What is the Significance of Rahu in Astrology? Learn Some Special Aspects

In astrology, Rahu holds significant importance. It is considered the planet that causes the most distress to individuals. Rahu is associated with harsh speech, gambling, travel, air travel, skin diseases, and technology. If Rahu is placed in an unfavorable position in the horoscope, it is considered to produce the most negative results. Rahu is exalted in Gemini and debilitated in Sagittarius. The nakshatras associated with Rahu are Ardra, Swati, and Shatabhisha. There is a specific time of about 1.30 hours during the day known as Rahu Kaal, which is considered inauspicious for undertaking travel or any auspicious tasks. Rahu is a shadow planet. It can be understood as the shadow of Rahu falling on the Earth when the Moon comes between the Sun and Earth.

Effects of Rahu in the Horoscope

If Rahu is placed in the Ascendant or first house, the individual is likely to be clever, attractive, and courageous. Rahu in the Ascendant can make the person quite influential in society, though they may also be stubborn. Rahu in the Ascendant or the seventh house is not considered good for marital life. If Rahu is strong in the horoscope or placed in the sixth or eleventh house in a good sign, it makes the individual highly intelligent. Such a person tends to follow religious practices and gains respect and honor in society.

However, if Rahu is negative, it can cause significant trouble. Such individuals may develop bad habits and become deceitful, treacherous, and may fall into addiction. Those affected negatively by Rahu quickly adopt harmful behaviors.

Rahu’s Mahadasha and Transits

Typically, Rahu's Mahadasha period is quite challenging. Most people experience mental stress during this time, including insomnia, irritability, and other issues. Career or business losses and difficulties in completing tasks are common during Rahu's Mahadasha. In transits, if Rahu moves through the eleventh, tenth, sixth, or third houses, it is considered quite favorable.

Story of Rahu's Birth

The story of Rahu’s birth is linked to the churning of the ocean. When the nectar pot emerged from the ocean, the demons snatched it. To resolve this, Lord Vishnu took the form of Mohini. Under Mohini's persuasion, the gods and demons sat in separate lines, and the demon Swarbhanu disguised as a god drank the nectar. Vishnu then severed his body into two parts with his Sudarshan chakra. These two parts became Rahu and Ketu.

Rahu at a Glance

Exalted Sign: Gemini (sometimes Taurus)
Associated Activities: Espionage, political work, service, magician, astrology, etc.
Gemstone: Gomed
Rudraksha: 8 Mukhi Rudraksha
Color: Dark blue or dark brown
Rahu’s Tantric Mantra: Om Ram Rahave Namah
Rahu’s Beeja Mantra: Om Bhram Bhrim Bhraun Sah Rahave Namah