Rahu/ Ketu Peyarchi 2022

This is about the transit of mean nodes of the Moon (Rahu/ Ketu). Rahu will transit through Mesha rashi and Ketu will transit through Tula rashi from April 12, 2022 to October 30, 2023 taking Chitra Paksha Ayanamsa for calculations.

Why different dates are shown for this peyarchi and which is correct?

You might find different dates for transit on the web - some because they follow vaakya panchanga without the relevant correction as recommended by siddhanta works in astrology and thus may give the Rahu-ketu peyarchi on a different date (some temples observed it on March 17, 2022). But, for astrological purposes, it is more correct to consider the mean node for transit calculations - which is what we have done and which is what drig ganitha based almanacs will also suggest. Based on such reckoning, Rahu-ketu peyarchi (transit) is on April 12, 2022. 

EFFECTS OF THIS TRANSIT FOR NATIVES BORN IN DIFFERENT RASHIS


For those born in Mesha rashi (vedic Moon sign in Aries), Rahu transits natal Moon sign while ketu transits the 7th house from natal Moon sign. Rahu transiting the natal Moon sign will impel you to make mistakes due to miscalculations in life/ illusions. You should avoid taking impulsive decisions; domestic peace may be marred by unnecessary arguments/ anxieties due to influence of Ketu on the 7th house from your rashi. Health of self and elderly relatives may cause concern. Avoid chasing illusory goals and spoiling your current situation totally. Be patient, and if you wish to advance your prospects, do so with patience and not merely with blind optimism/ rash false-beliefs interned by looking at the lives of others. Be prepared to handle unexpected developments that may threaten to affect the rhythm of your work now and then. Remember that nothing can upset a person who is prepared and always alert to handle the unexpected events of life.

Remedies suggested: Worship of Lord Vatuka Bhairava (Lord Bhairava as a lad) on Tuesdays,Amavasyas, and Ashtami thithis will help reduce impact of Rahu. Cultivating a matured mental detachment and having an ego-less approach to family situations will help to keep domestic disagreements at bay. Performance of Ucchishta Ganapathy homam can help if there are troubles in marital life, or if there are delays/ inexplicable last-minute drop in alliances for single natives of this sign.  If there are legal issues that threaten to upset your well-being, organizing Chandi Path or performance of Durga Sooktha homam can be powerful remedies.

For those born in Rishabha Rashi (Moon sign in Taurus), Rahu transits the 12th house from natal Moon sign while ketu transits the auspicious 6th house from natal Moon sign.

Rahu's transit can cause finance related controversies, unforeseen expenditure, wearisome journeys and heavy workload at work, possible relocation, etc.  Those living abroad and are waiting for crucial work-permits may encounter  few anxieties on that count. Expenditure can mount uncontrollably. Do not latch on to “get-rich-by-night” sort of schemes and prefer stable/ safe investments instead. Be extra-careful while handling mandatory compliance filings as there is the risk of incurring losses arising out of fines/ penalty impositions from enforcement agencies. Try to cultivate healthy aspirations and thoughts; Rahu in the 12^th house can trigger deep-seated complexes/ negativities of the subconscious mind. So, try to surround yourself with positive influences, good thoughts, and healthy life-style concepts so that negativity of the mind is not triggered by external prompts/ associations. Do not let your fears restrict your range of activities; be intelligent and cautious – but not paranoid since Rahu in the 12^th house can sometimes limit your productivity/ achievements by promoting unnecessary reserved tendencies/ uncalled for avoidance of situations.

Ketu's transit influence helps in overcoming rival activity and can promote gains by overcoming tough challenges. This positive influence of Ketu's auspicious transit influence can be felt markedly in the period between April 13, 2022 and first fortnight of April 2023.

 

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Offering civet for use in Bhairava sannidhi or donating horse grams to temples, or offering horse-gram delicacies as naivedya after offering pooja to Goddess Kaali at home can help in reducing unnecessary expenditure pattern and in enhancing your courage/ confidence levels.

If you experience bad dreams or inexplicable anxiety, offering earthenware lamp/ brass lamp to your kula Devata temple can help you to feel more grounded and confident - and help to reduce patterns of unexplained and persistent heavy expenditure pattern in your life.

For those born in Mithuna rashi (vedic moon sign in Gemini), Rahu transits the auspicious 11th house from natal Moon sign indicating removal of obstacles to auspicious events, success, good gains in business, etc. Ketu's transit over the 5th house can cause some anxiety regarding younger family members, trouble from secret rivals, occasional problems of liquidity for businessmen, and possible ill-health for self or other close family members. If you are a trader in the stock markets, hedge your bets carefully and avoid risking your capital too much in choppy markets.  Sketch your moves, mark clear stop-loss triggers and avoid excess greed in trading activities. Adolescents/ young adults, and those in the 42 to 48 years of age should avoid irresponsible socialization activities that may lead to unnecessary relationship complications. Even if we are good, association with unscrupulous persons may dent our reputation too. Care should be taken in this. This is a good time for getting initiated into taaraka mantras (mantras to help you reach good spiritual planes or even emancipation!). Thus the results are mixed for you. The good transit of Jupiter in the period after April 2023, will reduce the negative influences and give scope for positive outcomes.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Donating Dakshinavarti Shankh to a Lakshmi temple, or sponsoring playing of wind/ reed instruments in temples (like Nagaswaram/ Flute performances) can be a good remedy to check the adverse transit of Ketu.

Sponsoring fan/ air-conditioning arrangements in temples/ places of worship or donating palm-leaf fans (hand fans) to devotees in temples will help you to enjoy good financial circulation and avoid liquidity issues.

For those born in Kataka rashi (Vedic Moon sign in Cancer),  Rahu transits the 10th house from natal Moon sign, while ketu transits the 4th house from natal Moon sign.  Do not be slack in performance of your duties in any way. Even if others seem to be thankless when you do your work properly, just keep going; at the very least, even if you can’t win praise, you can avoid blame when you do your work perfectly. You should guard your reputation zealously as there is possible risk of scandals arising out of undesirable association at work.  Health of self and maternal relatives may also be below par. You should be extra-careful in all activities. Students should avoid unnecessary distractions to get good grades. Career luck will be mediocre and success is possible only with hard and conscientious efforts. If you have not been giving good results and yet your superiors don't pull you up, don't lull yourself into thinking that this can go on for ever...it is possible that silently negative appraisals are being marked and it will be in your best interests to pull your act together so that you don't face adverse down-turn in career situations.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Recital of Naaraayani sthuthi – the 11^th chapter of Devi Mahatmyam, or the 12^th chapter from Shrimad Sundara Kaandam of Vaalmiiki Raamayanam version will be helpful to tone down the tough impact of Rahu/ ketu transit for your sign.  Offering silver ornaments or small replicas of Trident or tiny silver utensils or pure silve coins (per your capacity and in tune with the intensity of your issues) to temples or vedic priests can be a good remedy if you encounter tough domestic situations OR legal issues.

For those born in Simha Rashi (Vedic Moon sign in Leo), Rahu transits the auspicious 9th house giving you unexpected positive outcomes, and good luck arising out of punya karma, and Ketu transits the 3rd house from rashi - which is auspicious and can give you improved self-confidence; adventurous decisions can help you make good gains. So, those born in Simha  rashi have a good influence based on the transit of nodes this time. You have a good spread of dinner on your tables per the transit of Nodes. This will help in toning down the adverse impact of other major transits between April 2022 and April 2023. Best outcomes can be expected from second fortnight of 2023 when transit of Jupiter also turns positive for you.

No major remedies needed since the transit influence is basically good for your sign. If – Heavens Forbid, there are obstacles/ challenges, remedies appropriate to the dasa-bhukti per your individual charts and remedies for the tough transit of Saturn (Saturn is triggering the 7th house from your natal Moon sign between April 29, 2022 and July 12, 2022, and again after Jan 2023, which is not exactly auspicious), and remedies for tough transit of Jupiter (transiting the 8^th house from your natal Moon sign between April 13, 2022 and April 2023) may be tried. No specific remedy needed for the transit of Rahu/ Ketu.

 For those born in Kanya rashi (vedic Moon sign in Virgo), Rahu transits the inauspicious 8th house and ketu transits the inauspicious 2nd house from rashi. There could be obstacles to goals, strained relationship with relatives, fruitless journeys or travelling to distant lands, anxieties due to relocation, delay in getting funds released for auspicious purposes, etc. Be very careful while driving vehicles, and leave nothing to chance while handling sensitive assignments.  Try to err on the conservative/ cautious side during this period as things are tricky for you. Those trying for foreign settlement/ career may be saddled with issues arising out of unnecessary Red-tape. So, build up your visa/ GC cases carefully with supporting documentation, and avoid unnecessary/ hasty shift in jobs from one employer to another – especially if your current employer is a reputed organization. Trying to shift jobs and your visa sponsor may sometimes backfire. Look for stability rather than big pay packet - especially if your work-permit situation is shaky.  This is not a time to hit out wildly with blind hope that everything will be alright. The positive transit of Jupiter in the period between 13^th April 2022 and 22^nd April 2023,can give slight relief....but don't let down your guard even during these time-windows. 

REMEDIES: Handle mandatory compliance submissions/ tax-filings carefully.

Avoid taking unnecessary occult risks (like careless stepping over materials that have been discarded after drishti-removal on the road, unnecessary careless/ disrespectful debate on subtle spiritual matters, taking up mantras without proper deeksha, unnecessary experimentation regarding spirit communications,  etc.).

Do not raise major loans without proper calculation of your repayment capabilities.

Recite Durga Sapta Slokhi 7 times and offer 7 prostrations on Tuesday/ Friday evenings praying for Divine Assistance in all your endeavours.  

Pray to Lord Hanumaan before taking out vehicles for daily drive and ensure proper maintenance of your vehicle to stay safe.

Light 9 prayer lamps (sesame oil) in front of Lord Hanuman in temples on Tuesdays and offer 5 ghee lamps in Goddess Lakshmi or Goddess Shakti sannidhis on Fridays if you experience any intense difficulty regarding career matters.

For those born in Tula rashi (vedic Moon sign in Libra), Rahu transits the 7th house and ketu transits the rashi itself. Transit of both nodes is difficult and much caution is need in all activities. This is further complicated by tough transit of Jupiter between 13^th April 2022 and 22^nd April 2023, and tough transit of Saturn throughout the Rahu/ Ketu transit period.  Be diplomatic and guarded in your interactions with members of opposite gender, and be careful while taking new medicines. Health may be below par for elderly natives of this sign - including possibility of allergy to medicines or sudden bouts of illness that are not easy diagnosable. Overall, it is a tough transit influence you have on your hands. For single natives these positive transit of Jupiter after April 22, 2023 can give hopes regarding finalizing a suitable match if dasa-bhukti influences per the individual chart are supportive.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED:

Be broad-minded in your dealings with close relatives but do not let anyone walk all over you. Maintaining the golden mean and healthy moderation in all matters will help you to stay out of trouble.

Offering prayer lamps in the samadhis of saints and meditating on ascetics of known exalted spiritual stature (like His Holiness Chandrasekara Saraswathy, His Holiness Ugra Narasimha Bharathi, His Holiness Raghavendra Swamy, H.H. Sadasiva Brahmendral, etc.) can help you to be anchored even as life’s challenges threaten to unsettle you. 

Natives of this sign who are troubled by relationship misunderstandings (like spouse misunderstanding self, or self troubled by anxieties regarding stability of relationship) may benefit by worship of Goddess Maatangi or recital of Chapter 36 of Shrimad Sundarakaandam (Vaalmiiki Raamayan version) on Tuesday evenings.

To resolve health issues for self or close family members that are not resolved by conventional treatments, try parikrama seva in the Jeeva Samadhi of saints, OR offer physical seva (like cutting vegetables for the temple kitchen, cleaning temple premises, or whatever volunteering work can be done in a Holy Place), OR donate for annadhaanam at temples or charitable institutions that feed destitute or aged people.

For those born in Vrischika rashi (vedic Moon sign in Scorpio),   Rahu transits the auspicious 6th house from Moon sign giving success over rivals, and success in all activities. Those who try to trap you with their cunning moves may find themselves caught in their own web. Divergent thinking, innovative moves, and creative pursuits will give you success and satisfaction. However, transit of ketu is not auspicious as it is in the 12th house from natal Moon sign. Avoid raising big-ticket loans unless your financial situation is well-hedged.  Those living abroad and working on temporary work-visas may encounter mild complications in renewal of the same.  So, the results will be mediocre - the good and bad results balancing each other out. Transit of Ketu is further complicated by tough transit of Saturn between 29^th April 2022 and July 12, 2022, and in the period beyond January 2023. In the period between 13^th April 2022 and 22^nd April 2023, transit of Jupiter is positive for you, and there is scope for positive developments with hard efforts and by the punya phala accumulated by charitable and religious activities.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Feeding fishes in holy ponds/ flowing rivers with puffed rice, and offering lamps to flowing rivers on auspicious occasions will bring you good luck.

Offering coconuts to temples/ religious persons for performing homams can help reduce unnecessary expenditure and inexplicable worries/ generalized anxiety that you may experience at times.

Offering Chaamara (ritual Fans with silver/ brass handles used during mahaa aaratis) in temples/ jeeva samadhis can help if you are suffering from unnecessary expenses that seem uncontrollable. Alternatively, you may provide for exhaust fans in temple ques or repair chimneys of temple kitchens to get the same result.

For those born in Dhanus rashi (vedic Moon sign in Sagittarius),  Rahu transits the inauspicious 5th house from natal Moon sign. Women of this sign who are in the family way should undergo regular medical check-ups to rule out complications; relationship with close family members may come under strain. Single natives of this sign must avoid impulsive romantic choices.  Investors must be wary of taking wrong speculative decisions that could tilt the tables against them. However, the transit of Ketu - in the 11th house from Moon sign can give good gains and career progress. Thus both good and not-so-good results are indicated by this transit. Those appearing for competitive examinations, or have critical appraisals coming up must back themselves by taking extra hard efforts. The time-windows between April 29, 2022 and July 12, 2022, and the period beyond April 22, 2023 will be relatively better for many of you.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED:

Students of this sign can insure against the tricky transit by offering prayers to Goddess Kaali/ Maatangi on Tuesdays/ Navamis or by reciting Hanumaan chaalisa thrice on Tuesdays.

Worship of Goddess Kaali or Durga will help in protecting the well-being of children (and also will be a good safety for pregnant women).

Worship of Lord Adi Varaaha swaamy on Tuesdays can help in removing obstacles pertaining to property transactions.

Offering sandalwood for pooja/ homam in a Perumaal (Shri Vishnu) temple, or volunteering to grind sandalwood paste for poojas/ major homams can help in improving your general good luck.

Visiting samadhi shrines of saints and chanting simple bhajans/ slokhas (or if you are trained in vedic chants – you may recite vedic hymns too) can help to ensure mental peace and spiritual progress.

For those born in Makara rashi (vedic Moon sign in Capricorn), Rahu transits the inauspicious inauspicious 4th house. Health of elderly relatives - especially mother or mother's father/ mother may cause concern. There could also be relocation related anxieties or wearisome journeys due to professional reasons.  Be very careful if you are planning on purchase/ disposal of property.  Students of this sign must put in extra effort to do well in their studies.

Ketu transiting the 10th house indicates possible good luck in some major projects after strenuous efforts. Though it is not entirely positive, there is still hope for occasional good outcomes due to Ketu's transit influence.  You should look at the long-term impact of job changes you contemplate now, rather than expect immediate positive results. On the whole, the effects can be said to be tough but not entirely unmanageable as Rahu and Ketu give different results based on this transit.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED: Offering special prayers to Goddess Durga on Ashtami days and Amavasya/ Pournami days will help in reducing the malefic impact of Rahu’s transit.

Worship of Lord Varaaha swamy can help in improving luck pertaining to property dealings.

Worship of Goddess Maatangi on Tuesdays and Fridays will help students and those appearing in competitive exams or have to face interview situations (promotion appraisals/ new job offers, etc.). 

For those born in Kumbha rashi (vedic Moon sign of Aquarius), Rahu transits the auspicious 3rd house from natal Moon which can give good results and long awaited breakthroughs in life. Auspicious events can materialize for those who have been waiting for wedding bells to ring for a long time. You can enjoy very good progress if your work is related to communication sector or involves lot of writing/ networking with others. Your luck can be further enhanced (regardless of your line of work) by taking adventurous decisions. On the flip side, nebulous signals that you give may come to haunt you later, and unethical/ immoral communications with others (like irresponsible online flirtations) could cause danger to hard-gained reputations. Generally those in business or roles that require assertiveness and multi-tasking will do better than those who are employed in stable roles with fixed responsibilities that have no room for negotiation.

Ketu's transit in the 9th house is slightly challenging. This can be tough for health of self, paternal relatives who are elderly, and overseas prospects - while it is also good for spiritual pursuits and visit to Holy Places.  Natives of this sign who have been doing intense austerities for the past many years may be blessed with Divine Manifestations or Experiences that can be life-transforming. Such experiences are more likely between April 13, 2022 and April 22, 2023 when Jupiter’s transit is auspicious for your rashi.

Overall, the effects are mixed for you from a mundane perspective, BUT very positive from a spiritual angle.

REMEDIES SUGGESTED:  Getting blessings of religious preceptors (Aachaaryas of the mutts to which your family owes allegiance traditionally), or blessings of ascetics could be powerful shield for your prospects.  

Whenever situations permit travel to kshetras (pilgrim spots), and chanting vedic hymns/ puranic slokhas at home, or meditating on Saints or ascetic Divine Forms (Like Medha Dakshinamoorthi, Lord Dattatreya, etc.) can help to augment your general good luck, and also bless you with Divine Experiences.

For those born in Meena Rashi (Vedic Moon sign in Pisces) 

Rahu transits the inauspicious 2nd house while ketu transits the inauspicious 8th house from natal Moon sign.  Regularity in dietary and sleep routines, besides regulating the type of food consumed can go a long way in protecting your health. You must follow the rules of the road carefully while driving, and also be ready to take avoidance actions if the fools at the wheel of the other vehicles come your way impelled by fate – because there is accident-proneness due to this transit (especially with Ketu in the 8th house from your natal Moon sign). Avoid self-medication at all cost as there is high risk of medicinal allergies.  Also if there are eye infections take immediate medical help and avoid procrastinating on that as eye-problems are strongly indicated during this phase. Watch what you say under all circumstances; there is real risk of spoiling relationships by careless words.  Avoid raising heavy loans for any purpose as far as feasible. Businessmen of this sign must avoid risky ventures and handle the compliance norms related to their activities with alacrity.  Those in service my be troubled by increase in work-load and unrealistic demands from their superiors; these situations must be handled with diplomacy.  Natives of this sign who are in their middle-ages or ages past this stage must exercise responsibility regarding food intake to avoid unnecessary complications arising out of unbridled eating habits.

Remedies suggested: Offer musk/ civet to Bhairava Sannidhi on Ashtami days.  Worship of Goddess Chamundeshwari/ Chandi/ Durga on New Moon days and Tuesdays will help in keeping you safe in all circumstances.  

Whenever possible participate in community prayers in Honour of Goddess Chandi or in Honour of Guardian Deities of your town (like in collective Chandi homams in temples, or in local temple festivals in Honour of Mariyamman, Yellamma, Osiya Maa, or such other Guardian Deities).

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Please note that the above results are general and this influence is just one of the many factors that impinge our life...These will be moderated by the effect of transit influences of other major planets and also the directional influences unique to your charts. To some extent I have touched upon the altered influences caused by transit of other major planets in this write-up, but to get the real impact of Rahu-ketu transit unique to your sign it is always best to consult an astrologer who has consistently caught the pulse of your chart correctly and guided you correctly (a family astrologer – like a family doctor is always best in guiding you as long as you have chosen the right person for that important role!; there are some influences that are unique to individuals which an astrologer who is constantly guiding an individual will be better aware of!)

RAHU/KETU PEYARCHI HOMAM AT OUR PLACE (at Bangalore)

Those who are under adverse Rahu-ketu peyarchi influences ( those born under Meena, Mesha, Mithuna rashi, Kataka, Kanni, Tula, Dhanus, and Makara  rashis) should perform remedies to overcome the possible malefic influences of the transit since very sensitive sectors of their lives are triggered by this transit.. Those born under  Vrishabha rashi and Vrischika rashi may perform the transit related homam remedy OPTIONALLY (since the influences are mixed for them).  No need of any remedy for those born under Simha and Kumbha rashis.

We are organizing special homams on the occasion of this Rahu-ketu peyarchi on April 12, 2022 at our residence at Bangalore.  Mahaa Ganapathy homam, Chaamundi homam, Durga Sooktha homam, Prathiyangira homam, Vatuka Bhairava homam, Rahu beeja homam, ketu Beeja mantra homam will be done on that day. Recital of other sthothrams for preethi of Rahu/ Ketu (in Honour of Adi-Devatas of these Nodes) will also be done as part of the austerities.

The suggested offering for part-sponsorship to take part in that homam performance is Rs.1800(rupees one thousand eight hundred only) or equivalent for inclusion of one person whose rashi is impacted by the transit. Those who are interested in participating in these for remedial purposes may write to me at: dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in with details of the name of the person for whom the remedial performance is desired, their nakshatra, and gothra. Please write "Rahu/ketu transit 2022" in the subject line for my easy tagging of such mails.  Regular clients/ disciples who have participated in austerities under our guidance in the past may make the remittance in favour of our bank account as usual and keep us informed about the same.

Please note that we won’t be sending homam prasadam or holy ash by post due to ritual purity reasons and due to current Covid situation restricting gatherings, we are doing this strictly in an in-absentia mode (i.e. without physical participation of anyone in this austerity). The sankalpam taken in your name during the homams will be deemed “in-absentia” participation and the karmic effects of this performance will reach you any way.

So, take part in these austerities ONLY IF this condition (of in-absentia participation) is acceptable to you.

Best regards,

Blessed be.

Pandit R DAKSHINA MOORTHI 

Paapamochani ekaadasi 2022

Dear members:

The auspicious Paapa mOchini ekaadashi falls on March27/ March 28, 2022.

Schedule of Paapamochani ekaadasi 2022

a) Those living in USA, Canada, and other countries of North and South American continent, and observing Smaartha traditions, the Ekaadasi must be observed on March 27th.

Those observing strict austerities after demise of spouse (widows/ widowers observing strict celibacy and living almost like ascetics), and ascetics (renunciates) of smaartha tradition living in these places (USA, Canada, etc. mentioned here in this para) must observe this on March 28th.  Sanyaasis (ascetics) of Smaartha tradition may observe the Ekaadasi fast on both days - March 27th AND March 28th.

b) Those living in the above places and observing Vaishnava traditions must observe this on March 28, 2022.  

c) Those living in rest of the world - including India must observe this on March 28, 2022.

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This ekaadashi - as the name implies helps in removing all sins and the sinful vaasanaas (subtle karmic traces that can impel us to behave in the same way again!).

The importnace of this Paapa MOchini ekaadashi was explained to King Yudhistra by Lord Krishna, and this is found in the Bhavishyottara Purana (Lord Krishna actually refers the legend that was originally.conveyed to the King Maandaata by the sage Romasha).

According to this legend, the apsara (apsaras are Divine Damsels) by name Manju Gosha lured a great tapasvi by name Medhaavi (the son of the Great Sage Chyavana) into conjugal life thereby breaking his tapasvic life. After many years of sensual life with him, she wanted to return back to her celestial plane. The sage prevented her from going requesting her to wait at least for one more night, she playfully said just think of the time you have spent with me already. When the sage thought of it he was astonished that he had already spent 57 years 09 months and 3 days with her. He got annoyed that he had been lured into spending such a long period as if in a trance in the company of a seductive demi-goddess, and that he had lost a lot of his yogic power as a result of this life. So, he cursed her to turn into a goblin. When the apsara requested for relief from the curse, the sage suggested observance of Paapa MOchini Ekaadasi.

When the Sage Medhaavi tried to enter into the hermitage of his father Chyavana Maharishi, his father said "Oh Son! By acting unethically due to lust, you have lost your wealth of austerities and penance." When the son requested his father about the remedy for this, Maharishi Chyavana also suggested the Paapa MOchini ekaadashi observance. Thus by observing this, the apsara Manju KOsha got freed from the curse of becoming a goblin, and sage Medhavi regained his lost yogic merit.

Lomasha Maharishi said to the great king Maandhaata that whosoever observes this will get freed from all sins.

Lord Krishna Himself further adds that the power of this ekaadashi has the potency to remove such sins as sin caused by killing of a pious vedic person, that incurred in voluntary abortion (voluntary abortion due to non-medical reasons is a great sin as per shastras; birth-control is okay - but abortion is not!), sin incurred by pious people when they consume intoxicants, and that incurred by immoral activity with respectable ladies.

If this ekaadasi is performed with Full Faith, it will give the merit that can be obtained by donating one thousand cows!

May our members observe this holy Fast and get freed from all negative karma and the guilt associated with such sins.

Blessed be.

Pandit R. DAKSHINAMOORTHI

Astrological and Remedial consultant
dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in

Vasantha Navarathri 2022

There are 6 Navarathris in Honour of Divine Mother each year - one for each Rithu, and the Saaradha Navaraathri falling in sharad Rithu (October - November) is the most important as this is the festival recommended for householders. The next in importance among the 6 Navarathris is the one falling in Vasantha Rithu (March - April) called Vasantha Navarathri.

This Vasantha Navarathri occupies the pride of place in the schedule of Devi upaasakaas, and rituals done during this period are for awakening Wisdom and Spiritual Perfection. Thus, as the saaradha Navarathri is for the "Bhogis" (householders and family), the Vasantha Navarathri is for Yogis (those aspiring Spiritual perfection), sadhus, and spiritual minded upaasakaas (who may still be in family but live life as an offering to Divine Mother - balancing mundane and spiritual lives harmoniously). It is traditional to venerate Divine Mother in Her Gnaana Shakti Form during this period. We don't keep kolus or socialize much in this celebration (whereas the saaradha navarathri is as much a social occasion as it is spiritual!). The emphasis is more on spiritual sadhanas and meditation during this period.

This vasantha Navarathri marks the beginning of the lunar calendar based New year (followed by those following Telugu/ Kannada traditions in South India), and it is also associated with Shri Raama Navami which falls during this period. So, during this vasantha navarathri you can also organize Sundara Kaandam recitals at your places praying for family welfare.

Vasantha Navaraathri begins on April 1/ April 2, 2022   this year (April 1, 2022 for those living in USA, Canada, and other countries of North and South American continents, and for those living in all countries of Europe and African continents.  For those living in rest of the world - including India, it will be from April 2, 2022. Beginning of the Vasantha Navarathri is the same day as Ugaadhi.

Gauri Trithiya is to be observed on  April 3, 2022 by those living in USA, Canada, and other countries of North and South American continents; for those living in rest of the world the observance is on Apri 4, 2022.

Ashokashtami (also observed as Annapoorna Ashtami) is to be observed on April 9, 2022.

Shri Raama Navami is to be observed on April 10, 2022 throughout the world. (Those living in North and South America, Africa, and Europe must conclude the Navarathri austerities and break their Navarathri fast on April 10, 2022 itself while those living in India and other places of the world no mentioned here should conclude the Navarathri fast on April 11, 2022).

Mahaa chandi homam will be done on April 11, 2022 on Dharmaraaja dasami day at our place in Bangalore.

I request all our members to do simple prayers that are possible for them in Honour of Divine Mother during the Vasantha Navaraathri and receive Her Grace. Those who are initiated may recite Lalitha Sahasranaamam and Soundarya Lahiri on these days to become recipients of Divine Grace. Others may simply recite names like "Om Shree MaatrE namah" (Salutations to Thee who Art the Mother), "Om Durgaayai namah", "Om Sadaakshyai namah" (Salutations to Thee with 1000 Eyes = this is for prosperity), "Om siddhi dhaatryai namah" (Salutations to Thee who gives accomplishment), etc.

Those who have Tulsi plant in house may light a lamp in that sannidhi and offer 12 prostrations praying for peace and prosperity in the family and for the whole world. You may consider getting initiated into mantras like "Brindaavani Dasaakshari" (the beeja mantra for Tulsi worship that is very powerful), "Surabhi mantra" (for GOmaataa), etc. during this auspicious period.

You may also read Divine legends related to Mother Goddess which have been identified as powerful ones for prosperity based on authentic classical sources and based on teachings of Sri Vidhya Upaasaka traditions. Many such legends abound in the classic Devi Bhaagavatam. One such legend can be read by clicking the following link:
http://dakshinastro.blogspot.com/2008/04/divine-legends-that-ensure-peace-and.html

This legend is particularly beneficial to overcome pestilence and natural calamities. Those of you who happen to recite this legend, please dedicate this for the peace of the souls who perished recently in natural calamities and other disasters.

You can also listen to wonderful Devi sthothras that are available for download from various sites in .mp3 format. There are some wonderful Devi sthothrams available in text format in the site http://www.sanskritdocuments.org/. You may visit these sites and use the text of sthothras for recital.

Worship of 9 Forms of Durga Devi on 9 days

There are 9 forms of Durga Devi - "Shaila Putri, Brahmachaarinii, Chandrakantaa, Kooshmaandaa, Skanda Maata, Kaatyaayinii, Kaala Raatrii, Mahaa Gourii, Siddhidaa." You may meditate on each of these names in order from day 1 till day 9 (like on the first day - keep chanting "Om Hreem Shaila Putryai namah" or simply "Hreem Shaila putri namo namah", etc.).
These 9 names by themselves are powerful words with immense Divinity in them. Details about these 9 forms may be available elsewhere in the net; so I am not going too much into details about these. Those who are interested may do a web search on this and get further information, if desired.

Important thing to note when doing navaraathri worship even in simplified forms in Honour of Mother Goddess

Treat all women with dignity and respect during these 9 days (actually women should be treated with respect at all times - but it is more important during these 9 days). Offer auspicious items like sindhoor, kumkum, turmeric paste/ powder/ tubers, small mirrors, bangles, blouse-bits (avoid black colour), small toys for young children, etc. as per your convenience and economic viability. Even unknown women (irrespective of caste, creed, or religion) who visit your houses accidentally during these periods must be treated with respect and courtesy - Mother may visit you in any form!

Special worship at my place during Vasantha Navaraathri

As usual, special worships will be done at my place (currently at Bangalore) during Navarathri. I will pray for the welfare of all our members (and in fact for Universal wellbeing and Harmony). But those who wish to sponsor the poojas are welcome to do so. Especially whoever suspects evil-eye as afflicting their families, or fear black-magic done on their person/ businesses by rivals may benefit by Chandi homams; just as Shri Rudram is celebrated as King of Hymns, Chandi Homam is the Queen of all Fire Worships in removing all doshas. So, those who wish to take part in this are welcome to do so.

The recommended offerings for part-sponsorships during the Vasantha Navarathri days are as follows:

a) Participation in one day's austerities (on any one day of the vasantha Navarathri) - Rs.5000 (rupees five thousand only).  This covers the entire day's austerities beginning from morning Ganapathy homam, Chandi paraayanam, sakala devataa homam, and Laghu chandi homam in the morning, and recital of Devi mantras/ sthothras, and Raamaayana chapters in the evening.

b) Participation as part-sponsor in the Mahaa chandi homam on April 11, 2022- On Dharma Raaja Dasami day - Rs.30000 (rupees thirty thousand only).

c) Part sponsorship of paaraayanams done in the evenings and Devi archana - Rs.360 (rupees three hundred only) per day's sponsorship of archana and paaraayanam.

If you wish to sponsor the archana/ paaraayana on all evenings of this period, the recommended offering is Rs.3240 (rupees three thousand two hundred and forty only).

d) Taking part as a sponsor of the austerities for the entire period (9 day's havans, chants, japams, +  Shri Raama Navami austerities + Mahaa chandi homam) - Rs.75000 (rupees Seventy five thousand only).

e) Part-sponsorship of Shri Raama Navami day austerities including special homam on Shri Raama Navami day, Raamaayana paaraayanam for the day, etc.  - Rs.5000 (rupees five thousand only).

As Paypal has is not working for me any more, you won't be able to remit your payments via paypal as in the previous years.  You may have to do direct money transfer to my ICICI bank account - the details of which I will furnish for those members who wish to sponsor the austerities (members of paarayanam group and pradosham worship groups - those who are aware of the account details may directly make the remittance to the account and keep me informed).

After making the remittance, kindly send an email to dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in giving details of the remittance (the amount remitted, purpose of remittance, remittance reference no. given by bank to you), your name, birth star, rashi, and gothra (if gothra is not known indicate preference of either Shiva/ Vishnu gothra) - for inclusion in the prayers and also specify the date on which you would love to offer the homams/ archana.

 Of course, I will pray for Universal Welfare, peace of the souls who perished in various disasters (both man-made and natural) in the previous year, and for the welfare of our group members at the end of the prayers. So, those who are unable to afford the sponsorship fees or are otherwise unable to sponsor the homams need not feel let down. Please note that those who sponsor the homams/ poojas need to come in person to get the prasad or holy ash of the homam. Due to Corona related restrictions/ abnormal situations, if you wish to come in person, kindly keep me informed so that we can space out your visit at specified timings to avoid over-crowding (like if more than one family wishes to take part in person, we need to allot them different timings for receiving the Holy Ash prasadam, and ideally I would like to restrict participation in person to just one family per day).

 In case you are unable to attend the homam on the specified days, the inclusion of your name, birth star, rashi, and gothra details during the homam/ pooja sankalpam is deemed as "in=absentia" participation from your side. The homam prasad/ Holy Ash will not be sent by post due to ritual purity reasons. May Divine Mother bless us all.

Blessed be. 

Pandit R. DAKSHINAMOORTHI
dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in 

www.kasamba.com/psychic/pandit-dakshinamoorthi

Panguni Utthiram day 2022

(The photo depicting Goddess Meenaakshi's marriage with Lord Shiva in His form as Kalyaana SundarEshwara; see Lord Vishnu gifting His Sister Meenakshi in marriage to Lord Shiva as per traditional shastraic injunctions). Panguni Uttiram Festival is to be observed on March 18, 2022. It is the day of Divine Wedding between Goddess Meenakshi and Lord Sundareshwara (Lord Shiva in His wedding form). This is also the wedding day of Lord Skanda with Deivanai (the daughter of Celestial King Indra). So, it is auspicious to offer special prayers to Lord shiva or Lord Skanda on this day praying for our welfare. This is an auspicious day for praying for harmony in the family, goodwill and affection between couples, and for marriage of unmarried natives.

Also, this is considered to be the Jayanthi day of Lord Aiyappan (Dharma Shastaa's Kaliyuga avatar).

 For those in to advanced yogic practices, this is good for Kundalini Jaagran. This is an excellent day for initiation into Bhoota Shuddhi under expert guidance for removal of karmic blockages. May we offer our special prayers on this day so that Dharmaic Union as in the case of Shiva-Paarvati marriage materializes in our lives while at the same time, the undesirable elements of unqualified lust/ passion, and Ego (where we start taking credit for the good things that materialize due to Divine Grace with little effort from our side) are exorcised from our lives. 

 Blessed be.

Pandit R. DAKSHINAMOORTHI

www.kasamba.com/psychic/pandit-dakshinamoorthi

Karadaiyaan Nonbu/ Savitri vratam March 14/ March 15, 2022

Kaamaakshi amman

(image courtesy: www.hindugallery.com)

This is regarding an important austerity - Kaaradayaan nOnbu on March 14/ March 15, 2022. This is to be observed between 11:30 p.m. of March 14th and 12:30 a.m. (half an hour past midnight) of March 15th by those living in India. Others living around the world must observe the vratam at the time corresponding to the above given time (i.e. at 11:30 p.m. on March 14, 2022 what would be your local time at your place; observe the vrata at that time). This is because, this is one vrata that is to be observed at the time when Sun is about to leave sidereal Aquarius and enters sidereal Pisces (the vrata should begin at the time when Sun is still in sidereal Aquarius). So, it is to be observed at the same moment throughout the world (so the times will be different based on the local time zone - still it is at the same instant everywhere unlike other festivals that will be celebrated on different times based on local astronomical variables).

It is an auspicious day for women to pray for the welfare and longevity of their husbands. It is by the power of this observance that the legendary Saavitri got the spiritual power to win back the life of Satyaavaan - her husband who was cursed with a short life. May our women members observe the austerity as per their family traditions for the welfare of their husbands.

It is customary for ladies to offer Mangala Gowri pooja and then tie the Holy Pooja thread on self praying for husband's longevity, and for happy marital life. The offering is "kaara adai" (a special flour delicacy made with rice flour, jaggery, and kaaraamani - a red colour dried bean), and fresh butter; women pray saying "I am offering this kaara adai and unmelted butter to Thee; please ensure that my husband never separates from me," and then tie the Holy thread on their selves.

Unmarried women can also observe this vrata praying for the boon of good marital life and speedy settlement of marriage with a good spouse.

Blessed be.

Pandit R.DAKSHINAMOORTHI.

www.liveperson.com/pandit-dakshinamoorthi

dakshinastrologer@yahoo.co.in

Amalaki Ekaadasi 2022

Dear Members:

The auspicious Aamalaki Ekaadasi is to be observed on March 13/ March 14, 2022 this year.

SCHEDULE OF THE EKAADASI FAST FOR DIFFERENT PLACES ON EARTH

a) Those living in all countries of North and South America should observe this on March 13, 2022.

b) Those living in rest of the world - including all countries of Europe, Africa, middle-East Asian countries (Gulf countries), India, and all countries to the east of India must observe this on March 14, 2022.

This fast is known to eradicate all great sins and bestow great destiny, and hence it is also observed as Paapanaasini Ekaadasi. Puranaas speak of how a hunter who witnessed the performance of this fast and night-long prayers under the Amla tree (Indian gooseberry tree) by a king and his retinue in the forest, was blessed to be born as a king named VasUratha in his next life. Such is the glory of this vrata - the mere witnessing of which confers great merit!

Once that person (the hunter born as King VasUratha in next birth) lost his way in the forest and being exhausted fell asleep under a tree. Tribesmen who were his enemies tried to kill him in that unconscious state; but none of their weapons could harm the sleeping king. Then, a beautiful maiden with Divine Powers manifested from the sleeping king's body and slayed all the tribesmen. On waking up, the King was wondering how this could have happened and who could have saved him thus from his sworn enemies. Then a voice from the sky said 'You ask who helped you. Well, who is that person who alone can help anyone is distress? He is none other than Sri Keshava, the Supreme Personality of Godhead, He who saves all who take shelter of Him without any selfish motive.'

Such is the greatness of the Aamalaki Ekaadasi. This was narrated by Sage Vasishta to the Surya vamsa king Maandaatha.

On this day it is customary to worship the avatar Lord Parasuraama and Aamla tree (those who have such trees may perform the worship under the tree; others can just meditate on that tree and Lord Parasuraamaa).

picture of Lord Parasuraama courtesy: www.scienceofhinduisim.blogspot.com

(I - Pt. Dakshinamoorthi - the writer of this article - am not aware of any copyright restrictions with regard to use of this image, but I guess using this for informative purposes and illustrative purposes must be alright with attribution of the image to the original source from which the image has been taken).

Prayers to Lord Parashuraama:

'Oh Lord ParashurAma, Oh son of RenukA, Oh all-pleasing one, Oh liberator of the worlds, kindly come beneath this holy Amalakii tree and accept our humble obeisances.'

Prayer to Aamalakii tree: (Aamalakii tree is Indian Goosberry tree)

'Oh Amalakii, Oh offspring of Lord BrahmA, you can destroy all kinds of sinful reactions. Please accept our respectful obeisances and these humble gifts. O Amalakii, you are actually the form of Brahman, and you were once worshiped by Lord RAmachandra Himself. Whoever circumambulates you is therefore immediately freed of all his sins.'

May our members observe this fast and become recipients of Divine Grace.

Best regards,

Blessed be.
Pandit R DAKSHINA MOORTHI.