Most Hindu families abide by horoscopic match making and Vedic Astrology has been sworn by as an effective means of matching partners based on one’s nakshatras or Lunar Constellations. This unique method of uniting prospective couples is often referred to as Ashtakootmilan or GunaMilap. At Divine Intuition, we capitalize on these kundali-matching methods and calibrate points that define marriage protocols. It is often believed that the higher the match between respective partners’ points on their kundlis, the more likely chances there are for a successful marriage.

Why Vedic Match Making is Important before Marriage? Vedic match making is still a popular way to ensure you have the right life partner, and it is not unusual to consult an astrologer and have the horoscopes of the intended couple compared. There are many important areas in the natal charts that a Vedic astrologer will look at and compare before pronouncing the union a perfect match – ‘made in the Heavens,’ as astrologers say. One of the methods an astrologer will use is called the AshtaKootas, which looks at 8 key points. Each Koota adds or subtracts points from the overall compatibility score, and good score is 18-36.

Similarities or differences in temperament and ego are one of the first things that will be checked. This is the Varna Koota, where it is determined if the temperaments are compatible, or if they will clash. There are four personality types taken into consideration when comparing the charts. There the Brahmin (or priests), philosophers and gurus; the warriors, who produce leaders and rulers; the merchants, who are business minded and professional; and the laborers, who provide services to society. This is similar to the emphasis given on harmonizing signs in Western astrology.

The VashyaKoota measures the level of affection and attraction between the couple. If there is a strong attraction between the two horoscopes, it obviously scores well. A union based on mutual affection and kindness clearly has a good chance of success.

The Tara (or Dina) Koota is concerned with the health and longevity of the two lovers. The birth stars are rated to determine if they compare auspiciously or inauspiciously. It is a very exhaustive comparison, involving 9 categories of birth stars, and too great a difference in life span and general health is not seen as being auspicious for a couple.

The Yoni Koota, as its name implies, measures the sexual attraction of the couple, and their ability to have children. Here a distinct method is used, by comparing the stars in the horoscopes to animals; the animals used are horse, elephant, sheep, serpent, dog, cat, rat, cow, buffalo, tiger, hare, monkey, lion and mongoose. As you can see, this is not like the animals in Chinese astrology, nor is it about the planets. This involves comparing certain Nakshatras (lunar points) and it is a very important part of Vedic match making. Nakshatras show the flow of the life force (Prana) through the charts and these connections are very significant for the compatibility of the couple.

GrahaKoota is important because it compares the ruling planets of both charts and it does not bode well for the union if the planets are natural enemies. However, if they are friends, the relationship is on a sound footing.

The GanaKoota compares the intellectual and spiritual temperaments of the couple. Here 3 classes are used; The God temperament, where spirituality is regarded as more important than material matters; the Human, where a balanced attitude to spirituality and the material exists; and Demon, where the emphasis is on materialistic attitudes. It is less likely that an individual will belong wholly to one Gana over another but may in fact be a blend of two or three. Nevertheless, compatibility here is important to the long term viability of the union.

In the BhakutKoota, the Vedic moon signs are compared. The Moon is very important in Vedic astrology, but even more so in match making, as it describes the future prosperity and growth of the couple and the family they will create. A good score here (the maximum is 7) is crucial to the prospects of the match.

Finally, the NadiKoota compares the life force evident in both charts. A strong, vigorous compatibility here ensures a good genetic match, producing strong healthy children and a blood line that will last into the future. A high score here could ensure a dynasty that will produce significant descendants and grow more prosperous.

Other points the astro-numerologist Ritesh Kumar may look at includes how long the union will last (Mahendra); how many children and grandchildren they will have (Shree Derga); and the luck inherent in the union (Vedha). Mars will also be carefully checked as an ill fated Mars can mean accidents and even death.

Astro-Numerologist Ritesh Kumar who is skilled in matching horoscopes can point out the pitfalls and difficulties that might mar the future of the couple, but cannot overcome real love where it exists between them. A strong love between a couple can overcome many of the more minor obstructions, and give them courage through the major difficulties they may face. But a shallow relationship rooted in material matters or a passing fancy will not endure the struggles ahead. In Vedic tradition, horoscope matching is still considered an important step before marriage and a way of ensuring a lasting and loving union.