A BRIEF LOOK AT THE TWELVE LAGNAS/ ASCENDANTS IN VEDIC ASTROLOGY

People are often curious at the beginning of their astrological quest, to know something of the
various facets pertaining to their ‘chart’; in other words, they wish to evaluate the basic
propensities pertaining to their Lagnas and their Rashi/ Lagna Kundalis (Kundalis). Also, the
Chandra Lagna itself and Gochar furnish other popular areas of curiosity.

Lagna is the sign rising on the Eastern horizon at the time of birth and is occupied by a Rāśi
(Rashi)/ Vedic sign. The average duration of a sign rising in the Lagna/ Ascendant is two hours
and for this reason the twelve Rāśis cover the twenty-four hours duration of the solar day.
(Basic Jyotiṣa principles can be accessed by clicking this link)

Lagna imbues a person with individuality and therefore denotes the self and the personality of
the person. It is the first house or Bhāva of the chart and is the commencement point of any
horoscopic study. We cannot forget that in all the divisional charts as well there is a Lagna/
ascendant and these are usually at variance with the Lagna rising in the Rāśi Cakra (Rashi
Chakra). In other words, different signs may and do tenant the various divisional charts. If the
same Rāśi (Rashi) should occupy the Lagna in the Rāśi (Rashi) and the Navāmśa Cakras
(Navamsha Chakras) then the Lagna is said to be Vargottama or occupying an Uttama Varga
or good division. We must be cautious here since if a planet in Rāśi (Rashi) debility also attains
debilitation in the Navāmśa (Navamsha) then there is nothing Uttama or good about it.

The rising sign or the Lagna and its Lord are extremely crucial as they show the self of the
person. Every rising sign or Lagna has its own characteristics since it decides a certain Karmic
metaphysics due to the positioning and allocation of matters to various signs and their lords.
For this reason even bereft of the information of placement of Grahas in the Rāśi Cakra (Rashi
Chakra) we can venture many opinions based on the rising sign or the ascendant or the Lagna.

Affliction to the Lagna Lord or Śrāpas/ curses imposing themselves on the lord of the
ascendant can lead to major issues that have to be contended with. An affliction by Śani (Shani)
for example could lead to an attention deficit disorder amongst other things.

The Lagneśa (Lagnesha) of the various Lagnas rising in the Rāśi Cakra (Rashi Chakra) as well
as the Varga Cakra/ divisional charts may also be referred to as the 'ruling planet'. The Lord of
the Lagna is the lord of the first Bhāva and therefore rules the chart and the person in question.
Whatever else it may do it always continues to govern and rule the native and never causes
harm to the person. The Ratna of the Lagneśa (Lagnesha) is therefore a safe stone to wear, as
a thumb rule. It is only a thumb rule as conjunctions and afflictions can tend to completely
change the picture and planets tend to impart their own hues to the conjoined Grahas. Another
thumb-rule is never wear a gemstone without authoritative advice since it touches the body/
Tanu.

The placement of the lord of the Lagna in a specific Bhāva (Bhava) from the Lagna is also of
great relevance. The Graha tends to sap that Bhāva (Bhava) of energy in order to feed the
native with energy and any other mode of sustenance. The placement of Lagneśa (Lagnesha)
in certain Bhāvas (Bhavas) is conspicuous and for good reason. Any association of the Lagna
and the 5th and 6th Bhāvas (Bhavas) and lords from the Lagna leads to the Dhīmantaha
(Dhimantah) Yoga which leads to high levels of intelligence. This is include the placement of
the Lagneśa (Lagnesha) in say the 6th Bhāva (Bhava) from the Lagna.

Another quick way to perceive Lagna and what it connotes is to view it as something 'rising' or
bringing to life that precious 'ray of light'. Though Diśā (Disha) or direction is more important for
the Kālacakra (Kalachakra), and in more immediate matters, from the Ārūḍha Lagna (Arudha
Lagna), we would do well to remember that the Diśā (Disha) of the Lagna or the direction
associated with the Lagna is the downward direction and is governed by Brahmā (Brahma).
Rajas decends into the world where it works best while something like Ketu sumbolises the
upward direction because Ketu wants to spiral out of creation into Mokṣa (Moksha) or release.

Even so, we must always remember that the Lagna Chakra is but one reference point and
others such as the charts reckoned from the Ārūḍha Lagna (Arudha Lagna) and the Kāraka
(Karaka) Lagna are equally important. We have to see where the important Ārūdha (Arudha)
Padas such as the A7 or the Dārāpada (Darapada) are placed which indicate sustenance,
wealth, and relationships, both from the Lagna and the Ārudha (Arudha) Lagna. The Kāraka
(Karaka) Lagna is actually supreme since the Ātmakāraka (Atmakaraka) is the KIng of the
horoscope according to Maharṣī Parāśara (Maharshi Parashara).

There can be other correlations such as the placement of Cañdra (Chandra)/ the Moon in the
Lagna-this means that the Lagna and the Rāśi (Rashi) are identical. Transits over the Lagna/
Rāśi (Rashi) have a far greater impact due to this as two reference points have come together.
As an aside, people with the Moon in the Lagna are sociable and easy to connect with-they
mingle a lot and get about. Cañdra (Chandra) is a Lagna in itself and is a very important
determinant of how matters related to the world will shape up.

Another point to clarify is that while each Lagna will have the various Rāśis (Rashis) / Vedic
signs positioned in a particular way and each Graha will be assigned different roles, one Lagna
cannot simply be preferred over another. Existence has created all of us with different Kārmic
frameworks which are well elaborated by the independent Lagnas rising there. In other words,
it is not correct to say wonder as to which Lagna might be best or indeed if one Lagna is better
than the other. Each Lagna/ rising sign will have its own characteristics.

With these points in mind let us proceed to study the various Lagnas or Ascendants in Jyotiṣa.

Meṣa (Mesha)/ Aries Lagna: The head of the Kalapurusha. The Royal sign. Ruled by the fiery
Mars, lording the 8th House also. Sudden changes in life are implicit but would also depend on
the placement of the 8th co-Lord Ketu. Yes, Ketu also lords Scorpio. Jupiter is also a good
planet, ruling Bhagya and foreign travel. Red Coral can be worn. So can the Ruby, indicative of
Surya, the 5th Lord of the future of the Jatak. Jupiter’s Pushyaraga/ Pukhraj can also be worn.
Avoid Diamond as Shukra is a Maraka for the Lagna and avoid any of these Ratnas given
above if the planets indicated are placed in strength in the 3rd or 6th Houses from the Arudha
Lagna. Unless you want to give everything up and head to the forest! Emerald, generally no no,
as Budh is a functional malefic, being the 3rd and 6th Lord for all you fiery, headstrong and
ambitious folk. There is a problem in that without association with saints and Saṅyāsīs, prayers
might not be accepted.

Gurū (Guru) shows the Dharma of the Lagna and so the natural inclination would be towards
eternal wisdom and the esoteric arts shown by Gurū (Guru). Bhagwāna is important for the
natives governed by Meṣa (Mesha) Lagna and Maṅgala (Mangala) because this is the only
way the battle can be won. Bhagwan Bhakta Vatsala, Maṅgala (Mangala).

Everything is archetypal for this Lagna since all the planets are the natural lords of the Bhāvas
they govern. If Śani (Shani) indicates sloggers and slogging then it is all the more so for this
Lagna since the Graha rules the 10th Bhāva (Bhava) of Karma and the profession. In this
manner all the planets, lords of the Bhāvas (Bhavas) are to be understood.

Vriṣabha (Vrishabha)/ Taurus Lagna: The pleasure loving. Ruled by Shukra, who also rules
the 6th House of enemies. Diamond can be worn save for the conditions laid down in Aries
above. Placement of Śukra in the Lagna can form the celebrated Mālavya (Malavya)Yoga
which can give a major knowledge of finance and taste for rich food. Finance and conservatism
will be dominant in the personality. Shani is the Yogakaraka but also the Badhak Lord. Devi
worship might become important to get over the struggle which appears destined. Blue
Sapphire is possible but I do not recommend this stone ever. If you want to appease Lord
Shani, do it differently. Emerald is a good choice as Mercury rules the 2nd and 5th. Eloquence
can be aplenty if this Graha is well placed. Quite conservative and focused on finances. The
sturdy and powerful Bull. Avoid Pukhraj unless Rahu is placed in the 9th House. Likewise for
the pearl as the Moon is the functionally malefic 3rd Lord of the chart.

Great fixity is seen and conservatism since this is a Sthira Rāśi (Rashi) and the anger of the
bull can be tremendous if roused. Be careful with these people especially if planets are placed
in the first Drekkāṇa (Drekkana).

These people have landed property and are the Zamindārs of yore. There is a tendency to get
the most out of peeople they interact with. This is the exaltation sign or the Uchcha Rāśi of the
Moon and so the kingdom of the world resides in this Rāśi. The Mūlatṛkoṇa Rāśi (Moolatrikona
Rashi) of the Moon as well and so Vaiśya (Vaishya) interaction is at its highest here (read
money-making).

Mithuna/ Gemini Lagna: Communication, writing, information and Mercurial worlds are
dominant. Governed by Mercury. Mercury also rules the 4th House and, please, it does NOT
carry the Kendradhipati Dosha. Just like you can’t blame yourself for owning your personality
(at least not usually, I hope), please afford the same privilege to Budh. Guru is the Bādhaka, so
if it is not afflicted and is well-placed, obstacles that come from the Badhak shall not come.
Fortune will rise after the marriage is Gurū is well placed in the radix.

Mars is a bad planet for the Lagna and Red Coral is best avoided. Regarding the Ratnas we
would do well to remember in general that the placement of the Grahas from the Ārūḍha Lagna
and from the Lagna in the Somanātha Drekkāṇa must always be seen.

Emerald is safe. Venus is also a good planet, ruling the 5th: a Lakshmi Sthana and the
basically neutral 12th House. Diamond is also a fair possibility. Take care of that nervous
system. Even if Mars signifies it, it is your own nervous system and in the Dasha of Budh guard
against excessive thought. Shani-Surya Yoga in a Dusthana can give an astounding Vipreeta
Raja Yoga at times.

There is a rider that comes with Śukra (Shukra) since the inherent attributes or the Kārakattwa
of Śukra are liable to take a beating due to the sexual structure of Mithuna Rāśi (Rashi).

Being the 3rd Bhāva from the Lagna in the Bha Chakra of the Kālapuruṣa (Kalapurusha), this
Rāśi indicates copulation and the culmination of all sexual activity. This is the result of the
Kāma Tṛkona (Kama Trikona) or the trine relating to sexuality.

Karkaṭa (Karkata)/ Cancer Lagna: Receptive, like Chandra who lords the Lagna. The pearl is
a good gem to wear. Mars is a Yogakaraka and can give rise on its own. It can also give
Vipreeta Raja Yoga if placed in a Dusthana or afflicted but the significations of conjoining
planet will be stressed. Shukra is the Badhak and is also a functional malefic. Guru lords the
Bhagya but also the 6th House, therefore it is a mixed planet for this Lagna.

This status of a mixed planet can be radically altered by a significantly dignified placement of
Gurū bacause the most benefic planet in the zodiac does not need much in order to shower the
person with unlimited bounty.

Rahu is the 8th Lord and can become even more diabolical in this Lagna. Shani is equally
problematic except if it is placed in Lagna where it gives Simhasan Yoga. It will give rise. As in
Lagna it will be in Marana Karaka Sthana and will damage the 7th and 8th Houses, which it
lords. Therefore, people with this placement can experience difficulties in marriage or in getting
married.

This is also indicative of issues arising even when Śani (Shani) may not be placed in the Lagna
Bhāva (Bhava) due to its 7th Bhāva (Bhava) lordship. Śani (Shani) is a slow and old planet and
gives its results only when the slowness and delay has manifested and years have passed.
One other facet to remember in this context is that Śani (Shani) matures at 36 years of age and
before that the areas either lorded or influenced by the planet Saturn will pose considerable
problems. Śani (Shani) has no time for youngsters who according to him do not know anything,
are not capable of anything and only when the Graha delivers the Karma will they sit up, take
notice, cry a little and finally 'grow up' when they become more tolerable for Śani (Shani).

Some natives born in this sign display an extremely competitive streak and can use lesser than
the best means to pull others down. This of course is never to be applied blindly but must be
confirmed by the other features of the horoscope.

Note- For the transits of Grahas relative to the various Lagnas and especially in context of the
ever moving Moon (read moods, emotions and the flow of things) the following link contains a
general daily evaluation of matters astrological-
http://planetarytransformation.blogspot.in/#!/2012/02/daily-vedic-astrology-horoscope-
jyotisa.html

Simha/ Leo Lagna: Another royal sign. Ruled by the Sun itself. Pride, authority, inability to ask
for favours. Ruby can be worn. Jupiter lords the 5th but also the 8th. The Dasha of Guru can
transform life. However, transformation might be in context of discharging Kārmic burden. The
results of the Gurū Daśā (Guru Dasha) will be hugely dependent on the dignity and strength of
the Graha. Maṅgala/ Mars is again Yogakaraka but also the Bādhaka (Badhaka). As it rules
the 9th House, there may be conflict and struggle at the level of luck. Surya/ Shiva must be
propitiated. This can work for lawyers as they thrive on conflict and litigation. Still, it might be a
good idea to ease one’s own life path. Even lawyers are entitled to that. The Moon is the 12th
Lord and if afflicted or if it is an Amāvasya (Amavasya) birth, the mind can become vulnerable
to acute suffering. Mercury, though malefic is like Kubera for the chart and can bring wealth if
associated with the Ārūḍha (Arudha) Lagna.

Shani is malefic for the Lagna. This is for the reason that it is the Graha lording the Śatru
Bhāva (Shatru Bhava) and indicates enmity in the horoscope. It can bring illness, debts,
enemies, general nuisances and emotional issues. It also rules the area of marriage and so
some romantic partners may end up showing an inimical attitude to the native. Śani rules
suffering and delivering of some onerous Karma and so if the planet is very strong and finally
disposed to relent then people may not look to harm the person in relationships but the
relationships may not work out till the heavy Karma (also seen through Bhāva lordships of the
Daśā (Dasha) lords) is exhausted. The person may look for pragmatic partners capable of
doing 'what is required'.

Śani (Shani) will delay marriage and functional relationships, generally speaking and a lot of
work will be required if growth is expected of the 6th House, work and/ or remedial measures.
Work, if the Graha is associated with work or with Bhāvas associated with work by
extension; remedial measures if the higher facets of Jyotiṣa (Jyotisha) indicate
the performance of remedial measures.

Though there are other Rāśis (Rashis) with the Agni Tattwa, Simha has the highest quantum of
fire within it. For this reason, people with this Lagna should not undertake onerous fasts as the
Pitta/ bile in the Rāśi (Rashi) always needs something to work on. People accuse the natives of
this Lagna of being aloof and distant, too royal and unwilling to consider other their equals.

Virgo/ Kanyā (Kanya) Lagna: Mercury again. The plea of the whole world is, perfection is
alright to strive for, but is not to be found in existence. So, do keep that in mind. Very finicky.
Emerald is again a good idea and Venus is a good planet, so the diamond is also a good gem.
Saturn is a mixed planet as it lords the 5th and 6th but Rahu, lording Kumbha is the malefic 6th
Lord. Mars is the most malefic planet and can bring adversity in its Dasha unless well placed in
Vipreeta Raja Yoga. In Lagna, it can bring fiery issues. There is this film called Anger
Management.

This sign has some deep complexities and when asked to deal with animal maturity, it falters
since this is the sign of the debilitation of Śukra (Shukra) . No sex does not agree with Śukra
and this Graha would like to have nothing to do with virgins indicated by Kanyā (Kanya) Lagna.
If Śukra (Shukra) is not engaged in sexuality and sensuality and intercourse of that kind it feels
fallen and debilitated. There is a huge sense of purity as an objective because the sign is dual
and has some sort of affinity with sin or ignorance encapsulated in some sort of belief that -
'nobody is watching'. One must remember that Jaganātha has huge round eyes and He is
watching all the time. The great imuprity of the Pāpapuruṣa (Sin-Man), symbolised by all our
Kārmic falterings by the Graha Śani pose by far the greatest issues, even more than the abrupt
Agni impulse of the malefic Maṅgala. There is a reason as to why people with an exalted Śukra
(Shukra) in Mīna Rāśi (Meena Rashi) have marital issues and that reason is to be found in
Kanyā Rāśi (Kanya Rashi).

This is the area in the horoscope that harbours unbridled ambition. It compels people to work
and to go to work everyday. If breakthroughs in this realm are experiences it can mean relief
coming through Kanyā or the 6th Bhāva and this means the 6th Bhāva is becoming an
Upacaya Bhāva indicating growth. Illusion and malefic tendencies can be pronounced in the
Kanyā (Kanya) experience.

Tulā (Tula)/ Libra Lagna: Private sector, social focus, love, attraction and other areas ruled by
Shukra. Shukra is also the 8th Lord so the potential for changes in life is implicit. Jupiter is a
functional malefic so the gemstone should not be lightly worn. Shani is Yogakaraka and can
bring rise on its own. In a Dusthana it can give Vipreeta Raja Yoga. Mercury rules Bhagya so
emerald is also a good choice but avoidable for the newly married, always. Avoid the red coral
as Mars is Maraka.
Since this Rāśi (Rashi) is the one directly opposite Meṣa Rāśi (Mesha Rashi)/ Aries it also has
a problem that the working intellect can be tainted by the filth of ignorance and worse so that
prayers are not accepted automatically. While Śukra (Shukra) is himself the greatest ascetic he
likes nothing better than to tell the person under his prowess that there is nothing more than
pleasing the senses in this life. For such natives the Dwi-Gurū Yoga can come in handy.

The persons born under this sign are sociable and fond of material pleasures. It may not be
ideal for them to get into power-centric domains and they would do better instead in realms
related to fashion, beauty, luxury and film. The person would be quite competitive in the work
application. A logical approach will work well in matters of religion.

This Rāśi (Rashi) is susceptible to disease and serious sexual ailments such as AIDS come
from this Rāśi (Rashi). Positive Grahas are required to combat these illnesses in the horoscope.

Vriṣcika/ Scorpio Lagna: Lorded by both Mars and Ketu. Guru is very auspicious, ruling the
2nd and the 5th Houses. One cannot term Gurū (Guru) as Māraka (Maraka) and bode evil due
to a Rāśi (Rashi) placement of Gurū (Guru). Gurū (Guru) is the greatest protection in the
nativity and is a representative of Bhagwāna. It is the only Graha which does good for the
native without asking for anything in return. We must also remember that Parāśara has a
specific dictum for the placement of Gurū (Guru) in the Lagna in any Rāśi (Rashi) whatsoever.

Mercury is a functional malefic. Shani remains a malefic. Venus is a Maraka. Sun is a good
planet, ruling Karma. The Moon is also a benefic for the Lagna, ruling luck itself. The pearl,
Ruby and Red Coral can be choices for this Lagna. These people can be pre-disposed to
research and occult study and the Guru-Mangal Yoga can be especially fruitful.

If I do not mince my words, the Jātaka of this Lagna will readily agree that they have faced
some heavy trials in life. If the Grahas are not very strong in the nativity then they will often feel
that they have had to carry some unseen burden. This is a difficult Rāśi and the challenge is to
keep the heart clean and at any cost the emotions should not be poisoned. Refer back to the
part about Gurū above and this need not be taken literally-it can be any source of wisdom and
illumination. Some natives can be hirsute.

Dhanuṣa or Dhanu/ Sagittarius Lagna: Lorded by Gurū (Guru) which is the Lagneśa
(Lagnesha) and the ruling Graha. Pushyaraga/ Pukhrāja (Pukhraja) or the yellow sapphire is
an automatic choice since it is the Ratna of the Lagneśa (Lagnesha) or the Lagna Lord. The
gemstone for Mars/ Maṅgala (Mangala), the red coral or Mūṅgā (Moonga) is also a good
choice, being the 5th Lord. The sign rules teachers, lawyers and finance professionals. It is the
Mūtatṛkoṇa (Moolatrikona) of Ketu and the Swakṣetra (Swakshetra) or own house of Gurū
(Guru) nand so it gives expression to profound religious and spiritual literature with a focus on
final emancipation through eternal wisdom or Jñāna. The Sun rules Bhagya and the Ruby is a
good choice along with the red coral. Mercury is a Badhak planet and also carries the
Kendradhipati Dosha; if it is afflicted, it can cause trouble. Shukra is also a functional malefic
lording the 6th and the 11th Houses and can punish. So, natives of this Lagna can experience
trouble in the area of romance and marriage unless the Karma is offset by fine placements in
the nativity.

Makara/ Capricorn Lagna: Lorded by Shani. Pragmatic and practical people, good with
managerial and functional aspects of life. Venus is the Yogakaraka and diamond is a good
choice. Jupiter is a malefic for this Lagna. Mercury, though the 6th Lord is also the 9th Lord
and is a bit of a mixed planet. Mars is not bad as it gets exalted in the Lagna and only Ketu can
truly pose trouble for the chart. For this reason red coral or Mūṅgā for Maṅgala cannot be ruled
out for the Lagna at the outset. Guru, even if debilitated can give Rajayoga provided Shani is
placed in strength. Not everything in life comes without a price, if at all, so this placement can
pose troubles to siblings if Guru is Neecha in Lagna.

Makara is also known by the name Nakra. It indicates fixity and a certain Kārmic confusion
which makes the blessings of Gurū (Guru) slightly difficult to receive. Readers should dwell in
the pictorial and symbolic representation of this Rāśi (Rashi) for further insights.

Kumbha/ Aquarius Lagna: Kumbha Lagna is lorded by both Śani and Rāhu (Shani and Rahu).
Philosophical, linked with groups, democratic. This sign is so expansive, though malefic, that
Gurū (Guru), the most benefic planet gives results akin to exaltation. It is a good thing because
there is real need for the illumination that comes from wisdom for this sign.

Shukra is Yogakāraka (Yogakaraka) and is capable of giving success on its own withut
requiring association of any other Graha. It gives excellent results. The diamond is a good
choice for this Lagna. Mercury is the 5th and 8th Lord is a favorable planet but can also bring
sudden adversity and requirements of personal transformation which are always vulnerable
periods and cannot be said to be auspicious from the social point of view.

Jupiter can be a wealth planet for this Lagna as it lords the 2nd and the 11th Houses for the
chart-it is capable of performing functions akin to Kubera, the lord of wealth. An interesting
point to note here is that despite Rahu’s bad reputation, it can crown the native with success
when it transits the trines to the Arudha Lagna. It is opposite for the same transit of Ketu.

Natives of this Lagna might do well to look up some thoughts at this website by clicking this
link- 'happy hours'. There is a lot of mood altering going on in this sign and intoxication and
pharmaceuticals find their roots in this Rāśi.

Mīna (Meena)/ Pisces Lagna: The sign of release, final emancipation. The Raśi (Rashi) of the
Ṛṣis (Rishis). The persons born in this Lagna are ruled by Brihaspati, the Gurū (Guru) of the
planet Jupiter, the greatest benefic in the zodiac. Those with Guru in Lagna have the Hamsa
Mahapurusha Yoga. Very pious and spiritual people. Such people with Gurū (Guru) in Mīna
(Meena) Lagna have extremely high levels of intelligence and the benefits of the Lagna come
through the Tattwa or the foundational elements of creation.

Mars is also a very favorable and both Pushyaraga and the Mūṅgā (Moonga)/ Red Coral is
also a good choice. Maṅgala (Mangala) being the 2nd Lord and the 9th Lord acts almost as a
Yogakāraka (Yogakaraka) for the Mīna (Meena) Lagna. Shukra/ Venus lords the 3rd and 8th
Lord and can bring trials, so the diamond is best avoided, generally speaking. Romance and
marriage as too delicate and unfavourable placement of Venus for the Mīna Lagna can cause
problems.

This Rāśi (Rashi) also has some Kārmic perplexities associated with it and the fact that they
have a sleepy and dreamy demeanour could have more to it.

The Moon is an auspicious Graha for this Lagna, being the 5th Lord of Pūrva Punya (Poorva
Punya) or good deeds done in the past lives. If Budha/ Mercury is involved in auspicious
combinations then the Doṣa (Dosha) of ownership of the quadrants will not manifest.

Glancing at the various Lagnas in this manner is only the tip of the iceberg as far as predictive
Jyotiṣa (Jyotisha) is concerned and specific professional papers composed for consulters all
over the world such as the Detailed Chart Analysis, Customised or Composite Charts
Analyses-coalescing various astrological modules, Compatibility Analysis, Tithi Praveśa Cakra
Analysis/ Annual Chart Analysis et al serve to demonstrate the manner in which these
multifarious Vedic astrological techniques use the principles in a pragmatic manner so as to
address the needs of the clients.

BIRD'S EYE VIEW OF CERTAIN YOGAS IN JYOTIṢA (JYOTISH) FOR VARIOUS LAGNAS/
ASCENDANTS-

By Yoga is meant 'yoking' or joining and this may not accrue only due to two or more Grahas,
even though this is the most common manner in which Yogas are formed.
It might be apposite here to discuss certain Yogas that might obtain with respect to the Lagna/
Rāśi (Rashi)/ sign/ascendant (s) the characteristics of which have been enumerated above for
the sake of continuity and cohesion of understanding.

When core astrological areas such as the characteristics and attributes of the various Lagnas
are coalesced with the much discussed Yogas, especially in focussed professional consulting
work, it becomes possible to understand the potential of life and what the person has to work
with as a given. Free-will and determinism are complex theoretical issues and while there are
crystal clear expositions on the subject in Jyotiṣa, for the present purposes suffice it to say that
when the combinations formed by the planets in certain signs are analysed, they start telling a
certain story, which is an incredible mirror to what has transpired in life, what is happening and
of course what may reasonably be expected to occur at a future time. Other factors such as
Daśās make it a picture so rich and replete with realism, that this ancient art becomes
irresistible.

Meṣa (Mesha) Lagna/ Aries-

The celebrated Gurū-Maṅgala (Guru-Mangal) Yoga formed by the association, including

conjunction of Mars and Jupiter is an auspicious Yoga where the Agni is channeled well and
the knowledge and wisdom attained are expressed well. The placement of Śani (Shani) in
dignity with Gurū (Guru) can also make for the Dharmakarmādhipati (Dharmakarmadhipati)
Yoga where the application in work is excellent. The sobering factors come from the 8th House
lordship of Maṅgala (Mangal) and the Bādhaka (Badhaka) status of Śani (Shani) as the 11th
Lord for the movable Lagna.

Vṛṣabha (Vrishabha) Lagna/ Taurus-

Śani (Shani) is the Yogakāraka (Yogakaraka) Graha for the Vṛṣabha (Vrishabha) Lagna and as
the 9th and 10th Lord of the horoscope it is itself capable of giving the Rājayoga (Rajayoga).

Readers should refer to my article on Viparīta Rāja Yoga on this website for further insight as
to the unique position a malefic Yogakāraka enjoys by virtue of certain placements in the
horoscope. (Without accent marks, the Yoga is written as Vipareeta Raja Yoga).

Budha is an excellent planet for this Lagna and the Yoga of either Lagneśa (Lagnesha) Śukra
(Shukra) with Śani (Shani) (despite other problems that such a combination might create) or
the Yoga or Śukra (Shukra) with Budha can be excellent.

Mithuna Lagna/ Gemini-

The auspiciousness of the Yogas is quite similar, and these are statements tarred with a very
broad brush-since Yogas are a huge subject in Jyotiṣa (Jyotisha) and cannot be discussed in
snippets, to those obtaining for Taurus Lagna. Gemini/ Mithuna Lagna is governed by Budha
and the association of this planet with Śukra (Shukra) leads to auspicious results. The
association of the Lagneśa (Lagnesha) Budha with the Pañcameśa Śukra (Panchamesha
Shukra) leads to excellent results.

Karkaṭa (Karkata) Lagna/ Cancer-

When we think of either the former Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi or the Chief Minister of
Orissa Śrī Navin Pattanaik, Śani (Shani) in Karkaṭa (Karkata) Lagna is a sure-shot Rājayoga
(Rajayoga). This happens only with Mīna (Meena) or Karkaṭa Rāśi (Karkata Rashi) in the
Simhāsana (Simhasana)/ throne Bhāvas (Bhavas).

There may be problems associated with the Kārakattwa of Śani (Shani) in these placements
but the Rājayoga (Rajayoga) accrues to the extent promised by the horoscope. Other crucial
planets should of course not be flushed down the drain in order for the benefits to come
through properly.

Maṅgala (Mangal) is an excellent planet for this Lagna ruling the 5th Bhāva (Bhava) from the
Lagna and the 10th Bhāva (Bhava) from the Lagna as well. If well placed both the spiritual and
material worlds and their blessings are forthcoming to the native. We should again remember
the Viparīta Rāja Yoga (Vipareeta Raja Yoga) that will come from the malefic Yogakāraka
(Yogakaraka) but the ideal situation is that such a Graha should not be placed with another
beneficial Graha which the malefic will destroy.

A great Hamsa Māhāpuruṣa (Mahapurusha) Yoga is formed if Gurū (Guru) is placed in the
Lagna in exaltation. One can pray to the Rāśi Cakra (Rashi Chakra) of Bhagwāna Śrī Rāma
(Bhagwana Shri Rama) with exalted Jupiter/ Gurū (Guru) in Karkaṭa Lagna (Karkata)/ Cancer
joined a Swakṣetra (Swakshetra)/ own sign Cañdra (Chandra) forming Gajakesarī (Gajakesari)
Yoga in the Lagna. Any association of Gurū (Guru) with Karka Rāśi (Rashi) in the radix and in
the Navāmśa Cakra (Navamsha Chakra) will bless the native with high spirituality and esoteric
wisdom. External benefits such as name and fame shall also come.

Note-

The impact for the rwelve Lagnas from Meṣa (Mesha)/ Aries to Mīna (Meena)/ Pisces is also
largely contingent on the transits of the various planets and this is applied to the Lagnas for the
rising sign or the Ascendant/ Udaya Lagna, the Cañdra (Chandra) Lagna/ Rāśi/ (Rashi) Jaṅma
Rāśi (Janma Rashi)or just Rāśi (Rashi) and of course to the Ārūḍha Lagna (Arudha Lagna).

The website offers premium monthly Vedic astrology content which is restricted to subscribers
and is not being published on the website. The content is being sent to the subscribers through
an elaborate email/ independent PDF attachment focussing on each sign/ Vedic Rāśi (rashi)
and the movement of the nine planets/ Grahas as it applies to the Lagna, Cañdra Lagna
(Chandra Lagna) and Ārūḍha (Arudha) Lagna continuum described in the post the link to
which is given at the end of this Note.

The movement of the Grahas is being evaluated from the Lagna, Cañdra (Chandra) Lagna/
Moon Sign, Ārūḍha (Arudha) Lagna and advanced findings being recorded based on
correlations of the various astrological entities such as Bhāva (Bhava), aspects, conjunctions,
signs, intervention/ Argala et al. This will also include the application of the device of Varga
Gochara or divisional transits based on the Amśas (Amshas) attained by the planets in transit.
The subtle picture is revealed in this manner making it a composite whole.

More may be read as to this option at-

http://planetarytransformation.blogspot.in/#!/2013/03/subscribe-to-premium-monthly-vedic.html

Simha Lagna/ Leo-

The ruling planet is Ravi/ the Sun and its placement in a certain Bhāva from the Lagna is key.
Since the Sūrya (Surya) Lagna is a reference in itself and it is the lord of the Lagna, one must
study the placement of the Sun with care.

Budha/ Mercury is a good planet and Gurū as the 5th and 8th Lord carries great spiritual and
transforming potential. An association of Gurū and Budha apart from giving excellent
communication skills, intelligence, logical ability, rationality and intellectual alacrity and
adaptability, also forms the Gurū-Śiṣya (Guru Shishya) Yoga where the person stands to learn
from esoteric traditions. Budha speacially plays the role of Kubera being the 2nd and the 11th
Lord and its involvement in any Dhana Yogas are bound to bring great gains to the person
born in Simha Lagna.

Maṅgala (Mangal)/ Mars is by far the best and most favourable planet for this Lagna being the
Yogakāraka (Yogakaraka) for the Lagna and having the power to give Rājayoga (Rajayoga) on
its own. Association of Gurū (Guru) with Maṅgala (Mangal) forms the Gurū-Maṅgala (Guru-
Mangala) Yoga which is excellent for lawyers, teachers, judges, finance professionals and
spiritualists alike. If the horoscope is otherwise strong, an association of Śukra (Shukra) with
Maṅgala (Mangal) can form Dharmakarmādhipati (Dharmakarmadhipati) Yoga and can lead to
stupendous achievement in the career realm.

In Ravi is placed in the Daśama Bhāva (Dasham Bhava) or the 10th House it attains 100%
Digbala/ directional strength and imparts great leadership skills to the native.

Kanyā (Kanya) Lagna/ Virgo-

Since this Lagna is the exaltation sign for Budha/ Mercury, the placement of Budha in Lagna
leads to the Bhadra Mahāpuruṣa (Mahapurusha) Yoga. Śukra (Shukra) is the 2nd and the 9th
Lord from the Lagna and any association of Budha and Śukra (Shukra) is likely to generate
Lakṣmī (Lakshmi) Yoga.

Despite the ownership of the Keṅdra (Kendra) if Gurū (Guru) is well placed in the Rāśi Cakra
(Rashi Chakra) fortune can smile after marriage. Śani (Shani) is a mixed planet being the 6th
Lord as well and generally speaking causes notable problems for this Lagna. Cañdra (Chandra)
is the 11th Lord and association with the benefic Budha and Śukra (Shukra) can augment
gains and lead to the fulfilment of desires. Yogas involving these planets will be fortunate for
the native of Kanyā (Kanya) or Virgo Lagna.

Tulā (Tula) Lagna/ Libra-

For this Lagna, the natural malefic Śani (Shani) is a Yogakāraka (Yogakaraka) and is capable
of giving Rājayoga (Rajayoga) on its own without assistance from another Graha. It is the lord
of the 4th and the 5th Houses, a Keṅdra (Kendra) and Tṛkoṇa (Trikona) both and so Viṣṇu-
Lakṣmī (Vishnu-Lakshmi) Yoga is guarantted if Śani (Shani) supports.

A unique Yoga is formed when Śani (Shani) is placed in the Duḥsthāna (Dusthana) from the
Lagna in either the 6th, 8th or the 12th Bhāvas from the Lagna where unexpected success
accrues to the native. It is ideal if no other Graha is placed with Śani (Shani) because the
malefic Yogakāraka (Yogakaraka) is capable of damaging the significations of the other Graha.

Budh strongly indicates foreign lands and works well when participating in Yogas with the
Lagneśa Śukra (Lagnesha Shukra) or with Śani (Shani), though considering the nature of
these Grahas they should not impact certain Bhāvas (Bhavas).

Vṛṣcika (Vrishchika)/ Scorpio-

Gurū (Guru) is an excellent Graha for this Lagna and the blessings are in fact required for the
persons born under this rising sign/ Lagna/ Ascendant. Gurū (Guru)/ Jupiter rules the 2nd and
5th Bhāvas from the Lagna and strongly indicates Lakṣmī (Lakshmi). It governs the type of
Karmā (Karma) that the native shall experience and also the quality of speech, absorption of
knowledge, finances, food and drink, intelligence, discrimination, progeny and such areas
which have to be shortlisted based on other factors in the horoscope.

Cañdra (Chandra)/ the Moon is also an excellent planet for this Lagna being the Bhāgyeśa
(Bhagyesha) or the 9th Lord. A Gajakeśarī (Gajakesari) Yoga would truly make the native a
renowned figure as the intelligence and purity would also be supported by sheer fortune. Ravi
is the 10th Lord as it should be. There are two great blessings by way of ready made Yogas for
this Lagna-one they are inherently blessed in matters of progeny and children and two, Karmā
and application in work is excellent since Ravi attains a kind of Kārmic Digbala.

Tests are thus reserved in the personal realm only and are mostly directed to life circumstance
and personality.

Dhanuṣa (Dhanusha) Lagna/ Sagittarius-

Gurū (Guru) in the Lagna forms Hamsa Mahāpuruṣa (Mahapurusha) Yoga and the person will
be excellent in his knowledge of finance, spiritualism, esoteric arts, and religion. This is an
excellent Yoga for this Lagna. Ravi as the lord of the Bhāgya Sthāna (Bhagya Sthana) makes
divinity all the more manifest in life. The soul connects easily with God if the Sun is powerful
and well placed in the nativity.

Despite the Keṅdrādhipati Doṣa (Kendradhipati Dosha) attributed to Budha, if this Graha is well
placed, the areas of work and marriage will give a lot of happiness, especially work awarness
will be at a premium. So many other factors such as the Karmeśa (Karmesha) will play an
important role before anything can be ventured but then all that is in the realm of predictive-
analytical work and here in this paper Yogas and combinations are being dicsussed.
Makara Lagna/ Capricorn-

This is one of the signs with inherent Kārmic (Karmic) confusion. Even so, Śukra/ Shukra/
Venus is the Yogakāraka (Yogakaraka) Graha for this Lagna as it lords a Keṅdra (Kendra/
quadrant) and a Tṛkoṇa (Trikona/ trine) from the Lagna both. The auspicious placement of
Venus for Makar/ Capricorn Lagna can make life vastly different.

Mercury is a problem planet being the 6th and the 9th lord both for the Lagna. Jealousy can
inhibit real growth but is such problems are addressed then Bhāgya can flower. The Yoga of
Budha with Śukra (Shukra) and with Śani (Shani) though causative of other issues can lead to
Lakṣmī (Lakshmi) Yoga and such fortunate combinations.

Duryoga or bad things can accrue through artificial ego-aspirations due to the malefic lordship
of the Sun. Maṅgala (Mangal/ Mars) even though inimical to the Lagneśa Śani (Lagnesha
Shani) is not in itself a bad Graha for the Lagna. Firstly, Maṅgala (Mangal) gets exalted in the
Lagna and rules the 4th and 11th Bhāvas (Bhavas/ houses). Secondly, enterprise and
aspirations may have been viewed with circumspection when the Yogas were put down in
writing by the sages (Ṛṣis/ Rishis) but in the Kaliyuga and in the birth in Bhūloka (Bhuloka) the
quality of initiative and enterprise aimed at gains and aspirations and their attainment cannot
be viewed with a slanted eye.

In other words the Yogas involving Mars are crucial for this Lagna.

Kuṃbha (Kumbha)/ Aquarius Lagna-

For the Kumbha or Aquarius Lagna Rāhu and Śani (Rahu and Shani) are crucial planets as
they lord the Lagna.

Śukra (Shukra/ Venus) is again the Yogakāraka (Yogakaraka) for the Lagna ruling the 4th and
the 9th Houses. Check the dignity and placement of the Moon/ Cañdra (Chandra) for the
Karma relating to the mother and for mental peace due to the portfolio allocated to Śukra
(Shukra) who is not aligned with the Moon.

Due to their own fluidity, they look for a dominant and regal spouse and so marriage can
impact status and resources considerably. Mars is equally important as it is for Capricorn
Lagna/ Makara/ Nakra due to the 3rd and 10th House lordship.

Budha is a Kārmic planet and this factor can never be overlooked, especially in the Daśā
(Dasha) even if this Graha is placed in the 5th Bhāva from the Lagna.

Mīna/ Meena/ Pisces Lagna-

Once again this sign has some Kārmic (Karmic issues) and Gurū (Guru/ Jupiter) is the best
planet for the Lagna. Despite the friendship with the Lagneśa (Lagnesha), Ravi/ the Sun can
be a really problematic planet. I have found people of this Lagna besotted with politics, power
and authority figures, all indicated by the Sun and they are usually a long way off the mark.

While Maṅgala (Mangala) is a Deva Graha its malefic lordship for the Bhāgya Bhāva (Bhagya
Bhava) is not easy and remedial measures are required. Once the fate anf fortune decides to
smile then Yogas between Gurū (Guru) and Budha for instance can create excellent
knowledge based environments. The Moon and Jupiter can also form excellent Yogas due to
their beneficial lordships from the Lagna.

Thus when we see the characteristics of the Lagna and the Yogas that can obtain to propel the
natives of the various Lagnas, with their own characteristics and life paths, we can begin to
understand the basic framework which results for the purposes of elaborate astrological
analysis. All these factors are then carried over to each divisional chart of interest and studied
with the many, countless tools of esoteric classical Vedic astrology/ Jyotiṣa in order to arrive at
specific understandings about the person's life. This is crucial. Humanity has advanced and
nations have advanced as far as empirical and material life is concerned and such focused and
elaborate work must distinguish between the varying characteristics of people's lives so as to
astutely explain to them the reasons and the background and the future propensities about
their own lives and not just some general trends that might broadly apply to anyone with
similar Yogas. This sort of attention to detail and personalised adherence to the horoscope at
hand has to be the hallmark of all consulting.

What do the various types of Analyses and papers described and reproduced on this website
do? A lot of classical references and interpretations are route-maps travelled in order to arrive
at advisory conclusions and in all my consulting, they are there also for the reading pleasure of
advanced Jyotiṣa enthusiasts and consulters. This is deep and profound knowledge at its core
drawn from the unique and renowned mystic heritage of India, and a vast number of consulters
are also dedicated Vedic astrology enthusiasts-this elaborate journey in each consulting paper
is also undertaken for their benefit. But the ultimate objective is always to gives reponses that
directly and unambiguously address the realities, needs and requirements of the person
approaching me for solutions.

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Posted 18th March 2014 by Anurag Sharma