The 27 Nakshatras
A nakshatra is one of 27 lunar mansions, each 13°20′ wide and divided into four padas. Your birth nakshatra — the one the Moon occupied when you were born — sets your entire Vimshottari dasha sequence and is what marriage matching is scored from.
By Dr. R.P. Sharma | practising since 1979
Nakshatras are the 27 lunar mansions in Vedic astrology, each spanning 13°20' of the zodiac. They provide deeper emotional and karmic context than the 12 Rashis (Sun signs). Each Nakshatra is ruled by a specific planet and deity, shaping the personality and destiny of those born under it.
The 27 nakshatras and their ruling planets
Each nakshatra spans 13°20′ and is divided into four padas. The ruling planet decides which Vimshottari dasha you are born into.
| Nakshatras | Ruling planet | Dasha length |
|---|---|---|
| Ashwini, Magha, Mula | Ketu | 7 years |
| Bharani, Purva Phalguni, Purva Ashadha | Venus | 20 years |
| Krittika, Uttara Phalguni, Uttara Ashadha | Sun | 6 years |
| Rohini, Hasta, Shravana | Moon | 10 years |
| Mrigashira, Chitra, Dhanishtha | Mars | 7 years |
| Ardra, Swati, Shatabhisha | Rahu | 18 years |
| Punarvasu, Vishakha, Purva Bhadrapada | Jupiter | 16 years |
| Pushya, Anuradha, Uttara Bhadrapada | Saturn | 19 years |
| Ashlesha, Jyeshtha, Revati | Mercury | 17 years |
Complete List of 27 Nakshatras
Discover Your Birth Nakshatra
Your birth Nakshatra reveals deep insights into your personality, strengths, challenges, and life path. Get a personalized reading from Dr. R.P. Sharma.
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