27 Nakshatras

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# The 27 Nakshatras: A Complete Guide to the Lunar Mansions in Hindu Astrology  

In Vedic astrology, **Nakshatras** are essential to understanding the personality, destiny, and spiritual nature of individuals. Unlike the Western zodiac system, which divides the sky into 12 parts, the **Vedic system divides it into 27 lunar mansions**, each representing 13° 20' of the celestial sphere. 

The concept of Nakshatras originates from the ancient **Jyotish Shastra** (Hindu astrology) and finds mention in sacred Hindu texts like the **Atharva Veda, Yajur Veda, and Rig Veda**. Each Nakshatra is ruled by a deity and is associated with specific planetary energies, symbolisms, and myths. Let’s take a journey through the celestial expanse and explore each Nakshatra in detail. 

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## **1. The Concept of Nakshatras in Vedic Tradition**

Nakshatras (नक्षत्र) represent the **movement of the Moon** through 27 equal sections of the sky over a lunar month. Each Nakshatra spans approximately **24 hours** as the Moon passes through them, forming the basis for **Muhurta (electional astrology)** and predictions of auspicious timings. 

- **Etymology**: “Naksha” means “map,” and “tra” means “protector.” Thus, Nakshatras are seen as **guardians of celestial energies**.  

- **Astronomical Significance**: Nakshatras correspond to particular stars or asterisms in the sky, making them a bridge between **astronomy and mythology**.  

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## **2. Classification of Nakshatras**  

Nakshatras are categorized based on their ruling deities, planets, and the energies they emanate. They are also divided into three groups:  

1. **Deva Gana (divine)**  

2. **Manushya Gana (human)**  

3. **Rakshasa Gana (demonic)**  

Let us explore each Nakshatra in detail, along with their **meanings, symbols, deities**, and how they affect individuals born under their influence.  

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## **3. The 27 Nakshatras: Detailed Explanation**  

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### 1. **Ashwini (0°00' - 13°20' Aries)**  

- **Symbol**: Horse’s head  

- **Ruling Deity**: Ashwini Kumaras (Celestial Physicians)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Ketu  

- **Nature**: Deva (Divine)  

- **Key Traits**: Ashwini natives are known for their **quick action**, **healing abilities**, and dynamic energy. They are adventurous but need to avoid impulsiveness.  

**SVG Suggestion**: Diagram of a horse’s head to represent the Ashwini Nakshatra.  

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### 2. **Bharani (13°20' - 26°40' Aries)**  

- **Symbol**: Yoni (female reproductive organ)  

- **Ruling Deity**: Yama (God of Death)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Venus  

- **Nature**: Manushya (Human)  

- **Key Traits**: Those born under Bharani exhibit **great endurance** and a **sense of responsibility** but may struggle with intense emotions.  

**SVG Suggestion**: Depict Yama’s staff or a lotus flower symbolizing life and death.  

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### 3. **Krittika (26°40' Aries - 10°00' Taurus)**  

- **Symbol**: Razor or flame  

- **Ruling Deity**: Agni (Fire God)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Sun  

- **Nature**: Rakshasa (Demonic)  

- **Key Traits**: Krittika people are **determined, courageous**, and sharp-minded but may come off as harsh or critical.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A diagram of a flame or dagger to symbolize purification and sharpness.  

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### 4. **Rohini (10°00' - 23°20' Taurus)**  

- **Symbol**: Ox cart  

- **Ruling Deity**: Brahma (Creator)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Moon  

- **Nature**: Manushya (Human)  

- **Key Traits**: Rohini-born individuals are **sensual, artistic**, and charismatic. They thrive in creative fields but may struggle with possessiveness.  

**SVG Suggestion**: An ox cart with wheels or creative motifs like a paintbrush.  

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### 5. **Mrigashira (23°20' Taurus - 6°40' Gemini)**  

- **Symbol**: Antelope’s head  

- **Ruling Deity**: Soma (Moon God)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Mars  

- **Nature**: Deva (Divine)  

- **Key Traits**: These natives are **inquisitive, restless**, and search for deeper meaning in life.  

**SVG Suggestion**: An antelope head or footprints to signify search and wanderlust.  

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### 6. **Ardra (6°40' - 20°00' Gemini)**  

- **Symbol**: Teardrop  

- **Ruling Deity**: Rudra (Storm God)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Rahu  

- **Nature**: Manushya (Human)  

- **Key Traits**: Ardra represents **transformation through chaos**. People born under Ardra often go through major upheavals that lead to inner growth.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A teardrop or lightning bolt to represent change and release.  

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### 7. **Punarvasu (20°00' Gemini - 3°20' Cancer)**  

- **Symbol**: Quiver of arrows  

- **Ruling Deity**: Aditi (Mother Goddess)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Jupiter  

- **Nature**: Deva (Divine)  

- **Key Traits**: Punarvasu brings **renewal, hope, and positivity**. Natives have a knack for **reinventing** themselves.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A quiver filled with arrows.  

Let's continue with the detailed descriptions of the remaining **27 Nakshatras** to provide a comprehensive view.  

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### 8. **Pushya (3°20' - 16°40' Cancer)**  

- **Symbol**: Cow’s udder  

- **Ruling Deity**: Brihaspati (Guru of the Gods)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Saturn  

- **Nature**: Deva (Divine)  

- **Key Traits**: Pushya natives are **nurturing, wise, and protective**. They are often found in teaching, spiritual, or leadership roles, embodying the quality of nourishment.

**SVG Suggestion**: Diagram of a cow’s udder or a lotus flower.

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### 9. **Ashlesha (16°40' - 30°00' Cancer)**  

- **Symbol**: Coiled snake  

- **Ruling Deity**: Naga (Serpent Deity)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Mercury  

- **Nature**: Rakshasa (Demonic)  

- **Key Traits**: Ashlesha signifies **mystery, manipulation, and wisdom**. These natives are analytical but may struggle with trust issues.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A coiled snake representing hidden power.  

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### 10. **Magha (0°00' - 13°20' Leo)**  

- **Symbol**: Throne  

- **Ruling Deity**: Pitris (Ancestors)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Ketu  

- **Nature**: Rakshasa (Demonic)  

- **Key Traits**: Magha individuals inherit **leadership abilities and royal tendencies**. They respect tradition but can also be prideful.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A throne or crown symbolizing authority.

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### 11. **Purva Phalguni (13°20' - 26°40' Leo)**  

- **Symbol**: Hammock  

- **Ruling Deity**: Bhaga (God of Fortune)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Venus  

- **Nature**: Manushya (Human)  

- **Key Traits**: This Nakshatra encourages **relaxation and enjoyment**. People born under Purva Phalguni are social, creative, and love luxury.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A hammock symbolizing leisure.  

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### 12. **Uttara Phalguni (26°40' Leo - 10°00' Virgo)**  

- **Symbol**: Bed  

- **Ruling Deity**: Aryaman (God of Hospitality)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Sun  

- **Nature**: Manushya (Human)  

- **Key Traits**: Uttara Phalguni encourages **responsibility and commitment**. These individuals are dependable but must avoid becoming too rigid.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A bed symbolizing comfort and stability.  

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### 13. **Hasta (10°00' - 23°20' Virgo)**  

- **Symbol**: Hand  

- **Ruling Deity**: Savitar (Sun God)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Moon  

- **Nature**: Deva (Divine)  

- **Key Traits**: Natives of Hasta possess **dexterity and charm**. They excel in manual work, business, and diplomacy.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A hand showing creative or productive skills.

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### 14. **Chitra (23°20' Virgo - 6°40' Libra)**  

- **Symbol**: Jewel or pearl  

- **Ruling Deity**: Tvashtar (Divine Architect)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Mars  

- **Nature**: Rakshasa (Demonic)  

- **Key Traits**: Chitra natives have an eye for **beauty and aesthetics**. They thrive in design, fashion, and the arts.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A sparkling jewel or artistic motif.  

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### 15. **Swati (6°40' - 20°00' Libra)**  

- **Symbol**: Blade of grass blowing in the wind  

- **Ruling Deity**: Vayu (Wind God)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Rahu  

- **Nature**: Deva (Divine)  

- **Key Traits**: Swati individuals are **independent and adaptable**, excelling in business and diplomacy.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A blade of grass bending in the wind.  

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### 16. **Vishakha (20°00' Libra - 3°20' Scorpio)**  

- **Symbol**: Triumphal arch  

- **Ruling Deity**: Indra and Agni (Gods of Power and Fire)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Jupiter  

- **Nature**: Rakshasa (Demonic)  

- **Key Traits**: Vishakha natives are determined and ambitious, often facing inner conflicts between material and spiritual pursuits.  

**SVG Suggestion**: An arch representing victory.

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### 17. **Anuradha (3°20' - 16°40' Scorpio)**  

- **Symbol**: Lotus flower  

- **Ruling Deity**: Mitra (God of Friendship)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Saturn  

- **Nature**: Deva (Divine)  

- **Key Traits**: Anuradha people excel in **building relationships** and are loyal friends but may struggle with emotional intensity.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A lotus flower signifying purity amidst adversity.

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### 18. **Jyeshtha (16°40' - 30°00' Scorpio)**  

- **Symbol**: Circular amulet  

- **Ruling Deity**: Indra (King of Gods)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Mercury  

- **Nature**: Rakshasa (Demonic)  

- **Key Traits**: Jyeshtha natives are protective and powerful but must avoid arrogance.  

**SVG Suggestion**: An amulet symbolizing power and protection.  

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### 19. **Mula (0°00' - 13°20' Sagittarius)**  

- **Symbol**: Tied bunch of roots  

- **Ruling Deity**: Nirriti (Goddess of Destruction)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Ketu  

- **Nature**: Rakshasa (Demonic)  

- **Key Traits**: Mula symbolizes **uprooting and transformation**. Natives undergo major life changes and personal growth through challenges.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A bundle of roots tied together.  

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### 20. **Purva Ashadha (13°20' - 26°40' Sagittarius)**  

- **Symbol**: Fan  

- **Ruling Deity**: Apas (Water Goddess)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Venus  

- **Nature**: Manushya (Human)  

- **Key Traits**: Purva Ashadha brings **optimism and confidence**. These individuals love freedom and are naturally persuasive.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A fan representing grace and charm.  

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### 21. **Uttara Ashadha (26°40' Sagittarius - 10°00' Capricorn)**  

- **Symbol**: Elephant’s tusk  

- **Ruling Deity**: Vishvadevas (Universal Gods)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Sun  

- **Nature**: Manushya (Human)  

- **Key Traits**: Uttara Ashadha natives exhibit **discipline and determination**, often achieving long-term success.  

**SVG Suggestion**: An elephant’s tusk symbolizing strength.  

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### 22. **Shravana (10°00' - 23°20' Capricorn)**  

- **Symbol**: Ear  

- **Ruling Deity**: Vishnu (Preserver)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Moon  

- **Nature**: Deva (Divine)  

- **Key Traits**: Shravana emphasizes **listening and learning**. Natives excel in communication and teaching.  

**SVG Suggestion**: An ear representing active listening.  

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### 23. **Dhanishta (23°20' Capricorn - 6°40' Aquarius)**  

- **Symbol**: Drum  

- **Ruling Deity**: Eight Vasus (Deities of Abundance)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Mars  

- **Nature**: Rakshasa (Demonic)  

- **Key Traits**: Dhanishta individuals are **resourceful and generous**. They excel in music and arts.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A drum symbolizing rhythm and prosperity.  

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### 24. **Shatabhisha (6°40' - 20°00' Aquarius)**  

- **Symbol**: Circle  

- **Ruling Deity**: Varuna (God of Water)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Rahu  

- **Nature**: Rakshasa (Demonic)  

- **Key Traits**: Shatabhisha natives are **introverted and mysterious**, often excelling in research and healing.  

**SVG Suggestion**: A circle representing wholeness.  

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### 25. **Purva Bhadrapada (20°00' Aquarius - 3°20' Pisces)**  

- **Symbol**: Sword  

- **Ruling Deity**: Aja Ekapada (One-Footed Serpent)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Jupiter  

- **Nature**: Manushya (Human)  

- **Key

 Traits**: Purva Bhadrapada symbolizes **sacrifice and transformation**.  

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### 26. **Uttara Bhadrapada (3°20' - 16°40' Pisces)**  

- **Symbol**: Twin serpent or two-legged bed  

- **Ruling Deity**: Ahir Budhnya (Serpent of the Deep)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Saturn  

- **Nature**: Manushya (Human)  

- **Key Traits**: Uttara Bhadrapada natives are **spiritually inclined and emotionally deep**. They excel in introspection, and their strength lies in balancing material life with spiritual pursuits. They can be dependable and disciplined but also prone to emotional struggles.  

**SVG Suggestion**: Two entwined serpents or a bed symbolizing stability and wisdom.

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### 27. **Revati (16°40' - 30°00' Pisces)**  

- **Symbol**: Fish or drum  

- **Ruling Deity**: Pushan (God of Nourishment)  

- **Ruling Planet**: Mercury  

- **Nature**: Deva (Divine)  

- **Key Traits**: Revati signifies **prosperity, nourishment, and completion**. People born under this nakshatra are empathetic, helpful, and protective, with a deep sense of service. They tend to be good counselors, artists, and nurturers, helping others grow and find fulfillment.

**SVG Suggestion**: A pair of fish or a drum symbolizing nourishment and rhythm.  

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## **The Symbolic Journey of the 27 Nakshatras**  

The 27 nakshatras represent a **cosmic journey of human life**, from the initiation (Ashwini) to completion (Revati). These lunar mansions reflect not only the **phases of the moon** but also the **emotional, physical, and spiritual phases** in one’s life. They influence how individuals think, act, and grow.

The **grouping of nakshatras into four padas (quarters)** further shows their influence on **Varnas (caste systems)** and **Purusharthas (four goals of life: Dharma, Artha, Kama, Moksha)**. This symbolic depth makes them invaluable in Vedic astrology, offering insights into one's **karma** and life path.

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## **Importance of Nakshatras in Astrology**  

In Vedic astrology, the **moon’s position** in a nakshatra at the time of birth plays a pivotal role in shaping an individual's personality and fate. The nakshatras are also used in:  

- **Mahurats** (Auspicious timings for events like weddings)  

- **Horoscopes** and **compatibility checks** for marriages  

- **Naming ceremonies** where the child’s name corresponds to the nakshatra of birth  

- Predicting **planetary transits** and their impacts  

- Determining **doshas** or astrological imbalances  

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## **Nakshatra Compatibility in Marriage**  

Vedic astrology emphasizes **nakshatra matching (Ashtakoota compatibility)** for marriages. Certain nakshatras align well, while others may indicate challenges. Understanding these alignments helps families and astrologers recommend **harmonious unions**, ensuring a smoother married life.

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## **Conclusion**  

The **27 nakshatras** offer deep insights into the **cycles of life**, the **influence of cosmic energies**, and our **innate tendencies**. Each nakshatra embodies unique qualities that guide our **personal development** and **spiritual journey**. By understanding their influences, one can align better with life’s natural flow, making decisions in harmony with the **universal energies**.

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This article provides an **overview of each nakshatra’s symbolic significance, ruling planets, and characteristics**, offering readers an engaging guide to their celestial influences. Incorporating these ancient insights can help individuals better understand their **strengths, challenges, and purpose in life**.

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Would you like the **SVG diagrams** for the nakshatras next? Or do you need anything further optimized in the article?

## **4. Nakshatras and Their Astrological Significance**  

Nakshatras influence various aspects of life, including:  

1. **Health**: Some Nakshatras are associated with good health, while others bring challenges.  

2. **Marriage Compatibility**: **Matching Nakshatras** is essential in Vedic astrology to ensure harmony in relationships.  

3. **Career and Profession**: Each Nakshatra suggests ideal professions. For example, Chitra natives are often drawn to arts, while Swati natives excel in diplomacy and business.  

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## **5. Nakshatra Mythology: Deities and Legends**  

Each Nakshatra has a backstory rooted in **Hindu mythology**. For example, the star Rohini was said to be Krishna’s favorite, and the **Pleiades (Krittika)** were known as the seven wives of the Saptarishis.  

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## **6. Conclusion**  

The 27 Nakshatras are a fascinating blend of **mythology, astronomy, and astrology**. Understanding them offers deep insights into one’s character, behavior, and life path. For individuals seeking spiritual growth or personal transformation, the Nakshatras act as cosmic guides, illuminating the path ahead.  

Incorporating the wisdom of Nakshatras into daily life can enhance self-awareness and lead to **more meaningful choices**. From **marriage** to **career guidance**, the Nakshatra system offers a holistic approach to living in harmony with the universe.

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### **Diagrams to Add**  

- **Zodiac Chart Divided into 27 Nakshatras**  

- **Planetary Rulers of Each Nakshatra**  

- **Nakshatra Compatibility Wheel**  

These diagrams will make the content more engaging and help readers visualize complex concepts easily. 

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This article provides a complete and engaging breakdown of the 27 Nakshatras, offering **rich explanations with mythological, astronomical, and astrological insights**. For the SVG diagrams, you can use platforms like **Canva, Inkscape, or Adobe Illustrator** to design star charts and symbols.