nakshatra

Nakshatra, meaning lunar mansion, is a fundamental concept in Indian astronomy and astrology. It divides the ecliptic into 27 equal segments (approximately 13°20' each), with a 28th sometimes recognized in certain traditions as Abhijit. The Moon’s longitude advances through these nakshatras over about a day for each segment. Each nakshatra is associated with a star group or asterism and has mythological or deific associations. In Jyotisha (Vedic astrology), the Moon’s position in a given nakshatra at the time of birth is used to interpret personality, fate, and timing.

The traditional list of 27 nakshatras, in order, is: Ashvini, Bharani, Krittika, Rohini, Mrigashira, Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Ashlesha, Magha, Purva Phalguni, Uttara Phalguni, Hasta, Chitra, Swati, Vishakha, Anuradha, Jyeshtha, Mula, Purva Ashadha, Uttara Ashadha, Shravana, Dhanishta, Shatabhisha, Purva Bhadrapada, Uttara Bhadrapada, and Revati. Each nakshatra is associated with a presiding deity and, in astrology, with a planetary influence. Some traditions also recognize a 28th, Abhijit, but it is not universally counted among the 27.

Originating in ancient Indian astronomy and appearing in Hindu scriptures, nakshatras remain central in Jyotisha and calendars. They inform auspicious timing, festival dates, and horoscopic interpretation, and are distinct from the Western zodiac, which is based on solar rather than lunar divisions. The concept has also influenced related astronomical-and-astrological systems across South and Southeast Asia.