It is important to know not only what events may occur in one's life, but also when it is most likely to happen. To answer this question vedic astrology has a powerful instrument, known as planetary periods or Dashas. There are several systems in use, the most widely used Dasha system is the Vimshottari Dasha, which is a cycle of 120 years assigned to nine planets. Each planet governs a specific period during which its influence is particularly strong, affecting various aspects of life depending on its placement and strength in the birth chart. Next popular are Chara Dasha and Narayana Dasha, two rasi-based Dasha system devised by Jaimini, an ancient sage. Chara Dasha considers the movable (Chara) signs and is particularly used for predicting significant life events and understanding the soul's purpose. Narayana Dasha is similar to Chara Dasha but differs in calculation and interpretation, providing an alternative perspective on life's unfolding.
In Vimshottari Dashs each Dasha ("Mahadasha") period is further divided into sub-periods, or "Antardashas," where the effects of the main planetary ruler are modified by the influence of the sub-period planet. This system allows astrologers to make precise predictions about various phases in a person's life, focusing on when certain types of experiences or events are most likely to occur. It is important to analyse what are the relationship between planets in a specific chart and what houses they rule and occupy, would they help each other or make obstacles to predict if the period would be beneficial for an individual or not so much.
1. Sun Dasha (6 years):
- Governs aspects like power, authority, health, and relations with father figures.
- Positive effects might include gains in career, enhanced reputation, and improved health.
- Negative impacts could involve disputes, health issues, and trouble with authority.
2. Moon Dasha (10 years):
- Affects emotions, mental health, mother, public relations, and domestic life.
- Positively, it can bring emotional satisfaction, gains through women, and property benefits.
- Negatively, it may cause emotional instability, relationship issues, and health problems related to fluids in the body.
3. Mars Dasha (7 years):
- Influences energy, property, siblings, and courage.
- Positively, it can result in property gains, career progression and increased assertiveness.
- Negatively, it may bring conflicts, accidents, and health issues.
4. Rahu Dasha (18 years):
- Rahu is a shadow planet and influences materialism, foreign matters, sudden changes, and unconventional methods.
- Positively, it can lead to sudden gains, success in unusual fields, and travel abroad.
- Negatively, it might cause deception, confusion, and psychological stress.
5. Jupiter Dasha (16 years):
- Governs wisdom, education, wealth, and children.
- Positively, it enhances spiritual growth, educational achievements, and financial expansion.
- Negatively, it can cause issues due to over-indulgence, negligence, and problems related to liver and fat.
6. Saturn Dasha (19 years):
- Affects discipline, longevity, and "reality check".
- Positively, it can bring steady progress through hard work, recognition in careers, and improved life structure.
- Negatively, it often brings hardships, delays, and chronic diseases.
7. Mercury Dasha (17 years):
- Influences communication, intelligence, trade, and analytical skills.
- Positively, it promotes educational success, business acumen, and eloquent speech.
- Negatively, it might result in nervous issues, indecisiveness, and communication problems.
8. Ketu Dasha (7 years):
- Ketu also being a shadow planet, deals with spirituality, losses, and sudden insights.
- Positively, it can bring spiritual growth and liberation from materialistic bonds.
- Negatively, it may cause feelings of isolation, lack of direction, and health issues.
9. Venus Dasha (20 years):
- Relates to luxury, love, marriage, and material gains.
- Positively, it often results in marriage, wealth accumulation, and enjoyment of fine arts.
- Negatively, it can bring issues in relationships, over-indulgence, and financial troubles.