Vedic astrology uses 9 celestial bodies called Navagrahas ('nava' = nine, 'graha' = planet or seizer) — seven visible planets plus Rahu and Ketu, the shadow planets formed by the Moon's orbital nodes.
The Luminaries: Sun and Moon
The Sun (Surya) is the king of the Navagrahas, representing the soul, father, authority, and vitality. It rules Leo and exalts in Aries. The Moon (Chandra) is the queen, ruling the mind, emotions, mother, and public life. It rules Cancer and exalts in Taurus. These two luminaries are the most powerful indicators of your core self and emotional nature.
The Personal Planets: Mars, Mercury, Venus, Jupiter
Mars (Mangal) represents energy, courage, and property — it rules Aries and Scorpio. Mercury (Budha) governs intelligence, communication, and business — ruling Gemini and Virgo. Venus (Shukra) rules love, beauty, luxury, and relationships — ruling Taurus and Libra. Jupiter (Guru/Brihaspati) is the great benefic, governing wisdom, children, and fortune — ruling Sagittarius and Pisces.
Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu: Karma and Transformation
Saturn (Shani) is the planet of karma, discipline, and justice — ruling Capricorn and Aquarius, exalting in Libra. Rahu is the North Node of the Moon, representing ambition, materialism, and foreign influences. Ketu is the South Node, symbolizing spirituality, past-life karma, and enlightenment. Rahu and Ketu are always opposite each other in the chart and create powerful karmic lessons.
Key Takeaway
Each of the 9 planets brings unique energies to your birth chart, and their placements, strengths, and relationships create the unique story of your life.
See Your Planetary Placements
See Your Planetary Placements→