How to Read a Vedic Birth Chart (Step by Step)
10 min read · Vedic Astrology
Your Kundali can look intimidating at first glance — a grid of diamonds and triangles filled with cryptic two-letter abbreviations. But once you understand the underlying logic, it becomes remarkably readable. Here is a clear, step-by-step approach.
Find Your Lagna (Ascendant)
The Lagna is the sign rising on the eastern horizon at your birth moment. In a North Indian chart, it's always placed in the top center diamond. This is the most important point in your chart — more significant than your Sun or Moon sign for overall personality.
Identify Which Planets Are in Which Houses
Each of the 12 triangular/rectangular cells in the chart represents a house. Find which abbreviated planet names (Su=Sun, Mo=Moon, Ma=Mars, Me=Mercury, Ju=Jupiter, Ve=Venus, Sa=Saturn, Ra=Rahu, Ke=Ketu) appear in each cell.
Note Each Planet's Sign (Rashi)
In a North Indian chart, the houses are fixed but the signs rotate based on your Lagna. House 1 always has your Lagna sign; House 2 has the next sign in sequence, and so on. A planet's sign tells you the style of expression; its house tells you the life area it affects.
Assess the Current Dasha (Planetary Period)
The Vimshottari Dasha tells you which planet is 'running the show' right now. Planets in good dignity that are well-placed in your chart will give better results during their Mahadasha. The Dasha lord's placement is crucial for timing.
Look at Aspects
In Vedic astrology, every planet aspects the house directly opposite (7th aspect). Mars, Jupiter, and Saturn have additional special aspects. Saturn aspects the 3rd and 10th from its position; Mars aspects the 4th and 8th; Jupiter aspects the 5th and 9th.
Evaluate Planet Dignity
A planet in its own sign (e.g., Sun in Leo) or exaltation sign is strong and delivers its full positive potential. A planet in its debilitation sign (e.g., Sun in Libra) struggles to express itself cleanly.
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