Vedic Astrology In a Nutshell – Part II
By Dr. Bhalachandra Keni
Physician, Hospital and Healthcare Management, Acupuncture Practitioner, Astrologer
Foreword by Venkat
What makes the study of astrology in SIVA unique is in the evidence based approach to it. Dr. Bala has statistics backed information in the teaching content based on his work of more than five decades studying people’s birth charts. This scientific layer on top of the original scriptural texts in astrology bridges the gap between theory and reality using evidence collection. Astrology is just one factor in the equation to determine an outcome. Free will (human effort), Karma doctrine and chance in combination with astrological awareness increase the chances towards a better life and living. As he says, astrology does not predict the future. It enables one to progressively ‘work towards’ a better future armed with an evidence based body of knowledge. In this second part, Dr. Bala covers some more of the basic terms and concepts for the curious beginner in Vedic astrology.
Explore further on the basic building blocks of interpretation of a person’s life through astrology in this second part of the concise overview by Dr. Bhalachandra Keni.
Vedic Astrology In a Nutshell – Part II
Over period what I have gathered is the “art of interpretation for this modern world” which matters more for the clients. The traditional astrological technical jargons and complex Sanskrit words generally are known to intimidate the clients than to solace or inspire. In this second part of the overview on Vedic astrology, some more of the commonly used terminology is presented. The third part in the next post would cover an overview of ‘Jyotisha Shastra’ for an introduction to the origins and the Sanskrit terms.
What model is used in Vedic astrology? Helio-centric or geo-centric?
In astrology, for all practical purposes, we consider the geo centric system, i.e. earth in the centre and all the other planets around it.
What are benefic and malefic planets?
The planets that bestow favorable influence are known as benefic planets, and those impart unfavorable influence are known as malefic planets.
How much do the celestial effects occur in human life?
I must admit that it is not all that easy to explain and precisely how and how much astrology influences person’s life. There are several philosophical views to explain the modus operandi of celestial effects upon a person. I totally accept the view that describing “free will” and “karmic retribution” sharing equal halves of a person’s life.
How are the effects of planets on human life judged?
The effects of planets are judged based on three things:
- Natal Chart – The permanent features of the birth/natal chart with reference to the Lagna / ascendant which indicates the permanent features of life
- Dasha-Bhukti – The result of the directional effect of planets based on the birth star (Janma nakshatra) from the time of birth throughout the life divided into time frames in succession termed as ‘Dasha Bhukti’. This distributes the promise in the horoscope to different time frames.
- Gochara – This is related to the present movement of planets with reference to the moon sign (Janma rasi). Transit results or Gochara phala are unique way to see the present results taking moon sign as the base.
How to understand a horoscope (natal chart)?
This is a multi level process demanding a clear and accurate understanding what each level is all about. The process begins by interpreting the ascendant zodiac sign followed by progressive modification of the findings through successive levels of refined interpretation based on planet positions, their combinations, aspects, transits, Mahadasha and so on. These are covered in detail in the courses conducted by SIVA. Each level of interpretation is considered as an instrument through which a person’s character shapes up as it gets further and further molded while progressing through all the different levels. Finally what emerges is an accurate description of the person and the possible future events.
What are Yogas?
A yoga is a special disposition of a planet or planets in natal chart, which can produce very specific results. There are hundreds of yoga mentioned in various classical Hindu texts.
To be continued…
By Dr. Bhalachandra Keni
Physician, Hospital and Healthcare Management, Acupuncture Practitioner, Astrologer

Dr Bhalachandra Keni, a medical doctor (Physician) by profession, is also learning, practicing and teaching Astrology for the last 50 years with the sole motive to teach younger generation the science behind astrology and the art behind interpretation in an effort to eliminate misconceptions surrounding it. He founded the Sarvamangala Institute of Vedic Astrology (SIVA) in 2006 which has been conducting online scientific astrology classes since then based on his vast research and statistical studies.
Dr. Bala is a medical professional with 42 years of experience in Hospital, Health Care Management, and Operations. He has worked in the roles of Chief Medical Officer, Hospital head, Visiting Assistant Professor, Medical Director etc. in India as well as the remote parts of the Pacific Islands Countries viz. Solomon Islands, Papua New Guinea, Republic of Marshall Islands and Fiji Islands. Apart from allopathic medicine he also practices Acupuncture. He has a wide range of interests which include painting, rangoli art, acting, swimming, and fitness.
My Articles Contributed Here
- Vedic Astrology In a Nutshell – Part I
- Vedic Astrology In a Nutshell – Part II
- Vedic Astrology In a Nutshell – Part III
- Vedic Astrology In a Nutshell – Part IV
- Benefits of Uttering Panchanga Daily
- Sade-Sathi – 7.5 Year Tsunami Period
- Cancer and Chronic Health Issues
- Cardiovascular Diseases
- Fertility Issues
- Dual Zodiac Signs and Dilemmas
- Mercury Placement and Allergies
- Venus in Fiery Signs and Delayed Marriage