Vimshottari Dasha

The term "Vimshottari" translates to "120 years," which signifies the complete cycle of planetary periods governed by the nine major planets in Vedic astrology: Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu. This system divides a person's life into distinct planetary periods or Dashas, each ruled by a specific planet, allowing astrologers to forecast the timing and nature of events such as career changes, marriages, and personal challenges.

Structure of Vimshottari Dasha

The Vimshottari Dasha system is based on the position of the Moon at the time of an individual's birth. Each planet has a fixed duration for its Dasha period:

• Ketu: 7 years

• Venus (Shukra): 20 years

• Sun: 6 years

• Moon: 10 years

• Mars (Mangala): 7 years

• Rahu: 18 years

• Jupiter (Brihaspati): 16 years

• Saturn (Shani): 19 years

• Mercury (Budha): 17 years

The total adds up to 120 years, which is considered the average lifespan in this astrological framework. Each Dasha period is further divided into sub-periods called Bhuktis, which are governed by the planets positioned in the Dasha lord's house. This intricate structure allows for detailed predictions about how different planetary influences will manifest during specific times in a person's life.

Influence of Vimshottari Dasha

The impact of each Dasha varies significantly depending on the characteristics of the ruling planet. For example:

• During Venus Dasha, individuals may experience heightened focus on relationships, beauty, and material pleasures.

• In contrast, a Saturn Dasha may bring challenges related to discipline, responsibility, and hard work but can also lead to significant personal growth through overcoming these obstacles.

Astrologers analyze the current Dasha and Bhukti to provide insights into what individuals can expect during these periods. The placement of planets in an individual's natal chart also plays a vital role in determining how these influences will unfold.