The 9 Planets (Navagraha)
Each of the nine grahas governs a different facet of life. Explore what every planet signifies in Vedic astrology, the signs it rules, its gemstone and remedies.
In Vedic astrology the Sun, known in Sanskrit as Surya, is the karaka of the soul, the father and personal authority, governing vitality, fame and one's connection to government and leadership. As a sattvic, mildly malefic planet it rules Leo, is exalted in Aries and debilitated in Libra.
The Moon, known in Vedic astrology as Chandra, is the gentle luminary that governs the mind, emotions and the nourishing influence of the mother, making it one of the most important planets in any birth chart.
Mars, known in Sanskrit as Mangal, is the fiery red planet of Vedic astrology that governs energy, courage and drive, shaping how boldly we act and assert ourselves in life.
Mercury, known in Vedic astrology as Budha, is the planet of intellect, speech and communication, governing how clearly we think, learn and express ourselves.
Jupiter, known in Vedic astrology as Guru or Brihaspati, is the great benefic of the chart, the celestial teacher who governs wisdom, wealth, children, dharma and good fortune.
Venus, known in Sanskrit as Shukra, is the radiant benefic planet of love, marriage, beauty, luxury and the arts, shaping how we relate, create and savour the comforts of life.
Saturn, known in Vedic astrology as Shani, is the great teacher of discipline, karma and patience whose lessons shape lasting maturity and resilience.
Rahu, the North Node known in Sanskrit as Rahu, is a shadow graha of Vedic astrology that governs ambition, illusion, foreign lands and sudden, unconventional gains.
Ketu, known in Sanskrit as the South Node of the Moon, is a shadow graha of Vedic astrology that governs spirituality, detachment and the unfinished karma we carry into this life.