NatureShadow planet (north lunar node), malefic
RulesNone classically (co-ruler of Aquarius in some texts)
Exalted inTaurus / Gemini (varies by text)
Debilitated inScorpio / Sagittarius (varies by text)
DaySaturday
GemstoneHessonite (Gomed)
ColourSmoky, dark blue
DirectionSouth-west
ElementAir
Vimshottari Dasha18 years
About Rahu
Rahu has no physical body; it is the north lunar node, the point where the Moon's path crosses the ecliptic. Along with Ketu it causes eclipses. Rahu always moves in retrograde motion and spends about 18 months in each sign.
Rahu magnifies whatever it touches. It represents worldly desire, ambition, foreign lands and people, technology, innovation and anything outside the mainstream.
What Rahu signifies
Ambition, foreign lands, technology, unconventional paths, illusion, sudden events.
Friends and Enemies
| Relationship | Planets |
|---|
| Friends | Mercury, Venus, Saturn |
| Neutral | Jupiter |
| Enemies | Sun, Moon, Mars |
A planet placed in a friend's sign, or joined with friendly planets, generally gives better results than one placed with enemies.
When Rahu Is Well Placed
A well-placed Rahu can bring sudden rise, fame, success abroad, skill with languages, technology and research, and the courage to take bold, unconventional steps.
When Rahu Is Weak or Afflicted
An afflicted Rahu can create confusion, anxiety, obsession, deception or sudden setbacks, and an unsettled mind. It is said to influence the brain and nervous system.
Remedies for Rahu
- Worship Goddess Durga
- Recite the Rahu mantra or Durga Chalisa
- Donate black sesame, blankets or coconut on Saturdays
- Wear hessonite only after a proper chart analysis
Beej mantra
Om Bhraam Bhreem Bhraum Sah Rahave Namah — traditionally recited 18,000 times over a period (for example 40 days), with devotion and understanding of its meaning.
Remedies are supportive practices. See all nine mantras on the
Graha Mantra page.
Where is Rahu in your chart?See the sign, house and strength of every planet in your free Vedic birth chart.
Free Horoscope