One of the most distinctive tools in Vedic astrology is the Dasha system, and the most widely used is Vimshottari, a 120-year cycle divided among the nine Grahas. Each planet rules a major period (Mahadasha) of fixed length: Ketu 7 years, Venus 20, Sun 6, Moon 10, Mars 7, Rahu 18, Jupiter 16, Saturn 19, and Mercury 17. The sequence is the same for everyone; where you start depends on your birth Nakshatra.
Within each Mahadasha run sub-periods called Antardashas, again cycling through all nine planets in proportion. This creates a detailed calendar in which, say, a Jupiter–Saturn period may feel very different from a Jupiter–Venus one, even though Jupiter is the overall ruler.
The Dasha lord's condition in your chart — its house, sign, strength, and aspects — determines whether its period tends to bring growth or challenge. Astrologers use Dasha analysis for questions of timing: when a marriage is likely, when a career change may come, or when a difficult phase will ease.
This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. Vedic astrology is a traditional belief system; nothing here is medical, legal, or financial advice.
KundliWise AI Editorial
Explaining Jyotish — the Vedic science of light — in plain language. Reviewed against classical sources such as the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra.