1. Sun (Suriyan)
The Sun represents the soul, ego, and father figure in our lives. It is associated with vitality, intelligence, and honor. In terms of profession, the Sun governs leadership, government, and glory, making it a crucial planet for those in positions of authority or aiming for high social standing. It symbolizes the heart, driving emotional strength and willpower.
- Element: Fire
- Metal: Copper
- Color: Red
- Gemstone: Ruby
- Direction: East
2. Moon (Chandran)
The Moon governs the mind, emotions, and feminine energy. It is closely connected with the mother and represents our emotional responses, our connection to water, and fluidity in both physical and mental states. The Moon also governs creativity and intuition, influencing our receptiveness to the environment and people around us.
- Element: Water
- Metal: Silver
- Color: White
- Gemstone: Pearl
- Direction: North West
3. Mars (Chevvai)
Mars is the planet of strength, courage, and valor. It governs defense forces, the muscles, and the blood in our bodies, symbolizing our fight-or-flight response. This planet also represents aggression, furious, and the will to survive. When Mars is well-placed in a person's chart, it can indicate a strong, assertive individual with leadership qualities.
- Element: Fire, Earth
- Metal: Copper
- Color: Red
- Gemstone: Coral
- Direction: South East
4. Mercury (Budhan)
Mercury governs intelligence, logic, and speech. This planet is closely linked with communication, mathematics, and the nervous system, often representing the maternal uncle in traditional astrology. Those with a strong Mercury tend to have a sharp mind and excel in business, finance, and academics. The planet is also associated with skin health and sensory perception.
- Element: Earth, Air
- Metal: Mercury
- Color: Green
- Gemstone: Emerald
- Direction: North
5. Jupiter (Guru)
Jupiter is the planet of wisdom, spirituality, and nobility. It represents children, devotion, and law, making it a benefic planet for growth in both material and spiritual life. Jupiter governs the liver, fat, and cholesterol, playing a role in physical health and abundance. Its influence is often associated with ethics, morality, and the pursuit of higher knowledge.
- Element: Fire, Water
- Metal: Gold
- Color: Yellow
- Gemstone: Yellow Sapphire
- Direction: North East
6. Venus (Sukran)
Venus governs relationships, beauty, and harmony. This planet is associated with the wife, feminine qualities, and passion. It also represents art, creativity, and music, making it a key influence in the fields of fine arts and entertainment. Venus is linked with kidneys, secretion, and vehicles, offering its protective and nurturing influence to these areas.
- Element: Water
- Metal: Silver
- Color: White
- Gemstone: Diamond
- Direction: South East
7. Saturn (Sani)
Saturn represents longevity, old age, and humility. Often seen as a taskmaster, Saturn is the planet of hardships, obstacles, and chronic diseases. It is linked with bones, hair, and nails, reflecting its connection to the physical body and endurance. While Saturn may bring delays and challenges, it also teaches valuable lessons of patience and perseverance.
- Element: Air, Earth
- Metal: Iron
- Color: Blue, Black
- Gemstone: Blue Sapphire
- Direction: West
8. Rahu
Rahu, known as the ascending node of the Moon, is associated with illusion, deception, and unorthodox activities. It governs areas such as black magic, gambling, and illegal activities. Rahu can represent our desires for materialism and worldly pursuits, often leading us down unexpected and sometimes dangerous paths. It is connected with foreign travels and can indicate an affinity for the unknown.
- Element: Air, Fire
- Color: Black
- Gemstone: Gomedh (Garnet)
- Direction: South West
9. Kethu
Kethu, the descending node of the Moon, symbolizes detachment, spirituality, and renunciation. Unlike Rahu, Kethu focuses on moksha (liberation) and occult knowledge, offering a path toward self-realization. It is associated with cats' eyes, a gemstone that promotes spiritual growth and enhances intuitive powers. Kethu is believed to provide deep insights into the occult and mysticism.
- Element: Fire, Air
- Color: Red
- Gemstone: Cats Eye
- Direction: North West
Conclusion
Each planet in Vedic astrology plays a unique and significant role in shaping various facets of life, from our mental faculties and physical health to our relationships and spiritual growth. Understanding the planetary characteristics can provide deeper insights into our lives and guide us in making informed decisions, fostering balance, and aligning with our true purpose. Whether you're exploring your own astrological chart or seeking to understand the planetary energies that influence the world around you, these celestial bodies offer valuable lessons in harmony and growth.