Need to reorient astrological principles Astrology has moved from stages of fortune telling and predictions about marriage, children, illness through muhurta, prasana varshphal etc. into more complex areas. Presently, more work has to be done in areas of educational & career counselling.

Astrology can help the native by telling or guiding the parents in which field or on which the children would be successful by giving them proper guidance at proper time. This work can be done by collective efforts in a group of well trained astrologers who can make use of their professional background to give a new and modern meaning to ancient terms used in the books of astrology.

In the competitive age of our times, boys and girls have to decide which line of education to pursue and which profession to choose. Now a days school are a test of parents and they have difficult time in getting little once admit to a suitable school. After secondary level, parents would like their children to do professional courses for which they did not get a chance while young or want to put their children in which they are already prospering.

So profession like that of a doctor or engineer are very prestigious one but now a days computer field and business administrative/transportation/politics and journalism are also very prestigious. This stark reality can only be explained by assigning a greater meaning in interpretation of 10th house. In fact, 10th house does provide indications to show differences in nature of postings and the duties one is required to discharge.

Significance of 10th house

The 10th house is a very important house in the horoscope of a person. It is the house which determines one’s rank, social status and profession.

The general significators in any horoscope are the Ascendant, the 10th house, the Sun and the Moon. These signs are respectively known as the Lagna, the Dashama Lagna, the Surya Lagna and the Chandra Lagna.

The 10th house has to be invariably judged not only from the Lagna but also from the Chandra Lagna. This is considered opinion of ancient stages and scholars like Varahamir. Saravali devotes a separate Chapter to discuss the effects of planets placed in the 10th house from Chandra Lagna.

The 10th house (its names and indications)

The 10th house is called (command, authority) it is also called as Meshurana from this one should know profession.

The terms to indicate the 10th house are Vyapara (Commerce), Aspada (rank of position), Karma (acts, occupations profession), Jaya (success), Kirti (fame), Karali (sacrifice), Jeevana (Livelihood profession), and Vyoma (sky or zenith).

Achara (Good conduct), Guna (good qualities), Pravritti (inclination), Gamana (going), Ajna (command) and Meshurana. It is also called as Rajya. These factors are indicated by the 10th house.

Judgement of the 10th house

In the judgement of bhava of any house three factors are to be mainly considered:
1. The house itself
2. The lord of the house and
3. The karka planet of the house.

Firstly note which planets are placed in the house and them the planet are aspecting it. Then we should see the placement of its lord in rasi and navamasa and its stellar position. Its association and aspects with other planets. Lastly the Karka for profession is the Sun, but if we are interested in the income from the profession, we must study Jupiter also.

The Karakas of the 10th house. In Jataka Parijata we find the Karakas i.e. Jupiter, Sun, Mercury and Saturn are the Karakas for the 10th house.
This 10th house is known in the western books, by the names mid heaven, medium coeli and angle of the South. It is denoted as. M.C. or medium coeli, the Sun touches the cusp of the 10th house at mid-day. This house denotes honour credit fame as told before. Evil planets placed here produce dishonour and bring discredit. Mars afflicted here will produce slander and illrupte, Sun unafflicted here power, honour, fame nobility and happiness. Jupiter, Venus herein make one an eminent person. The bad result takes place if it is afflicted. In the horoscope of Napoleon, Saturn is placed in the 10th house. It gave him a sudden rise but then down fall too.

Method to determine one’s profession and Source of Income

For this purpose the cusp of the 10th house M.C. has to be accurately calculated. Varahamira says counting has to be done from Lagna, Moon & the Sun. The most important is Lagna and then Chandra Lagna and then Surya. If the planet is the Sun, it indicated the income through father; Moon indicated income through mother, Mars through brothers, Mercury through friends, and Jupiter through brothers Venus through ladies or wife, Saturn through servants.

Important rules regarding the 10th house

1. If the 2nd & 10th lords are in conjunction-the native will live by banking (interest from lending money)

2. If 4th and 10th lords are in conjunction-the native will live on the income from lands.

3. If 5th & 10th lords are in conjunctions-the native will be employed under a king or in a temple.

4. If 6th & 10th are lords in conjunctions- the native will live by being a thief or a doctor, or by carrying out punishment in prision, imprisonment due to by quarrels or litigation.

5. If 7th & 10th are lords are in conjunctions- the profession might involve travel, he may be employed in Railway or postal service or might carry merchandise from place to place.

6. If 9th and 10th lord are in conjunction, the native pursues a religious or chartitable profession or engaged in a noble profession.

7. If 10th lord & 8 lords or 10 & 12th lords are in conjunction the native’s profession deteriorate or is ruined.

8. If 10th lord and 11th lords are in conjunction the native pursues a trade or a business.

Broad category and level of profession

As told earlier, planets placed in the 10th house exercise a strong influence on one’s life. They influence one’s profession, success, rank & status.

When a benefic planet is placed in 10th house or it the lord of 10th house in own sign or exaltation sign or when lord of Lagna is posited in the 10th house the individual becomes very famous. He is engaged in meritorious acts. He becomes fortunate like a king and has a long lease of life.

When the Sun or Mars are placed in the 10th house, one is very powerful and becomes a favourite of the people.
When Rahu, Saturn or Ketu is placed in the 10th houses the individual commits bad deeds.

Some combinations and their indications

1. Mars and Mercury = Mathematician
2. Mars and Jupiter = post in police
3. Mercury and Venus = engineer, photographer, artist
4. Venus and Moon = actor dramatist, cinema director
5. Moon and Jupiter = a very favourable yoga for much wealth

We can say astrology is the art of seeing light, of guiding of counseling based on thr truth called the horoscope. Astrology is the pathway to God through the maze of intuition and the brilliance of an organized science, like any other science

It is important to know some of the basic characteristics of the planet Mangal i.e. Mars prior to discuss Manglik Dosha. Mangal is red hot planet and known as commander among all the planets. Being a planet of tamsik and fiery nature, it signifies battle, energy, strength (physical) and power, Mars has command over blood and muscles of our body. Mars is also karaka (significator) for the younger brother, sexual strength and passion. As it is very aggressive and powerful it represents courage and confidence of the native.

Natives with stronger Mars are found to be more dynamic, energetic, courageous, and stronger that’s why they are found more in Army, Police or where muscle power is prominently needed. Out of 12 rasis, Mars is the Lord of Arise (Mesh) and Scorpio (Vrishchik), Fighter Mars gets exalted i.e. become very strong in enemy’s sign (Capricorn – Makar rasi, lordship of rigid Saturn) and becomes debilitated (very weak) in sweet and cool sign Cancer (Karka rasi, lordship of sweet Moon). Only A great fighter can have such kind of nature. Main deity of Mangal is Lord Hanuman ji, Mother Durga and Mother Baglamukhi. Ruling direction of Mangal is south. Mangal is regarded as son of mother earth that’s why its another name is Bhumi Putra.

What is Mangal Dosha

It is said that if Mangal i.e.Mars is located in houses 2nd, 12th, 4th, 7th, and 8th, house in the horoscope of a girl it will lead to the death of husband or if it is in the horoscope of a male it will kill his wife. The basis for this is following Sanskrit Sloka:

Dhanvayaye or patale jamitre or ashtame kuja:
Strinma bhartri vinashach bharatarunam strishanam

Which means if mars is in the 2nd, 12th, 4th, 7th, and 8th, houses in the horoscope of a female, the death of the husband will occur.
Similarly placed in husband’s horoscope leads to death of wife.” some scholars are of the opinion that 1st house should also be included because from here Mars aspects the 7th house.

These houses have to be judged from Lagna only. However, some scholars count from Moon also.

Why Only Selected Houses:

Mars in the 1st house: It makes a person very strong, dynamic, energetic, angry, passionate and aggressive. From this house it directly aspects 4th house of mental peace and 8th house of longevity of marriage (as it is 2nd from 7th, the house of marriage) and 7th house , which is the house of marriage so his/her nature will definitely be very dominating towards spouse, This is the first type of Manglik dosha.

Mars in the 2nd house. The 2nd house represents kutumba or family. From here it also aspects the eight and hence it is bad for longevity of marriage.

Mars in 4th house: Mangal is energetic planet, natives spend most of his/her energies in whichever house it is present. If it is in 4th house native spends most of his/her energies in home only, family atmosphere gets tensed and annoying, small conflicts and arguments would always be there, from here too Mars directly aspects 4th house , i.e. 7th house again his domination towards spouse would suffer married life.

Mars in 7th house: The 7th house deals in marriage, relationships and physical relationship, anger, aggressiveness. Mars forces native to spend his energy in passion or anger in married life. It also gives fear or chances of accidents to the spouse.

Phaladeepika says, person wanders on road and loses his wife if Mars is in the 7th house and
according to the Saravalli the subject’s wife dies, native will be unhappy and leads a sinful life.

Mars in the 8th house: Eight represents longevity of husband or wife. It is also a house of saubhagya and length of married life. Mars in the eight houses has been universally condemned in the astrological literature. It is supposed to give following results-
1) it is said to effect the longevity of the person or the spouse
2) Accidents, injuries to the person may happen.
3) One gets hindrances in all walks of life. It is said that well placed planets in Kendra’s and Trikonas are not able to give full effect because of the placement of the Mars in the eighth.

Mars in the 12th house: 12th house of chart deals in losses, secret enemies, secret desires and pleasure of bed. Here native may became very introvert, he/she may not be able to tell his/her desires, he may fulfill his/her desires secretly or he may become violent while enjoying pleasure. From this house too, Mars directly aspects the 7th house.

Therefore the placements of Mars in these houses are detrimental to the spouse and hence are known as Mangal dosha. This condition is believed to be devastating for marriage, causing discomfort and tension in relationship, leading to separation and divorce. It is believed to cause untimely death of one spouse. Some believe that one Manglik should only marry another Manglik, the idea being that two negatives cancel each other out, creating a positive. People also believe in “Poojas” that can be performed to allow Manglik and Non-Manglik to marry each other. There are also beliefs that astrological remedies (Upayas) can be used to resolve this Mangal Dosha.

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As there are 12 houses in a horoscope and Mars in 6 houses causes Mangal Dosha, it simply means that 50% of the people born haveMangal Dosha of some level. If you count houses from both lagna and from Moon, 50% would increase up to 75%. Hence it goes without saying that this Mangal Dosha is not something which will ruin a person. The prevalent misconceptions are that, if a person has a malefic mars it will either ruin the marriage or will cause one’s death or the death of the partner. Especially if a girl has Kuja or Mangal Dosha, called “Mangali”, she is looked upon as a devil by the in-laws. This is not always true.

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A proper and thoughtful consideration on Mangal Dosha can help avoid post-marital problems. Mars is a planet that represents fire. It causes a Mangal dosha in the chart because it tends to ignite the house in which it is placed and over which it has 100% aspect. Mars is a planet of valour and vigour and if occupies in the lagna, it makes the person brave and headstrong. Why should then these qualities work against a relationship? Mars alone would not decide the fate of the relationships. The placement of all the planets has to be studied as it modifies the impact of mars and gives a blended effect.

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Cancellation of Mangal Dosha

1. It is believed that if such a dosha is found in both the horoscopes of bride and bridegroom the dosha gets cancelled.
2. If one of them has Mars in lagan, the 2nd, 4th, 7th, 8th, or 12th, and the other Saturn, Rahu or ketu in any one of the above houses then too, the defect gets cancelled.
3. It is also believed that this dosha does not operate after 28 years of life.
4. When Mars is in its own sign (Aries, Scorpio), exalted (Capricorn) or in the houses owned by PLANETS SUPPOSED to be its friends (Sun, Jupiter, Moon) Mangal dosha gets cancelled.
5. If Mars is in the 2nd house but in Gemini, Virgo sign then the Mangal dosha gets cancelled
6. If Mars is in 12th house but in Taurus, Libra then the Mangal dosha gets cancelled.
7. If Mars is in 7th house but in Cancer, Capricorn then the Mangal dosha gets cancelled.
8. If Mars is in 8th house but in Sagittarius, Pisces no dosha exists.
9. For Cancer and Leo ascendant Mars is a yoga karaka (a beneficial influence) wherever it may be no dosha exists at all.
10. For Aquarius ascendant Mars in the 4th/8th house then the Mangal dosha gets cancelled.
11. If benefic Jupiter or Venus is in ascendant, no dosha exists.
12. If Mars is in conjunction or aspected by Jupiter or Moon no dosha exists.
13. If Mars is in conjunction/aspected by Sun, Mercury, Saturn, Rahu then the Mangal dosha does not exists.

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These and many more rules for cancellation should be studied carefully before stating the malefic effects of Mangal dosha. The matching of horoscopes and especially the extent of Mangal Dosha is the job of an experienced astrologer and must be done after carefully analyzing both the horoscopes.

The festival of Diwali is celebrated by Indians throughout the world in a joyous mood, with zeal and enthusiasm. The festival is predominated by colorful display of lights, bursting of crackers, cleanliness, sweets, lots of shopping, happiness. The festive spirit brings people of different communities closer, to celebrate the vibrant festival in the most blissful and lively way. Like most of the festivals in India, Diwali too has its base in mythology and there is a very interesting history about this festival. Go through the following lines to get information on the history of Diwali.

History of Diwali

Five Days of Diwali Celebrations
The first day of this festival begins with ‘Dhan Trayodashi’ or ‘Dhanteras’. After the Dhanvantari Trayodashi, the second day of Diwali is called ‘Narak Chaturdashi’, which is popular as ‘Chhoti Diwali’. The third day of Diwali, which is also called ‘Badi Diwali’ is the main day of celebrations of the festival of diwali. The fourth day of the festival is devoted to Govardhan Pooja (worship of Lord Govardhan Parvat). The fifth day of the festival is Bhai Dooj, the time to honor the brother-sister relationship.

Dhanteras History
The first day of Diwali celebration is marked by Dhanteras. According to the legends, during the churning of ocean by the Gods and the demons, Dhanvantari – the physician of the Gods came out of the ocean on the day of Dhanteras, with a pot of amrita that was meant for the welfare of the humankind. This day also marks the arrival of Goddess Lakshmi, which is celebrated by drawing small footprints of the deity, with rice flour and vermilion powder.

Narak Chaturdashi (Choti Diwali) History
One famous story behind the celebrations of Diwali is about the demon king Narakasur, who was ruler of Pragjyotishpur, a province to the South of Nepal. During a war, he defeated Lord Indra and snatched away the magnificent earrings of Mother Goddess Aditi, who was not only the ruler of Suraloka, but also a relative of Lord Krishna’s wife – Satyabhama. Narakasur also imprisoned sixteen thousand daughters of Gods and saints in his harem. A day before Diwali, Lord Krishna killed Narakasur, released the jailed daughters and restored the precious earrings of Mother Goddess Aditi.

Diwali And Shri Ram of Ayodhyaa
The most famous legend behind the celebrations of Diwali is about the prince of Ayodhya Nagri – Lord Shri Ram. According to the legend, the king of Lanka, Ravan, kidnapped Lord Ram’s wife (Sita) from the jungle, where they were staying as per the instructions of King Dashratha, father of Lord Ram. Then Ram attacked Lanka, killed Ravan and released Sita from the custody. He returned to Ayodhya with his wife Sita and younger brother Lakshamana after fourteen years.

Therefore, the people of Ayodhyaa decorated their homes as well as Ayodhyaa, by lighting tiny diyas, in order to welcome their beloved prince Shri Ram and Devi Sita. It was the day of ‘Kartik Amavasyaa’ when they also celebrated the victory of Shri Ram over the King of Lanka, Ravan. Ram is considered the symbol of good and the positive things and Ravan represents the evils. Therefore, Diwali is considered the festival, which establishes the victory of good over the evil. On the night of Diwali, people light diyas, which is again an icon of positive energy to conquer darkness, the is symbol of negative energy.

Govardhan Puja History
‘Govardhan’ is a small hillock situated at ‘Braj’, near Mathura. The legends in ‘Vishnu Puraan’ have it that the people of Gokul used to worship and offer prayers to Lord Indra for the rains, because they believed that it were He, who was responsible for rainfall for their welfare. However, Lord Krishna told them that it was Mount Govardhan (Govardhan Paevat) and not Lord Indra, who caused rains. Therefore, they should worship the former and not the latter.

People did the same, which made Lord Indra so furious that the people of Gokul had to face heavy rainfall because of his anger. Lord Krishna came forward to ensure their security and after performing worship and offering prayers to Mount Govardhan, he lifted it as an umbrella, on the little finger of his right hand, so that everyone could take shelter under it. After this event, Lord Krishna was also known as Giridhari or Govardhandhari.

Bhai Dooj History
According to the legends, Lord Yamraj, the God of Death, visited his sister Yamuna on the ‘Shukla Paksha Dwitiya’ day in the Hindi month of ‘Kartik’. When Yamraj reached Yamuna’s home, she welcomed him by performing his aarti, applying ‘Tilak’ on his forehead and by putting a garland around his neck. Yamuna also cooked varieties of dishes, prepared many sweets for her brother and offered all those to Him.

Lord Yamraj ate all those delicious dishes and when he was finished, he showered blessings on Yamuna and gave her a boon that if a brother visits his sister on this day, he would be blessed with health and wealth. This is why this day of Bhayya Duj is also known by the name of ‘Yam-Dwitiya’. Thus, it has become a tradition that on the day of Bhai-Dooj for the brothers to visit their sisters’ home and offer them gifts. Sisters also make various dishes for their brothers and give gifts to them.

History Of Sikh Community’s Diwali
In the Sikh community, Diwali celebrations have special importance as for them it, is popular as the day when their sixth Guru, Guru Har Govind ji came back from the captivity of the fort of Gwalior city. The people illuminated lamps in the way to Shri Harmandhir Sahib, which is known by the name of ‘the Golden Temple’, to honor and welcome their beloved Guru.

History of Jain Community’s Diwali
For the Jain community, the festival of Diwali has special significance. It is the day when the famous Jain prophet Bhagvaan Mahaveer, the founder of Jainism, attained ‘Nirvana’. Therefore, the people of Jain community celebrate the festival of Diwali in remembrance of Lord Mahavira.

Chhat puja is one of the popular festivals of Bihar and Jharkhand. It is also celebrated in states like West Bengal, Assam, Orissa, Uttar Pradesh and even in other countries like Nepal and Mauritius. Chhat puja is also known as ‘Suryashashthi.’

The festival of Chhat is celebrated on the sixth day of the month of Kartik (October – November). It is 4-day long festival. The main festival of Chhat in 2013 is on 12th November and 13th November. The first day of Chhat festival, called Nahai Khai, is on 10th November and Kharna is on 11th November. The full dates are:

Four days Of Chhath Puja 2013

Chhath Puja 2013- Day 1

Nahakha (literally, bathe and eat): On the first day of Chhath Puja, the devotees take a dip, preferably in the holy river Ganga, and carry home the holy water of the river Ganga to prepare the offerings. The house and surroundings are scrupulously cleaned. The parvaitin allows themselves only one meal on this day.

 Chhath Puja 2013 – Day 2

Kharna (the day before Chhath): On Panchami, the day before Chhath, the parvaitins observe a fast for the whole day, which ends in the evening a little after sunset. Just after the worship of earth, the offerings of Rasiao-kheer (rice delicacy), puris (deep-fried puffs of wheat flour) and bananas, are distributed among family and friends. From this day onwards, for the next 36 hours, the parvaitin goes on a fast without water.

 Chhath Puja 2013 – Day 3

    Sandhya Arghya(evening offerings): The day is spent preparing the prasad (offerings) at home. On the eve of this day, the entire household accompanies the parvaitins to a riverbank, pond or a common large water body to make the offerings (Arghya) to the setting sun. It is during this phase of Chhath Puja that the devotees offer prayers to the setting sun.

The occasion is almost a carnival. Besides the parvaitin, there are friends and family, and numerous participants and onlookers, all willing to help and receive the blessings of the worshipper. Ritual rendition of regional folk songs, carried on through oral transmission from mothers and mothers-in-law to daughters and daughters-in-law, are sung on this occasion. The folk songs sung on the evening of Chhath reflect the culture, social structure, mythology and history of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh.

 Chhath Puja 2013 – Day 4

  Parna(the day after Chhath) Bihaniya Arghya (next morning offerings): On the final day of Chhath Puja, the devotees, along with family and friends, go to the riverbank before sunrise, in order to make the offerings (Arghya) to the rising sun. The festival ends with the breaking of the fast by the parvaitin and friends visiting the houses of the devotees to receive the prashad. Witnessing Chhath being celebrated at the crack of the dawn on a river bank is a beautiful, elating spiritual experience connecting the modern Indian to his ancient cultural roots.

Rituals about Chhath Puja

It is believed that ritual of Chhath puja may even predate the ancient Vedas texts, as the Rigveda contains hymns worshiping the Sun god and describes similar rituals. The rituals also find reference in the Sanskrit epic poem Mahabharata in which Draupadi is depicted as observing similar rites.

In the poem, Draupadi and the Pandavas, rulers of Hastinapur (modern Delhi), performed the Chhath ritual on advice of noble sage Dhaumya. Through her worship of the Sun God, Draupadi was not only able to solve her immediate problems, but also helped the Pandavas later regain their lost kingdom.

It is also believed that Chhath was started by Karna, the son of Surya Putra Karna who ruled over the Anga Desh (present day Bhagalpur district of Bihar) during the Mahabharat Age. He was a great warrior and fought against the Pandavas in the Kurukshetra War.

Its yogic/scientific history dates back to the Vedic times. The rishis of yore used this method to remain without any external intake of food as they were able to obtain energy directly from the sun’s rays. This was done through the Chhath method. This has been stated in the book Sri Chhath Mahaviggyaan (The Science of Chhath) by Yogishri Oumkaar.
Chhat Celebrations

Folklores and hymns are sung with somber hues on the banks of the Holy Ganges or any fresh watery body. Lamps are offered to the Ganges upon which millions of lamps are seen lit and thousands of hands are seen with offering of ‘Arghya’ till the late night.

Following this the devotees return home and have grand celebrations with singing and feasting. Special pujas with sugarcanes are conducted in home for Agni deva (god of fire). Then fast is broken by eating ‘Prasadam’ or sanctified food.

People pray to the Sun god for their well-being. They have ardent faith that by observing Chhat puja one gets his wishes fulfilled. They also believe that this vrat helps in curing leprosy and ensures longevity and prosperity of the family.

Wishing our readers Happy Chhat Puja!

A person should cultivate a creative attitude in order to successfully advance along the path of love.This is a positive mental attitude, a dynamically charged state of mind, which derives its potency from the recognition that there is meaning and purpose of life. This attitude could be called the cosmic optimism. It consists in recognizing and identifying with the primal energy source that has created all things. The creative attitude puts us in touch with the source of our being and endows us with a limitless capacity for evolution.

Creative attitude should always remain with us and be the touchstone by which to gauge our actions in the world. It is a feeling of self-confidence, recognition of the Divine within each of us, a conviction that we are projections of higher principles that we can come to know. It is part of the process of evolution. Worldly or physical limitations can be overcome by invoking the creative attitude and making it work for us. Such mental attitudes have been, and can be utilized to achieve success in your chosen field of performance.

A creative attitude works wonders in eliminating doubts or uncertainty and acts as a potent virile energy. Impotency and sexual frustration are direct effects of lack of self-confidence which stems from a sense of emptiness, a negative feeling that life has no purpose. It has to be avoided once for all. Looking to high spiritual ideals for inspiration, we strengthen the creative attitude. An exquisite joyfulness accompanies this state of mind, so remember to evoke it at all times. Open yourself to the marvelous creative possibilities that will manifest. As the creative attitude is brought to bear during love-making, a wealth of variety unfolds……….!

The Sixty-four Arts

Kama Sutra, the classical Indian treatise on the Art of Love, enumerates the Sixty-four (64) Arts.These should be studied along with the Kama Sutra preferably under the guidance of a teacher. These arts and sciences include singing, music, dancing, writing, drawing, painting, sewing, reading, recitation, poetry, sculpture, gymnastics, games, flower arranging, cooking, decoration, perfumery, gardening, mimicry, mental exercises, languages, etiquette, carpentry, magic, chemistry, mineralogy, gambling, architecture, logic, charm-making, religious rites, household management, disguise, physical sports, and martial arts plus many specialized activities related to the culture and time. The accomplishments expected of young women in Victorian times echoed this idea. To update this, the arts related to more recent technical innovations, such as photography, could be added.

Both men and women should be well versed in as many of the Sixty-four (64) Arts as possible. A person who is accomplished in them is automatically given an honorable place in society. Through the application of these arts one can easily win over the object of desire – be it husband, wife or lover, and provide more fulfillment. Moreover, a single person can easily be self-supporting by the application of these skills. Even a bare knowledge of these arts adds to the charm and interest of a person.

In the West today, over-specialization has become a problem, which tends to inhibit the mind’s capacity to intuitively express the many facets of knowledge. Yet the Art of Love relies on the other arts for its support. Without these modes of expression, our existence would be boring and restrictive. Humanity depends upon these arts as a means of communication and self-expression. There is no Western equivalent of the Kama Sutra, and perhaps for this reason, sex as an art form has yet to mature in the West. Social repression and internalized guilt have prevented Westerners from a frank and joyous exploration of sexuality, today’s “liberated attitudes” notwithstanding. Practically all that the Occident offers in this area is pornography, or clinical sex manuals, so filled with anatomical details and “techniques” that they would be sufficient to put a person off the sex for life. One result of this repression is inhuman sexual perversion. The sexual act is rarely tastefully portrayed in Western art or literature. We either reject sex altogether as a subject proper to art or, in lieu of better, accept mediocre treatment of it.

The Orient did not consider sex apart from spirituality or religion. The sex act was given a place of honour and was intimately connected with the other arts. Men and women alike studied the Kama Sutra and similar texts. In the temples, all variations of sexual postures were openly portrayed and venerated as ideals. In the privacy of the home, the entire range of erotic art and literature was considered a normal and respectable subject of study. The parameters of sexual behaviour in the East extend way beyond the West’s narrow spectrum of normalcy, without the least debasement of the sexual function. Celibacy, monogamy, polygamy and polyandry – all had a place in Oriental culture.

The Sixty-four Arts should be conceived as the Paths of Creative Energy. They are the emanations of the goddess Saraswati. They can be likened to the flames of an inner sun, blazing from the solar plexus. Burning up all negativity, these flames of the creative attitude purify the psyche and bring about an inner transformation. As practical skills of the outer world, they delight others and fulfill the talented practitioner.

It is important to know some of the basic characteristics of the planet Mangal i.e. Mars prior to discuss Manglik Dosha. Mangal is red hot planet and known as commander among all the planets. Being a planet of tamsik and fiery nature, it signifies battle, energy, strength (physical) and power, Mars has command over blood and muscles of our body. Mars is also karaka (significator) for the younger brother, sexual strength and passion. As it is very aggressive and powerful it represents courage and confidence of the native.

Natives with stronger Mars are found to be more dynamic, energetic, courageous, and stronger that’s why they are found more in Army, Police or where muscle power is prominently needed. Out of 12 rasis, Mars is the Lord of Arise (Mesh) and Scorpio (Vrishchik), Fighter Mars gets exalted i.e. become very strong in enemy’s sign (Capricorn – Makar rasi, lordship of rigid Saturn) and becomes debilitated (very weak) in sweet and cool sign Cancer (Karka rasi, lordship of sweet Moon). Only A great fighter can have such kind of nature. Main deity of Mangal is Lord Hanuman ji, Mother Durga and Mother Baglamukhi. Ruling direction of Mangal is south. Mangal is regarded as son of mother earth that’s why its another name is Bhumi Putra.

What is Mangal Dosha

It is said that if Mangal i.e.Mars is located in houses 2nd, 12th, 4th, 7th, and 8th, house in the horoscope of a girl it will lead to the death of husband or if it is in the horoscope of a male it will kill his wife. The basis for this is following Sanskrit Sloka:

Dhanvayaye or patale jamitre or ashtame kuja:
Strinma bhartri vinashach bharatarunam strishanam

Which means if mars is in the 2nd, 12th, 4th, 7th, and 8th, houses in the horoscope of a female, the death of the husband will occur.
Similarly placed in husband’s horoscope leads to death of wife.” some scholars are of the opinion that 1st house should also be included because from here Mars aspects the 7th house.

These houses have to be judged from Lagna only. However, some scholars count from Moon also.

Why Only Selected Houses:

Mars in the 1st house: It makes a person very strong, dynamic, energetic, angry, passionate and aggressive. From this house it directly aspects 4th house of mental peace and 8th house of longevity of marriage (as it is 2nd from 7th, the house of marriage) and 7th house , which is the house of marriage so his/her nature will definitely be very dominating towards spouse, This is the first type of Manglik dosha.

Mars in the 2nd house. The 2nd house represents kutumba or family. From here it also aspects the eight and hence it is bad for longevity of marriage.

Mars in 4th house: Mangal is energetic planet, natives spend most of his/her energies in whichever house it is present. If it is in 4th house native spends most of his/her energies in home only, family atmosphere gets tensed and annoying, small conflicts and arguments would always be there, from here too Mars directly aspects 4th house , i.e. 7th house again his domination towards spouse would suffer married life.

Mars in 7th house: The 7th house deals in marriage, relationships and physical relationship, anger, aggressiveness. Mars forces native to spend his energy in passion or anger in married life. It also gives fear or chances of accidents to the spouse.

Phaladeepika says, person wanders on road and loses his wife if Mars is in the 7th house and
according to the Saravalli the subject’s wife dies, native will be unhappy and leads a sinful life.

Mars in the 8th house: Eight represents longevity of husband or wife. It is also a house of saubhagya and length of married life. Mars in the eight houses has been universally condemned in the astrological literature. It is supposed to give following results-
1) it is said to effect the longevity of the person or the spouse
2) Accidents, injuries to the person may happen.
3) One gets hindrances in all walks of life. It is said that well placed planets in Kendra’s and Trikonas are not able to give full effect because of the placement of the Mars in the eighth.

Mars in the 12th house: 12th house of chart deals in losses, secret enemies, secret desires and pleasure of bed. Here native may became very introvert, he/she may not be able to tell his/her desires, he may fulfill his/her desires secretly or he may become violent while enjoying pleasure. From this house too, Mars directly aspects the 7th house.

Therefore the placements of Mars in these houses are detrimental to the spouse and hence are known as Mangal dosha. This condition is believed to be devastating for marriage, causing discomfort and tension in relationship, leading to separation and divorce. It is believed to cause untimely death of one spouse. Some believe that one Manglik should only marry another Manglik, the idea being that two negatives cancel each other out, creating a positive. People also believe in “Poojas” that can be performed to allow Manglik and Non-Manglik to marry each other. There are also beliefs that astrological remedies (Upayas) can be used to resolve this Mangal Dosha.

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As there are 12 houses in a horoscope and Mars in 6 houses causes Mangal Dosha, it simply means that 50% of the people born haveMangal Dosha of some level. If you count houses from both lagna and from Moon, 50% would increase up to 75%. Hence it goes without saying that this Mangal Dosha is not something which will ruin a person. The prevalent misconceptions are that, if a person has a malefic mars it will either ruin the marriage or will cause one’s death or the death of the partner. Especially if a girl has Kuja or Mangal Dosha, called “Mangali”, she is looked upon as a devil by the in-laws. This is not always true.

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A proper and thoughtful consideration on Mangal Dosha can help avoid post-marital problems. Mars is a planet that represents fire. It causes a Mangal dosha in the chart because it tends to ignite the house in which it is placed and over which it has 100% aspect. Mars is a planet of valour and vigour and if occupies in the lagna, it makes the person brave and headstrong. Why should then these qualities work against a relationship? Mars alone would not decide the fate of the relationships. The placement of all the planets has to be studied as it modifies the impact of mars and gives a blended effect.

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Cancellation of Mangal Dosha

1. It is believed that if such a dosha is found in both the horoscopes of bride and bridegroom the dosha gets cancelled.
2. If one of them has Mars in lagan, the 2nd, 4th, 7th, 8th, or 12th, and the other Saturn, Rahu or ketu in any one of the above houses then too, the defect gets cancelled.
3. It is also believed that this dosha does not operate after 28 years of life.
4. When Mars is in its own sign (Aries, Scorpio), exalted (Capricorn) or in the houses owned by PLANETS SUPPOSED to be its friends (Sun, Jupiter, Moon) Mangal dosha gets cancelled.
5. If Mars is in the 2nd house but in Gemini, Virgo sign then the Mangal dosha gets cancelled
6. If Mars is in 12th house but in Taurus, Libra then the Mangal dosha gets cancelled.
7. If Mars is in 7th house but in Cancer, Capricorn then the Mangal dosha gets cancelled.
8. If Mars is in 8th house but in Sagittarius, Pisces no dosha exists.
9. For Cancer and Leo ascendant Mars is a yoga karaka (a beneficial influence) wherever it may be no dosha exists at all.
10. For Aquarius ascendant Mars in the 4th/8th house then the Mangal dosha gets cancelled.
11. If benefic Jupiter or Venus is in ascendant, no dosha exists.
12. If Mars is in conjunction or aspected by Jupiter or Moon no dosha exists.
13. If Mars is in conjunction/aspected by Sun, Mercury, Saturn, Rahu then the Mangal dosha does not exists.

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These and many more rules for cancellation should be studied carefully before stating the malefic effects of Mangal dosha. The matching of horoscopes and especially the extent of Mangal Dosha is the job of an experienced astrologer and must be done after carefully analyzing both the horoscopes.

It is rather difficult to construct a multi with a number of residential flats as it is not so simple to fix proper zones for kitchen, bathroom, w/c, bedroom etc. as per Vaastu principles. However if flats in a multi are constructed keeping following points under consideration or the already constructed flats are rearranged, then quite favourable results may be obtained:-

As far as possible, flats must be constructed in rectangular or square area that is each and every flat component must be a square or rectangular unit.

Each unit (flat) must have bathroom in the NE zone, leaving sharp corner for a small temple. Bathroom must be followed with a w/c towards East that is away from NE corner. W/c may be given to SW or NE zone also.

The kitchen should be towards SE sharp. It must never be towards NE. If it be there, then shifting becomes essential. Second preference of kitchen may be given towards NW.

Master bedroom should be towards SW of the unit. Other beds may be given toward NW/N or Eest.

Center of the flat (unit) should be free. It should be kept empty and clean.

The unit must have ventilators more towards East & North or towards NE zone.

Store room must be towards SW zone or it should be in the mid-West.

At least 200 to 500 kg weight should always be present in the sharp SW corner.

The main gate of the unit should open towards the interior of the room. It must not be of sliding nature.

Sharp SW corner should never be allotted to the gate of the unit.

The main gate of the campus of the complex must be towards any of the sharp direction i.e. North, South, East or West, or towards NE or NW but in no case it should be towards SW or SE.

The tube well or wells in the campus of the apartment building must be in NE, East or North.

Any kind of water storage zone should be towards NE (leaving sharp corner for the common temple of the complex) or towards East or North but it should not be towards SE zone.

The placement of the building should be done in such a way that more open space should be left towards East & North than West & South.

Plantation should be done in North & West and following plants should specially be planted in the campus in favourable directions:
a)    Ashok – towards North,
b)    Kanak Champa – towards North
c)    Ashapala – towards West
d)    Sambhaloo – Anywhere.

The overhead tank of the complex should be given in SW zone. If possible select SW sharp corner for it.

Drainage should be towards SW or NW. It could also be towards West or even towards SE away from the sharp SE corner.

The water streaming should be done from South to North or from West to East or towards both North & East.

South portion should be made somewhat elevated.

The electric mains & electrical switches should be given in SE corner of the rooms in the flats and towards SE zone or in the sharp SE corner of the complex. Second preference may be given to NW.

Parking for light vehicles may be given towards NE and parking for the heavy vehicles may be given towards West or mid-North.

Staircases to be given in South, West or SW but they should not be given towards NE.

It is better to enclose a central open to sky space and around that the structure should be constructed.

Remedies for anti-constructed flats
In a flat of a multi-storied building we cannot bring about any constructional change. Hence in such a case following simple remedies can be performed to overcome the defects:-

If the toilets be in unfavorable directions, keep sufficient amount of common salt crystals preserved in a plastic bucket in the toilet permanently. It will nullify the bad energy there.

If the ‘Brahma-sthan’ be under heavy load, shift the load towards south-west or west or even towards south.

If there be a wall covering ‘Brahma-sthal’ a part of the wall is removed from there to allow the flow of air from there. The space should be at least of  1’x6″, as shown below:-

Always keep a kg. of Alum crystals opened in the drawing room and the master-bedroom.

On every ‘Amavasya’, a small ‘Havan’ should be performed. In that ‘Havan’ a cowdung cake is burnt and then over that burning dung cake a mixture of the following should be burnt as ‘aahuti’

(i)    Sandal powder
(ii)    Kale Til (Black Sisamum)
(iii)    Jau
(iv)    Desi Camphor
(v)    Raal (gum of shorea robusta)
(vi)    Powder of Ashwagandha, and
(vii)    Pure (Desi) ghee.

Doing so regularly would cure the bad effects of Vaastu and residents of the flat may feel healthy, wealthy, peaceful and prosperous.

The description of Durga given by Sage Vyasa in his ‘Markandeya Purana’ is available in the form of ‘Durga Saptashati’. Durga is the symbol of the force which is the reflection of Power Supreme. Durga inspires humans into labour, work, endeavour, adventure and industry. The worship of this force give birth to ‘Shakti‘ sect in Hinduism. Durga concepts springs from the knowledge of Vedas and Upanishads. In a nutshell, for the destruction of evil forces and non-believers, God’s power took birth in the form of Durga. The most widely accepted account of the nine forms of Durga is the one found in the Devi Mahatmya– Sailaputri, Brahmacharini, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skanda Mata, Katyayani, Kalaratri, Maha Gowri and Siddhidayini. The nine forms of Durga are worshipped during the nine days of Navratri.

1) Shailputri:

In this form Durga is two-armed and carries a trident and lotus. Her mount is an ox or bull. Shailputri means the daughter of the mountain, Himalaya. In this form we see the divine Mother holding a trident in her right hand and a lotus on her left. She is seen seated on an ox.
In her previous birth, she was called Sati, Bhavani and was the daughter of King Daksha. After a lot of penance, she married Lord Shiva. But her father King Daksha was not too happy. He had arranged for a Yagya/Yagna (Ritual done around the sacrificial fire) where he invited everyone except his son-in-law, Lord Shiva. Upset and feeling humiliated, Sati decided to attend the event uninvited. There, her father insulted Lord Shiva and in fury she stood on the sacrificial fire and burnt herself alive.
Lord Shiva enraged, ordered his followers to demolish the Yagya. Sati was reborn as the daughter of the king of the mountains, Himalaya in the name of Parvati – Hemvati and got married with Lord Shiva again. This form of her is worshipped on the first day of the Navratri celebrations.

2) Brahmacharini:

In this form Durga is two-armed and carries a rosary and sacred water pot (Kamandal). She is in a highly pious and peaceful form or is in meditation. This form of Durga is related to the severe penance undertaken by Sati and Parvati in their respective births to attain Lord Shiva as husband. Some of the most important Vratas observed in different parts of India by women is based on the strict austerities followed by Brahmacharini. She is also known as Tapasyacharini and is worshipped on the second day of Navrathri.

3) Chandraghanta:

Goddess Durga’s third form is known as Chandraghanta or Shakti. Chandra means moon and Ghanta is the bell. This name finds its explanation in the half-circular moon on the temple of the Goddess that resembles a bell. She is three eyed with ten hands. Each hand holds ten different weapons. She is seated on lion and is worshipped on the third day of the Navratri celebration. Her hue is golden and her appearance always spreads a calm and eternal peace all round. She is unprecedented image of bravery. The frightful sound of her bell terrifies all the evil and demon. Worship of this deity helps to eliminate the sorrow, hazards and dangers in ones life.

4) Kushmanda:

In this form Durga is eight-armed and rides on a tiger. She holds kamandalu, bow, arrow, lotus, pot containing wine, disc, rosary and a club. She is very happy in this form and it is believed that the eternal darkness ended when she smiled. And this led to the beginning of creation. Kushmanda form of Durga is worshipped on fourth day of Navratri.

5) Skanda Mata:

Lord Kartik/Kartikeyan/Karthikeyan is also known as Skanda. As Goddess Durga is his mother, she is referred to as Skanda Mata. She is a deity of fire with four arms. She holds her son Skanda with the top right hand and lotus in her lower hand. The top left hand is positioned in a blessing gesture or Abhaya Mudra. She is fair complexioned, seated on a lotus and so also referred to as Padmasana.

6) Katyayani:

Sage Katyaayan was the son of the great sage Kat. He observed rigorous penance and worship of Bhagavati Paramba with a desire to get Paramba as his daughter. His wish was granted. The daughter born was named Katyayani. She has four hands. The top right hand is positioned in a gesture of providing courage while the other hand is positioned in a gesture of rendering a boon. The top left hand holds a sword and the other a lotus. The goddess rides a lion and worshiped on the sixth day of the Durga puja.

7) Kalratri:

Ratri means night so her complexion is as dark as the night. She has long, unmated hair with her three eyes that are shiny and bright. She has four arms and is seen mounted on a Shav/Shava or dead body. Her right hand holds a sword, while her lower hand is in a blessing stance. The left hand holds a burning torch and the lower left hand is in fearless position. She is known as Shubhamkari or the auspicious one. Her form encourages her devotees to be fearless.

8 ) Maha Gauri:

It is said that when the body of Goddess Gauri got dirty due to dust and earth while she was observing penance to attain Lord Shiva. So he cleansed her with the holy waters of Ganges. Her body transformed into bright and luminous like lightening and so her eighth form is known as “Maha Gauri” .Her clothes and ornaments are also white. Her visage is calm and peaceful and she is three eyed. She rides on a bull. Her four hands denote different meanings, like the left hand is in the fearless gesture and the lower on holds a trident. The above right hand has tambourine and lower right hand is in blessing style.

9) Siddhidatri:

The ninth form is Siddhidatri. There are eight Siddhis (Special powers which can only be attained from severe penance and meditation)-Anima, Mahima, Garima, Laghima, Prapti, Prakamya, Iishitva & Vashitva. Maha Shakti gives all these Siddhies. It is mentioned in the Devi Puran” that Lord Shiva got all these Siddhis by worshipping Maha Shakti.
With her gratitude, Lord Shiva’s body also contains the Goddess and so he has the form and name of Ardha Narishvar. Ardha means half. The goddess rides on a lion. The Siddhidatri form is worshipped by all gods, rishis, munis (Saints and Sages), siddhas, yogis, sadhakas (Devotees) for attaining merit and boons of their severe penances.

There are 5 elements of a Panchanga (pancha- 5, anga- organ/ elements), they are namely.

1. Vara      : Weekday
2. Tithi     : Lunar day
3. Karana    : Half of a lunar day
4. Nakshatra : Lunar asterism
5. Yoga      : Sun, Moon combination

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SHUBHA YOGA
(Auspicious Combination)
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1. Siddha Yoga:

This is formed due to the combination of the Tithi and vara

There are 5 categories of Tithis:
Nanda  : Pratipad,  Shasthi, Ekadasi
Bhadra : Dvitiya,   Saptami, Dvadasi
Jaya   : Tritiya,   Astami,  Trayodasi
Rikta  : Chaturthi, Navami,  Chaturdasi
Purna  : Panchami,  Dasami,  Purnima, Amavasya

The 5 categories of Tithis are governed by 5 elements of nature which are given below. When a tithi falls on a weekday (Vara) governed by the same element as that of the tithi a very auspicious time is formed which goes by the name of Siddha Yoga.

Following combination of Tithis and the Varas constitute the siddha yoga:

Nanda  : Friday    :Venus   : Jala    Tattva
Bhadra : Wednesday :Mercury : Prithvi Tattva
Jaya   : Tuesday   :Mars    : Agni    Tattva
Rikta  : Saturday  :Saturn  : Vayu    Tattva
Purna  : Thursday  :Jupiter : Akash   Tattva

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2. Sarvartha Siddha Yoga

Certain combination of Nakshatras and Weekdays go by the name of Sarvartha Siddhi yoga. Activities done during this yoga usually concludes with Positive results.

Monday    : Sravana, Rohini      , Mrigashiras, Pushya    , Anuradha
Tuesday   : Aswini , U.Bhadrapada, Krittika   , Ashlesha
Wednesday : Rohini , Anurada     , Hasta      , Krttika   , Mrgashiras
Thursday  : Revati , Anuradha    , Aswini     , Punarvasu , Pusya
Friday    : Revati , Anuradha    , Aswini     , Punarvasu , Sravana
Saturday  : Sravana, Rohini      , Swati
Sunday    : Hasta  , Mula        , U.Ashadha  , U.Phalguni, U.Bhadra, Aswini, Pushya

* * * * * * * *

Amrita Siddhi Yoga:
This yoga is formed due to combination of Vara and Nakshatra

Sunday  : Hasta
Monday  : Mrgashiras
Tuesday : Aswini
Mercury : Anuradha
Thursday: Pusya
Friday  : Revati
Saturday: Rohini

Though this is a auspicious combination, following events should be avoided:

Thursday- Pushya: Marriage
Tuesday – Aswini: Grha Pravesha
Saturday- Rohini: Travel

* * * * * * * *

Dvipushkar Yoga:

Following combination of Tithi, Vara and Nakshatra is called Dvipushkar Yoga:

Dvitiya  , Saptami, Dvadasi
Sunday   , Tuesday, Saturday
Dhanistha, Chitra , Mrgashiras

The events repeat again at least once if they happen in this yoga. Hence good events should happen in this yoga such as purchase of property etc. and unfortunate events such as diseases and death should not happen.

* * * * * * * *

Tripushkar Yoga:

Following combination of Tithi, Vara and Nakshatra is called Tripushkar Yoga:

Sunday,   Tuesday,   Saturday
Dvitiya,  Saptami,   Dvadasi
Krittika, Punarvasu, Uttaraphagulni, Vishaka, Uttarashadha, Uttarabhadrapada

The events repeat again at least twice if they happen in this yoga. Hence good events should happen in this yoga such as purchase of property etc. and unfortunate events such as diseases and death should not happen.

* * * * * * * *

ASHUBHA YOGA:
(Inauspicious combinations)
* * * * * * * *

Mrtyu Yoga:
This yoga is formed due to combination of Vara and Tithi

Tuesday   , Sunday :: Pratipad , Shasthi, Ekadasi
Monday    , Friday :: Saptami  , Dvadasi
Wednesday          :: Tritiya  , Ashtami, Trayodasi
Thursday           :: Chaturthi, Navami , Chaturdasi
Saturday           :: Panchami , Dasami , Purnima

Adham Yoga:
This yoga is also formed due to combination of Vara and Tithi

Sunday   : Saptami, Dvadasi
Monday   : Ekadasi
Tuesday  : Dasami
Wednesday: Pratipad, Navami
Thursday : Ashtami
Friday   : Saptami
Saturday : Shasti

Dagdha Yoga:
This yoga is formed due to combination of Vara and Nakshatra

Sunday   : Bharani
Monday   : Chitra
Tuesday  : Uttarashadha
Wednesday: Dhanishtha
Thursday : Uttaraphalguni
Friday   : Jyestha
Saturday : Revati

Yamaghata Yoga:
This yoga is also formed due to combination of Vara and Nakshatra

Sunday   : Magha
Monday   : Vishakha
Tuesday  : Ardra
Wednesday: Moola
Thursday : Krittika
Friday   : Rohini
Saturday : Hasta