Panchak the five source energy

Panchak is five sources of energy which refers to five possible detriments.. It is an inauspicious time (Muhurta) in which people are advised to abstain from certain works. 
There are three types of Panchak:
• Chandra Panchak
• Tithi Panchak / Baan Panchak
• Surya Panchak

1. Chandra Panchak: The group of five (four and a half to be precise) Nakshatras is known as Panchak. Transit of Moon in Aquarius and Pisces signs, later half of Dhanishtha (third charan), Shatbhisha, Purva Bhadrapada, Uttara Bhadrapada and Revati Nakshtra to be precise is called Panchak. Chandra Panchak happens every month when Moon transits through Aquarius & Pisces Signs. It is a common belief that any work done in Panchak will be repeated five time and all auspicious works are prohibited during Panchak. But this is not the case, not all the works prohibited.

Out of these five, Dhanishtha and Shatbhisha are termed as movable Nakshtras. Therefore, travelling and tourism, entertainment, marketing, purchasing clothes and jewelry is considered auspicious. 

Purva Bhadrapada presents anger; therefore, matters related to court and argumentation should be undertaken in this duration. 

However, Uttara Bhadrapada stands for eternity under which Shilanyaas, Yogabhyaas and long-term planning are initiated. 

Revati constellation is considered peaceful and soft. Therefore, in this constellation; songs, music, acting, fashion shows and making of T.V. serials can be undertaken.

During this time, you may accomplish marriages, Mundan-Sanskars, Griha Pravesha, Griha Nirman, Upanayana as well as business and economic activities after consulting an astrologer.

Following five tasks are mainly prohibited during Panchak:
• Grass, wood and oil should not be gathered during Dhanishtha. It might result into fire. If it is necessary to buy wooden items then you can buy, but do not forget to perform the Havan of Goddess Gayatri. after buying. It helps in avoiding ominous situations.
• Travelling toward South should be prohibited, as it is considered the direction of Yam. Travelling toward this direction is considered to be ominous. If it is necessary to travel toward south during Panchak, then offer a fruit to Hanuman ji. You can then start your journey.
• Construction of terrace (Roof) is prohibited during Revati constellation. Offer sweet meat (Mithai) to workers before the construction of terrace during Panchak.
• Construction of Chaarpayi (Bed) is prohibited during Panchak. You can buy bed during Panchak. But, remember to use them only after the duration of Panchak is over.
• Cremation is prohibited during Panchak because it is believed that if a dead body is cremated in Panchak, five people from that town might have to face death. It is advised to perform Shanti karma before cremating a dead body during Panchak. Cremation is a very important task. If it is necessary to cremate a body during Panchak, then make five dummy dead bodies as well and burn them too.
Performing these remedies according to rituals will certainly help in relieving you from any side-effects of Panchak.

2. Tithi Panchak & Baan Panchak

To get the Tithi Panchak  or Baan Dosha. Bana means “arrow,” and is a symbolic name for the number five. Bana Dosha is another method for checking for the same possible hazards that Panchak does.

Divide the sum of the Tithi (from 1-30), the number of the Nakshatra, the number of the Vara and the number of the Lagna by 9. The remainder determines the result, from 1 to 9 as below.

To know the Baan Dosha Divide the sum of the Tithi (from 1-30) and the Lagna by 9. The remainder determines the result, from 1 to 9, as below. 

1 -  Mrityu Panchaka indicates danger

2 - Agni (Vahini) Panchaka indicates risk from fire

4 -Raja Panchaka indicates bad results

6 - Chora Panchaka indicates evil happenings

8 - Roga Panchaka indicates disease

If the remainder is 3, 5, 7 or 0 then it is good

If Remainder	The remainder determines the result:
1	Mrityu “death” Panchak. (to be avoided in marriage, causes fear of death)
2	Agni “fire” Panchak. (to be avoided for housing activity, fear of fire)
3	Not unfavorable.
4	Raja “king” Panchak. (fear of the king/government/ employer / to be avoided in house construct ion & assuming of an office)
5	Not unfavorable.
6	Chora “thief” Panchak. (to be avoided for travels /fear of thieves)
7	Not unfavorable.
8	Roga “disease” Panchak. (to be avoided for marriage & upanayana, fear of disease)
9	Not unfavorable.

 For example A Jataka wants to start a business on a day and time - otherwise conforming to the requirements of Muhurta - The nakshtra being Magha, Tithi is Triyodashi (13th), Sign rising being Virgo and Vara is Sunday. On calculations we get the Panchaka as follows

Adding no. of Tithi + Nakshtra + Weekday + and Zodiacal Sign ( 13+9+1+6) = 29 .Dividing by 9 we get 2 as Remainder. It indicates Vahini or Agni Panchaka Hence the time selected is not favourable.

But next day If we calculate Panchak Tithi becomes 14 +10 (Nakshtra No.) + 2 (weekday-Monday) + 8 (Zodiacal Sign) =34 divided by 9 gives remainder 7 which is good.

3. Sun Panchak 

There is also yet another type of Bana Dosha that checks for the same possible hazards:

1.      Roga Baan: Add 6 to the degree of the Sun in its Rashi and divide by 9, if the remainder is 5,  Roga Baan is present. (If the Sun is from 0-1 degrees it is the first degree, from 1-2 degrees it is the second degree, etc.). It occurs when Sun is in 8°, 17°, 26° in any sign.

2.     Agni Baan:  Add 3 to the degree of the Sun in its Rashi and divide by 9, if the remainder is 5, Agni Baan is present. It occurs when Sun is in 2°, 11°, 20° 29° in any sign.

3.      Raja Baan: Add 1 to the degree of the Sun in its Rashi and divide by 9, if the remainder is 5, Raja/Nripa Baan is present. It occurs when Sun is in 4°, 13°, 22° in any sign.

4.      Chora Baan: Add 8 to the degree of the Sun in its Rashi and divide by 9, if the remainder is 5, Chora Baan is present. It occurs when Sun is in 6°, 15°, 24° in any sign.

5.      Mrityu Baan: Add 4 to the degree of the Sun in its Rashi and divide by 9, if the remainder is 5, Mrityu Baan is present. It occurs when Sun is in 1°, 10°, 19°, 28° in any sign.

Sashalya Baan: Add the remainders arrived at in the previous five calculations and divide by 9, if the remainder is 5 Sashalya “pierced/wounded” Baan is present.

·        Raja Panchak or Bana should be avoided for occupational Muhurtas;

·        Raja and Agni Panchak or Bana should be avoided for house construction;

·        Chora Panchak or Bana should be avoided for traveling;

·        Roga and Mrityu Panchak or Bana should be avoided for marriage, Upanayana, tonsure, etc.

·        Sashalya should be avoided in all events.

·        Chora and Roga Panchak or Bana are most unfavorable during the night, and if no better Muhurta is available they can be risked during the day.

·        Agni and Raja Panchak or Bana are most unfavorable during the day, and if no better Muhurta is available they can be risked during the night.

·        Mrityu Panchak or Bana is most unfavorable during the twilights (two hours before and after sunrise and sunset), and if no better Muhurta is available they can be risked at other times.

·        Raja Panchak or Bana should be particularly avoided on Saturn’s Vara,

·        Mrityu on Mercury’s Vara,

·        Agni and Chora on Mars’s Vara, and

·        Roga on the Sun’s Vara.

·      If the Sun, Moon and other Panchang factors are favorable, then Panchak and Baan blemish can be ignored.

Mrityu Panchak- it signifies danger. 
Agni Panchak- indicates danger from fire. 
Raja Panchak- indicates danger from authority. 
Krura Panchak- means evil things (negative thoughts or energies). 
Rog Panchak- to be avoided for all surgical and recovery processes.

This Panchak Yog is also classified into various types, depending on which day of the week it has begun. 

1.      1. Rog Panchak

A Panchak Yog that starts on a Sunday is called Rog Panchak. It affects physical and mental well-being. Auspicious work of any kind should NOT be taken up during this time.

2.      2. Raja Panchak

It starts on a Monday. It especially influences people working in government jobs. It is of a unique kind as it brings success related to work and money.

3.      

       3. Agni Panchak

It starts on a Tuesday. One should not take up new work related to construction or manufacturing during this time. However, it gives success in matters related to judiciary or court.

4     

         4.  A Panchak that begins on a Wednesday & Thursday is least harmful but avoid taking important business decisions during this time.

5.     5. Chor Panchak

It starts on a Friday, and people should avoid traveling during this time. Also, lending money and starting a new venture may prove detrimental.

6.      

      6. Mrityu Panchak

It starts on Saturday. These 5 days may lead to arguments among family members or colleagues, accidents, or injury.

The general rule of avoiding unfavourable Panchaka has certain exceptions.

While choosing a Muhurta for occupation then avoid Raja Panchaka.

While choosing Muhurta for house building avoid both Raja and Agni Panchaka.

For travel avoid Chora Panchaka

In marriage and upanayanam Roga and Mrityu Panchaka should be avoided.

Chandra Vela, Avastha, and Kriya

 

In the assessment of a birth chart, query chart and for Muhurta, full consideration should be given to Chandrakriya,  Chandra Avastha  and  Chandravelas.

Chandrakriyas are 60 in number, Chandra Avasthas 12 and Chandravelas 36.

Chandra Vela

    The time taken by Moon to traverse a star (13°20') divided into 36 equal divisions yields a Chandra Vela.

    equal to 22-2/9'. 

The effects of the 36 Chandra Velas, as applicable to nativities, are given below,  :

       Chandra Vela &  Effects 

Sapta Vara in Vedic Astrology

 Vara or Week Day

Week day in the Hindu Panchanga system is considered from Sunrise to next day Sunrise.

 
The sequence of weekdays that we follow is an ancient tradition, with each day of the week being associated with one of the seven visible planets. These days are known as Vara or Vasre. In Vedic Astrology, the days of the week have been associated with the successful accomplishment of certain types of activities. Certain activities are also considered inconsistent with the personalities of certain weekdays. The suitability of weekdays closely correspond to the significations of the lords of those weekdays. Birth on a particular day will make that planet's affairs in the chart quite significant in a person's life.

Classification of day Days are classified into Saumya and Krura days

Gentle Days – Saumya: Friday, Thursday, Wednesday, and Monday are considered as the ‘gentle’ days in Panchang.

Cruel Days – Krura: Saturday, Sunday, and Tuesday are considered as harsh/ Krura days for some activities.

SUNDAY – Aadivaar / Ravivaar. Ruled by the Aditya or Sun God. 

An excellent day to undertake journeys, to resolve old disputes, entertain friends and family, for entering a new house, Gaining Knowledge, Pujas, Havans coronation, administer medicines , 

Colour for the day - Pink and maroon. 

Fast on Sunday for peace, Can feed wheat and jaggery to a cow. Feeding kheer of jaggery to a Brahman or a poor person also reduces the malefic effects of  Sun ,Surya Namaskar in early morning to get a relief from health issues 

Pay attention to yourself and your inner Self. Good for enjoying work related to Nature, work related to gold, copper, trees, silk, fire, coronation. Control your anger and ego. 

MONDAY –Somavaar.  Ruled by the Chandra or Moon. 
Day of creativity, original thinking and intuitive things. 

Shri Krishna (Solah kala sampoorna) was the descendant of Chandra deva, combined 

with all the sixteen phases like him.

Monday is favourable for beginning a new career, planting, gardening and for initiating any kind of finance-related activities, make marital arrangements, and for betting and sport-related activities, for seeking  medical help, for men seeking favours from women and for making new friends. 

Good to donate Rice, melons, coconut, curd, camphor, milk, corn, cucumber, white clothes,  etc.. to Brahmins, Females

Importance of Lagna in Muhurta

The Lagna is commonly known as the Ascendant or sign rising in the East Horizon.
Just as the Lagna is a very important factor in natal astrology, so it is in Muhurta, as it is the
Lagna that births the event. If the Lagna is favorable and well disposed, the event is off to a good start and has inherent strength with which to survive. If the Lagna is unfavorable or poorly disposed, the event has a rough or stressful start and carries within it weaknesses that will surface in time, just as a baby born with congenital weaknesses becomes diseased in time.

FAVORABLE LAGNAS

The Rasis of the benefic planets: Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, Virgo, Libra, Sagittarius and Pisces are generally favorable for most beneficial activities.

In determining the Rasis of the benefics, the condition of the Moon as to whether it is a benefic or malefic should be considered.
The Moon is a benefic when it is 120 to 240 degrees from the Sun.
It is a malefic when it is within 60 degrees of the Sun.
When 60 to 120 degrees from the Sun or when 240 to 300 degrees from the Sun the Moon is not significantly benefic or malefic.
When the Moon is a malefic, Cancer Lagna is best avoided.

The Lagna becomes even more favorable if it is influenced by benefics that are not in debilitation Rasi or Navamsa, or if it is one of the Upachaya Rasis from the natal Lagna or natal Moon.


UNFAVORABLE LAGNAS

The Rasis of the malefic planets: Aries, Leo, Scorpio, Capricorn and Aquarius are generally unfavorable for beneficial activities unless specified elsewhere. This particularly holds true for the Rasis of Mars and Saturn.

Exception: Jupiter or Venus in or aspecting the Lagna overcomes the adverse effects of an unfavorable Lagna (so long as they are not in debilitation Rasi or Navamsa).

Exception: Jupiter in a friendly Rasi or better in an angle overcomes the ill effects of an unfavorable Lagna.

LAGNA LORD

The influences to the Lagna lord indicate the supportive or harmful influences that the event will encounter throughout its existence. Malefics or planets debilitated in the Rasi or Navamsa indicate situations that will harm the well-being of the event, curtail its longevity, and reduce the satisfaction derived from the event.
Benefics or planets in exaltation, Mulatrikona or own Rasi, whether in the Rasi or Navamsa, or planets in Vargottama indicate situations that will increase the well-being of the event and the happiness that it provides.

SIRODAYA AND PRISHTODAYA RASIS

Sirodaya Rasis: Gemini, Leo, Virgo, Libra, Scorpio and Aquarius. Sirodaya Rasis are those that rise head first

Prishtodaya Rasis: Aries, Taurus, Cancer, Sagittarius and Capricorn. Prishtodaya Rasis are those that rise feet first.

Sirodaya Rasis are considered more favorable and allow events to fulfill themselves more readily and sooner than do Prishtodaya Rasis.

Ubhayodaya Rasis: Pisces, which is symbolized by two fish swimming in opposite directions, rises with both head and feet first and is known as Ubhayodaya.

URDHVA, ADHO AND TIRYAG MUKHA RASIS
Just as there are Urdhva, Adha and Tiryag Mukha Nakshatras, so there are Rasis:

Urdhva Mukha Rasi: The Rasi that the Sun has just passed through is known as Urdhva Mukha (facing up).

Adho Mukha Rasi: The Rasi that the Sun is in is known as Adho Mukha (facing down).

Tiryag Mukha Rasis: The Rasi that the Sun will next occupy is known as Tiryag Mukha (horizontally facing).

If one of these Rasis rises, the effects are as per their names. The Adho Muhka Rasi is generally unfavorable except for those actions that are specifically meant to go downwards.

MALE & FEMALE RASIS
For acts requiring aggression, force, cruelty, initiative, and also for conception, male Rasis are more favorable than are female Rasis.
For acts of kindness, gentleness, beautifying, receptivity and patience, female Rasis are more favorable than are male Rasis.

MALEFICS IN THE LAGNA
There should be no malefics in the Lagna or Navamsa Lagna at the time of beginning any activity.

Exception: Venus or the Moon in the 10th and Jupiter in an angle overcome the negativity of the Lagna afflicted by malefics.

SHUNYA RASIS OF THE TITHIS
Depending upon the Tithi at the time of the Muhurta, certain Rasis become Shunya “empty” and should not be the Lagna:

1st Tithi	Libra & Capricorn
2nd Tithi	Sagittarius & Pisces
3rd Tithi	Leo & Capricorn
4th Tithi	Taurus & Aquarius
5th Tithi	Gemini & Virgo
6th Tithi	Aries & Leo
7th Tithi	Sagittarius & Cancer
8th Tithi	Gemini & Virgo
9th Tithi	Leo & Scorpio
10th Tithi	Leo & Scorpio
11th Tithi	Sagittarius & Pisces
12th Tithi	Libra & Capricorn
13th Tithi	Leo & Taurus
14th Tithi	Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius & Pisces
15th Tithi	No Shunya Rasis.

Muhurta Chintamani, oddly enough, only gives Shunya Rasis for the odd Tithis. Of these, it is in general agreement with other sources but gives Cancer instead of Scorpio for the 9th Tithi, and Pisces instead of Leo for the 13th Tithi, which have not been found to give as accurate results.

Exception: If the Lagna lord is in its own Rasi joined or aspected by Jupiter, the negative effects of Suunya vanish.

Exception: If Jupiter is in the same Nakshatra as the Moon, the negative effects of Suunya vanish. (In this case Jupiter should be in a different Rasi from the Moon.)

Exception: All the benefics strong in angles or trines remove the negative effects of Suunya.

It is only acceptable to have a Suunya Rasi on the Lagna if the event is aimed at overcoming some difficulty. In this case, the Lagna lord must be in a Dusthana, the 3rd, a Suunya Rasi, or debilitated in the Rasi or Navamsa and not with any other planets other than the lord of a Dusthana, the 3rd lord, the lord of a Suunya Rasi or a planet debilitated in the Rasi or Navamsa. Or, the the 3rd, 6th, 8th, or 12th lord, the lord of a Suunya Rasi or a planet debilitated in the Rasi or the Navasma must be in the Lagna. In both these cases the difficulty is destroyed.

BLIND RASIS
Aries, Taurus and Leo are blind during the daytime, and Gemini, Cancer and Virgo are blind during the night. Blind Rasis cause impediments and should be avoided as Lagnas.

Exception: If Mercury is in the 3rd, 6th, 10th or 11th when the Moon is in the 9th or 10th aspected by a benefic, the ill effects of blindness are removed.

Exception: Strong Mercury, Jupiter or Venus in the 4th, 7th or 10th removes the ill effects of blindness.

Exception: Benefics aspecting the Lagna remove the ill effects of blindness.

Exception: The Moon in the 4th, 7th, 9th or 10th house removes the ill effects of blindness.

 Exception: Jupiter aspecting the Lagna or Lagna lord removes the ill effects of blindness.

DEAF RASIS
Libra and Scorpio are deaf during the day, and Capricorn and Sagittarius are deaf during the night.
These Rasis as Lagnas cause loss and should be avoided.

Exception: The strong Moon, Mercury, Jupiter or Venus in the 4th, 7th or 10th removes the ill effects of deafness.

Exception: Jupiter aspecting the Lagna or Lagna lord removes the ill effects of deafness.

LAME RASIS
Aquarius is lame during the day and Pisces during the night. These Rasis as Lagnas are adverse for longevity.

Exception: The strong Moon, Mercury, Jupiter or Venus in the 4th, 7th or 10th removes the ill effects of lameness.

Exception: Jupiter aspecting the Lagna or Lagna lord removes the ill effects of lameness.

NAVAMSA LAGNA
The Navamsa Lagna should be that of a benefic planet when performing any beneficial activities. The general rule is that the Navamsa should be of the planets whose Varas are favorable for the event. Additionally, the Navamsa Lagna should  not be a Suunya Rasi.

Exception: The negative effects of the lord of the Navamsa Lagna being a malefic diminish when benefics are strong in the Lagna, or even in the other angles or trines.

Exception: The Moon in the 11th removes the ill effects of the Navamsa being that of a malefic.

The Navamsa Lagna has the same role as the Lagna, namely it helps birth or start the event. If the Navamsa Lagna is favorable and well-disposed, the event is off to a good start and has inherent strength with which to survive. If it is unfavorable or poorly disposed, the event has a rough or stressful start and carries within it
weaknesses that will surface in time.

The Navamsa Lagna also has a bearing on the level of success reached, and in that context it is even more important than the Lagna itself. It is well worth insuring that the Navamsa Lagna is welldisposed.

NAVAMSA LAGNA LORD
The influences to the Navamsa Lagna lord indicate the factors that support or disrupt success. The Navamsa Lagna lord should be well-disposed and is very favorable when placed in an angle or the 11th in the Rasi, or even in the Navamsa. At all costs the Navamsa Lagna lord should be avoided in the 6th, 8th or 12th, in both the Rasi and the Navamsa.

VISHANADIS AND THE END OF A RASI
If Nakshatra Vishanadi, Tithi Vishanadi or Vara Vishanadi is present, and if the end (the last Navamsa) of any Rasi is rising it is very unfavorable.

Exception: A benefic in or aspecting the Lagna removes the negative effects of Vishanadi and the end of a Rasi on the Lagna.

Vyatipata & Vaidhriti

Vyatipata- Calamity & Vaidhriti- Separator

Vyatipata and Vaidhriti are two of the most unfavorable blemishes, with Vyatipata being somewhat more unfavorable than Vaidhriti. According to the Surya Siddhanta:

“Owing to the mingling of the nets of their equal rays, the fire arising from the wrathfulness of their gaze, being driven by the Pravaya, is originated unto the calamity of mortals. Since a fall at this time often causes the destruction of mortals it is known as Vyatipata, or by a difference of title as Vaidhriti. Being black, of frightful shape, bloody eyed, big bellied, the source of misfortune to all, it is produced again and again.”

When the Sun and Moon are in different Ayanas, but upon the same side of the equator, with their minutes of declination the same, and the sum of their longitude is 180 degrees, Vyatipata is present.
This is a different Vyatipata then the Yoga of the same name, and is also known as Mahapata “Great Fall.” The following diagram illustrates Vyatipata:

The Sun’s and Moon are in different Ayanas, but upon the same side of the equator. Their minutes of declination from the equator are the same, both being north of the equator. 

The Sun’s tropical longitude is 15º Virgo (f), or 155º, 

The Moon’s tropical longitude is 15º Aries (a), or 15º. 

The sums of their longitudes, 155º + 15º is 180º, Vyatipata is, therefore, present. 

When the Sun and Moon are in the same Ayana, but upon different sides of the equator, one south and the other north, with their minutes of declination the same, and the sum of their longitude is 360 degrees, Vaidhriti is present. This is a different Vaidhriti then the Yoga of the same name. The following diagram illustrates Vaidhriti:

The Sun and Moon are in the same Ayana, namely Dakshinayana.

Their minutes of declination from the equator are the same, the Moon being south and the Sun north. The Sun’s tropical longitude is 15º Leo, or 135º, 

The Moon’s tropical longitude is 15º Scorpio, or 225º. 

The sums of their longitudes, 135º + 225º is 360º, Vaidhriti is, therefore, present.

Since Vyatipata and Vaidhriti are considered in respect to the Sun and Moon’s placement in reference to the equator and the Ayana, the calculation of Vyatipata and Vaidhriti must be done with their tropical positions. Due to the changeable latitude of the Moon, which affects its declination, the exact calculation of Vyatipata and Vaidhriti is a bit tedious.

To calculate the exact moment of Vyatipata and Vaidhriti:

1. Determine the time the sum of the longitudes of the Sun and Moon comes to 180 for Vyatipata, or 360 for Vaidhriti. (Make sure to expunge multiples of 360; if their sum is 540, subtract 360 to arrive at 180.)

2. Then:

a) If the Moon is in tropical Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Libra, Scorpio or Sagittarius, and if the Moon’s minutes of declination (whether north or south) are greater than the Sun’s, then go back in time until their minutes of declination are exactly the same, to arrive at the exact time of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti as the case may be.

b) If the Moon is in tropical Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Libra, Scorpio or Sagittarius, and if the Moon’s minutes of declination (whether north or south) are lesser than the Sun’s, then go forward in time until their minutes of declination are exactly the same, to arrive at the exact time of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti as the case may be.

c) If the Moon is in tropical Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Capricorn, Aquarius or Pisces, and if the Moon’s minutes of declination (whether north or south) are greater than the Sun’s, then go forward in time until their minutes of declination are exactly the same, to arrive at the exact time of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti as the case may be.

d) If the Moon is in tropical Cancer, Leo, Virgo, Capricorn, Aquarius or Pisces, and if the Moon’s minutes of declination (whether north or south) are lesser than the Sun’s, then go back in time until their minutes of declination are exactly the same, to arrive at the exact time of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti as the case may be.

Note: Going forwards or backwards in time as necessary to make the minutes of the Sun and Moon’s declinations equal will change the sum of their longitudes to be somewhat less or greater than 180 degrees or 360 degrees as the case may be, which is acceptable as it is declination that is the crucial factor for determining Vyatipata and Vaidhriti.

After determining the exact moment of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti, their duration must be determined. The exact moment of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti is the time when the center of the Sun and Moon have the same minutes of declination. Their duration, however, is determined as follows:

1. Find half the sum of the diameters of the Sun and Moon’s disks. (Determining the exact apparent dimensions of the Sun and Moon is dependent upon several astronomical factors quite beyond the scope of this text. If one does not have access to means of determining their apparent diameters, than one should use their mean apparent diameters. The mean apparent diameter of the Sun is 32’3.6”, of the Moon 31’7”. Half the sum of their mean diameters is 31’35.3’)

2. Multiply the sum of half their diameters by 24 (since there are 24 hours in a day). (At this point it is most simple to first convert the half sum of their diameters to seconds; converting the half sum of their mean diameters to seconds yields 1895.3 seconds. 1895.3

multiplied by 24 gives 45487.2)

3. Divide the sum found in #2 above, by the difference of the daily motions of the Sun and Moon to arrive at the time in hours that Vyatipata or Vaidhriti is in effect before and after its exact occurrence. (If one does not have access to the actual daily motions of the Sun and Moon, one should use their mean daily motions. The average daily motion of the Sun is 59’ 8.3’’ degrees, and the Moon 13º10’34.8’. The average difference in their daily motions is, therefore, 12º11’26.5”. Converting 12º11’26.5” to seconds yields 43886.5 seconds. Dividing, 45487.2, as shown in #2 above, by 43886.5 yields 1.036, which are the hours that Vyatipata or Vaidhriti are in effect, before and after their exact occurrence. 1.036 hours are 1 hour, 2 minutes and 11.3 seconds.) 

The duration of Vyatipata and Vaidhriti as just determined is the time during which they are most unfavorable, during which time the Surya Siddhanta states:

“The time between the moments of the beginning and end is to be looked upon as exceedingly terrible, having the likeness of consuming fire, forbidden for all works.”

Even though the period as just determined is the most severe part of Vyatipata and Vaidhriti, their influence is present, though to a lesser degree, during the entire time that the declinations of any part of the Sun and Moon’s disks have the same minutes. To determine the periods during which any part of the disks of the Sun and Moon have the same minutes of declination:

1. Take half the sum of the Sun and Moon’s disks as determined above.

2. From the time of the exact moment of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti, go backwards in time until the difference in declination of the Sun and Moon is equal to half the sum of the Sun and Moon’s disks, this is the very beginning of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti’s influence. 

3. From the time of the exact moment of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti, go forwards in time until the difference in declination of the Sun and Moon is equal to half the sum of the Sun and Moon’s disks, this is the very ending of Vyatipata or Vaidhriti’s influence.

As can be seen, calculating Vyatipata and Vaidhriti is quite tedious, unless one has software that will do the task. Fortunately, each of them is only present once a month, so they do not need to be calculated very often. Vyatipata and Vaidhriti must absolutely be avoided, so do not ignore them.

21 great evils / Ekavimsati Mahadoshas / 21 koota in Marriage Muhurta

According to the Rishi Narada, there are twenty-one great evils that should be avoided in the election of a fortunate time for starting anything important that involves profit, progress or pleasure.

The basic rule to select an auspicious time for any event is that
Any Muhurta shall be free of Ekavimshati (21) Mahadoshas.

As name suggests, any muhurta possesses any of these doshas is strictly prohibited.
Kalidasa explains that a Muhurta sullied with any of these 21 Mahadoshas shall be rejected as it is fatal even if good placements of planets in Vargottama, exalted, or own house etc.

तल्लग्नम च शुभैस्त्रिभिर्युतमपि स्वोच्च स्थितैस्स्वालय 

स्वांशस्थैर्यदि मित्र गैर्गुण सतैर्लग्नं च पञ्चैषटिकम |

क्रूरेषु त्रिभावरिगेषु यदि वा वर्गोत्तमांशानवितं 

लग्नं दोषविदुषितं यदि तदा मृत्युप्रदम स्यात्तयो: ||

8th house from any Lagna is the place of obstacles and hence this place must be free from any malefic association.

It is strongly suggested by the classics that 8th house must be free from occupation of any planet (malefic or benefic) for any auspicious ceremonies.

Benefic planets in 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 9th, 10th and 11th is recommended. But Moon in Ascendant

is strictly prohibited for any auspicious occasion. Natural malefic planets in 3rd, 6th and 11th

increase the strength of Muhurta. 7th house also needs to be free from placement of any planet

1. Panchanga Suddhi Rahita- Deprivation of Panchanga Purity Panchanga means five limbs and refers to the five components of time that are formed by the Sun and Moon, the Tithi, Karana, Vara, Nakshatra and Yoga. These five are the most important Muhurta components and priority should be made to assure that they are all favorable for the event, and that their lords are well-disposed.

Exception: The Sun or the Moon in the 11th house sanctifies all Tithis, Karanas, Varas, Nakshatras and Yogas, thereby making an unfavorable Tithi, Karana, Vara, etc. acceptable. The Sun or the Moon in the 11th will not, however, compensate for the lords of these being poorly disposed.

2. Udayaastah Suddhi Hina- Deficient Purity of the Rising and Setting Points The Lagna and 7th house should not be adversely affected. These are the two points on the horizon through which the planetary energies most significantly enter. If malefics are in the Lagna or 7th, the planetary energies become obstructed, so both of these should be

free from malefic association. It is even better if they are also free from malefic aspects.

The Lagna lord or Navamsa Lagna lord in or aspecting the Lagna or Navamsa Lagna strengthens the Lagna. Similarly the 7th lord or Navamsa 7th lord in or aspecting the 7th or Navamsa 7th strengthens the 7th.

Exception: The aspect of a malefic to the Lagna or the 7th is not able to cause harm if the Lagna is Vargottama.

3. Surya Sankranti- The Sun’s entry into a sign

The time of the Sun’s passage into the different Saura months is known as Sankranti. The three Saura days (three degrees) before and after the Sankranti into the Saura months of Capricorn and Cancer are to be avoided; these are the Saura months at which the two Ayanas begin. 

For the other months, 16 Nadis before and after Sankranti should be avoided. Sixteen Nadis translates into 16 minutes of the Saura day, since each Saura day is one degree, or 60 minutes of the Sun’s tropical motion.

Those things begun under Sankranti have only a transitional influence and do not reach the expected conclusion. Sankranti is, therefore, particularly unfavorable for events of long-term significance.

Three Saura days before and after the Sankranti into the Saura months of Capricorn and Cancer, One Saura day before and after the Sankranti into the Saura month of Aries and Libra, and 30 Nadis (half a Saura day or 30 minutes of arc) before and after the other Sankrantis. 

4. Papashadvarga- Malefic Shadvarga

The Lagna should not be in the Shadvargas of the malefics. The Shadvargas are the Rasi, Hora, Drikkana, Navamsa, Dvadasamsa and Trimsamsa. In the Shadvargas, the Lagna should not be in more Rasis of malefics than it is in the Rasis of benefics. Ideally, the Lagna should be in more Rasis of benefics than of malefics or, if it is in an equal amount of benefic and malefic Rasis, the Navamsa Lagna should be in a benefic’s Rasi.

For those events for which it is desirable to have the Lagna in the Navamsa of some malefic, it is acceptable to have the Lagna in that Rasi in the other Vargas as well.

Exception: Jupiter or Venus well placed and in the Lagna, or aspecting it, subdues the ill effects of the Lagna being in the Shadvargas of a malefic planet.

5. Bhrigu Shataka- Venus in the 6th

As mentioned in a previous chapter, Venus is a very important planet in Muhurta and should not be in the 6th Bhava. In the 6th Bhava Venus’s desires become unrequited, so the event is unable to fulfill the performer. Venus in the 6th also makes it difficult to make sound decisions regarding the event, resulting in the event getting into trouble and difficulties.

6. Kuja Ashtaka- Mars in the 8th

Mars must not be in the 8th Bhava. Mars in the 8th destroys the event before it even fully matures and disrupts the goals and focus of the event. Even if Mars is in own or exaltation Rasi, his placement in the 8th should be avoided.

7. Gandaanta- Ending Joint

The end and beginning of certain Nakshatras, Tithis and Rasis are transitional in nature and do not support the fruition or well-being of any event:

Nakshatra Gandaanta: According to the Surya Siddhanta, the Moon should not be in the last Pada of Aslesha, Jyeshtha and Revati, or in the first Pada of Asvini, Magha and Mula.

Tithi Gandaanta: The last 2 Nadis of Purna Tithis, and the first 2 Nadis of Nanda Tithis are Gandaanta. Two Nadis of Tithi translates into 24 minutes of Sun/Moon separation. 

The following table gives the degrees of Sun Moon separation which are Gandaanta:

15th (Purna) & 1st (Nanda)	5th (Purna) & 6th (Nanda)	10th (Purna) & 11th (Nanda)
359º 36’– 00º 24’	59º 36’– 60º 24’	119º 36’– 120º 24’
179º 36’– 180º 24’	239º 36’– 240º 24’	299º 36’– 300º 24’

Rasi Gandaanta: The Lagna should not be in the 

last half  Nadi of Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces, 

and 

the first half Nadi of Aries, Leo and Sagittarius, which are Gandaanta. 

One half Nadi of the Lagna’s movement translates into 3 degrees, therefore, avoid the last 3 degrees of Cancer, Scorpio and Pisces and the first 3 degrees of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius.

Exception: Gandaanta is nullified if the Moon is in a friendly Rasi or better, in her own Varga, and aspected by benefics. 

Exception: Some sources consider Nakshatra Gandaanta to last for 4 Nadis instead of one Pada, while others consider only 2 Nadis. Four Nadis of the Moon in a Nakshatra translates into 53 minutes and 20 seconds of arc, while two Nadis translates into 26 minutes and 40 seconds. In cases where no better Muhurta is available one may, therefore, consider only these shorter Gandaanta periods.

8. Kartari- Scissors

Malefics in the 2nd and 12th from either the Lagna or 7th form Papakartari Yoga, which significantly harms the event started. If the malefic in the 2nd is retrograde and the malefic in the 12th is moving

forward it is especially troublesome. Also, the same amount of planets, whether benefics or malefics, in the 2nd and 12th, 3rd and 11th, 4th and 10th, 5th and 9th, or 6th and 8th should be avoided, as these obstruct the progress of the event.

9. Riphashadashtendu- the Moon in the 12th, 6th or 8th

The Moon should not be in the 6th, 8th or 12th in the Muhurta chart, all of which disrupt the growth of the event. The 6th more delays growth than it does disrupt it and is not as unfavorable as the

8th or 12th. The 8th is disruptive to the point of destruction and should definitely be avoided.

10. Indu Sagraha- the Moon with a Planet

The Moon should be alone; its conjunction with any planet indicates a source that prevents the proper growth of the event. Malefics are, of course, much more unfavorable.

11. Dampatyor Ashtama Lagna- Lagna of the Husband’s or Wife’s 8th

The Lagna should not be the 8th Rasi from the natal Lagna or Moon of either the individual or their spouse.

Exception: If the lords of the natal Rasi and its 8th are the same, friendly, or one friendly and the other neutral, then the ill effects of the Lagna being of the 8th are removed.

12. Rasir Vishanadi Bhavah- Poison Periods of the Rasi and Bhava

Rasis also have a Vishanadi portion that should be avoided. The Lagna and the Bhava pertinent to the event should not fall in the Vishanadi portion:

Bhujanga: The 1st Navamsa of Aries, Taurus, Virgo and Sagittarius are Bhujanga (serpentine).

Exception: On Varas other than that of Mercury and Saturn, Bhujanga does not prevail.

Gridhra: The 5th Navamsa of Gemini, Leo, Libra and Aquarius are Gridhra (vulturous, greedily desirous).

Exception: On Varas other than that of the Moon and Venus, Gridhra does not prevail.

Varaha: The 9th Navamsa of Cancer, Scorpio, Capricorn and Pisces are Varaha (piggish).

Exception: On Varas other than that of Mars, Jupiter and the Sun, Varaha does not prevail.

Exception: Lagna Vishanadi is not inauspicious if the Moon is well dignified.

Exception: Lagna Vishanadi is not inauspicious if Jupiter is in an angle.

Exception: A benefic in or aspecting the Lagna overcomes Lagna Vishanadi.

Exception: Jupiter in exaltation Rasi and own Navamsa remedies the ill effects of Lagna Vishanadi.

Exception: The Moon in the 9th or 10th aspected by Jupiter overcomes Vishanadi.

Exception: The waxing Moon in exaltation, own Navamsa, in the Lagna, or in Simhasanamsa removes the ill effects of Vishanadi.

13. Dur Muhurta- Difficult Muhurta

In addition to the unfavorable Tithyamsas (Muhurtas) (namely Rudra, Ahi, Pitri, Puruhuta, Vahni, Nirriti, Bhaga, Girisa, Ajapada, Yama and Agni) the following combinations of Muhurta and Vara

should be avoided:

Sun’s Vara and the 14th Muhurta (Aryaman).

Moon’s Vara and the 12th (Nirriti) or 9th (Vidhata) Muhurta.

Mars’s Vara and the 4th (Pitri) or 11th (Vahni) Muhurta.

Mercury’s Vara and the 8th (Abhijit) Muhurta.

Jupiter’s Vara and the 6th (Ambu) or 12th (Nirriti) Muhurta.

Venus’s Vara and the 4th (Pitri) or 9th (Vidhata) Muhurta.

Saturn’s Vara and the 1st (Rudra) or 2nd (Ahi) Muhurta.

Exception: Jupiter in a friendly Rasi or better in an angle overcomes the ill effects of Dur Muhurta.

Exception: The Moon in the 11th removes the ill effects of Dur Muhurta.

14. Varadosha- Detrimental Day

The Vara forming an unfavorable Vara/Tithi/Nakshatra Yoga in combination with the Tithi, Nakshatra or Tithi and Nakshatra is blemished beyond repair and must absolutely be avoided.

15. Ekargala- One Bolt

Ekargala may be in effect when one of the unfavorable Yogas (Vishkambha, Atiganda, Sula, Ganda, Vyaghata, Vajra, Vyatipata, Parigha or Vaidhriti) is running. From the Nakshatra corresponding

to the Yoga that is running, note the Nakshatras that are the same distance in both the forward and reverse directions. If the Sun is in one of these Nakshatras and the Moon in the other, Ekargala is

present.

Exception: Ekargala only prevails during the day and can be ignored during the night.

Exception: Asvini, Mrigasira, Punarvasu, Pushya, Hasta, Chitra, Dhanishtha and Revati are not affected by Ekargala, so if the Moon is in one of these Nakshatras, Ekargala is not in effect.

Exception: Benefics in angles and trines and malefics in the 3rd, 6th and 11th destroy the ill effects of Ekargala.

For example, if the Yoga prevailing is Vishkambha, the corresponding Nakshatra is Pushya. If the Moon is in Magha, counting inclusively forwards from Pushya to Magha there are three Nakshatras; counting three backwards from Pushya is Ardra. If the Sun is in Ardra, Ekargala is present.

16. Grahanotpaatabham- Seizing Portent (eclipse) Nakshatra

The Nakshatra in which there is a full eclipse should be avoided for six months, for three months if it is a half eclipse, and for one month if it is a quarter eclipse.

Also, the day of the eclipse should be avoided as well as the three days before and the seven days after, though some sources consider three days instead of seven days after an eclipse to be the unfavorable period. If the Sun or Moon sets while being eclipsed, then the three days before the eclipse are particularly unfavorable. 

If the Sun or Moon rises while being eclipsed, then the three days after the eclipse are particularly unfavorable. The eclipse of the Sun is more severe than is the eclipse of the Moon.

Graha Shula: The seven Nakshatras prior to the Nakshatra in which the Moon is placed during an eclipse and the seven Nakshatras after are Graha Shula, which should be avoided. (According to this view, approximately seven days before and after an eclipse should be avoided.)

Though there are some differences of opinion about just how many days are unfavorable before and after an eclipse, experience has shown that only the three days before and after really need to be

avoided, so if no better Muhurta is available, it is acceptable to perform an event in the 4th through 7th days following an eclipse and the 1st through 3rd days of the week before an eclipse. Eclipses are

only destructive if the Sun and Moon are afflicted, else they simply cause events to be different from what was hoped for or expected.

Maha Shula: The Nakshatra opposite the one in which an eclipse occurs is Maha Shula (great spike) and should be avoided following an eclipse.

17. Kruravidvarksa- Evil Portent

Evil portents are many. The Nakshatra in which there is a planetary war, the Nakshatra whose star is crossed by some planet, and the Nakshatra in which there is a comet, meteor, etc. should be avoided for six months. Seven days after such a portent should also be avoided.

Additionally, days of storms, wind, fog, dust storms, and earthquakes and out of season rainfall should be avoided. The times that there is a halo around the Sun or Moon are also unfavorable.

Exception: Jupiter in a friendly Rasi or better in an angle overcomes the ill effects of storms, etc.

18. Kruura Samyuta- Joined with a Cruel/Hurt Planet

The pertinent planets should not be joined with a malefic or a planet debilitated in the Rasi or Navamsa. As mentioned in previous chapters, there are many pertinent planets in the Muhurta chart.

Avoid malefic or debilitated conjunctions with as many of them as possible, especially the Moon, and the lords of the Nakshatra, Lagna, Karana, Tithi, Yoga and Vara.

19. Kunavamsa- Deficient Navamsa

Planets should not be in debilitation Navamsa or inimical Navamsa, no matter their dignity in the Rasi. Planets in debilitation Navamsa or inimical Navamsa are always harmful to those things they themselves indicate as well as to those things that they influence.

The Panchanga lords and other important planets should not be in their debilitation Navamsa or inimical Navamsa or influenced by planets that are in debilitation Navamsa or inimical Navamsa,

whether they are influenced by these planets in the Rasi or the Navamsa. The only time that planets in debilitation Navamsa or inimical Navamsa are not harmful is when they are in Vargottama, in which case they are actually of some benefit. On the other hand, planets in own or exaltation Navamsa are particularly supportive.

20 & 21. Vyatipata- Calamity & Vaidhriti- Separator 
(Clik here to know more about Vyatipata and Vaidhriti)

Vyatipata and Vaidhriti are two of the most unfavorable blemishes, with Vyatipata being somewhat more unfavorable than Vaidhriti. According to the Surya Siddhanta:

“Owing to the mingling of the nets of their equal rays, the fire arising from the wrathfulness of their gaze, being driven by the Pravaya, is originated unto the calamity of mortals. Since a fall at this time often causes the destruction of mortals it is known as Vyatipata, or by a difference of title as Vaidhriti. Being black, of frightful shape, bloody eyed, big bellied, the source of misfortune to all, it is produced again and again.”

When the Sun and Moon are in different Ayanas, but upon the same side of the equator, with their minutes of declination the same, and the sum of their longitude is 180 degrees, Vyatipata is present.

This is a different Vyatipata then the Yoga of the same name, and is also known as Mahapata “Great Fall.” The following diagram illustrates Vyatipata:

The Sun’s and Moon are in different Ayanas, but upon the same side of the equator. Their minutes of declination from the equator are the same, both being north of the equator. 

The Sun’s tropical longitude is 15º Virgo (f), or 155º, 

the Moon’s 15º Aries (a), or 15º. 

The sums of their longitudes, 155º + 15º is 180º, Vyatipata is, therefore, present.

When the Sun and Moon are in the same Ayana, but upon different sides of the equator, one south and the other north, with their minutes of declination the same, and the sum of their longitude is 360 degrees, Vaidhriti is present. This is a different Vaidhriti then the Yoga of the same name. The following diagram illustrates Vaidhriti:

Vaidhriti

The Sun and Moon are in the same Ayana, namely Dakshinayana. Their minutes of declination from the equator are the same, the Moon being south and the Sun north. The Sun’s tropical longitude is

15º Leo (e), or 135º, the Moon’s 15º Scorpio (h), or 225º. The sums of their longitudes, 135º + 225º is 360º, Vaidhriti is, therefore, present.