Retrogression – Opposition and Power

Introduction 

Retrogression is the apparent backward motion of planets. When a planet’s distance from Sun exceeds a certain limit it turns Retrograde for a time. The day it turns Retrograde is Stationary Retrograde. Due to change in motions, he stops for one day and changes his motion in opposite direction (as seen from earth)

Surya Siddhanta mentions about 8 motions of planets .वक्र – Retrograde, अनुवक्र – Somewhat Retrograde, कुटिल – Transverse, मंद – Slow, मंदतर  – Very Slow, सम  – Even, शीघ्र  – Swift, शीघ्रतर  – Very Swift. Between them, Mihira takes only two वक्र and अनुवक्र means Retrograde and Somewhat Retrograde for predictive purposes.

In Astronomical terms when a planet is retrograde, it is between Sun and Earth (Inner planets) or on the same axis of Sun and Earth (Outer planets) Making them nearest to Earth. Whereas when planets are on the opposite side of the Sun when seen from Earth they become combust. Which we will deal with in the next article. Here because the planet is close to earth his effects must be felt prominently is what sages opine. We will see it in the next section of the article.

Normally one can infer that planets (Outer) when in 5th 6th 7th or 8th house from Sun become retrograde and start losing their retrogression in 9th house whereas they start their retrogression (अनुवक्र) in 5th house. It takes us to Sun Kundali which we will deal in a separate article. However, for inner planets, their time of combustion and retrogression usually coincides. They start being retro when they are within 15 degrees of the Sun.

Power of Retrogression [Vakrabala]

“A few remarks about Vakrabala will be appropriate. The great Parashara has made an important observation that could be taken as the basis for evaluating Vakrabala which, though somewhat different from Chestabala, has the common basis, viz., retrogression. According to Parashara, “Planets give complete results when they are in the 7^th from the Sun, no results in conjunction with the Sun and proportionate results in between

खेटाः पूर्णफलं दद्युः सूर्यात सप्तमके स्थिताः! फलाभवं विजानीयात् समे सूर्य नभश्चरे!! – बृहत पराशर होरा शास्त्र [Remember the Shloka it will be referred to many times]

As is generally known planetary orbits are not true circles but are apparently ellipses around the earth. The planets in their orbits can come therefore closest to the earth (Perigee) at a certain time and move farthest (Apogee) at another time. Though for practical purposes we may consider the above principle, mathematically the difference between Perigee (earth-planet minimum distance) and apogee (earth-planet maximum distance) is not as great in the case of the outer planets [Jupiter, Mars, Saturn] as in that of the nearby ones [Mercury, Venus]

When a planet is in perigee the middle of the period of retrogression occurs and it will then be closest to the earth. We can assign a Vakrabala of one rupa or 60 shastiamsas or for the sake of convenience 100 units; when in apogee, that is, in conjunction with the Sun, the maximum distance between the planet and the earth will be maximum and the Vakrabala will be zero.

The Vakrabala of Mercury and Venus should be calculated by taking the distance between the superior and inferior conjunctions – 0 at superior conjunction and 100 at inferior conjunctions.”

As I have said before I was unable to find calculations of Vakrabala, But as Dr Raman himself hints it is similar to Chesta Bala I wish to use Chesta Bala as Vakrabala. Because it is calculated only for five planets. Mercury, Venus, Mars, Jupiter and Saturn and only these are planets that can have retrograde motion. However god willing if I am able to find Vakrabala calculations used by Dr Raman I will share it with our readers. Dr Raman used Vakrabala out of 100. To Covert Chesta Bala from any software into 100 (It is counted for a maximum of 60 Shastiamsa) one must use [n/60*100] Here n is Chesta Bala.

But one must be very clear that Chesta Bala is based on planetary speed and his visibility of disc’s size from earth hence this is not dependable method thus I wish to propose here another method.

Saturn retrogrades for 140 days and remains stationary 5 days before and after. Jupiter retrogrades 120 days is stationary 5 days before and after. Mars retrogrades for 80 days and is stationary 3 to 4 days before and after. Venus is retrograde for 42 days and is stationary approximately two days before and after. Mercury retrogrades for 24 days and is stationary one day before and after.

When retrogression starts planets Vakrabala must be zero and must end again at zero. Hence after 70 days, Saturn’s Vakrabala must be 100, Jupiter after 60 days. Mars after 40 days. Venus after 21 days and Mercury after 12 days must reach their highest Vakrabala.

At this point in time readers are requested to use both methods to judge Vakrabala [Second method seems dependable as compared to the first one] God willing if I became able to find calculations for Vakrabala then I will share it with our readers.

Further, it is stated – “It seems that the Karaka characteristics of a planet having more than 50 units as Vakrabala will become pronounced.”

Jupiter’s Vakrabala more than 90 = Highly successful person. Can rarely fall from power unless Saturn is in Matching Vakrabala occupies a vulnerable place.

Saturn’s high Vakrabala – Have to struggle a lot to achieve their goals

If Mars has more Vakrabala joins with malefic it indicates vindictiveness while with other benefics denote persistence strong will and independence. Absence of wilfulness if Mars’s Vakrabala is less than 50

Artists have a high Vakrabala of Venus. The malefic or benefic influences on Venus denotes cheap roles or good roles.

When more malefics have high Vakrabala the native will have a difficult time to contend with while if benefics have more Vakrabala progress in life without much difficulty is indicated.

Classical Viewpoint 

Western Astrology holds that “It doesn’t give effects that it indicates”

Mantreshwara [Phaladeepika] – Retrograde is strong, Similar to exalted even if debilitated or occupy an Inimical place.

Kalyan Verma [Saravali] – Retrograde benefics confer political power, Retrograde malefic give one sorrow and aimless wandering [The same statement is supported by Mahadeva in his “Jataka Tattwa”]

Bhavartha Ratnakara of Ramanujacharya says – Malefic is good when retrograde.

Uttara Kalamrita of Kalidas says – Retrograde planet is akin to exalted [This view is also supported by Sarvartha Chinatamani], Exalted retrograde gives an effect like debilitated planets, whereas Debilitated retrograde gives an effect like exalted planets.

Parashara Hora Shastra – Retrograde planets give their full effect whereas combust planets fail to give their effects. In the dasa chapter, it says planets strong give good results and planets weak give bad results, but for retrograde planets it is reverse.

One can notice here that sages have varied opinions on retrograde planets. In this kind of situation, one must resort to seniors and elders in the subject and based on his own experience must make his opinion.

Applicable views on Retrograde Planets 

1. – Retrograde Mars in 10th gives fall from power until benefics come to rescue.

Rajyoga can be given by a planet that happens to be the lord of a constellation occupied by a non-retrograde planet [who is raj yoga giver].

Retrograde planets can influence favourably the houses he occupies, aspect and owns in his dasa or in dasa of a planet who is posited in retrograde planet’s constellation.

Jupiter when retrograde sustains an individual through all his ordeals, no matter, whether or not his dasa comes provided he is in 1-10-5-9-11 houses. But preferably 9-10 Houses. The evil due to ownership need not be taken seriously under such a circumstance.  This is the greatest astrological blessing. 

He also adds that retrograde exalted akin to debilitated is wrong. Combination or retrograde and exalted would deprive to some extent the stigma acquired as a consequence of ownership of 3-6-8 houses.

Malefic retrograde and giving Rajyoga will give and will also throw one out from power. This formula can be only applied when malefic is exalted, the opposite result is also possible when debilitated. But not under all circumstances.

According to Parashara planets give complete results when they are in 7th from Sun, no result in conjunction with Sun and proportionate in between.

2. – The day planet turns retrograde they are stationary retrograde [Which increase their influence manifold]

A slow-moving planet especially if retrograde can have a powerful effect in transit [Which can mean that planet give their transit results prominently when they are retrograde – This tallies with my experience]

3. – Vakra is peculiar or reverse in behaviour [See this along with dictum of Parashara on retrograde given in Dasa chapter – Written above] This is called Chesta Bala or Retrogression Strength [This was my basis of Taking Vakrabala as Chestabala]

Benefic in retrogression bestow kingdom and malefics cause sorrow and make one an exile. When a planet is retrograde it is said to possess the strength or when its rays are full [Rays will be dealt with in a separate article]. When a planet is retrograde its effects are similar to those of its exaltation although posited inimically. Benefic retrograde gives good effect [See Dr Raman also says Karaka characteristics of retrograde planets are enhanced – that can be basic of this statement]  When a planet is retrograde he is strong provided he is not in his depression sign. Classics say a planet in debilitation will not be competent to do good and more so a planet in association with such debilitated planet [Here your theory of exalted and debilitated in same sign cancels debilitation goes for a toss making both of them neutral]

Planet in 6-8-12 Houses cause harm – Check retrograde there [Due to their strength as said by Parashara they will cause more harm]

Retrogression of a planet by itself is not a sole strength the ownership, natural quality of planet and placement it is disposed of in is equally important.

There is a degree of difference with respect to retrograde planets. Jupiter is most beneficial even in retrogression can give much-desired results subject to ownership location and disposition in the horoscope. Venus also stands on par with this. However, mercury cannot do good unless free from malefic influences [He is also considering their natural nature]

Benefic should be retrograde in Angles [1-4-7-10] Trines [5-9] and Malefic should be retrograde in [3-6-11]

Undue importance should not be attached to mere retrogression overlooking the nature of planets’ house disposition and other factors.

Mercury is retrograde frequently it’s effect is not much pronounced.

Conclusion – Retrograde is a powerful but not exclusive source of strength. Due consideration should be given to the nature of planets, place occupied and other factors.

4. – Retrograde Saturn give rise to the sudden and important result of mixed nature. If the planet is Yogakaraka the result will be good even if he is badly placed. Naturally, a retro planet tends to give the perverse result. A Natural malefic in 3-6-10-11 houses tend to give a good result if he is in retrograde. A functional malefic in 8-12 Houses gives good results. A natural benefic when he becomes functional malefic behaves like Mars or Saturn [The last point is very important]

5. – Such planets in retrograde motion are said to be with chestabala in Shakta Avastha [शक्त – Powerful, Competent, Rich, Cleaver] a planetary state where the planet is deemed to be energetic. Such planets are said to have triple or three fold Rashmi (Bright Rays) Shri Mantreshwara in his Phaladeepika says वक्रंगते स्वोच्चफलं विधधात संपन्नानि चर्क्षा गतोपि खन्दः! A planet in retrograde motion gives the result of an exalted planet even if he is placed in an enemy’s sign or his debilitation. It follows that if retrograde planets own good houses doe the concerned Lagna in nativity the effect will be good, whereas if he owns 3-6-8-11-12 Houses the evil will be pronounced.

If we approach Saravali and Jataka Tattwam with the above background we get a clear clue to the interpretation of ‘Shubha/beneficial” and “Paapa/Malefic” according to the following. Kalyan Verma the learned author of Saravali says वक्रीणस्तु महावीर्याः शुभाः राज्यप्रदाः! पापा व्यसनिनां पुंसां कुविन्ति च वृयातवं – If benefics be retrograde they are powerful and give Rajyoga whereas if malefic are retrograde and powerful they give grief and sorrow and cause fruitless journeys.

Shri Mahadeva the learned author of Jataka Tattwam says aphoristically thus – शुभाः वक्रगाः राज्यायर्दाः! पापव्यसन हानिदाः – Retrograde planet give position and wealth whereas Paapi in vakra cause sorrow, disappointment or failure and frustration.

पुनश्चन्द्रात्यपत्नsस्तरन्ध्रसंस्ये अखिलेः शुभेः! नैसर्गिकैभर्वेत श्रेयनोधयोगो अधिकारदः! Similarly, the same author of ‘Shodasa Shloki” has stated सर्वे नैसर्गिकैः शुभेः त्रिषडायास्पद स्थितेः! योगः सूपचयो नाम धनवृद्धिकरो भवेत्! Natural malefics in 3-6-11 houses and benefics in 1-4-7-10-5-9 houses is good for longevity. Temporal benefic in retrogression is good, Temporal malefic in retrogression is bad.

6. [Gives most interesting point] – He writes “Nearly for two decades I have watched and observed the dates on which Saturn, Mars, Mercury, Venus and especially Jupiter become retrograde or direct [From retrograde] coincide with a major event – good or bad, in individual and national lives. Events can also happen before/after 1-2 Days of becoming retrograde or coming out of retrogression.

7. – In order to predict the astrological influence of the retrograde planet one must take into account – Nature of the planet, Rashi in which retrogression occurs, House possessed by a retrograde planet, the Relationship between a retrograde planet and ascendant, His relationship with others (especially with other retrograde planets), Basic Sattwa-Rajas-Tamas nature of horoscope [This is an advanced topic which will be dealt separately]

In short, retrogression changes the nature of the influence generated due to its special circumstances. The basic nature of the planet remains the same while the location of the planet in various houses and signs give certain special characteristics but the planets tend to give the effect of proceeding house or the sign whilst it has a tendency to be mysteriously related to the next house or the sign to that where the planet is posited but the latter principle requires a very very careful application which in most of the cases may be left out for ordinary people.

His [Retrograde] aspect should be considered backwards [Not accepted by many scholars]

8. – At this stage, I want to point that inferentially exaltation gets precedence as the primary strength and Vakrabala although equal in power is deemed only secondary, in so as as the latter has been compared to the former.

Mihira [I have removed Varaha from his name] in the concept of Ayurdaya expresses a similar opinion and assigns triple strength to retrograde planets and double strength to Vargottama planets.

So far we have seen that sages told us that Vakra planets are invariably strong or powerful.

The first note of dissent in this opinion appears to start from Kalyanverma who states that retrograde planets are very powerful but he qualified that benefics alone retrograde are capable of conferring beneficial results and malefics in that state prove evil.

If we interpret Kalyanverma’s statement as only relating to the functional malefic there will be no quarrel with Parashara.

Prithuyasha [Son of Mihira] concedes first that retrograde planet confers during its dasa honour, valour, wealth in the lines that follow he says that retrograde is evil. Now this contradiction has to be reconciled. Anuvakra as stated in retrogression in which one planet recedes in previous Rashi, at all events, is a part of retrogression. I cannot imagine that Prithuyasha was ignorant of this fact. Hence he could not have contradicted what he said in his very next breath I feel therefore that the word Vakra in the subsequent line must be translated as Mars. especially since the author in his Sankeerna Adhyaya [Fundamental introduction chapter] goes on, at random, to describe Rahu etc. on this assumption Prithuyasha too may be said to fall in line with Parashara and he grants essential dignity or power to all retrograde planets.

We now come to Madhava he says that benefics when retrograde confer kingdom and wealth but malefics cause difficulties and loss. It is possible to reconcile this contradiction by holding that he means only the functional benefics and malefics because malefics in power should add to evil. But in a later chapter, he states that the dasa of a retrograde planet brings about loss of honour, position and wealth.

Kalidas in his Uttarakalamrit has added a new dimension to this problem. While he concedes that the retrograde planet has the power of an exalted planet, he adds a rider that exalted retrograde acts like debilitated and debilitated retrograde acts like exalted.

The most succinct, unequivocal and eminently provable statement on this problem has been made by Mantreshwara. According to him, retrograde planets are in full panoply, even if debilitated, enemy sign and Navamsa. This along with Kalidas’s statement for practical purposes will become a  workable proposition for practising astrologers.

9. – “atichare cha vakrecha poorvarasi phalam vadet, brihaspatescha tannasti tattat rasi phalam vadet” – When a planet is in retrogression or in acceleration [the condition when it starts giving the effect of next house – Mentioned by Bepin Behari] involving a change of a sign. The effect of the previous house [or next] should be taken into account. Jupiter is an exception to this rule.

10. -in actual practice, it is seen that the planets in retrograde have given favourable results in their dasa and bhukti. The aspect from such planets has strengthened the yoga caused by other planets. Even Saturn whose 10th aspect is considered to be malefic caused immense good to the native in whose chart he cast a powerful aspect on other planets.

The effect of the retrograde planet in transit is not stated by many standard texts “Kalaprakashika” states that the planets except Jupiter manifest the effect of the sign in which they are located weather by acceleration or by retrogression and that Jupiter however is the only planet which produces the effect of the sign prior to the one occupied by him by acceleration or retrogression as the case may be. Of course, the general good strength of the planet while in retrogression will manifest while in transit also. It follows therefore that if Saturn while in Sadhesati [7.5 years period which is used for making money by charlatans] is in retrograde motion the evil effects will be mitigated. Similarly, if a planet causing bad gochara [Transit] joins a retrograde planet causing good results – The former planet’s evil must be softened.

11. – A retrograde planet behaves as if exalted and gives the results of the Bhava in which it is placed. Even if the planet is in depression it will give results as though it were in its own sign. This is an accepted rule of astrology. This is true as far as the material aspect of one’s life is concerned. But the effects of such a planet on the health of the person is always adverse when the planet is stationed in 6-8-12 houses. This is also been observed by our ancient as well as modern seers of astrology.

Irrespective of the fact whether the planet in question is a top benefit or top malefic the results will always depend upon its relative position to Lagna and Moon sign [In my humble opinion most prominently to moon sign as Moon is significant of health whereas Lagna signified body]

It is said that benefics when retrograde in angle [1-4-7-10] or trine [5-9] give good results. This may be true with regard to other matters, but as far as health is concerned, again the part of body represented by a house, star [Nakshatra] or Drekkana will suffer

When Saturn is retrograde in transit in any house except 3-6-11 he creates trouble in that body part based on House, Nakshatra and Drekkana [D3] Jupiter in the same condition [Retrograde in transit] gives disease only in 1-6-8-12 houses.

He also touched on some critical points based on the natal chart. he says – If Saturn is retrograde in 3-6-11 in the Natal chart in his dasa-antardasa one will get rid of the disease. When in 1-4-7-10 wandering and ill health consistent with other dasa results will ensure. 2-5-8-9-12 houses are bad for chronic suffering. Even if they are free from diseases they will suffer according to the House-Drekkana-Birth Star denoting seat of the disease.

For Jupiter, he comments if it is retrograde in 2-4-5-7-9-11 houses always good for general health in his dasa-antardasa. In 1-3-6-8-10-12 he is likely to aggravate the existing disease.

12. – Generally our text has praised benefics and lets down the malefics in retrograde motion.

Natural benefics like Jupiter, Mercury (Spoil also) lose their inherent quality by retrogression. I would observe that these planets fail to exert full influence even if they become functional malefics or fail to assuredly prove auspicious when they act as functional benefics.

Suppose the planet (benefic retrograde) becomes functional benefic they do not retain their influence infect a benefic planet in retrograde can become influential with the assistance of another qualified planet.

I believe that malefics do good in retrogression as stressed by “Bhavartha Ratnakara” In any case even if this argument were to be struck down I can very well say that they are not inauspicious. Planets in retrograde in transit give significant results if they happen to affect radical retrograde planets, or even certain planets in the starts of planets in retrograde in the radix.

If the depositor of a natural malefic is in retrograde in radix the malefic turns auspicious.

Lord of 8th in retrograde is adverse for longevity as per “Jyotisharnava Navaneetam”

When Saturn is retrograde and is in malefic star he does not give long life.

If the lord of the 10th is a natural benefic and retrograde it is adverse to one’s own father.

Jataka Parijata Shloka 55 Chapter 2 – Says that Jupiter even in fall in 10th – 4th gives abundant wealth while Jupiter is welcome in such a position I do not appreciate if the planet is retrograde. For I maintain that a retrograde benefic is less influential for good (or for bad) than he could have been if direct. Should Jupiter retrograde be a Yogakaraka and be in fall in the 10th house or in the 4th his benefic propensities are marred considerably. I am of the opinion that benefics retrograde even in fall are not capable of doing good.

The nodes which always have retrograde can be of guidance to us in assessing the functions of a retrograde planet. Just because it is said that retrograde malefic is good it should not mean that the nodes are always auspicious. If they are well placed in the radix a malefic planet in the star of a node proves advantageous.

An aphorism of “Syamasangraha” reads thus “Kaliyuga Phaladah Kala Rudra Vedarthi” – Rahu confers yoga in Kaliyuga. This does not mean that other planets will be without effect. Obviously, the shloka gives chief consideration for Rahu.

According to “Garga Samhita” If Rahu is in 5-9-10-11 for the Moon (No specific mention of Moon) he gives a royal life and great Dhanyoga.

Ketu’s star is not auspicious for important planets to occupy. If malefics are in the star of the node and in retrograde motion he will confer good results.

13. – While he writes freely that retrograde planets give effect from the previous house also [mind here house and not Rashi] and his aspect must also be considered from the previous house.

I have also noticed that he takes them to be a delaying factor. also, he treats them like nodes whose effects will be given by other Relationships/Influences on them. I will explain the second point in a while under my personal opinion.

Conclusion & My personal opinion.

1. Retrograde planets are powerful [ They are powerful than Vargottama and weak than Exalted]
2. Being powerful doesn’t make any planet auspicious, it depends on many other criteria which includes ownership, placement, effects on him, his relationship with other planets
3. Power surely makes a planet pronounced, Thus effect of retrograde will be felt pronouncedly in chart and life of native.
4. Astronomical Phenomena supersedes conditions in all charts [divisional] once a retrograde is powerful in all divisional charts for whatever effects he give in that chart.
5. Retrograde planet will only effect/aspect from previous sign when he is less than 10 degree in a sign [Refer Kalaprakashika – Generally a planet will less than 10 degree in a sign can only move in previous sign while retrogression rest if he is above 10 then he will remain in same sign]
6. Retrograde planets are vulnerable like Rahu while his aspect works like a catalyst.
   Let me explain Vulnerable means as Rahu’s effects must be seen by planets in conjunction with him or aspecting him same is with retrograde planets. Now when outer planets are retrograde inner planets can’t be with them. but when inner planets are retrograde outer planets can be with them. Thus like Rahu conjunction/aspect on retrogrades must be carefully judged as it decides their influences [along with other factors of judgement]
   Catalyst means – Classics says planet with exalted planet is powerful and with debilitated is weak. It demonstrates transfer of power. It will also be trough aspect as aspect helps in making connection [Mutual aspect between planet, planet aspected by his depositor] which also transfers power. Hence because retrograde is powerful his aspect will also transfer power to the objects which come under his influence.  [It is based on a simple fact that houses tented by or aspected by an exalted planet gives growth to significations of that in a positive manner]
7. Retrograde planets opposes the results they are promised to give. Sun is controller of all planets and he decides effects one is going to have from planets [esoteric viewpoint] because planets in retrograde motion are opposing him they won’t give promised results but can give opposite results.
   For example – If 7th lord be exalted one can predict early marriage as it gives marital bliss, that can’t be said to be with a person who marries in his 40th year. But because of 7th lord being debilitated one will marry [marital bliss will be there] but after an advanced age of say 38-39. So, here the planet gave his effects but not according to Sun’s direction. However his conjugal life will be well and good due to him being exalted.
8. Planets when retrograde in transit give effects prominently [The effect promised by that particular transit off-course]  If his dasa is running at the same time then dasa effects will be felt prominently when he is retrograde.
9. Retrograde planets in transit when influnce [Aspect/Conjunction] retrograde planet in birth chart or nodes they give some sensational and life changing event.
10. Planet when being retrograde or coming out of retrogression gives rise to major events [+/- 3-4 days] related to the houses they own/placed in/they occupy in transit/they occupy-own from dasa lord.
11. Planets retrograde in chart gives their effect when they become direct in transit and planets direct in chart give their effect prominently when they happen to be retrograde in transit. This is especially true when their Dasa-Antardasa is also running.
12. Retrograde planets showing Karma, Past-Life is something that can never be justified, classics doesn’t make any statement like this. One must be very clear that results and chain of Karmas which we will get engaged in this life is based on previous Karmas which is reflected by whole chart and not only retrograde planets. Some people propagate retrograde planets show unfinished desire related to them, if one have not even a single strong unfinished desire he will get liberation is clear saying of Dharma Shastra, But we see many people born without having any retrograde planet it doesn’t mean they are liberated or does it mean because Rama had nodes in his chart [Who always remain retrograde] his soul was not liberated –  A sincere student, able to use his mind for thinking must refrains away from such fictional mental orgies of other people, he must use his own mind and with base of Shastra’s must think clearly.
13. However a research must be done on this, I will come up with an article on this, If I became able to find something using retrograde planets in cases of reincarnation.
14. Because retrograde planets are opposite to Sun [health] and Moon [emotions] they affect health badly, if they are seriously damaged then they tend to make one emotionless/more emotional in areas related to house they own/occupy.
15. Planet’s in rashi or Amsa of retrograde planets [Like Navamsa of retrograde planet or Dasamsa of retrograde planet] flourishes well, Because depositor show resources and strong depositor will signify ample resources.

All these of my conclusions are based on my reading of classics, elder opinions and my own experience and is free from any kind of mental fantasies.

 Q & A related to retrogression

In my Facebook page/group, I have announced about my article being prepared on retrograde planets and invited people to ask questions. Some of them are answered here. [All of them are answered except those relating to the personal chart or repetitive questions]

Q 1 – Nishad Gowda Ji- Shubham Bhai retrograde planets damage the house they are posited, what’s your say?

A – Nothing is said like this in classics. However Brihat Parashara gives us a hint that the planet placed in Navamsa of a malefic planet destroys the house where they are placed in Rashi chakra, This must be kept in mind along with point 6 written by me above.

Q 2 – Hitesh Dilip Somaiya – Just want to know the actual meaning of retrograde n the reason for planets going in the retrograde move does it’s related to past life karmas n why Rahu n Ketu r always Retro. If they move retro then the aspects will also be counted opposite to other planets or same as other planets

A – Retrogression is one of the eight kinds of motions that planets acquire which is also relevant to Hindu astrology. As we have seen above planets when they are between Sun and earth become retrograde it is because the planet and earth are on the same side in front of each other. So, If we see from the earth we find that another planet is like a vehicle travelling in the same direction. Due to watching the phenomena from the earth, it looks like the planet is going backwards. As we have seen inner planets move from east to west and outer planets move west to east to the sun. So what actually happens is because outer planets are slow in speed from the earth they look like going backwards slowly, whereas inner planets are faster than earth in rotation but they move from east to west thus from the earth we see them coming from the front and going backwards. Outer planets are like vehicles travelling in the same direction where the vehicle we are in is fast and another is slow thus it looks like going backward. Inner planets are vehicles coming from another direction and going backwards which looks like them going backwards. Thus the apparent motion of planets moving backwards is called retrogression. The planet’s actually travelled in the same direction but due to watching the phenomena from the earth, it looks like this.
Each and everything in the chart relates to previous Karma. Suppose my 9th lord is Sun who is in the 8th house with Saturn and Mars whereas my 9th house is tented by Rahu. This most probably gives bad results related to the father and he may die/separate early. Now we see where Mars and Saturn along with 9th lord and Karaka none is retrograde but still, I got a result, off-course it was due to a Karma done by me in past. A retrograde planet may show past life Karma but if there is no retrograde planet in the horoscope that doesn’t mean you have no Karmas.
To understand it simply. Take a ball and Mark three points on it [at three different places], one at the centre and another two at a high and low from that centre. Now the ball is earth and the moon starts its rotation from a higher point and goes till the lowest point on another side then comes back to the highest point to complete one rotation. This is the moon’s rotation around the earth. In this, the point where his rotation is on earth’s orbit [Middle point] that point on the north side is north node [Rahu] and the south side is south node [Ketu] from west to east first comes North [Rahu] and then [Ketu]
Earth moves in prograde motion [west to east in its orbit] so does the moon [He also moves in prograde motion]. Now you knew how nodes are made. Now imagine you’re observing them from the centre of the earth [Geocentric calculations] due to both of them moving in the same direction one with slow [earth] and another with fast speed [moon], as was the case with outer planets it looks retrograde [using the same logic by which outer planets were retrograde] Hence for this reason nodes are always retrograde.
Retrograde planets aspecting backwards as well as their relationship to past Karmas is an area worth researching. I will share my findings with relation to past life Karmas soon, whereas for backward aspects it was propagated by Shri Bepin Behari but not used by me.

Q 3 – Let’s get down to basics, without having a basic comprehension one can’t venture to ask a difficult question. Hence, how to distinguish between a benefic and malefic retrograde planet? And what does a retrograde planet in the chart signify?

A – Benefic retrograde depends on the nature of the planet in Rashi as well as the divisional chart, here to decide benefic or malefic one must use their functional nature. Natural nature can be used as benefic if their vakrabala is above 50 if not then they will act as malefics.
As we have seen retrogression gives a planet power it means houses owned by him, influenced by his aspects and position will have power in its activities it is akin to being in exaltation but it doesn’t always ensure the planet’s action in a beneficial way only. Strength means prominence suppose I am a Gemini ascendant with Jupiter retrograde in 3rd house. He is lord of 7th and 10th and he aspects 11th, 9th house in addition to 3rd house. This means these areas are prominent in my life. Hence my marriage will be good and my spouse will support me in my life, My professional life will be full of achievement, My income will be good, luck will favour me and I have the ability to take things forward, I am a fitness freak, writer etc. Now He is my 10th lord and 7th lord he is Maraka too hence all these areas at first will suffer (counting from lagna first comes 7th house lordship) then all these areas will bloom making me prominent achiever in it (10th Lordship)

Q 4 – Shwetanshu Srivastava Ji – I have always read that retro planets show a strong karmic connection to a past life.  I have a little less knowledge of upapada lagna. But have read 2nd house from upapada lagna is the sustenance of marriage.  One of my friends has retro Venus; he was in 10 years of a long relationship. But could not get married to the girl.  So in general does Venus retro teaches us about a relationship? And also does retro Venus being 2nd Lord from UL has any special significance?
Few more questions I have which I would like to hear from you. Like I have read retro planet in debilitation behaves like exalted, I would really like to get this clarified and also exalted planet retro loses some power.  And also I have observed which might be wrong, but just when Saturn turned retro I felt some changes in my professional life so would like to know if planets get retro and transit over natal retro planets, so can it affect things related to their natural significance (karkatwa) irrespective of signs and house placed in?
Also would like to know, say Jupiter is in Leo and retro, so rear will be an exalted sign, but suppose its enemy Rahu is placed there, so what kind of results can be expected. If mokshkarak Ketu is there in the rear sign and Jupiter getting exalted in the rear sign, will it show native will be religious minded?

A – Retrograde planets showing past life connection is an area worth research. My guruji did research on this way back in 2000-2001 but as I haven’t seen it in that way, I am unable to comment on this. However god willing soon my research on this area will come out.
Sage Jaimini main propagator of the Jaiminian branch of astrology. Never made a statement like 2nd from UL shows sustenance of marriage but his aphorism hints at the same hence it can de be deduced with several other meanings. [Soon as part 4 of Jaimini basics I will write on Upapada Lagna] Basically 1st and 2nd both houses from UL hint at the sustenance of marriage. Venus retrograde is about his strength which indicates he will have an ample amount of female friends in his life. However, his relationship will be an effect of afflicted Venus in Rashi or Navamsa.  afflicted planets show hardships related to their significations and ownership. Whereas retrograde Venus gives one more than one partner (ample amount) and if weak in vakrabala makes one shy in his romantic feelings. If Venus is lord of 2nd from UL and is retrograde (powerful) then it makes that his marriage never falls apart. Relationships are not to be judged from Upapada Lagna but from A7 (Arudha of 7th house) and other points like [5th house lord from Venus, Lagna, Moon in Rashi and Navamsa along with  7th from Venus Moon in Rashi Navamsa. Venus is sexual attraction while Moon is mental attraction. 5th house is someone occupying your thoughts and 7th house is partner]
Parashara has given us something named Bhadra-Panchaka and Abhadra-Panchaka. Bhadra Panchaka means good five positions of planets which in descending order is exalted-Mooltrikona-Own Rashi-Extreme Friend’s House – Friends house. Abhadra Panchaka means bad five placement of planets which constitutes Neutral House – Enemy House – Bitter Enemy House – Combust – Debilitated in ascending order. Now here we notice combustion and retrogression are two astronomical phenomena. As said earlier retrogression is strength but secondary to exaltation hence planet debilitated who is at the lowest range of doing good [Abhadra Panchaka] gets some power, which doesn’t ensure beneficence. Hence he is just strong as he lords good houses then he will behave like exalted if not then he is the worst malefic. [Also consider Vakrabala to know his effects due to its significations] In the same vein exalted planet being retro is strong as well as beneficial which in my humble opinion must be considered as a blessing provided he is not afflicted. [Remember weak and afflicted are two different things]
About Saturn being retrograde please refer above to the role of retrograde planets in triggering events. Yes, transit of retrograde planet over natal retrograde planet gives birth to events based on effects of a natal retrograde planet which is infused with power by transiting retrograde planet.
Planet retrograde just changes his house placement and not Rashi thus it doesn’t make him exalted. Placement of another planet there making the connection will only come to fructify when a planet is below 10 degrees [which will make him go to previous sign in retrogression] in other cases planet become and remain retrograde in the same sign.

Q 5 -Rohit Katiyar – I have read somewhere that retro planets are more powerful than direct is it correct if yes then how? Secondly, if someone has retro planets in their chart and currently that planet is not retro then how it will affect the individual?

A – Yes retrograde planets are powerful as compared to those who are direct, because of their closeness to earth, It is explained in detail above. Currently, the planet is direct means he will give his effects in transit to natives based on what he promises in the birth chart. Remember natal retrograde planets give their effect when direct and natal direct planets give their effects when they are in retrograde motion.

Q 6 – Vinay Nair – Suppose 2 people have retrograde Jupiter in the 6th house and Rahu in the 5th house. Then are they connected to each other in previous lives?

A – No, Planet remains retrograde for a long minimum of 24 days (Mercury) and maximum of 140 days (Saturn) between this time frame each lagna rises once which remains for 2-2.5 hours. Many people are born in this time frame not everyone can share a past life connection.

Q 7 – Kr Abhimanyu Singh – what opinions were concluded on retrograde planets and due work in this life. What consequences is one bound to face during retro planets dasha?

A – Everything is written above except the Dasa of retrograde planets. Due to him being strong his significations will bloom in his dasa whereas other effects are dependent on other factors of his placement, aspect, conjunction etc. Retrograde Mars dasa gives one lot of courage, gains from lands, happiness from siblings etc but if he is in the 12th house then it will also come with expenses and diseases along with marriage and fights between the couple.

Q 8 – Vatsal Tailang VizzArt – Retro planets have more Chestabala. Yet with retro planets, we see delay instead of more profound results. For instance, retro Jupiter delays in progeny or retro Mercury no sufficient bliss from maternal uncle’s side. Etc. Your opinion in this regards Alock Ji.

A – Chestabala is not related to retrogression, it coincides with it but is not limited to it. Retrograde planets make delay because they are opposing Sun and also opposes general results given by them but if a planet showing delay is found to be retrograde it will give event on time/quickly. For example, the 7th lord exalted shows early marriage will delay it but if 7th lord is retro which indicates late marriage it tends to make it happen quickly. As far as significations are concerned one must look at the planet’s Vakrabala. More than 50 makes the event happen on time, less than 50 cause delays and hindrances.

Q 9 – Tarunn Kummar – Exalted planet is retrograde in Rashi chakra while being debilitated in Navamsa, Take this point. The planet doesn’t become retrograde in Navamsa, and that too Mercury [Translated from Hindi to English by Shubham]

A-One a retrograde is always retrograde. Because Navamsa is a fraction of the Rashi chart retrogression doesn’t happen there but if a planet is retrograde in Rashi he is retrograde in all divisional charts. Because Navamsa deals with karma-Phala fruits of Karma’s that one is destined to face planet being debilitated there makes it strong malefic that can be hostile for chart unless other benefic effects come to rescue.

Q 10 – Kovács Ildikó – It is correct that the retrograde Planet in Rashi chart is stronger, so had a bigger effect on good and bad also?

A – Yes, each and everything under their domain is prominent and big.