27 Nakshatra Names List PDF Free Download

In the context of Indian Vedic astrology, ‘Nakshatra’ refers to the lunar mansions. The ecliptic – the apparent path of the Sun on the celestial sphere – is divided into 27 sectors. Each of these sectors is known as a Nakshatra. The concept of Nakshatras is a crucial part of astrology and is used for various astrological predictions and calculations.

A list of Nakshatras first appeared in the Vedanga Jyotisha, an ancient Indian text, and has been an integral part of Indian astronomical studies since. Each Nakshatra is associated with a set of stars, and holds a unique significance and set of characteristics.

The 27 Nakshatras: A Detailed Overview

Let’s delve into an in-depth exploration of each of the 27 Nakshatras. Each Nakshatra is associated with a unique set of attributes, including a presiding deity, symbol, and ruling planet.

1. Ashvini

This is the first Nakshatra, associated with the stars β (Sheratan) and γ (Mesarthim) Arietis. It symbolizes a horse’s head and is ruled by Ketu, the south lunar node. The deity associated with Ashvini is the Ashvins – the twin horsemen.

2. Bharani

The second Nakshatra is associated with the stars 35, 39, and 41 Arietis. Its symbol is the Yoni, representing the organ of female reproduction. The ruling planet is Venus, and the deity is Yama, the god of death.

3. Krittika

Associated with the Pleiades star cluster, Krittika is represented by a knife or spear. The ruling planet is the Sun, and the associated deity is Agni, the god of fire.

4. Rohini

Rohini, associated with the star Aldebaran, is symbolized by a cart or chariot. The ruling planet is the Moon, and the deity is Prajapati or Brahma, the creator.

5. Mrigashira

This Nakshatra is tied to the stars λ (Meissa) and φ Orionis. Its symbol is a deer’s head and is ruled by Mars. The deity associated with Mrigashira is Soma, the Moon god.

6. Ardra

Associated with the star Betelgeuse, Ardra is represented by a teardrop or a human head. Its ruling planet is Rahu, the north lunar node, and the deity is Rudra, the storm god.

7. Punarvasu

This Nakshatra is associated with the stars Castor and Pollux. Its symbol is a bow and quiver, and it is ruled by Jupiter. The deity associated with Punarvasu is Aditi, the mother of the gods.

8. Pushya

Associated with the stars γ (Asellus Borealis), δ (Asellus Australis), and θ Cancri, Pushya is symbolized by a cow’s udder or lotus. The ruling planet is Saturn, and the deity is Brihaspati, the priest of the gods.

9. Ashlesha

This Nakshatra is tied to the stars δ, ε, η, ρ, and σ Hydrae. Its symbol is a serpent, and it’s ruled by Mercury. The deity associated with Ashlesha is the Sarpa or Naga, the celestial serpent.

10. Magha

Associated with the star Regulus, Magha symbolizes a royal throne. Its ruling planet is Ketu, and the deity is the Pitrs, the ancestral spirits.

11. Purva Phalguni

This Nakshatra is tied to the stars δ (Zosma) and θ (Chertan) Leonis. Its symbol is the front legs of a bed or a fig tree. The ruling planet is Venus, and the deity is Bhaga, the god of bliss and prosperity.

12. Uttara Phalguni

Associated with the star Denebola, Uttara Phalguni symbolizes the back legs of a bed. Its ruling planet is the Sun, and the deity is Aryaman, the god of patronage and favors.

Nakshatras and Their Padas

Each of the 27 Nakshatras is further divided into four quarters, or padas. Each pada represents 3°20’ of the ecliptic. The padas of each Nakshatra are associated with a specific sound, which is traditionally used to name a child.

Nakshatras in Various Languages

The names of the Nakshatras have been adapted into various Indian and Asian languages from the original Sanskrit, often with slight variations for easier pronunciation.