Kṛṣṇa Janmāṣṭamī

Kṛṣṇa Janmāṣṭamī

कृष्णजन्माष्टमी

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Observed on the eighth day (aṣṭamī) of the dark fortnight (Kṛṣṇa pakṣa) in the month of Bhadrapadā (Aug-Sept), today marks the auspicious celebration of the birth of Lord Kṛṣṇa, the eighth incarnation in the daśāvatāra of Lord Viṣṇu.

On this sacred day, devotees immerse themselves in Harikathā, narrating the holy names, forms, qualities, and divine pastimes of the Lord. The air is filled with the sounds of bhajan, as hearts are uplifted through devotional songs and dance.

Many devotees observe a day-long fast, breaking their fast at the stroke of midnight with ritualistic offerings and the joyous sharing of prasādam (consecrated food).

Kṛṣṇa’s birth under Rohiṇī nakṣatra, associated with the moon is symbolic in that the narrative of Kṛṣṇa’s birth and life embodies the deeper karakas of the Moon, including its influence over the mind (manas), sense faculties (indriyas), our cause of birth, the continuation of lineage, vows, sensuality, past lives, bhakti, and psychological wisdom. His life story mirrors our journey through the cycles of desire, attachment, and the quest for ultimate liberation.

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Kṛṣṇa’s divine play (līlā) is a timeless dance of cosmic proportions, illustrating the path from karma to dharma, from entanglement in the material world to the liberation of the soul. As Arjuna’s charioteer, in the Bhagavad Gītā, Kṛṣṇa imparts secret wisdom on karma yoga, the yoga of selfless action — guiding us to cultivate inner equilibrium, act with detachment, and remain free from the binding desires for the fruits of our actions.

In the embrace of Kṛṣṇa’s wisdom, we are reminded that true strength lies not in conquering the external world but in mastering the mind and senses (indriyas). By surrendering to the divine will and walking the path of bhakti (devotion), we transcend the dualities of joy and sorrow, success and failure, and discover the eternal bliss (ānanda) residing within the Self.

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हरे कृष्ण हरे कृष्ण, कृष्ण कृष्ण हरे हरे
हरे राम हरे राम, राम राम हरे हरे

Jupiter in Mṛgaśirā: The Searching Star

Jupiter in Mṛgaśirā

मृगशिरा

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August 19 - June 13

Jupiter, the planet of expansion, knowledge, sound (shabda) speech (Vak), music and the teacher (Guru), who is Jiva Karaka (significator of life). The embodiment of discernment (Viveka) and compassion, Jupiter is said to possess a lion's voice and is renowned for restoring things back to their rightful place. His vehicle is the elephant, and he governs Thursday, Sagittarius, and Pisces, and is depicted as wearing the color yellow. Jupiter, the storyteller, is primarily Kapha in constitution and the holder of Ākāśa Tattva (ether element).

As Jupiter transits into the Vedic lunar mansion of Mṛgaśirā (sidereal Taurus), the Searching Star, themes of nourishment, desire, and exploration become enlivened. Mṛgaśirā embodies the magnetic, receptive element of Taurus, symbolized by Soma (divine nectar), that which is consumed (like a food), which draws life to itself, and awakens a thirst for deeper understanding. Soma (god of immorality), associated with Chandra (the Moon), represents the lunar principle of water.

This period invites a surge in intellectual curiosity and refined sensibility. The auspicious alignment enhances one's pursuit of knowledge, promoting a harmonious blend of analytical thinking and practical application. The nurturing energy of Taurus amplifies Jupiter’s expansive qualities, fostering growth in both personal values and material stability. Expect a deeper appreciation for life's subtleties, an increased sense of confidence, and a renewed focus on cultivating enduring prosperity.

During the initial portion of Mṛgaśirā (through September 22), and while conjunct Mars (until the 25th), there is an amplified desire to delve into truth, wisdom, and success. This may stir of urgency and excitement in relationships, as this constellation's power (shakti) brings fulfillment.

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As mid-September approaches, anticipate a crossroads where you may need to decide whether to step into the unknown or deepen your current path.

Those experiencing a Dasha or sub-period of Jupiter, or with natal planets in Mṛgaśirā, will feel this transit’s uplifting energy more profoundly. Stay tuned for updates on Jupiter’s retrograde from October 9 to February 4, where we will revisit the energies of Rohini.

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For a comprehensive exploration of this expansive transit and personalized guidance, I am available for one-on-one Vedic Astrology readings. You can book a session here.

Be patient toward all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves, like locked rooms and like books that are now written in a very foreign tongue. Do not now seek the answers, which cannot be given you because you would not be able to live them. And the point is, to live everything. Live the questions now. Perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.

- Rainer Maria Rilke

Full Moon in Dhaniṣṭha: The Star of Symphony

FULL MOON

पूर्णिमा

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August 19th - 11:26AM PDT

August's Full Moon (Pūrṇimā) rises in the Vedic lunar mansion of Dhaniṣṭha (sidereal Aquarius), the Star of Symphony. Expect a surge of disciplined ambition and the culmination of long-term goals. This cycle presents a blend of an upbeat cadence, sobering vibes, and accents of full power mode — urging us to awaken and step one-pointedly towards what truly matters.

Retrograde Saturn (Pūrvabhādrapadā) accompanies the Full Moon at a crossroads, stepping up the tempo and the octave. Whatever you work towards now will bear fruit — stay focused and be decisive.

Dhaniṣṭha star translates to "the wealthiest" and "the swiftest," ruled by the Aṣṭavasu, the Gods of Abundance. It holds the power to grant fame and prosperity, so align your efforts with purpose and intention.

 A passionate Mars sits conjunct Jupiter, the planet of expansion, triggering highly dynamic shifts and contributing to paving the way forward. Pick your battles wisely, stay curious, and lean into your lighthearted and playful spirit to soften the tension.

Mercury retrograde steps back into Cancer (Āśleṣā) on the 24th, inviting us to revisit the emotional currents and unresolved matters from early July. The serpentine energy of Āśleṣā entangles us in deep memories and hidden fears, urging introspection, healing, and the refinement of our inner dialogue.

This chaos is as ancient as the story woven by your ancestors and is an integral part of your evolutionary journey. How can you respond to the dream differently than before? All outside conflict must first be resolved within. Lean into the grace of that which you do not prefer and attune more fully with your soul's rhythm.

Just like the drum, which symbolizes this affluent asterism, when we become a conduit for Source, when we can become like a hollow bone, the rhythms of the universe can flow through us more effortlessly. Step into your receptivity and trust in the presence of the Unknown.

Cultivate leadership qualities, pursue practical endeavors with a steady and patient approach, and align yourself with universal flow by transcending the ego and working selflessly. Cut your losses, lighten your load, and be decisive in your actions, one-pointed towards what you truly desire. Let’s go.

For deeper insights and personalized guidance, visit Jyotish Consultation to book a private consultation or explore my bi-monthly blog.

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“You cannot cross the sea merely by standing and staring at the water.” - Rabindranath Tagore