faster than its usual speed, judgement can be automatic rather than deliberate even when a situation warrants an exception. One can overlook facts. There could be private agenda which can be compromising. Decisions can be taken overly weighing financial benefits (behaving like  Mercury) or to favour a particular group (behaving like Venus).

Saturn is a planet of service, because it is slow, indolent, greedy or depressing, it is classified as tamasic. When Saturn is too fast like the Moon, it can be a stressful time for many leading to  hesitation or avoidance of action and responsibility. One can feel like running away and hiding.  A reasonably faster moving Saturn should be beneficial for business objectives and communication can be skilful.

Mars is planet of action; it belongs to the royal class and is most pleased while carrying out the actions of state and the king. Mars can wage wars to extract, discipline and punish, there is a rigidity to its behaviour, hence it is tamasic in nature. When Mars is ati śīghra in gati, the actions can be perceived to be reactive, emotional or impulsive. In some cases, when Mars is placed well, the actions can be perceived as highly intuitive specially when Mars moves quickly in defence.  When Mars is in śīghra gati, it will be endowed with a personal agenda and can exhibit extreme competition (a yoga of Mars with Mercury creates natural boxers) or jealousy and/or inappropriate or thieving behaviour.

Thinking Slow – What happens when faster planets become slower?

Venus is an intellectual and the preceptor to the demonic beings – supportive of those  who are clamouring for power and dominance. Venus is elitist and has private agenda therefore is classified as rajasic – dynamic in its attribute. Venus is also the significator of a relationship or spouse. A slower Venus (mandā gati) will respond in a  compassionate and inclusive manner (like Jupiter). A much slower Venus (manda tara) can become colder, detached and calculating like Saturn in relationships.

Mercury belongs to the business class and has the private agenda of a profit. Mercury is youthful the significator of communication. Mercury with a mandā gati will be mature, possessing the ability to synthesise  learning akin to Jupiter, it can also show largesse. A manda tara Mercury can lose its lightness and become rigid, grasping and commercial (like Saturn).

Mars is faster than Jupiter and Saturn. When Mars slows down, there can be heightened  listening and comprehension, right actions. On the other hand, when Mars is too slow, it can be like Saturn rigid, greedy or irresponsible and totally giving up in a defeatist attitude.

Impact of thinking fast and slow in 2025

Thinking Slow – Venus in Pisces

Venus will spend 121 days in Pisces, much longer than the average 26 days it spends in a sign and its speed will not be optimum throughout its sojourn in Pisces. Venus entered the sign on 28th January, when the speed was 86% of its normal speed and has started to slow down. This is a time when dealings with partners both business  and personal  can feel less spontaneous,  colder and calculating. This period can also be tactically used efficiently for final resolution.

Venus  meets with  Rahu (3 times), Mercury (2 times), Sun and Saturn (2 times). While in any war Venus is always the  victor, one has to note that the Venus is slower than usual, therefore will put in a greater effort and be deliberate and calculative after it turns retrograde on the 2nd of March. The result of any two retrograde planets is very difficult to reach.  The coldness of Venus will be more apparent as it will start to  slow down dramatically days before retrograding on the 2nd of March and when it turns direct on 13th of April. It is better to negotiate and expect better terms if one is the oppressed or aggrieved party after the 13th April as the delta of the speed of Venus is increasing. As Venus moves away from the conjunctions and the orbs of other planets from May 6th , one can expect a more compassionate effect of an exalted Venus till the  31st of May.

Thinking Fast  – Jupiter in Gemini

Jupiter will enter Gemini on the 15th May 2025 at 2.5 X its normal speed and will hurry into the next sign Cancer by October 18th in little more than 5 months instead of taking a whole year. From 15th May to 23rd June as Jupiter accelerates to 2.75X its speed, there could be a feeling of awe as one experiences when we are watching an elephant run. There could be felicity too, however it may be wise to pay attention to details and not overlook facts. There may be some personal agenda particularly as Jupiter will meet Mercury in Gemini on the 8th of June. The intentions of Jupiter will be purified or aligned after its combustion on the 25th of June, and its speed will not be accelerating while still maintaining a faster pace till the 8th of September.  Jupiter will have attained normal speed  between 14th and 18th  October and will slow down further to become retrograde on 11th of November.

Jupiter re-enters Gemini retrograde on the 6th of December until March 11th  2026. From then on, it is direct until June 1st, though its speed is sub-par only normalising on the  7th of June 2026 after its move into Cancer.  Therefore, one may surmise that Jupiter will be more fruitful in 2025 that in 2026.

Thinking Fast – Saturn in Aquarius

Saturn attained its normal speed on 4th December 2024 in Aquarius  and since then it has been  accelerating and will reach the speed of  3.6X its normal speed on the day of eclipse on 29th March when it will transit into Pisces. During this period Saturn will move 12°30’ in Aquarius merely in 4.5 months covering the distance of 92%  that it  normally moves  in a year, viz.  of one nakshatra of 13°20’. With an  accelerating Saturn one can feel stressed out and lack the ability to cope or feel the need to escape the situation by not accepting responsibility. We may need to include mindfulness practices such as pranayama to bring more awareness to our states of being.

Saturn will be meeting Mercury and  Sun while in Aquarius and then  Rahu and Venus (2 times) in Pisces after March 29th. The conjunctions of Saturn, whether in Aquarius or Pisces will be take place in its accelerated state of over 3.5X its normal speed. At the same time the  faster moving planets -Mercury and Venus will be slower than the norm thereby prolonging the days the planets will be in each other’s orb of influence or at war. Saturn will be more responsible in Aquarius as it has more dignity than in Pisces.  Work and business decisions will benefit when Saturn in Pisces attains its normal speed from  22nd June till 13th July after which Saturn will start to slow down to turn retrograde.

Thinking Slow – Mars in Cancer

Mars is debilitated in Cancer as it feels uncomfortable with energy of water and emotions.  Mars is the significator of land and its excellence is usually visible in the protection function it offers, which are both the domains of the 4th house, and yet Mars does not have the right formula to deal with these issues amicably particularly when it is in the sign of Cancer. There could be a feeling of being wronged and wanting to seek revenge. Mars will reach Cancer on the 2nd April at  64% of its speed and will be accelerating to reach its normal speed on the 27th May before it leaves the sign on the 6th of June. It would have spent 64 days in 2025 in Cancer when its normal to stay in a sign for 57 days. Mars would have spent 157 days in Cancer if one adds the time it spent in Cancer in 2024 before retrograding into Gemini. As the speed of Mars is slower but accelerating, we can expect more of a response rather than reaction during the period. There will be greater thought and deliberation even in revenge.

 

References

  • Pandit Sanjay Rath’s teachings while studying BHPS in Bhimtal, Uttarakhand, India
  • Sūrya Siddhānta, Mahavir Prasad, Indian Astronomy, Digital Publication
  • Thinking, Fast and Slow, Daniel Kahneman, Penguin Publishers
  • Shri Jyoti Star, Vedic Software

 

 

ॐ तत् सत्

 

 

 

This is the original work of Vijaya Jyoti, copyright © 2025 vijaya.jyoti.com. All rights reserved. No part of this article may be reproduced or transmitted without proper attribution to the author and source.

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Eclipse

Additional notes on the Autumn Solar Eclipse 2024

 

I had written earlier in February this year that the first eclipse In April favoured the challenger Donald Trump over the incumbent President Biden in the US Presidential election and the eclipse will bring some hidden matters into light on those who wield power including the judiciary while provoking the masses to think about what they have placed faith in. Joe Biden has been weeded out the contest with more popular Kamla Harris as the Democrat party candidate for the US Presidential Election. https://vijayajyoti.com/eye-on-the-sky-solar-eclipses-of-2024/

The autumn eclipse on 2nd October falls in Hasta nakṣatra.  Hasta is the symbol of a hand and destiny that indicates what is within our grasp.  This eclipse may provide an opportune point to reflect  whether we should negotiate and divide the spoils of war or continue the war.  I had also written that the second eclipse is more significant for the United Kingdom both from point of view of finances and leadership as well as provide a turning point for the Royalty in the UK, House of Windsor. Here are some of my additional thoughts on the upcoming eclipse.

Autumnal Solar Eclipse and United Kingdom

Casting a chart for the peak eclipse time in London on the 2nd of October 2024 at 19.46.13 , we get an Aries ascendant. Sun, Moon and an exalted Mercury are in Virgo the eclipsed house on the 2nd of October. Expect inflationary conditions to persist and a slow pick up in business environment.  The 9th lord Mars in the 11th house also shows a promise of fortune or status from spoils of war or from brokering a peace agreement.

 

Using the progressed chart for UK (progressing the original 1801 chart for 144 years),  the eclipse ascendant Aries is the 9th house of fortune in the natal progressed chart.  The eclipse itself is in the 2nd house in Virgo pointing to finances and debt. Prime Minister Sir Keith Starmer has said “that things will get worse before they get better, claiming that there is “rot deep in the heart” of Britain in an attempt to prepare the groundwork for sweeping tax increases in autumn. The presence of nodes in 2/8 axis often shows issues of grappling with finances and borrowings.  A retrograde Saturn in the 7th house with directional strength (looking at the chart from Leo ascendant) indicates a hard and uncompromising labour and demands. Apparently 50% of the £33bn fiscal black has come pay rises for public sector workers. Jupiter in the 10th is giving a sign aspect to the 10th Lord Venus indicating a reward from entrepreneurial efforts. However, we must note that the 11th lord Mercury is firmly stuck in the house of eclipse.

Using the technique taught by Pandit Sanjay Rath, we divide the night of eclipse into 7 parts  to see which parts of it fall at the time of full and peak eclipse.  As the full eclipse starts early in the evening it will afflict the hour ruled by Moon affecting merchants, dependant  woman, ministers and general public.  The time ruled by Sun comes  after the eclipse and therefore the rulers and heads of State such as the Prime Minister are likely to gain in the next 6 months. The positive read on the hour ruled by Sun should also bode well for the Royality – House of Windsor.  The 10th house of the horoscope of William, Prince of Wales, has two planets Saturn and Mars (his ātma Kārakā and amatya Kārakā) in the eclipsed Nakshatra Hasta. 10th house represents the throne. Malefic planets in the 10th house are not conducive for paternal happiness or health. His father, King Charles has been undergoing Cancer treatment.

Solar Eclipse and United States

In the case of USA, the progressed ascendant (progressing the original 1776 chart by 144 years) is Scorpio. When we cast the chart for the peak solar eclipse in Washington DC at 14.46.13, we get the eclipse ascendant as Sagittarius with Jupiter in the 6th house of battle.  Challenges to throne and power are indicated by the eclipsed house Virgo falling in the 10th and the ruler of the 5th house of power Mars being in an unfortunate position (marana- death like) in the 7th house. From the natal progressed chart (Scorpio) the ascendant of the eclipsed chart is the 2nd house and Virgo the eclipsed house is the 11th house, both houses indicating  matters involving wealth and gains.

We  divide the day of eclipse into 7 parts  to see which parts of it fall at the time of full and peak eclipse.  The eclipse starts in the fourth part of the day ruled by the Sun and peaks in the part ruled by the planet Moon,  while receding in the part ruled by Venus. This indicates that rulers, kings, ministers and merchants would suffer with partial gains for independent women and travel. Matters represented by Saturn such as labour, borders areas and matters of migrants should prosper.  As the eclipse favours Saturn,  this should favour a more friendly foreign and immigration policy. As the hour of the Sun is disturbed, we cannot rule out unruly behaviour during the elections by the candidates or by the voters and/or disruption in timely hand over to the next government.

NATO and Solar Eclipse

The results obtained above from the calculations of the  division of the day of the eclipse in Washington is also applicable for NATO which is why I expected some disarray at the time of electing the new Secretary General for NATO which has not materialised. Mark Rutte  is expected to take over from Jens Stoltenberg on October 1st. In his leaving speech, Jens Stoltenberg talked of the relevance of NATO as an institution that is being united, strong and transformed.  We will see more of the transformation as there are two eclipses of 2025 are also in the Virgo/Pisces axis which forms the 1/7 axis of the horoscope of NATO.

The eclipse ascendant for the chart cast in Washington at the peak hour of eclipse is Sagittarius, which is the is the 4th house for NATO that signifies territory and faith. Jupiter the ruler of Sagittarius is debilitated but gets a cancellation from Moon in the 10th house. The faith of NATO is in the strength of its allies which is the 11th house. Jens Stoltenberg  emphasised the importance of making sacrifices for peace by making contributions and choosing “freedom over free trade”. We can expect the continued momentum of the expansionary effort of NATO.  NATO is running the dasa of Ketu Rahu from 27/9/2024 to 15/10/2025. Actions taken in this period will have a karmic effect and can have deeper consequences for Europe and the world (read deployment of long-range missiles).  The antara of Jupiter that follows will provide room for negotiation.

When I look at the corresponding calculations for Russia, the eclipse starts in the hour of Moon, peaks at Venus. The eclipse also touches the partly the hour ruled by Sun, however it will be receding as it is after the peak time of eclipse. This shows that any leadership strength that is lost may be regained. However, I am mindful that Russia also has a Virgo ascendant implying big changes for the country will be forthcoming with eclipses continuing in Pisces/Virgo axis in 2025 which can signify changes in leadership.

References

Principles based on the teachings of Pandit Sanjay Rath on Solar eclipses

Bṛhat Samhitā – Varāhamihira, M. Ramakṛishna Bhat, Part 1, Motilal Banarasidass Publishers Pvt. Ltd, Delhi, India

Eclipse Data from https://eclipse.gsfc.nasa.gov/solar.html

Time and Date.com Solar & Lunar Eclipses Worldwide (timeanddate.com)

 

 

 

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Guru Purnima

Uparati – Reducing Extrovertedness

 

`व्यां वेदव्यासाय नमः

vyāṁ vedavyāsāya namaḥ

 

July 21st is Guru Purnima giving us the opportunity to express gratitude to our Guru, mentors and teachers who are illumining our path. Five years ago, on this same occasion I started writing about the importance of observing śamādi-ṣaṭka-sampattiḥ or the six-fold inner wealth which forms the part “sādhana catuṣṭaya” or the four-fold qualification given in Tattva Bodha that facilitates spiritual learning. Every year I explore one quality in-depth for my development as my offering on this day. This year I want to explore uparati/uparama from the studies of texts and my understanding of it.

Uparati

Uparati from Monier Williams literally means “cessation, quietism, stopping worldly action, the prefix “upa” negating the meaning of the word rati from the root raṁ that is synonymous with enjoyment and pleasure. The name Rati thus is appropriate for the consort of the Vedic God of love Kama. Uparati then is the cessation of the  needless worldly activities to maintain the equanimity and restraint gained from the qualities of śama and dama – mind and sense control. The state of Uparati assumes that seeker has knowledge and spirit of renunciation.

Here, I want to remind myself of the metaphor of a chariot (representing our body) from Kaṭhopaniṣad (1.3.3-11) used to describe the relationship between the senses, mind, intellect and the Self. The reigns (mind) should be tightly held by the charioteer (intellect) to reach the destination otherwise the Self (passenger) can run amok  pulled by the five horses (senses) that dwell on what life throws in its way. Uparati helps us stay on course by making the right choices.

Exploring the meanings of Uparati from scriptures

Shankaracharya describes Uparati in Tattva Bodha (which is a beginner text in the path of Advaita) as “सर्वधर्मानुष्ठानमेव sarvadharmānuṣṭhānameva”. –  the strict observance of one’s own Dharma.

In the traditional Vedic sense, there  are five kinds of  karma  or Vedic rituals

  • Nitya karma are rituals which have to be performed on a daily basis – like prayer, bathing, veneration of ancestors, study or recitation of scriptures, service to others
  • Naimittika karma are special rituals which have to be performed on special occasions – birth, death and marriage.
  • Kāmya karma are rituals performed for the purpose of attaining prosperity, wealth, children or fame.
  • Prāyaścitta karma are rituals or remedial measures performed to reduce the effect of past activities.
  • Niṣiddha karma are forbidden and when performed result in the harm of others stealing, killing and indulging in all vices.

Of these five types of karmās,  the first two were considered spiritually uplifting and the latter three lead to spiritual stagnation or retrogradation.  It was generally recommended  to keen students to make room for the first two types of activities which are meant for spiritual growth and the gradual reduction of the latter three activities.

Later the same author, in the classical advanced scripture Vivekacūḍāmaṇi describes Uparati as  withdrawal where the mind stops responding to external objects. “The best Uparati or self-withdrawal is when the mind-function ceases to act by means of external objects”.

बाह्यानालम्बनं वृत्तेरेषोपरतिरुत्तमा ॥ २३ ॥

bāhyānālambanaṃ vṛttereṣoparatiruttamā || 23 ||

This meaning may be the close to the concept of pratyāhāra of Patañjali sūtra (verse 2.54). Hariharananda in his commentary explains that this involves indifference to external objects and living in the world of thought. The task here is to convert dispassion gained from the spirit of renunciation into indifference. This meaning of Uparati is more applicable for a disciplined student to cease being enamoured by the world and create space for contemplation.

Finally, for an advanced seeker,  Ādi Śaṅkarācārya gives the meaning of Uparati in Sarva Vedānta Sāra as entering into the Saṃnyāsa Āśrama  or taking a monastic lifestyle. He eloquently argues in 56 verses (152 -208) that the motives and means for path of karma and jñāna are different and seeks the renunciation of “vihita karma -strict religious Vedic rituals” for a qualified person seeking liberation to enable them to focus on contemplation and assimilation of knowledge.

Uparati in current Life

Uparati is the act of reducing extroverted-ness to be able to focus on the final puruṣārtha of moksha – liberation. Even if one is not interested in that goal,  reducing extroverted-ness  can be  beneficial for better focus on our development goals and outcomes. We are victims to a plethora of  objects these days both living and non-living devices that distract us and that has been further compounded by the introduction of artificial intelligence ( AI) which is employed to find what we like to enable us to receive more of that.

While Śaṅkarācārya called for a “hard stop” on karma activities – especially the Vedic rituals to find more space for contemplative studies and thinking,  these days this concept is hardly relevant as there are few that follow the karma kāṇḍa – path of religious rituals. Perhaps cultivating a feeling of contentment and inner renunciation is sufficient rather than taking to the robes. Svāmi Paramārthānanda of Arsha Vidya explains that mere external renunciation without feeling it internally is dangerous for the society.  Sri Krishna in verse 3.6 of Bhagavad gītā  calls such a person as a hypocrite “Those who restrain the external organs of action, while continuing to dwell on sense objects in the mind, certainly delude themselves and are to be called hypocrites”

कर्मेन्द्रियाणि संयम्य य आस्ते मनसा स्मरन् |

इन्द्रियार्थान्विमूढात्मा मिथ्याचार: स उच्यते ||3.6||

karmendriyāṇi sanyamya ya āste manasā smaran

indriyārthān vimūḍhātmā mithyāchāraḥ sa uchyate

Svāmi Paramārthānanda has suggested that the varṇa  āśrama – going through the four stages of life (from brahmacharya-grhasta-vānaprastha-saṃnyāsa ) is more conducive as it provides opportunity of gradual reduction of responsibilities and hence our attraction to the external world. However, I find that these days the stages of varṇa āśrama are increasingly blurred as people are marrying later, becoming parents much later in life and also seeking opportunities to remarry till end of life leaving  less opportunity for inner renunciation.

Path to Uparati

Svāmi Paramārthānanda recommends the study of Bhagavad gītā  for all without consciously thinking about one’s path – being in karma or jñāna to improve awareness and to make conscious choices after gaining knowledge.

The preliminary step in reminding ourselves whether we are ready for Uparati is the proper understanding of karma yoga. The following for steps are recommended for a seeker while being in every-day life

  • Reduce the qualities called āsuriṁ  saṁpat given in Chapter 16 of Bhagavad Gītā – those that increase aggression and coveting -viz.   dambha  – ostentatiousness and hypocrisy; darpa – arrogance; abhimānaḥ – Self-conceit, excessive self-worth and identity; krodha – anger; pāruṣhyam – harshness and ajñānam – ignorance. The Patañjali Yoga sūtra recommends aparigraha – non-grasping of material things for being a true yogi.
  • Increase the 26 qualities of devi saṁpat given in the same chapter 16 for maintaining purity, self-restraint, keeping on the path of knowledge
  • Trusting oneself to a higher force, mentioned as niyama (things to do) Īśvarapraṇidhāna in the Patañjali yoga sūtra
  • Cultivating an attitude of prasāda buddhi- of gratitude and acceptance of what comes our way

It is only true inner renunciation that makes way for wisdom in the being while the fruit of spiritual wisdom leads to Uparati, cessation of fascination for things external.

References

  1. Svāmi Paramārthānanda’s teachings on Tattva Bodha, Bhagavad Gītā , Kaṭhopaniṣad, Viveka Cūḍāmaṇī, and Sarva Vedānta  Siddantha Sāra Sangrah
  2. Yoga Philosophy of Patañjali – by Swami Hariharananda Aranya

 

ॐ तत् सत्