1. Surya (The Sun) — The King
• Vedic Name: Surya
• Role in Astrology: Soul, Ego and Authority
• Rules Sign: Simha (Leo)
• Key Attributes: Confidence, leadership, willpower, father, vitality, government, pride, self-respect and core identity.
2. Chandra (The Moon) — The Queen
• Vedic Name: Chandra
• Role in Astrology: Mind, Emotions and Intuition
• Rules Sign: Karka (Cancer)
• Key Attributes: Moods, feelings, mother, memory, mental peace, imagination, instincts, nurturing nature and sensitivity.
3. Mangal (Mars) — The Commander
• Vedic Name: Mangal
• Role in Astrology: Energy, Action and Courage
• Rules Signs: Mesha (Aries) & Vrishchika (Scorpio)
• Key Attributes: Physical strength, determination, passion, drive, anger, land/property, siblings and competitive spirit.
4. Budh (Mercury) — The Prince
• Vedic Name: Budh
• Role in Astrology: Intellect, Logic and Speech
• Rules Signs: Mithuna (Gemini) & Kanya (Virgo)
• Key Attributes: Communication, analytical thinking, humor, commerce, trading, adaptability, learning and curiosity.
5. Guru / Brihaspati (Jupiter) — The Teacher
• Vedic Name: Brihaspati
• Role in Astrology: Wisdom, Expansion and Luck
• Rules Signs: Dhanu (Sagittarius) & Meena (Pisces)
• Key Attributes: Higher learning, spirituality, wealth, optimism, generosity, mentors, dharma and good fortune.
6. Shukra (Venus) — The Minister
• Vedic Name: Shukra
• Role in Astrology: Love, Beauty and Comfort
• Rules Signs: Vrishabha (Taurus) & Tula (Libra)
• Key Attributes: Relationships, romance, arts, luxury, wealth, charm, aesthetics, harmony and sensory pleasures.
7. Shani (Saturn) — The Judge
• Vedic Name: Shani
• Role in Astrology: Karma, Discipline and Time
• Rules Signs: Makara (Capricorn) & Kumbha (Aquarius)
• Key Attributes: Hard work, delays, perseverance, life lessons, structure, longevity, duty, maturity and justice.
8. Rahu (North Node of the Moon) — The Shadow Innovator
• Vedic Name: Rahu
• Role in Astrology: Obsession, Ambition and Illusion
• Rules Signs: Co-rules Kumbha (Aquarius)
• Key Attributes: Worldly desires, foreign lands, technology, sudden gains, unconventional paths, materialism and breaking boundaries.
9. Ketu (South Node of the Moon) — The Shadow Mystic
• Vedic Name: Ketu
• Role in Astrology: Detachment, Liberation and Spirituality
• Rules Signs: Co-rules Vrishchika (Scorpio)
• Key Attributes: Moksha (spiritual liberation), intuition, past-life karma, research, isolation, deep wisdom and letting go.
Next read: Vimshottari Mahadasha - a Prediction Tool