Markesh (maraka, “that which can cause an end”) planets are the lords of the 2nd and 7th houses from the ascendant, along with planets placed in those houses. Their dashas are read for health strain, expenses and family pressure. Saturn joined with a maraka is also counted as a strong maraka. A maraka period does not mean death; that question needs a full longevity reading and is never answered from one dasha.
Which planets are marakas?
- The lords of the 2nd and 7th houses from the ascendant — the main marakas.
- Planets placed in the 2nd or 7th, or joined with these lords.
- Saturn joined with a maraka lord becomes a strong maraka.
The logic: the 3rd and 8th are houses of life span, and the 2nd and 7th are the 12th from them — houses of their loss.
Examples by ascendant
| Ascendant | 2nd lord | 7th lord |
|---|---|---|
| Aries | Venus | Venus |
| Taurus | Mercury | Mars |
| Gemini | Moon | Jupiter |
| Cancer | Sun | Saturn |
| Leo | Mercury | Saturn |
| Virgo | Venus | Jupiter |
| Libra | Mars | Mars |
| Scorpio | Jupiter | Venus |
| Sagittarius | Saturn | Mercury |
| Capricorn | Saturn | Moon |
| Aquarius | Jupiter | Sun |
| Pisces | Mars | Mercury |
What a maraka dasha shows
In practice a maraka dasha or antardasha is read for health check-ups, recovery time after illness, extra expenses and strain in family or marriage matters. A strong ascendant lord, benefic aspects on the ascendant and a good 8th house protect the native well.
Remedies
- Mahamrityunjaya mantra, 108 times daily during the period.
- Mantra of the maraka planet on its weekday; charity linked to it.
- Regular medical check-ups and a disciplined routine — astrology flags the period, medicine handles health.
Check your own chart
A free kundli shows your Moon nakshatra, planets and dasha. For a full reading of how this applies to you, book a consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What is a markesh (maraka) planet?
The lord of the 2nd or 7th house from the ascendant, or a planet placed there.
Does a maraka dasha mean death?
No. It is read for health strain and pressure; longevity is never judged from one dasha.
Is Mars always a maraka?
No. Mars is a maraka only where it rules or occupies the 2nd or 7th house — for example for Taurus, Libra and Pisces ascendants.
What is the main remedy?
The Mahamrityunjaya mantra with regular health check-ups.
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Book a Consultation · ₹5,100 WhatsApp Dr. SharmaThis article is offered as general guidance in the Vedic tradition. Astrology is a tool for reflection and is not a substitute for professional medical, legal or financial advice.
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Related dasha periods
Related guidance: Lohri 2027.