Rashichakra in Astrology – Zodiac Sign

In Vedic astrology, Rashichakra in Astrology refers to the zodiac wheel—a circular band of twelve segments, each representing a Rashi or zodiac sign. This wheel maps the celestial path of the Sun and other planets as seen from Earth, forming the foundation of astrological interpretation.

Each Rashi spans 30 degrees, collectively forming the 360-degree zodiac. These signs are not just astronomical markers—they’re symbolic archetypes that influence personality, destiny, and karmic patterns.

The 12 Rashis and Their Lords

Rashi (Sign)	Sanskrit Name	Ruling Planet	Element	Nature
Aries	Mesha	Mars	Fire	Movable
Taurus	Vrishabha	Venus	Earth	Fixed
Gemini	Mithuna	Mercury	Air	Dual
Cancer	Karka	Moon	Water	Movable
Leo	Simha	Sun	Fire	Fixed
Virgo	Kanya	Mercury	Earth	Dual
Libra	Tula	Venus	Air	Movable
Scorpio	Vrishchika	Mars	Water	Fixed
Sagittarius	Dhanu	Jupiter	Fire	Dual
Capricorn	Makara	Saturn	Earth	Movable
Aquarius	Kumbha	Saturn	Air	Fixed
Pisces	Meena	Jupiter	Water	Dual

Each sign is associated with a planetary lord, which governs its traits and influences its behavior in a birth chart.

Symbolism and Spiritual Significance

In traditional lore, the Rashichakra is seen as a manifestation of Lord Vishnu’s body:

• Aries (Mesha) – Head
• Taurus (Vrishabha) – Face
• Gemini (Mithuna) – Arms
• Cancer (Karka) – Heart
• Leo (Simha) – Stomach
• Virgo (Kanya) – Hip
• Libra (Tula) – Lower abdomen
• Scorpio (Vrishchika) – Genitals
• Sagittarius (Dhanu) – Thighs
• Capricorn (Makara) – Knees
• Aquarius (Kumbha) – Ankles
• Pisces (Meena) – Feet

This mapping reflects the cosmic embodiment of divine consciousness, linking human anatomy to celestial forces.

Elements and Gunas

Each Rashi is aligned with one of the five elements and three gunas:

• Elements: Fire (Agni), Earth (Prithvi), Air (Vayu), Water (Jala), and Ether (Akasha)
• Gunas: Sattwa (purity), Rajas (activity), Tamas (inertia)

These combinations shape the temperament and spiritual orientation of individuals. For example, fiery signs like Aries and Leo are rajasic and dynamic, while watery signs like Cancer and Pisces are sattwic and introspective.

Application in Astrology

• Natal Charts: Rashis determine planetary placement and influence life areas like career, relationships, and health.
• Medical Astrology: Each Rashi governs specific body parts, aiding diagnosis of ailments.
• Muhurta (Timing): Rashis help select auspicious timings for rituals, travel, and decisions.

Cultural Resonance

In Indian tradition, Rashichakra is more than a predictive tool—it’s a spiritual compass. It reflects karma, dharma, and the interplay of cosmic energies. Many Tantrik and spiritual practitioners use it to align rituals with planetary rhythms, enhancing their efficacy and spiritual depth.