Soothsayer By Vigneswaran Rajkumar

What is Vedanga Jyotisha?

Vedanga Jyotisha represents one of the most ancient repositories of astrological wisdom originating from India. As one of the six branches of the Vedangas, it holds a distinguished place within the corpus of Vedic literature. The Vedangas, often regarded as auxiliary disciplines essential for understanding and preserving the Vedas, are succinctly described in Paniniya Shiksha. This text poetically depicts the Veda as a Purusha (cosmic being) with six limbs, each corresponding to a Vedanga: Chandas (meter) as His two feet, Kalpa (ritual) as His two arms, Vyakarana (grammar) as His mouth, Nirukta (etymology) as His ears, Shiksha (phonetics) as His nose, and Jyotisha (astronomy and astrology) as His eyes.

Similarly, the Mundaka Upanishad emphasises the integral role of these six disciplines, naming them as: Shiksha (phonetics and pronunciation), Kalpa (ritual procedures), Vyakarana (grammar), Nirukta (etymology), Chandas (meter), and Jyotisha (astronomy and astrology).

Vedanga Jyotisha was actively practiced in ancient India and played a pivotal role in shaping cultural and spiritual traditions. For instance, during the historical epoch of the Mahabharata, dated to approximately 5561 BCE, Sahadeva—the youngest of the five Pandava brothers—was an adept astrologist and a master of intuitive perception. His expertise in Jyotisha was instrumental in critical events of that time.

Similarly, in the historical era of the Ramayana, dated to around 12209 BCE, Sage Vasishtha, the esteemed priest of the Ikshvaku dynasty and spiritual preceptor of Bhagavan Sri Rama, employed Jyotisha to interpret Bhagavan Sri Rama's Janam Kundali (birth chart). Through his profound knowledge, he accurately foretold key events and challenges in Bhagavan Sri Rama's life. The Janam Kundali, a celestial map depicting the configuration of planets and stars at the moment of an individual's birth, continues to serve as a cornerstone of astrological practice.

This enduring legacy of Vedanga Jyotisha underscores its significance as both a scientific and spiritual discipline in ancient Indian civilisation. It continues to thrive in modern India and has spread its influence across the world, shaping contemporary Jyotisha practices globally.

Didn't the Greeks invented astrology?

No, contrary to popular belief and Western sources, the Greeks did not invent astrology. They couldn't have. The science of Jyotisha, or Vedic astrology, predates Greek contributions by several multiple millennia, with its origins deeply rooted in ancient Bharatavarsha (India) during the reign of Ikshvaku dynasty. Jyotisha is known to have existed long before the events of the Ramayana. The Surya Siddhanta, a seminal text detailing the rules for calculating the motions of celestial bodies—including the planets and the moon in relation to Nakshatras (stars) and constellations—as well as their diameters, dates back to approximately 14,500 BCE or even earlier, transcending the limits of modern comprehension.

Astro-archaeological evidence and scholarly research suggest that the Greeks copied extensively from the profound astrological knowledge of ancient India. However, in the process, some of this knowledge was altered and misinterpreted, leading to distortions in its original essence. The advanced understanding of astronomy and astrology possessed by the Sages (Rishis) of ancient India far surpassed that of the Greeks.

One of the key contributors to Jyotisha was Sage Parashara, the father of Sage Vyasa (chronicler of the Mahabharata), born to Satyavati during the event's timeline. Sage Parashara compiled and authored the Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra, a foundational text of Vedanga Jyotisha that continues to guide Jyotisha Practices to this day.

The interconnection between Karma (actions) and Jyotisha is profound and inseparable. As outlined in Veda Shastra, our births and rebirths are determined by our Karmas—the accumulated deeds of past lives. Without Karma, Janm (birth), Mrtyu (death) and Samsara (rebirth) itself would not occur.

Among all cultures, it is India that upholds the concept and cycles of Punarjanma (reincarnation) as a core belief. This intrinsic relationship between Karma and Jyotisha further reinforces the origin of this profound science in ancient India.

Thus, it is unmistakably clear that the origins of both astronomy and astrology can be traced solely to the profound and timeless wisdom of ancient India's sages.

Is Vedanga Jyotisha pseudoscience?

Modern science, with its foundation rooted in reproducibility, cannot definitively agree or disagree with Vedanga Jyotisha. This is because Jyotisha operates on principles that transcend the conventional frameworks of scientific methodology. Each individual carries a unique karmic footprint—a repository of past actions and their consequences—which requires in-depth research and meticulous analysis to understand.

Vedanga Jyotisha is not merely a science; it is a super-science, demanding not only intellectual rigour but also a heightened level of intuitive perception. This intuitive aspect is integral to the practice of Jyotisha, elevating it beyond the boundaries of empirical sciences.

However, through the systematic scientific analysis and empirical validation of numerous Janam Kundalis (birth charts), Vedanga Jyotisha practitioners have consistently demonstrated their ability to make accurate predictions and foretell significant life events and helped humanity. This remarkable precision underscores the profound depth of knowledge embedded in this ancient discipline.

There is a well-known adage among practitioners of Jyotisha: "You don't choose Jyotisha; Jyotisha chooses you", This encapsulates the profound and almost spiritual connection required to engage with this ancient practice, suggesting that the ability to practice Jyotisha is as much a calling as it is a skill.

What is Karma?

Karma means actions, deeds, and acts—performed physically, mentally, and psychologically—across the past, present, and future. In its essence, Karma embodies the universal principle of cause and effect, where every action has corresponding consequences. There are four distinct types of Karma:

Sanchita Karma (Accumulated Karma): This refers to the entirety of one's accumulated Karma, including actions from past lifetimes that may not yet be fully realised or understood. It represents the vast reservoir of potential karmic energy influencing one's journey.
Prarabdha Karma (Allotted Karma): A subset of Sanchita Karma, this is the portion of accumulated Karma designated to be experienced in the current lifetime. Prarabdha Karma shapes the circumstances and situations one encounters, and it is through these experiences that one begins to work through the larger karmic backlog.
Agami Karma (Future Karma): This is the Karma generated by one's present actions and choices, the effects of which may unfold in this lifetime or future lifetimes. It emphasises the dynamic and ongoing nature of one's karmic imprint.
Kriyamana Karma (Instantaneous Karma): This refers specifically to the immediate consequences of one's actions. It highlights the direct cause-and-effect relationship that manifests in the present moment.

Each individual carries a unique karmic footprint—a blend of accumulated Karma and unresolved actions from past lives. This karmic backlog is inescapable, yet it provides opportunities for growth, learning, and transformation.

In modern science, there are four fundamental forces—gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong and weak nuclear forces—that govern the physical universe. However, Karma can be viewed as an overarching metaphysical force that supersedes these fundamental forces. It transcends the material realm, orchestrating the intricate interplay of actions and consequences across lifetimes and dimensions of existence.

To understand one's karmic footprint and navigate the complexities of these influences, the ancient science of Vedanga Jyotisha is employed. It offers insights into what one can achieve and what limitations may arise, allowing individuals to align their actions with their spiritual journey.

I do not believe in Karma?

That is perfectly fine. Belief is not a prerequisite for the workings of Karma. As outlined in the Veda Shastras and teachings of ancient Indian sages, understanding and acceptance of Karma often come naturally over lifetimes. If not in this life, you will come to recognise its truths in the next.

Karma is an impartial force of the universe—it neither requires your belief nor is influenced by your opinion. It simply does its job, maintaining the balance of cause and effect, regardless of perception or acknowledgment.

Do I have free will?

The answer is both yes and no. Free will, in its absolute sense, is an illusion. Our lives are governed by Prarabdha Karma—the portion of accumulated karma allotted to us in this lifetime. Think of it as a karmic "bank balance". Just as one can only spend what is available in their account, an individual's ability to act is confined within the limits of their Prarabdha Karma.

To better understand this, consider an analogy: a software application operating within an operating system. The extent to which the application can perform tasks depends on its level of privilege. With elevated privileges, the software can execute a broader range of functions; with restricted access, its capabilities are significantly limited. Similarly, free will operates within a "sandboxed" environment shaped by our karmic constraints.

While we may perceive freedom in our choices, these actions are fundamentally influenced by the karmic blueprint carried over from past lives. Thus, our ability to act and make decisions is not entirely unrestricted but aligned with the circumstances and opportunities permitted by our Prarabdha Karma.

Can I know my death?

While it is indeed possible to calculate the time of one's death through the principles of Vedanga Jyotisha, it is important to note that this is not the primary focus of this ancient science. There are highly skilled and renowned Jyotisha practitioners who can, with remarkable precision, determine the time of death, sometimes even to the month or week. However, much like the ethical codes upheld by doctors or lawyers, there exists a code of ethics within the field of Jyotisha.

As per these ethical standards, a Vedanga Jyotisha practitioner will generally refrain from disclosing the time of death to their clients, as doing so would incur negative Agami Karma for the practitioner. While practitioners may not reveal the specific moment of death, they can provide valuable insights into an individual's health and well-being, offering guidance on how to maintain or improve their physical and mental state.

The true purpose of Vedanga Jyotisha is to offer guidance and support to those in need. The word Jyoti, meaning "light", encapsulates the essence of this practice—the practitioner serves as a beacon, illuminating the path for others. Knowing the moment of death is not particularly helpful in the grand scheme of one's journey, as we still have our Prarabdha Karma to exhaust in this lifetime.

Is Vedanga Jyotisha the mother of all astrology?

In essence, yes. There are other forms of astrology and prediction methodologies, such as Western (Modern) Astrology, Chinese Astrology, Tarot Card Reading, and Fortune Telling, each with practitioners who are masters in their respective fields.

However, when the term modern is applied to these practices, it can often be somewhat oxymoronic and contradictory. Vedanga Jyotisha, rooted in ancient Indian tradition, has been practiced since time immemorial. The knowledge of this sacred science has been meticulously passed down through the Guru-Shishya Parampara (teacher-student lineage) within Sampradaya (spiritual traditions). This transmission of wisdom has ensured that while the core principles remain timeless, the practice evolves to stay relevant to the times. For instance, a Jyotisha practitioner from 1000 BCE would possess updated knowledge and insights compared to one practicing in 2000 BCE, reflecting the dynamic nature of the discipline.

It is also important to recognise that many forms of astrology, including Western (Modern) Astrology, Chinese Astrology, Tarot Card Reading, and Fortune Telling, have their roots in or have been influenced by Vedanga Jyotisha. Unfortunately, over time, these derived systems have undergone significant distortions and misinterpretations, losing some of the depth and precision inherent in the original knowledge. In essence, Vedanga Jyotisha is not only the most ancient form of astrology but also the most modern, as it continues to adapt and align with the needs of the era. The most crucial point to consider, however, is the purpose of any form of astrology or spiritual guidance; when a client seeks help, the primary aim is for them to receive the support, advice, or relief they require. As long as the practitioner provides effective guidance and helps alleviate challenges or obstacles, that is what truly matters.

Does Vedanga Jyotisha provide accurate predictions?

Vedanga Jyotisha is an interdisciplinary science, encompassing of physics, chemistry, biology, physiology, psychology, medicine, spirituality, and more. It transcends individual disciplines, offering a holistic understanding of existence. As human beings are governed by their Karma, these karmic influences are reflected through the Navagrahas (nine celestial bodies), much like the hands of a clock indicating the passage of time.

An accomplished Vedanga Jyotisha practitioner possesses a breadth of knowledge comparable to that of numerous specialists. For instance, while a medical doctor may require advanced machines and extensive testing to diagnose conditions like cancer, a highly skilled Jyotisha practitioner can discern the same cancer issues within moments by analysing an individual's Janam Kundali (birth chart).

If a Jyotisha practitioner's predictions lack accuracy, it is not a reflection of Vedanga Jyotisha itself but rather the practitioner's level of expertise. Delivering precise readings and meaningful guidance requires years of rigorous study, practice, and dedication to mastering this profound science.

Do you utilise Uranus, Neptune and Pluto in your readings?

No, I do not. Uranus was discovered in 1781, Neptune in 1846, and Pluto in 1930, later reclassified as a dwarf planet. These discoveries are relatively recent in the context of modern human civilisation and were made possible through advancements in instrumentation.

However, during the epoch of the Mahabharata, Sage Vyasa chronicled the sighting of celestial bodies identified as Sweta (Uranus), Syama (Neptune), and Teekshana (Pluto) using his Divya Drishti (divine sight).

The Veda Shastras acknowledge the existence of these planets thousands of millennia before their modern discovery. Despite this acknowledgment, ancient sages, with divine source's instruction, guidance and permission, chose to deliberately exclude Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto from the framework of Vedanga Jyotisha for profound and critical reasons.

The word Jyoti in Jyotisha translates to "light". In our solar system, the Sun is the only celestial body that emits light, serving as the source and foundation of Jyotisha. The Sun's rays, both visible and invisible, permeate the solar system, with a spectrum extending beyond human perception. Beyond the physical spectrum, the Sun also emits metaphysical light—a subtle energy absorbed and reflected by all celestial bodies.

These celestial bodies act as mirrors, reflecting the metaphysical light back toward Earth or onto other planets. However, due to their immense distance from Earth, the metaphysical light reflected by Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto becomes negligible in its impact on an individual's Janam Kundali (birth chart).

Furthermore, the insights provided by the Navagrahas—the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu—are comprehensive and encompass all aspects of an individual's life. Uranus, Neptune, and Pluto cannot reveal anything that is not already indicated by the Navagrahas.

This is why, in Hindu temples across the world, one does not find Murtis (divine images or statues) dedicated to Uranus, Neptune, or Pluto. Their role within the framework of Vedanga Jyotisha has been deliberately omitted to preserve the integrity and relevance of this ancient knowledge and instructions.

Why Is Vedanga Jyotisha perceived as deterministic and fatalistic?

Vedanga Jyotisha is inherently deterministic because the act of birth itself signifies the inevitability of death. The moment a child enters the world, a series of karmic events is already set into motion, governed by the unyielding laws of Karma. These events, in turn, trigger subsequent actions and consequences, forming an unbreakable chain.

Every living being is subject to the doctrine of Karma. A human life is dictated by Prarabdha Karma (allotted karma), which cannot be escaped or altered. This is the hard truth—one cannot avoid the consequences of past actions. If one's karmic account balance permits, challenges may be mitigated, but even such mitigation is confined within the limits of what Karma allows.

When a Jyotisha practitioner examines an individual's Janam Kundali (birth chart), they are not guessing or speculating; they are uncovering the unalterable reality of that individual's Prarabdha Karma. This chart is a mirror of their karmic blueprint, a truth that cannot be denied. No one can obtain more than what is promised in their chart, and no one can receive less.

Vedanga Jyotisha does not cater to illusions of free will or limitless possibilities. It reveals life as it is—a structured, karmically—bound journey that unfolds according to precise cosmic laws. This is not a comforting notion, but it is the undeniable reality of existence.

I am not of Indian origin or a follower of Sanatan Dharma. Would Vedanga Jyotisha work for me?

Are you not bound by the fundamental elements and forces of nature? Does the rain refrain from falling on you because you are not of Indian origin? Does the Earth's gravity cease to act upon you?

In the same way, Karma is both the most impartial and the most unforgiving force. It transcends all boundaries of nationality, culture, or belief. Karma does not discriminate, negotiate, or make exceptions. Its laws are absolute and apply universally to all beings.

Knowledge, like nature, is universal. The insights and guidance offered by Vedanga Jyotisha are not confined to any specific group or belief system. They are accessible to anyone who seeks them, regardless of origin or faith.

Which branch or system of Jyotisha do you follow?

I specialise in, practice, and conduct research on multiple branches of Jyotisha, including Parashara Jyotisha, Jaimini System, Naadi Jyotisha, and Jamakkol Prashna. Each of these systems offers unique methodologies and insights, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of Vedanga Jyotisha.

Which Ayanamsa do you use?

The choice of Ayanamsa is a subject of considerable debate among Vedanga Jyotisha practitioners, given the existence of numerous Ayanamsa. I predominantly utilise the True Chitrapaksha Lahiri Ayanamsa, which is endorsed by the legendary Jyotisha master, K.N. Rao.

How are consultations carried out?

Consultations are conducted via WhatsApp call or Skype, lasting approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.

Once your payment has been received, we can schedule a mutually convenient date and time for the consultation. I kindly request your birth details in advance to allow sufficient time for analysis and preparation. Please note that all scheduling is based on Singapore Time (SGT) and subject to my availability.

What are the charges for consultation?

For individuals residing in Singapore, the consultation fee is SGD$64. For those based outside of Singapore, the fee is USD$64.

Payment details and instructions will be provided via email upon confirmation of the consultation.

On what area of Consultation do you provide?

Please visit consultation page.

Do you conduct lessons or teach Jyotisha?

At this time, I do not offer lessons or teach Jyotisha. However, there are numerous eminent Jyotisha masters and gurus in India who are highly skilled in imparting this sacred knowledge.

As the timeless adage goes, "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear".

How do I contact you?

Please visit contact page.

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