Vedic Astrology, also known as Jyotish, is an ancient Indian system of divination that originated in India thousands of years ago. It contains a wide range of techniques and principles to analyze and predict various aspects of human life.
Ashtakvarga or Ashtakvarga points as they are known, are one such tool which involves the division of the astrological chart into eight parts. In this article, we will explore Ashtakvarga, its significance, and how it can be used to gain valuable insights into an individual’s life.
Ashtakvarga, is derived from the Sanskrit words “Ashta” meaning “eight” and “Varga” meaning “division,” refers to the division of a horoscope chart into eight distinct sections. Each section is associated with a particular planet, and the numerical values of these sections are used to evaluate the strength and auspiciousness of the planets.
The eight sections in Ashtakvarga are represented by the seven visible planets (Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn) along with the Ascendant (Lagna). Each section consists of a specific number of degrees in the zodiac, ranging from 30 degrees for the Ascendant to 45 degrees for Saturn. These sections are further divided into smaller units called Bindus based on the placement of other planets in the horoscope.
Sun (Surya): The Sun represents vitality, self-expression, and leadership. In Ashtakvarga, the Sun is typically assigned 30 degrees, as it corresponds to one zodiac sign.
Moon (Chandra): The Moon signifies emotions, the mind, and intuition. The Moon is also assigned 30 degrees in Ashtakvarga, representing one zodiac sign.
Mars (Mangal): Mars symbolizes energy, courage, and action. Mars is assigned 45 degrees in Ashtakvarga, corresponding to one and a half zodiac signs.
Mercury (Budha): Mercury represents communication, intellect, and versatility. In Ashtakvarga, Mercury is assigned 30 degrees, corresponding to one zodiac sign.
Jupiter (Guru): Jupiter represents wisdom, expansion, and good fortune. Jupiter is assigned 45 degrees in Ashtakvarga, representing one and a half zodiac signs.
Venus (Shukra): Venus symbolizes love, beauty, and harmony. In Ashtakvarga, Venus is assigned 30 degrees, corresponding to one zodiac sign.
Saturn (Shani): Saturn represents discipline, responsibility, and lessons. Saturn is assigned 45 degrees in Ashtakvarga, representing one and a half zodiac signs.
A low Bindu count of these planets will affect the traits given for each planet.
It’s important to note that these are general guidelines, and the specific degrees occupied by these planets in the Ashtakvarga system will vary based on the individual’s birth chart. To calculate the Bindu counts accurately, the degrees of other planets in the horoscope are also taken into account. Ashtakvarga is a complex system that requires detailed calculations and analysis for a comprehensive understanding of a person’s chart.
Ashtakvarga being one of the many techniques in Vedic Astrology, should be used in conjunction with other methods for a comprehensive analysis.
To calculate the Bindus in each section, we consider the placement of planets in the respective zodiac signs. Each planet contributes Bindus based on its strength in the sign. For example, if a planet is placed in its exaltation sign, it contributes the maximum number of Bindus. On the other hand, if it is debilitated, it contributes the minimum number of Bindus. The remaining planets in the horoscope also affect the Bindu count, either positively or negatively.
Once the Bindu count for each section is calculated, they are tallied for each planet. This process helps determine the overall strength and auspiciousness of a planet. The higher the Bindu count, the more potent and favorable the planet is considered. Conversely, a low Bindu count indicates weakness or malefic influence.
Ashtakvarga provides astrologers with a comprehensive understanding of the strength and potential of each planet in a horoscope. It helps in assessing the overall beneficence or maleficence of a chart and plays a crucial role in making predictions and offering remedies.
Some key applications of Ashtakvarga include identifying Benefic and Malefic Planets. Ashtakvarga helps to distinguish between the positive and negative influences of planets in a horoscope. By analyzing the Bindu counts, astrologers can identify the planets that are likely to bring auspicious results and those that may cause challenges or obstacles.
Ashtakvarga is instrumental in determining favorable periods for various aspects of life, such as career, relationships, health, and finances. Astrologers analyze the Bindu counts of different planets during Dasha as well as the transit. For example if the Dasha of a malefic lord is running but it gets four or more Bindus in its placement the overall results will be beneficial. The same is true for transit as well. If Saturn is transiting the fifth house from the Moon but gets four AV points in that Rashi, its negative results will be much less compared to its general results in the fifth house.
When a planet is weak or afflicted in a horoscope, remedial measures can be prescribed to strengthen its influence and mitigate potential challenges. Ashtakvarga helps astrologers to identify the most suitable remedies based on the Bindu count and the overall strength of the planets. The Bindu strength of a planet must be assessed along with its Shad Bala to get an accurate idea of its strength. In the case of the combust planets also, a high Bindu score in the Rashi where the planet is placed will mitigate the bad results.
Ashtakvarga can be utilized to assess the compatibility between individuals in relationships or marriages. By comparing the Bindu counts of the Lagna and the seventh lords of the two horoscopes the astrologers can determine the harmony or discord between two individuals and provide insights into their overall compatibility. In a female chart if Jupiter gets just two or three Bindus in the seventh house, it raises a question mark on the relationship with the husband. Same is true of Venus in a male chart.
Ashtakvarga is a powerful tool in Vedic Astrology that provides valuable insights into the strength and weakness of planets in a horoscope. By utilizing the eightfold division of the chart and calculating Bindus, astrologers can assess the overall potential and challenges in a person’s life.
The applications of Ashtakvarga extend to various aspects, including prediction, remedial measures, and compatibility analysis. However, it is important to note that Ashtakvarga is just one of the many techniques in Vedic Astrology and should be used in conjunction with other methods for a comprehensive analysis.
The Eight Sections 
