Chapter 9

Influences of Rahu and Ketu

9.1 INTRODUCTION
Rahu and Ketu are shadow planets; they do not have physical or celestial
bodies, like the other seven Planets. In Section 2.2.1, it was explained that of two
places where the Moon crosses the ecliptic (the path of Sun); the one to the North is
called the Rahu and the one to the South, the Ketu. They are effective and sensitive
points.

This Chapter deals with the Signs assigned to them as exaltation, debilitation,
moolatrikonas, own houses, friendly houses and inimical Signs, as given by various
authors of books on Astrology. Also, it deals with influences of Rahu and Ketu on
giving Yogas (both benefic and malefic), when they are in Kendra, Kona and bad
Houses. When Rahu and Ketu are positioned individually in certain positions, they
have special influences on the life of the person. This special feature of this Chapter
is the Yogas given by Kalidasa in Uttarakalamrutam [Ramamurty, 1992]; these Yogas
are given in tabular form.

9.2 ATTRIBUTES AND LONGEVITY OF RAHU AND KETU

Rahu and Ketu belong to the category of Naturally Bad Planets. By virtue of
being shadow planets, they have no Lordships. Some astrologers ascribed to them
Lordships of certain houses, and assigned exaltation and debilitation characteristics
when they are in other houses. A summary of the these attributes is given in Table
9.1. But, these attributes differed from one astrologer to the others. In general, it is
observed that the Rahu is powerful in Aries and Leo Rasis, and good in Cancer Rasi.
The broad characteristics related to Longevity and Yogas of these planets are given
in Table 9.2.

Table 9.1: Attributes ascribed to Rahu and Ketu

S.No. Attribute Rahu Ketu
As per Sage Parasara
1 Lordship of Cancer Rasi Capricorn Rasi
2 Exaltation in Leo Rasi Aquarius Rasi
As per other Astrologers
1 Lordship of Aries Rasi, Gemini Rasi
2 Exaltation in Taurus Rasi, Virgo Rasi
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Table 9.2: Longevity and Yogas arising from Rahu and Ketu

In Houses
S.No. Planet Lord of Longevity Yoga Remarks
Good Poor Good Poor
1 Rahu and Ketu 3, 6 In any Lagna
and 11
2 Ketu 12 11
3 Rahu and Ketu 1, 4, 7, Not so good for longevity
10, 5
and 9
4 Rahu 1, 4, 7, 12 When Rahu is in the 12th
10, 5, 9, House, in general reduces the
6 and 8 Yoga to some extent.
5 Ketu 3
6 Ketu and Venus 12 In general, reduces the Yoga
to some extent
7 Ketu and Venus 6, 8 Spoils the Yoga
and 12
Note: The person’s wife will be in vain, have few children and loose her brothers.
8 Ketu, Venus 1, 4, 7 1, 4, 7
and Moon and 10 and 10
9 Rahu 4 Responsible for giving medical
education during its period, if
it comes at the proper time
10 Ketu and 1, 4, 7 Raja Yoga
Saturn and 10
5 and 9 Raja Yoga to some extent
11 Ketu and 1, 4, 7,
Mercury 10, 5
and 9
12 Saturn 11, 1, 4, 7,
and Rahu or 10, 5, 9,
Ketu 2 and 11
13 Lords of 1, 4, 7, Though Ketu is in the 11th
Kendra 10, 5, 9, House, it is not good; its
Houses, and 2 and 11 combination with Lords of 9th
Rahu or Ketu and 10th Houses is said to give
14 Lords of Kona good Yoga.
Houses, and
Rahu or Ketu

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15 Jupiter, 9 and 10 1, 4, 7, Good Yoga in the Sub-Periods

Mercury or 10, 5 of Ketu during the Main
Moon, and 9 Periods of Jupiter and Full
and Ketu Moon;
Ordinary Yoga during the Main
Period of Mercury
16 Venus, 9 or 10  Bad Yoga during the Main
and Ketu Period of Venus
17 Sun, Mars or 4, 5, 9  Yoga during the Main and Sub-
Saturn, and 10 Periods of Rahu or Ketu
and Rahu or
Ketu
18 Jupiter, Venus, 4, 5, 9  Greater Yoga during the Main
Mercury or and 10 and Sub- Periods of Rahu or
Moon, Ketu, than that in Item 17
and Rahu or above
Ketu
19 Lords of 2nd,  Powerful in giving Makara,
rd th th
3 , 8 and 12 when they remain in 2nd, 8th
Houses, and and 12th Houses
Rahu or Ketu
20 Lords of 2nd  Powerful in giving Makara
and 7th Houses,
and Rahu in 5th
and 9th Houses,
or
Lords of 2nd
and 7th Houses,
aspecting Rahu
in 5th and 9th
Houses
21 Rahu in 12th Reduces some of the total
House Yoga
22 Rahu in 5th and  Rahu gives death
9th Houses,
and
Lords of 2nd, 7th
and 12th Houses
Note: This should be considered after determining the Alpa, Madhyama, Poorna and
Deerghauyu of the person.
23 Rahu 3, 6, 8 3, 6, 8 Rahu gives longevity and Raja
and 11 and 11 Yoga
8 Good Raja Yoga, if in Aries or
Leo Raasee

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After determining longevity when periods of Makara occur, death is certain,

if Sub-Periods and Main Periods coincide. This applies equally to Saturn in similar
circumstances. If Saturn and Rahu are placed in Maraka positions in combination,
Rahu is more powerful for Makara than Saturn.

9.3 STRENGTHS AND YOGAS OF RAHU AND KETU

Sloka:
Yadyad Bhavagathow Vapi yadyaadbhavesa sam yuthow|
Thatphalani Prabalow pradisetham Thamograhow ||
Rahu and Ketu give results appropriate to their being aspected and by whomsoever
they are combined with or in whose Houses they are positioned. But, many
Astrologers do not agree with this. According to them, their exhaltation, Own
Houses and Friendly Houses are assigned, and Yoga is determined according to their
stithi and planetary combination.

These Planets independently can give Yoga just as all other Planets; this is
proved by practice and confirmed by Sages.
Sloka:
Rahu Vyeyecha Yoga sathaapa Hartha ||
Kethasthruteeya Samsthanam Yogoyam Bhavathee Dhruvam ||
Keturvraya Samasthanam Yogoyam Bhavathi Dhruvam ||
Sage Parasara
If Rahu is in 12th House, it gives bad Yoga. Similarly, regardless of the strengths of
the Lords of 3rd and 12th Houses, Ketu independently gives Yoga.

Sukra Ketu yuthe Bhaarya Garvishata Dushpraja – Sana ||

Sage Bruhaspati
Ketuna Prati bandhakaha ||
Sun Rahu Guribhihi Baahuputhraha ||
Sage Jaimini
Shaastraas give many such illustrations.

Whenever these two Planets combine with other Planets, they acquire the
good or bad of the Lordship’s of those Planets, and give Yoga independently,
irrespective of the good or bad of other Planets. The question arises on how to
distinguish between the influences of these shadow Planets and other Planets.
When any Planet other than the Shadow Planets are positioned in a House, their
individual Yogas are decided by their combination; but, this does not hold good for
Rahu and Ketu. But, other Planets cannot take their strengths in combination with
Rahu and Ketu.

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9.4 EXAMPLES
9.4.1 Example in Saggitarius Lagna
In Saggitarius Lagna, Mars and Rahu are in combination in 9th House. Leo
Raasi is good for Rahu, but bad for Mars by virtue of its Konadhipatya (Lord of 5th and
12th Houses) and its position in 9th House. Rahu independently gives good Yoga,
while Mars gives bad Yoga. Because Mars gives bad Yoga both by its position and
Lordships, it is wrong to say that Rahu gives bad Yoga on account of its combination
with Mars.

The following are additional Yogas:

(1) Rahu and Ketu give good Yoga in combination with Naturally Bad Planets in
Kendra positions. The Yoga is higher when these Houses are sthira Rasis or
papagraha Rasis.
(3) Ketu spoils the Yoga in combination with Venus. It is worse, if they are in bad
houses.
(4) Ketu gives good Yoga in combination with Saturn.
(5) Rahu and Ketu give good Yoga in combination with Moon.
(6) Rahu in Kendra positions gives good Yoga, in combination with Moon as Lord of
Kendra or Kona positions. When this combination takes place in Aries and Leo
Rasis, the Yoga is greater.
(7) When Sun is Lord of Kendras and is in combination with Rahu, it gives good
Yogas in Kendra positions; this is valid for other Naturally Bad Planets also.

9.4.2 Example in Scorpio Lagna

In this Lagna, Jupiter is in combination with Ketu in the 2nd House, gives
good Dhana Yoga. If this combination of planets is in Kendra and Kona positions, it
gives good Yoga.

9.4.3 Other Examples

Sloka:
Yadi Kendre thrikone Vaa Nivasetham Thamo grahow ||
Nathenanyathara Sthyava Sambandhyadyoga karakau ||
When Rahu and Ketu are in Kendra and Kona positions, they give Yoga only when
they are in combination with Kendradhipatis and Konadhipatis.

Some astrologers suggest that Rahu and Ketu give good Yoga, when they are
(1) In Kendra positions, if they combine with Konadhipatis or are aspected by
Konadhipatis, and
(2) In Kona positions, if they combine with Kendradhipatis.

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On the other hand, they do not give good Yoga, when they are
(1) In Kendra positions, if they combine with Kendradhipatis, and
(2) In Kona positions, if they combine with Konadhipatis.
But, these Yogas are not found to be true in practice. Instead, it is observed that Rahu
and Ketu give Yoga, when they combine with Lord of bad houses.

Planetary combinations that give Yogas to Rahu do not necessarily apply to

Ketu. Rahu and Ketu can give Yogas when positioned in houses other than Kendra
and Kona positions. Their combinations are good with Lords of Kendra and Kona
positions, but this is not always found to be true in practice. For instance, they are
good, when:
(1) Mercury and Jupiter are Lords of Kendra houses for Virgo, Saggitarius and
Pisces Lagnas;
(2) Venus is Lord of Kendra house for Capricorn Lagna;
(3) Mars is Lords of Kendra house for Cancer and Leo Lagnas; and
(4) Sun and Moon are Lords of Kendra and Kona house.
This is because, when these planets in items (1), (2) and (3) become Lords of Kendra
and Kona houses, they have Lordship of only Good Houses and not of Bad Houses.

Their effects are different when positioned in Houses of Naturally Bad and
Naturally Good Planets. By both their nature and their periods, they will have the
same strength. Many other factors should be considered in determining good or bad
Yoga of Rahu and Ketu. These are:
(1) Their effects when they are in 2nd and 11th House.
(2) Their positions in these Houses and in combination with Planets which are in
exaltation and debilitation.

For other Lagnas, Planets have Lordship of bad houses along with Lordship
of Kendra and Kona houses. When Rahu and Ketu combine with such Planets their
effect needs to be understood. Generally, Rahu and Ketu are known as Tamograhas
by their natural quality and their combination and position, they don’t give the
same type of Yoga. While determining the Yoga, they should be read differently. So,
Sage Jaimini said
Vipareetham Ketuhoo ||
This Sloka implies that Rahu should be read differently from Ketu. According to
other astrologers, these Yogas should be determined differently and separately.

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9.5 LAGNA-WISE YOGAS OF RAHU AND KETU

9.5.1 Aries Lagna
The combination of Rahu with Mars gives:
(1) Good Yoga in Aries and Cancer Rasis;
(2) Very Ordinary Yoga in Libra Rasi;
(3) No good Yoga in Capricorn Rasi;
(4) Good Yoga in Leo Rasi;
(5) Little less good Yoga in Sagittarius Rasi; and
(6) No Yoga, when Rahu is in Bad Houses, except when in 8th House.
The combination of Rahu and Jupiter gives good Yoga, when in Kendra and Kona
positions. The combination of Rahu and Mercury does not give good Yoga. The
combination of Rahu and Venus gives good Yoga, when in Kendra positions, except
when in the 7th House. Rahu gives good Yoga in 11th House.

Ketu gives good Yoga in Kendra and Kona positions, and in 3rd and 12th
Houses. Ketu gives no Yoga when in 11th House. Ketu give greater Yoga when in
Konas than Rahu. The combination of Ketu with:
(1) Moon, gives less Yoga;
(2) Venus, reduces the influence of other Planets also. The Yoga is much worse when
in bad houses.

9.5.2 Taurus Lagna

Rahu gives good Yoga in Kendra positions and in 2nd House. Rahu gives much
lesser Yoga in Kona positions than in Kendra positions. Rahu gives very ordinary Yoga
in 6th, 8th, 11th and 12th Houses. The combination of Rahu with:
(1) Other Naturally Bad Planets in Kendra positions gives greater Raja Yoga.
(2) Other Planets gives much less Yoga.
(3) Jupiter gives worse Yoga.

Ketu gives good Yoga in Kendra positions, and in 3rd and 12th Houses. The
combination of Ketu with:
(1) Venus gives bad Yoga;
(2) Jupiter gives no good Yoga; and
(3) Sun and Mercury gives bad Yoga.

9.5.3 Gemini Lagna

Rahu gives good Yoga when in Kendra and Kona positions, provided it is not
present along with other planets. Rahu gives good Yoga when present alone in 11th
House, and ordinary Yoga in 2nd House. The combination of Rahu with:
(1) Other Naturally Bad Planets gives bad Yoga; and
(2) Naturally Good Planets gives good Yoga for Rahu and not with other planets.
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Ketu gives good Yoga when in Kendra and Kona positions, provided it is not
present along with other planets. Ketu gives bad Yoga when present alone in 11th
House. The combination of Ketu with:
(1) Other Naturally Bad Planets gives bad Yoga;
(2) Naturally Good Planets gives good Yoga for Ketu and not with other planets; and
(3) Mars gives good Yoga in Kona positions.
(4) Mars gives bad Yoga, when present in bad houses and in Kendra positions.

9.5.4 Cancer Lagna

Rahu gives good Yoga when alone. The combination of Rahu with:
(1) Jupiter in Kendra and Kona positions gives good Yoga;
(2) Venus gives good Yoga;
(3) Sun gives ordinary but less Yoga;
(4) Moon in Kendra position gives good Yoga;
(5) Mars and Saturn give good Yoga, when in Kendra and Kona positions;
(6) Mars gives better Yoga, when it is in Aries Rasi; and
(7) Saturn gives better Yoga, when it is in Capricorn Rasi.

Ketu gives good Yoga when alone. Ketu has same Yogas as Rahu for the same
combinations mentioned in items (1) to (4) above. In addition, the combination of
Ketu with:
(1) Moon gives greater good Yoga than combination of Rahu with Moon;
(2) Mars and Saturn gives good Yoga when in Kendra and Kona positions;
(3) Saturn in Capricorn Rasi gives good Yoga;
Yogas applicable for Rahu and Ketu are:
(1) Naturally Bad Planets give good Yoga, when present in 9th House, but the Yoga is
different, when in 5th House (Kona position);
(2) Jupiter gives no Yoga, when present in Kona positions; and
(3) Rahu period in between Periods of Mars and Jupiter, will not give Yoga.

9.5.5 Leo Lagna

Rahu gives good Yoga, when present alone in Kendra and Kona positions, and
when present in 3rd and 11th Houses. The combination of Rahu with:
(1) Mercury, Jupiter and Moon gives good Yoga, but gives no good Yoga, when in
10th House.
(2) Naturally Bad Planets, gives good Yoga for Rahu alone, when present in Kendra
and Kona postions.
Ketu gives good Yoga, when present alone in Kendra and Kona positions, and when
present in 3rd and 11th Houses. Ketu has same Yogas as Rahu for the same
combinations mentioned above. Also, Ketu gives greater Yoga in 12th House than in
11th House.
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9.5.6 Virgo Lagna

Rahu gives good Yoga, when present in 3rd, 6th or 12th House. Rahu gives
good Yoga, when present alone in Kona positions. The combination of Rahu with:
(1) Mercury and Jupiter gives no good Yoga, when present in Kendra and Kona
positions.
(2) Saturn, Venus and Mars, or with any one of them, gives reduced Yoga.

Ketu gives bad Yoga, when present in 11th House. Ketu gives good Yoga,
when present in 3rd and 6th Houses. Ketu gives good Yoga, when present alone in
Kona positions. Ketu has same Yogas as Rahu for the same combinations mentioned
above.

9.5.7 Libra Lagna

Rahu gives Yoga when present in 3rd, 6th, 8th, 11th or 12th House. Rahu gives
better Yoga when present in Kendra position than in Kona position. Of the Kendra
positions, the Yoga is better in Capricorn and Aires Rasis. Rahu in combination with
(1) Saturn gives bad Yoga, when present in 12th House; and
(2) Moon, Mars and Saturn gives good Yoga.

Ketu gives good Yoga when present in 3rd, 6th or 12th House. Ketu gives better
Yoga when present in Kendra position than in Kona position. Of the Kendra positions,
the Yoga is better in Capricorn and Aires Rasees. Ketu in combination with
(1) Saturn gives good Yoga, when present in 12th House, but bad Yoga when present
in 5th House; and
(2) Moon, Mars and Saturn gives good Yoga.

9.5.8 Scorpio Lagna

Rahu in combination with
(1) Jupiter gives bad Yoga, when positioned in 2nd House;
(2) Naturally Bad Planets, Rahu gives very good Raja Yoga, not only in their periods,
but also in general;
(3) Mercury gives bad Yoga; and
(4) Moon gives very good Yoga, when positioned in Kendra and Kona positions.

Ketu gives bad Yoga, when positioned in 11th House. Ketu in combination
with
(1) Venus gives bad Yoga, when positioned in Kendra and Kona positions, and give
worst Yoga, when in positioned in bad houses. This combination of Ketu with
Venus reduces general Yoga in the horoscope;
(2) Jupiter gives good Yoga, when positioned in 2nd House;

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(3) Naturally Bad Planets, Ketu gives very good Raja Yoga, not only during its
periods, but also in general;
(4) Mercury gives bad Yoga; and
(5) Moon gives very good Yoga, when positioned in Kendra and Kona positions.

9.5.9 Saggitarius Lagna

Both Rahu and Ketu give good Yoga, when positioned in Kendra and Kona
positions or when alone in bad houses. Rahu or Ketu in combination with
(1) Jupiter and Mercury gives bad Yoga; and
(2) Mars and Saturn gives good Yoga, though Rahu and Ketu give greater Yoga.

9.5.10 Capricorn Lagna

Both Rahu and Ketu give very good Yoga, when positioned in Kendra and
Kona positions. Rahu or Ketu in combination with
(1) Sun gives bad Yoga; and
(2) Mars, Saturn and Mercury give good Yoga.
Rahu in combination with Mercury gives lesser Yoga, than Ketu in combinatiojn with
Mercury. But, Rahu in combination with Moon is greater good Yoga than Ketu in
combination with Moon.

Rahu gives good Yoga, when poisitoned in 8th House. Rahu in combination
with
(1) Jupiter gives bad Yoga; and
(2) Jupiter and Mars, Mars gives bad Yoga, but good Yoga is given by Jupiter and
Rahu.

9.5.11 Aquarius Lagna

Both Rahu and Ketu do not give good Yoga, when positioned in 8th House.
They give better Yoga, when they are alone in bad houses. Rahu and Ketu in
combination with
(1) Sun, Mars and Saturn gives very good Yoga. Ketu gives greater Yoga than Rahu;
and
(2) Jupiter and Moon in Kendra positions gives good Yoga.

9.5.12 Pisces Lagna

The Yogas are the same as in Sagittarius Lagna.

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9.6 ADDITIONAL SLOKAS ON YOGAS OF RAHU AND KETU

Yogas of Rahu and Ketu are mentioned in Dasaphala Khanda of
Uttarakalaamrutam. The related Slokas and Sutras of Kalidasa are given as under:

9.6.1 Navagraha Subhapapatwa Phalanirupana

Sloka
Lagnaath Konagathow Cha Vithamadana Sthaneneswaraabhayaam thamaha;
Khetow Samyuthaveeshethow Nijadasakalee Hee Mrutyupradow l
Netradyunagathow Trikonapathiyu Gadhrushta Dhanaayuhpradow
Tadbhaveswarayuktha Paapakhacharoo Mrutyum Vidhathee Nrunaam ll

If Rahu or Ketu occupy

(1) 5th or 9th House (a Trikona House) and be conjoined with or aspected by the Lord
of 2nd or 7th House, then it will cause death during their periods and sub-
periods;
(2) 7th or 2nd House and be cojoined with or aspected by the Lord of 5th or 9th House,
it will cause wealth and long life during their periods and sub-periods; and
(3) 2nd or the 7th House and is conjoined with any malefic Planet owning the 2nd or
7th House, then it will cause death during its periods and sub-periods.
For instance, if Rahu is positioned in the 5th House along with Mercury (the Lord of
the 7th House), then it will cause death during the Rahu periods. The above Yogas
arising from the sloka are presented Table 9.3.

Table 9.3: Yogas given by Sage Kalidasa in Navagraha Subhapapatwa Phalanirupana Sloka

and/or and Posited Yoga of

S.No. Planet Aspected by
Conjoined by in Rahu / Ketu Periods
1. If Rahu or Ketu Lord of 2nd or Lord of 2nd or 7th 5th or 9th then the person will
7th House House House, have death.
2. If Rahu or Ketu Lord of 5th or Lord of 5th or 9th 7th or 2nd then the person will
9th House House House, have wealth,
properties of high
values, and longevity.
3. If Rahu or Ketu - Malefic Lords of 7th or 2nd Rahu or Ketu main
2nd or 7th House House, Periods is
Mrutyuprada.

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9.6.2 Yoganthara Phala

Sloka
Syaathaam Ketu Vidhunthudow Dwitanubhe Kendratrikoneeswarai
Ryukthow Vaa Tadadheeswarow Yadi Tayooh Pakeerdharajyapradow l
Taveva Vyayasatruramdhrasadanaadheeaischa Yukethesthethoo
Nrunaamalpaphalapradow Cha Jananeem Tadwargasamharikow ll

Two cases are discussed in the above, namely:

(1) If Rahu or Ketu occupy a Dual Raasee along with the Lord of the 1st, 4th, 5th, 7th, 9th
or 10th House, or happen to be the Lord of any of those Rasis (Dual Rasis), then it
will give wealth, power, etc., during the Planets periods; and
(2) If Rahu or Ketu is conjoined with or aspected by the Lord of 6th, 8th or 12th House,
then it will not give much Yoga, but during its period, it will cause death of the
person’s Mother or a near relative.
The above Yogas arising from the sloka are presented Table 9.4.

Table 9.4: Yogas given by Sage Kalidasa in Yoganthara Phala Sloka

or happen to be
and Lords of Rasis or
S.No. Planet Positioned in Conjoined where Rahu or Aspected Yoga
with Ketu are by
positioned
1. If Rahu or Gemini, Lords of 1st, Gemini, Virgo, then the person will
Ketu Virgo, 4th, 7th, 10th Saggitarius, or have Dhana and Raja
Saggitarius, 5th or 9th Pisces, Yoga and happiness
or Pisces Houses during the periods of
Rasee Rahu and Ketu.
2. Rahu or Houses of Lords of 6th, Lords of then the person will
Ketu Lords of 1st, 8th or 12th 6th, 8th or have very little Yoga,
4th, 7th, 10th, Houses 12th House and will face the death
5th or 9th of Mother or other
Houses near relation during
the periods of Rahu
and Ketu.

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9.6.3 Mariyoka Veshesha Phala

Sloka
Thaaveeva Sthira Chanchala Sahethow Kendra trikonaadhipai,
Ruktaanavyubhayooscha rakshayahhubha Gruhee Sa Syaanmaahaabhaagyadah,
Paaparakshasthathamoogahow Viphaladow Keechijjagu Saukhyadow,
Thow Drow Paapagruhasthithow Subhayuthow Syaathaam Mahaamarakow ll

If Rahu or Ketu occupy

(1) a fixed or a movable Rasi and is conjoined with Planets owning a Kendra or Trikona
house, it will give good fortune during the period of one of the two planets
occupying an auspicious House;
(2) a malefic House, it will not cause any good Yoga; but, some astrologers opine
that it will bring happiness; and
(3) malefic Houses and conjoined with benefic planets, it becomes instrumental in
causing the demise.
The above Yogas arising from the sloka are presented Table 9.5.

Table 9.5: Yogas given by Sage Kalidasa in Mariyoka Veshesha Phala

and Conjoined Planets positioned

S.No. Planet Positioned in Yoga
with in Subha Rasi
1. If Rahu or Fixed or Movable Lords of 1st, 4th, Rahu, Ketu, or then the person
Ketu Rasi 7th, 10th, 5th or 9th Lords of 1st, 4th, 7th, will have highest
Houses 10th, 5th or 9th financial status and
House, gains.
2. If Rahu or 3rd, 6th, 8th or 12th then the person
Ketu Houses will not have any
good effect and
spoils Yoga, but
sometimes will
give have
happiness.
3. If Rahu or 3rd, 6th, 8th or 12th Lords of 1st, 4th, then the person
Ketu Houses 7th, 10th, 5th or 9th will face death.
Houses,

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9.6.4 Nishta Phala

Sloka
Riphaashtaarigruhasthithow Tatadhipai Ryuktheeshithow Himsakow
Syaataam Marakasamyuthow Tadhadhipaipthaaveeva Mruthyupradow,
Tadbhaveeshu Cha Kendrakonapathibhiryukthow Kwachi Thokyowkhyadow,
Cheedwaayaadhi Vranadukkhakhadgasalilaachowchowdhnandbana Namrusyadow ||

If Rahu or Ketu
(1) occupy 6th, 8th or 12th House and is conjoined with or aspected by any of the
Lords of these Houses, it will give bad Yoga during its periods;
(2) conjoin with Maraca planets or with the Lords of bad houses, it will casue death;
and
(3) is associated with the Lords of Kendra and Kona Houses and is positioned in bad
houses, then it will cause some happiness, and then bring death through
disease, wounds, misery, swordcuts, drowning or suicide.
The above Yogas arising from the sloka are presented Table 9.6.

Table 9.6: Yogas given by Sage Kalidasa in Nishta Phala

and Conjoined and/or

S.No. Planet Positioned in Yoga
with Aspected by
1. If Rahu or 6th, 8th or 12th Lords of 6th, 8th Lords of 6th, 8th or then the person
Ketu House, or 12th House, 12th House, will be afflicted
during the periods
of Rahu or Ketu.
2. If Rahu or Maraka Planets then the person
Ketu or with Lords of will face death.
Houses 3rd, 6th,
8th or 12th House,
3. If Rahu or 3rd, 6th, 8th or 12th Lords of Houses then the person
Ketu House, 1st, 4th, 7th, 10th, 5th will have some
or 9th House, happiness, but will
face death, either
through disease,
wounds, misery,
swordcuts,
drowning or
suicide.

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9.6.5 Sambandha Subhasubha Phalas

Sloka
Bhrathrupraapthi Chathustayeeshu Balibhi Ryogagrahirannwithow,
Sampathsowkhyasuthaardharajyakarinow Yanootkataanichachata,
Taaveeva Smararaasiseeva Yadivaa Vittadhipeenaasrithow,
Taabhyaam Drukkpadhagow Tadaa Dhanahaarow Syaataam Mahaamaarakow ll

If Rahu or Ketu is combined with

(1) strong Yogakaraka Planets and is positioned in the 1st, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 7th, 9th or 10th
House, it will give prosperity, happiness, children, wealth, power and superior
vehicles; and
(2) Lords of the 7th and 2nd Houses or aspected by them, it will cause the entire loss
of wealth and bring about death.
The above Yogas arising from the sloka are presented Table 9.7.

Table 9.7: Yogas given by Sage Kalidasa in Sambandha Subhasubha Phalas

and/or
S.No. Planet Positioned in Yoga
Conjoined with
1. If Rahu and 1st, 3rd, 4th, 7th, 9th, Lords of 1st, 4th, then the person will have very
Ketu or 10th House 7th, 10th, 5th or 9th good Raja Yoga.
House,

2. If Rahu and Lords of 7th or 2nd then the person will have loss of
Ketu House, or wealth and face death.
aspected by
Lords of 7th or 2nd
House,

9.6.6 Ucha-Neecha Rasis

Sloka
Tungamtadwavrushabhaschacha Pruschichika ithi Syaadraahoo Kethoothworgharuhee
Kumbhooleemidhunaanganee Tu Bhavatoo Moolatrikonabhidhee |
Simhah Karkatakoo Dwayoo Ripugruhee Thowleemrugoo Mitrabhee,
Joodeeveejyagruhee Sameekhalabalam Tungaadigow tow Yadi ||

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The Sloka suggests the following:

(1) The Exaltation Houses of Rahu and Ketu are Taurus and Scorpio, respectively;
(2) Aquarius and Scorpio are their own Houses;
(3) Gemini and Virgo are their Moolatrikona Houses;
(4) Leo and Cancer are their Inimical Houses;
(5) Libra and Capricorn are their Friendly Houses;
(6) Aries and the two Raasees owned by Jupiter are their Neutral Houses; Rahu and
Ketu possess maximum strength, when in exaltation. At other places, their
strengths are proportional to the nature of their relation to Houses they occupy.
The above Yogas arising from the sloka are presented Table 9.8.

Table 9.8: Yogas given by Sage Kalidasa in Ucha-Neecha Raasees

S.No. Planet’s Character Rahu Ketu

1. Exaltation to possess maximum strength Taurus Scorpio
2. Swakshetra Aquarius Scorpio
3. Moolatrikona Gemini Virgo
4. Inimical House Leo Cancer
5. Friendly House Libra Capricorn
6. Neutral House Aries Saggitarius and Pisces

9.6.7 Sambandhavasa Phala

Sloka
Yadyadbhavagathow Yadeesasahethow Pragvakthiitri Sambamdhagow
Tadhaayee Disathothra Veeryasahithow Khetaanni Rasyeetaraan,
Thow Dwyavow Yasya Gruhee Khagasya Vasata Sthadweeveeryameevaanayoo
Raabhavasyaapyakhilam Subhaasubha Phalam Nadhaanusaaradwadeth ||

The Sloka suggests the following:

(1) If Rahu or Ketu possessing strength is positioned in any Bhava or have any one of
the 3 relations (friendly, neutral or inimical) with the Lord of any Bhava, it
causes good and bad Yogas during their periods, overlooking the effects, if any,
that may be caused by other Planets.
(2) Whichever house Rahu or Ketu occupies, it will possess the strength of the Lord
of that House, and the good and bad Yogas resulting from the Bhava they
occupy; its influence should be predicted according to the strength of the Lord
of that Bhava.

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9.7 DETERMINING STRENGTHS OF RAHU AND KETU

9.7.1 Signs in which Rahu/Ketu are Stronger
Rahu and Ketu have been assigned different Signs associated with each of the
characteristics. These are shown in Table 9.9. The same data is presented Sing-wise
in Table 9.10; numbers given in Table 9.10 refer to S.No. of Author in Table 9.9.

Table 9.9: Characters of Rahu and Ketu as given by different authors of books on
Astrology

S.No. Author Character

Own Exaltation Debilitation Moola Friendly
House Trikona Sign
1 Rao, 1933 Rahu - Taurus Scorpio Cancer Aries
in English Ketu - Scorpio Taurus Capricorn Libra
2 Murty, 1925 Rahu Cancer Leo Aquarius - -
in English Ketu Capricorn Aquarius Leo - -
3 Raman, 1992 Rahu Leo Taurus 20 Scorpio 20 - -
in English Ketu AquariusScorpio 20 Taurus 20 - -
4 Yavana, 1982 Rahu - Gemini, Sagittarius Leo -
in Telugu Cancer
Ketu - Sagittarius, Gemini Virgo, -
Capricorn Aquarius
5 Rao, 1992 Rahu Virgo Taurus Scorpio Aquarius -
in Telugu Ketu Pisces Scorpio Taurus Leo -
6 Ramamurty, 1992 Rahu Aquarius Taurus Scorpio Gemini -
in Telugu Ketu Scorpio Scorpio Taurus Virgo -
7 Rao, 1993 Rahu Virgo Gemini Sagittarius Aquarius -
in Telugu Ketu Pisces Sagittarius Gemini Leo -
8 Veerabhadra, 1994 Rahu Virgo Taurus Scorpio - -
in Telugu Ketu Aquairus Pisces Virgo - -
9 Meena, 1995 Rahu Aquarius Scorpio Taurus - -
in English Ketu Aries Scorpio Taurus - -
10 Rao, 1996 Rahu - Gemini 21 Sagittarius 21 - -
in Telugu Ketu - Sagittarius 21 Gemini 21 - -
11 Sastry, 2006 Rahu Virgo Taurus Scorpio - -
in Telugu Ketu Pisces Scorpio Taurus - -
12 Vyas, 2000 Rahu - Gemini Sagittarius - -
in English Ketu - Sagittarius Gemini - -

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13 Trivedi, 2002 Rahu Aquarius, Gemini Sagittarius Scorpio -

in English Virgo (1320’-1640’) (00’-320’) (640’- -
1000’)
Ketu Scorpio, Sagittarius Gemini Aries
Pisces (00’-320’) (1320’-1640’) (00’-
320’)
14 Vashisht, 2003 Rahu Pisces Gemini, Sagittarius, - -
in English Virgo Pisces
Ketu Virgo Sagittarius, Gemini, - -
Pisces Virgo
15 Murthy, 2005 Rahu Virgo Gemini Sagittarius Leo -
in Telugu Ketu Pisces Sagittarius Gemini Aquarius -
16 Kapoor, 2004 Rahu - Taurus Scorpio - -
in English Ketu - Scorpio Taurus - -
17 Phaniraj, 2005 Rahu Gemini Taurus Scorpio - -
in Telugu Ketu Sagittarius Scorpio Taurus - -
18 Sastrulu, 2007 Rahu Gemini Taurus Scorpio - -
in Telugu Ketu Sagittarius Scorpio Taurus - -

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Table 9.10: Characters of Rahu and Ketu in different Signs as given by different authors of
books on Astrology

S.No. Sign Character addressed by Author (S.No. as per Table 9.9)

Own House Exaltation Debilitation Moola Friendly
Trikona Sign
1. Aries Rahu - - - - 1
Ketu - - - - -
2. Taurus Rahu - 1,3,5,6,8, 9 - -
11,16,17,18
Ketu - - 1,3,5,6,9, - -
11,16,17,18
3. Gemini Rahu 17,18 4,7,10,12, - - 6
13,14,15
Ketu - - 4,7,10,12, - -
13,14,15
4. Cancer Rahu 2 4 - 1 -
Ketu - - - - -
5. Leo Rahu 3 2 - 4,15 -
Ketu - - 2 5,7 -
6. Virgo Rahu 5,7,8,11, - - - -
13,14,15 -
Ketu 14 - 8,14 4,6
7. Libra Rahu - - - - -
Ketu - - - - -
8. Scorpio Rahu - 9 1,3,5,6,9, 13 -
11,16,17,18 -
Ketu 7,13 1,3,5,6,8, - -
11,16,17,18
9. Sagittarius Rahu - - 4,7,10.12, - -
13,14,15
Ketu 17,18 4,7,10.12, - - -
13,14,15
10. Capricorn Rahu - - - - -
Ketu 2 4 - 1 -
11. Aquarius Rahu 6,9,13 - 2 5,8 -
Ketu 3,8 2 - 4,15 -
12. Pisces Rahu 14 - 14 - -
Ketu 5,7,11,13,15 8,14 - - -

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The following conclusions are drawn from Table 9.10:

(a) The maximum number of authors favouring a particular character of Rahu are:
Ownership – Virgo
Exaltation – Taurus
Debilitation – Scorpio
Moola Trikona – Aquarius
(b) The maximum number of authors favouring a particular character of Ketu are
exactly 180 opposite to the maximum number of authors favouring the same
character of Rahu:
Ownership – Pisces
Exaltation – Scorpio
Debilitation – Taurus
Moola Trikona – Leo

9.7.2 Additional Characteristics of Rahu and Ketu

Details in Section 9.7.1 are listed only based on some characteristics. The
additional characteristics, such as (a) relationship with planets, (b) co-rulership, (c)
Yogakaraka Ascendants, (d) exaltation and Moolatrikona signs with degrees in which
Rahu and Ketu are stronger and strongest, (e) strengths in signs, (f) aspects and
conjunctions, (g) quick and sudden results, (h) strength in Dakshinayana and when
Moon is transiting star, and (i) some other additional characteristics.

Mr. Prakash Trivedi was amongst the first authors to put together an
exhaustive, historical, numerological and esoteric account of Lunar Modes,
including a masterful perspective on their relevance in the present day and age
[Trivedi, 2002]. The book, published in 2002, has 390 pages with 32 examples. Some
salient aspects related to character of Signs and Planets are presented in this section
(other than those presented in Section 9.7.1). Table 9.11 presents a summary of the
same.

The characters vary widely, such as Ownership, Exaltation, Debilitation,

Moolatrikona given to Rahu and Ketu by various authors. The conclusions drawn are
on statistical angle, but those that are adopted differently need a careful study; it is a
subject for possible further study and thus has scope of research. The additional
information and detailed analysis given by Mr. Trivedi will be useful, while
predicting results for Rahu and Ketu.

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Table 9.11: Other Characters of Rahu and Ketu in different Signs [Trivedi, 2002]

S.No. Category Rahu Ketu

1 Relationship with Planets
(a) Friends Saturn, Mercury, Mars, Jupiter
Venus
(b) Neutral Mars, Jupiter Saturn, Mercury, Venus
(c) Enemy Sun, Moon Sun, Moon
(d) More inimical Sun > Moon Moon > Sun
2 Co-Rulership
FIRST SIGN Aquarius Scorpio
(a) Stronger as per Nakshatra and 0320’ to 0640’
Navamsa 1640’ to 2000’ 1640’ to 2000’
2640’ to 3000’ 2000’ to 2320’
(b) Strongest in 1640’ to 2000’ 1640’ to 2000’
SECOND SIGN Virgo Pisces
(a) Stronger in 0000’ to 0320’ 0000’ to 0320’
1640’ to 2000’ 2320’ to 2640’
2640’ to 3000’ 2640’ to 3000’
(b) Strongest in 1640’ to 2000’ 1640’ to 2000’
3 Yoga Karaka for Ascendants Taurus, Gemini Cancer, Scorpio
Libra, Aquarius Aquarius, Pisces
4 Exaltation Sign
Gemini Sagittarius
(a) Stronger in 0320’ to 0640’ 0000’ to 0320’
1320’ to 1640’ 2320’ to 2640’
2640’ to 3000’ 2640’ to 3000’
(b) Strongest in 1320’ to 1640’ 0000’ to 0320’
5 Moola Trikona Sign
Scorpio Aries
(a) Stronger in 0640’ to 1000’ 0000’ to 0320’
1640’ to 2000’ 2320’ to 2640’
2640’ to 3000’ 2640’ to 3000’
(b) Strongest in 0640’ to 1000’ 0000’ to 0320’
6 Strong in Signs Gemini, Virgo, Aries, Scorpio,
Scorpio, Aquarius Sagittarius, Leo,
Pisce, Leo, aspected by
Jupiter

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7 Aspects and Conjunctions

(a) Aspect Houses 5th and 9th Houses 5th and 9th Houses
(b) Conjunction with other Planets 1 1
(most important; same sign)
(c) Influence enhanced when placed 15 15
at mid points of the house Mid-
Heaven and Ascendant
(d) Influence is more when close to Within the orbit of Within the orbit of 5
other Planets and Luminaries (for 5
full results for Aspect and
Conjunction)
8 Quick and Suddnen Results Rahu only 2nd to No Planet equal to Ketu
Ketu
9 Stronger in Dakshinayana 21st June 21st June
To 22nd December to 22nd December
Note: This applies to all malefics.
10 Strong when Moon transitting stars Arudra, Swati, Ashwini, Makha, Moola
governed by them Satabhisha
11 Other Characters
(a) Days assigned Between Tuesday Between Wednesday
and Thursday and Friday
(b) More strong on Wednesday Thursday
(c) Energies are strongest during Sunset, couple of Sunrise, couple of hours
hours after Sunset before Sunrise
(d) Strong throughout Night time Night time
(e) Results occur Like flashes of Sudden rise, fall or
intuition transformation
(f) Maturity time or change of life of 42nd Year 47th to 48th Year
the person
(g) Manifests complete results or 42nd to 47th Year 19th, 38th, 57th and 76th
bring out some churning and Years
subsequent transformation in
the life of the person

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9.8 KAALA SARPA YOGA

9.8.1 Kaala Sarpa Yoga and its Effects
This Yoga is formed when all seven Planets are on one side of the axis of
Rahu and Ketu. Rahu is the head and Ketu, the tail. The encircling of the Planets
between the nodes is called Kaala Sarpa Yoga. In general, it is not a good Yoga. It
causes (a) ups and downs in life, (b) strain and stress in life, (c) dejection of spirits,
(d) delay in realization of the fruits of labour, (e) disproportionate levels of success
compared to the efforts put in, (f) unexpected turn of events, sometimes. When the
Yoga has beneficial influence of other benefics, it
(a) elevates the person to a high pedestal in life, and
(b) makes the person to enjoy eminent rank and position with affluence, not
indicated by the other Yogas.

9.8.2 Views of Some Astrologers

The following are a section of views of a section of astrologers on the Kaala
Sarpa Yoga:
(1) No Planet should be in conjunction with Rahu and Ketu.
(2) Other beneficial Yogas in the horoscope will over-ride the influence of Kaala
Sarpa Yoga.
(3) The Kaala Sarpa Yoga will not prevail, be effective, or affect the person, when
Ketu faces the Planets. In other words, Kaala Sarpa Yoga is effective only when
Rahu faces the Planets in its motion. Motions of Rahu and Ketu are in retrograde
in the zodiac. In the first case, it results in Kaala Sarpa Yoga bhanga.
(4) Rahu and Ketu are the head and tail of the Asura. Thus, the logic appears to be
that Rahu, the emitter of poison, through its mouth is more effective than Ketu
emitting poison through it tail. It is concluded that it is immaterial whether it is
jettisoned through the head or the tail, as the nature of poison is the same, and
hence both examples are called Kaala Sarpa in horoscopes.
(a) Even if Lagna falls outside, it is still called Kaala Sarpa Yoga. This Lagna is free
from the controls and influences except by aspects of the Planets, if any on
the Lagna.
(b) When Lagna is in the zone of Planets, it is very much influenced by the
Planets.
(c) On deeper consideration that Lagnadhipati and Stellar Lord of the Lord of
Lagna degree come under the influence of configuration of Planets to bring
into the axis of the nodes, except in case the Lagna degree, either falls in the
constellation of Rahu or Ketu, which themselves form the axis. Thus, even
here, the Lagna falls within the ambit of influence of the Rahu-Ketu axis.

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(6) Practising astrologers are of the opinion that when this Yoga is formed in Kendra
positions, one may expect good results. A few are of the opinion that this Yoga
only affects the two houses in which Rahu and Ketu are present. This Yoga,
though an evil one, does not spoil all the aspects of life, but Mars alone does to a
limited extent.
(7) Evil effects are felt in certain conditions and circumstances.
(a) This Yoga operates throughout the lifetime of the person.
(b) Effects or influences of this Yoga are noticeable during Main Periods and
Bhukti Periods of Rahu, Ketu and Planets connected with Rahu and Ketu.

9.8.3 Effects of Yoga

Some of the effects of the Yoga are:
(1) The Yoga does not prevail in full, if Rahu and Ketu are influenced by beneficial
Planets.
(2) The Yoga gets annulled, when the Yoga has pervading influence of one single
benefic Planet.
(3) When nodes are in occupation of benefic constellation and well fortified, the
perons enjoys benefical results at appropriate Main Periods and Bhukti. Else, the
results are otherwise, if the constellations are malefic.
(4) If one of two benefic Planets are Star Lords, the person will be prominent and
rise to fame and prosperity with immense popularity, wealth and affluence.
(5) The hold of malefic Planets will lead to downfall and a miserable life, even if the
person is born in a family of power and influence.
(6) In this Yoga, the rise and fall in life will be with stress and strain, but these will
not be felt, when benefic Planets have an upper hand in the chart.
(7) The stellar effects are more prominent and striking over the outward
appearance and influence in the chart.
(8) When a benefic Planet is in conjunction, the person can expect good results
according to the nature of Planets joining the node.
(9) Vacant houses between Planets on the Rahu-Ketu axis in the chart, have
significance. It appears that the venom is evenly distributed on all houses or
Planets. But, in case of vacant houses, the venom gets stagnated and affects the
Planets in adjoining houses, either to cause bad results or water down the
beneficial effects.

Therefore, it is necessary and essential to examine the various facets

involved to arrive at an accurate delination in respect of the Kaala Sarpa Yoga
present in a horoscope. This Yoga finishes further fertile field for research
scholars [Raja, 2004].

…
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