What is a Nakshatra in Vedic astrology?

A Nakshatra is a lunar mansion — one of 27 equal 13°20' segments of the sidereal zodiac, each with its own deity and ruling planet.

What is Pada in a Nakshatra?

Each Nakshatra is divided into 4 Padas (quarters) of 3°20'. The Pada determines naming syllables and Navamsa placement.

Why is Nakshatra important?

Nakshatra is used for baby naming (Namakarana), marriage compatibility (Nadi Kuta), Dasha periods, and Muhurta selection.

Do I need birth time for Nakshatra?

Yes — the Moon moves about 1 Nakshatra per day, so even a few hours can change the Nakshatra.

How many Nakshatras are there?

There are 27 standard Nakshatras (sometimes 28 with Abhijit) used in most Jyotish systems.

Nakshatra Calculator

Your birth Nakshatra is the lunar mansion the Moon occupied at birth — a core element of Vedic astrology and Jyotish.