Mercury Retrograde
March 15th - April 7th
Artwork: Unknown
Budha Graha (Mercury) stations retrograde on March 15th in the Vedic lunar mansion of Uttara Bhādrapadā उत्तरभद्रपदा (sidereal Pisces), the Warrior Star—punctuating a passage of deep reflection, reimagination, and renewal.
Budha (Mercury), fourth among the navagrahas (nine planets), the embodiment of rajo-guṇa (the mode of passion) and pṛthvī tattva (earth element), is revered as the radiant son of Chandra (the Moon), known for his golden eyes and tireless energy. He is also connected to Mahāvidyā Tripura Sundarī, who embodies supreme beauty, clarity, and the power of refined discernment.
Mercury bestows discernment and is the karaka (significator) of intellect, skill, talent, eloquent speech, the nervous system, storytelling, the student, negotiation, and neutrality. Just as Viṣṇu takes birth age after age to reestablish dharma and restore balance, mercury retrograde invites us to return to the center of our wheel
This powerful asterism resides at the heart of the last water sign, in a mokṣa bhāva (house of liberation), ruled by ākāśa tattva (ether element) and Ahirbudhnya (Serpent of the Deep). As the seat of Mahā Lakṣmī, this nakṣatra is deeply connected to the fertility of both earth and sky, dreamtime, the excavation of the unconscious, and the harmonization of universal mind. Here, we are beckoned to uncover hidden wisdom through humility, experience, and self-sacrifice—a śakti that is both transformative and karmic.
With Budha in Uttara Bhādrapadā conjunct Śukra (Venus) and Rāhu, rajo-guṇa is amplified, along with a heightened sense of protection. What is it that you are seeking to protect? A position you have claimed or wish to claim? A sense of personal justice? Or perhaps, your connection to source?
Mahāvidyā Śrī Lalitā Tripurā Sundarī | Kapoor Galleries Inc. wrote: Mandi, style of Sajnu, circa 1810
This transit embodies the dual current of existence, urging us to reconcile the spiritual and material realms. As Mercury retraces its path through the deep waters of Uttara Bhādrapadā, we encounter the mystical serpent—a force that strips away illusion, purges material toxins, and refines perception. This is a time when logic softens into intuition, and clarity arises not through analysis, but through surrender.
It is a period of intellectual purification, where communication is tested and refined—not for speed, but for depth. Unresolved matters from the past—especially those placed on the back burner—may resurface, seeking resolution through contemplation rather than reaction. Through introspection and surrender, the trials of this transit can lead not to confusion, but to spiritual illumination and ultimate liberation.
We are stepping powerfully into a new timeline—go inward to catch the memo of this time. Some karmas are requesting completion, release, and unraveling. How can you return to the center of your wheel and step into greater balance and neutrality?
Pay close attention if you have major planets—your Sūrya (Sun), Chandra (Moon), or Lagna (rising sign)—in Uttara Bhādrapadā, as this cycle may bring a lasting effect, especially with the New Moon Solar Eclipse occurring in this constellation on March 29th. Also, take note if you are currently running a daśā (major planetary period) or antara-daśā (sub-period) of Śani (Saturn).
For a more detailed look at what this means for you personally, I offer one-on-one consultations, which you can book directly at Jyotish Consultations
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ॐ श्री मात्रे नमः | ॐ ब्रां ब्रीं ब्रौं सः बुधाय नमः