The 27 Nakshatras: Meaning, Traits & Ruling Planets

July 18, 2026

Conceptual illustration of cream paper diamonds, cotton thread and brass orbital arcs on maroon handmade paper, inspired by astrological cycles.

The 27 Nakshatras are the lunar mansions that form the backbone of Vedic astrology. While the twelve rashis divide the zodiac into broad signs, the Nakshatras divide the same 360-degree band into finer segments of 13 degrees 20 minutes each. Your birth star, or janam nakshatra, is the Nakshatra the Moon occupied at your birth - and it reveals subtle layers of personality, temperament and destiny that the rashi alone cannot.

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What Are the 27 Nakshatras?

Nakshatra literally means "that which does not decay". Each of the 27 Nakshatras is ruled by a planet, associated with a deity, and carries its own symbol, nature and shakti (power). The Moon travels through roughly one Nakshatra per day, completing all 27 in about a sidereal month. These lunar mansions are used in everything from choosing an auspicious muhurat to naming a newborn and matching horoscopes for marriage.

Ruling Planets of the Nakshatras

The Nakshatras follow a repeating sequence of nine ruling planets, beginning with Ketu and cycling through all nine lords three times. These same lords govern the Vimshottari Dasha, which is why your janam nakshatra decides which planetary period you are born into.

# Nakshatra Ruling Planet Symbol Key Trait
1 Ashwini Ketu Horse's head Swift, healing, pioneering
2 Bharani Venus Yoni Creative, disciplined, intense
3 Krittika Sun Razor/flame Sharp, determined, protective
4 Rohini Moon Chariot Charming, artistic, magnetic
5 Mrigashira Mars Deer's head Curious, gentle, searching
6 Ardra Rahu Teardrop Transformative, emotional
7 Punarvasu Jupiter Quiver of arrows Optimistic, nurturing
8 Pushya Saturn Cow's udder Caring, wise, dependable
9 Ashlesha Mercury Serpent Intuitive, shrewd, hypnotic
10 Magha Ketu Throne Regal, ancestral, proud
11 Purva Phalguni Venus Hammock Playful, romantic, generous
12 Uttara Phalguni Sun Bed Reliable, kind, principled
13 Hasta Moon Hand Skilful, clever, resourceful
14 Chitra Mars Bright jewel Artistic, charismatic
15 Swati Rahu Coral/shoot Independent, adaptable
16 Vishakha Jupiter Triumphal arch Ambitious, goal-driven
17 Anuradha Saturn Lotus Devoted, friendly, balanced
18 Jyeshtha Mercury Earring/umbrella Responsible, protective
19 Mula Ketu Tied roots Inquisitive, deep, uprooting
20 Purva Ashadha Venus Fan/winnowing basket Invincible, persuasive
21 Uttara Ashadha Sun Elephant tusk Righteous, enduring
22 Shravana Moon Ear/three footprints Wise, listening, learned
23 Dhanishta Mars Drum Rhythmic, wealthy, bold
24 Shatabhisha Rahu Empty circle Healing, secretive, mystic
25 Purva Bhadrapada Jupiter Sword/two faces Idealistic, intense
26 Uttara Bhadrapada Saturn Twin/serpent Wise, calm, compassionate
27 Revati Mercury Fish Nurturing, gentle, guiding

How the 27 Nakshatras Shape Personality

Because the Moon governs the mind in Vedic astrology, your janam nakshatra strongly colours your emotional nature, instincts and inner motivations. Two people born under the same rashi can feel very different if their Nakshatras differ. For example, both Rohini and Mrigashira fall partly within Taurus, yet Rohini natives tend to be sensuous and magnetic, while Mrigashira natives are restless seekers.

Nakshatra Padas

Each Nakshatra is further divided into four quarters called padas, each spanning 3 degrees 20 minutes. The pada links the Nakshatra to a specific navamsa sign, adding another layer of detail used in prediction and compatibility. This is why professional analysis of your birth star goes far beyond a single label.

Why Nakshatras Matter in Daily Life

The 27 Nakshatras are used for many practical purposes in Hindu tradition:

  • Naming a baby - the first syllable of a child's name is traditionally chosen from the birth Nakshatra pada.
  • Marriage matching - the Ashtakoota or Guna Milan system compares the Nakshatras of both partners.
  • Muhurat selection - auspicious dates for weddings, housewarmings and new ventures depend on the Moon's Nakshatra.
  • Festivals and rituals - many observances are timed to specific Nakshatras.

If you are naming a child, our detailed guide on choosing a baby name by Nakshatra and rashi walks you through the process. For a complete reading tailored to you, see our personalised horoscope report overview.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find my Nakshatra?

Your janam nakshatra is determined by the Moon's position at your exact birth time. You need your date, time and place of birth to calculate it accurately.

How many Nakshatras are there - 27 or 28?

Classical Vedic astrology commonly uses 27 Nakshatras for calculations. A 28th, Abhijit, is referenced in some traditions for specific muhurat purposes but is not part of the standard 27-fold division.

Is Nakshatra more important than rashi?

Both matter. The rashi gives the broad sign, while the Nakshatra reveals finer emotional and behavioural detail. Together they give a fuller picture.

Can my Nakshatra affect my marriage compatibility?

Yes. The traditional Guna Milan system compares the Nakshatras of prospective partners to assess harmony across several factors.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes based on traditional Vedic astrology; for a personal analysis, please consult a qualified astrologer.

Curious what your birth star reveals about you? Discover the full meaning of your Nakshatra, planetary periods and life themes with our Personalised Horoscope Report.