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Retrograde Planets (Vakri Grah): Hidden Strength in the Chart

When a planet appears to move backwards from Earth's view, it is said to be retrograde (vakri). Many fear retrograde periods, but classical Jyotish takes a more layered view.

What retrograde really signals

A retrograde planet is unusually strong in one sense — it carries high cheshta bala, a kind of motivational force. Its energy turns inward and intensifies, often connected to karmic themes and unfinished matters carried from the past.

Which planets, and which not

Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn can all turn retrograde; the Sun and Moon never do. Rahu and Ketu, by their nature, are always retrograde. Each tells a different story depending on the house and sign it occupies.

Retrograde is not misfortune — it is depth, turned inward.

Dr. Sharma explores Vakri grah in detail in a feature on Speaking Tree — you can watch it on the videos page. For a reading of the retrograde planets in your own chart, book a consultation.