What is a Kundli?
A Kundli (also called Janam Kundali or Birth Chart) is a celestial map showing the exact positions of the Sun, Moon, and planets at the precise moment of a person's birth, as observed from the birth location. It is the foundational tool of Vedic Astrology (Jyotish Shastra) and has been used for thousands of years across the Indian subcontinent.
The 12 Houses (Bhavas)
A Kundli is divided into 12 houses, each governing different aspects of life. The 1st house (Lagna) represents self and personality, the 7th house represents marriage and partnerships, the 10th house represents career and public life, and so on. The placement of planets in these houses, along with their aspects and conjunctions, forms the basis of Jyotish predictions.
Key Components
Every Kundli contains several key elements: the Lagna (Ascendant) which sets the chart orientation, the Rashi (Moon sign) which governs emotions and mind, the Nakshatras (lunar mansions) which add fine-grained detail, and the Navagrahas (nine celestial bodies) whose positions and relationships tell the story of karma and destiny.
North Indian vs South Indian Charts
There are two primary chart formats. The North Indian chart uses a diamond layout where the houses are fixed in position and signs rotate based on the Lagna. The South Indian chart uses a rectangular grid where the signs are fixed in position and the Lagna rotates. Both convey the same information — the preference is regional.
Dashas & Transits
Kundli analysis goes beyond the static birth chart. The Vimshottari Dasha system divides life into planetary periods (Mahadashas), each ruled by a specific planet. Combined with current planetary transits (Gochar), astrologers can predict timing of events, favorable periods, and challenges.
How Bhakti5 Calculates Your Kundli
Bhakti5 computes all planetary positions from first principles using VSOP87 and ELP2000 astronomical algorithms (via the astronomy-engine library). We apply the Lahiri Ayanamsa to convert tropical positions to the sidereal zodiac used in Vedic astrology. No external APIs — every calculation runs in your browser with scientific-grade accuracy.