The Vimshottari Dasha System is the most commonly used system for calculating planetary periods (dashas) in Vedic astrology. It assigns specific durations to each planet’s influence based on their positions in the birth chart. The word “Vimshottari” in Sanskrit means “120,” which refers to the total duration of the dasha cycle in years.
In the Vimshottari Dasha System, the Moon’s position at birth is used as the starting point for calculating the dasha sequence. The Moon represents the mind and emotions, and its placement in a specific zodiac sign and nakshatra (lunar mansion) has a significant influence on an individual’s life.
The Vimshottari Dasha sequence follows a fixed pattern, with the major planets (excluding the outer planets Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto) assigned specific durations. The sequence and durations are as follows:
- Ketu: 7 years
- Venus: 20 years
- Sun: 6 years
- Moon: 10 years
- Mars: 7 years
- Rahu: 18 years
- Jupiter: 16 years
- Saturn: 19 years
- Mercury: 17 years
The total duration of the Vimshottari Dasha cycle is 120 years, which represents a full lifetime. Each planet’s dasha period unfolds sequentially, starting with the planet associated with Ketu and ending with the planet associated with Mercury. Once the cycle completes, it begins again, and subsequent cycles follow the same sequence.
Within each dasha period, there are sub-periods (bhuktis) assigned to the remaining planets in the sequence. The sub-periods occur within the overall duration of the main dasha and bring in the influences of the respective planets.
The Vimshottari Dasha System is widely used because of its simplicity and accuracy in reflecting the unfolding of major life events. However, it’s important to note that other dasha systems exist in Vedic astrology, and some astrologers may use alternative systems based on their preferences or the specific tradition they follow.
Consulting a qualified Vedic astrologer is recommended to accurately calculate and interpret the Vimshottari Dasha periods and gain insights into the timing and themes of significant life events based on the planetary influences during specific periods.
