Vakri Guru is Jupiter’s retrograde — an apparent backward motion of about four months each year. The next one runs from 13 December 2026 to 13 April 2027: it begins in Leo, Jupiter slips back into Cancer on 25 January 2027, and it re-enters Leo on 26 June 2027. A retrograde Jupiter favours review and completion over new launches.
What “vakri Guru” means
Vakri means retrograde. About once a year, for roughly four months, Jupiter appears to move backwards against the stars as the Earth overtakes it. Nothing physically reverses; it is the view from Earth. In Jyotish a retrograde planet is treated as strong but inward-turned: it revisits matters already begun rather than opening new ones.
The next vakri Guru: December 2026 – April 2027
| Date (IST) | Event |
|---|---|
| 31 October 2026 | Jupiter enters Simha (Leo) |
| 13 December 2026 | Jupiter turns retrograde in Leo |
| 25 January 2027 | Retrograde Jupiter moves back into Karka (Cancer) |
| 13 April 2027 | Jupiter turns direct in Cancer |
| 26 June 2027 | Jupiter re-enters Leo |
Dates are sidereal (Lahiri). See Jupiter in Leo 2026–27 for the effects by Moon sign.
What a retrograde Jupiter tends to bring
- Review, not launch: a good time to finish studies, revise plans, settle pending family or legal matters, and repay or restructure loans.
- Delays in Jupiter matters: promotions, approvals, marriage talks or a child’s admission can slow down, then move again after the direct station.
- Return of the past: old teachers, mentors or opportunities may come back.
- Spiritual practice deepens easily; it is a good season for study of scripture and for honouring teachers.
How strongly you feel it depends on the house Jupiter transits from your Moon and Lagna and on your running dasha. A natal retrograde Jupiter is read differently from a transiting one.
Simple practices
Respect for teachers and elders, Thursday charity of yellow items (chana dal, turmeric), and the mantra “Om Brihaspataye Namah” 108 times. Wear a yellow sapphire only after a full chart reading.
Frequently asked questions
When is Jupiter retrograde in 2026–27?
From 13 December 2026 to 13 April 2027 (IST). It turns retrograde in Leo, moves back into Cancer on 25 January 2027, turns direct in Cancer and re-enters Leo on 26 June 2027.
Is retrograde Jupiter bad?
Not as such. A retrograde planet is considered strong; Jupiter retrograde favours review, completion and inner work, while new launches in Jupiter’s areas may face delays.
Should I avoid marriage when Jupiter is retrograde?
Retrogression alone is not a bar. Muhurat practice avoids the weeks when Jupiter is combust; a wedding date is chosen from the full panchang and both charts.
What does vakri mean in astrology?
Vakri means retrograde — a planet’s apparent backward motion as seen from Earth. Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn all go vakri; Rahu and Ketu always move backwards.
Part of our guide: Career, Education & Life →
Wondering how the Jupiter retrograde touches your own chart? A personal reading looks at the house it transits and your dasha.
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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