Kundali Matching

Kundali matching (also called Gun Milan or Ashtakoot Milan) is a traditional Vedic compatibility method performed before marriage. It evaluates the compatibility between two birth charts across 8 dimensions (Gunas), assigning points for each. The 8 Gunas are: Varna (1 point), Vashya (2), Tara (3), Yoni (4), Graha Maitri (5), Gana (6), Bhakoot (7), and Nadi (8). Maximum score is 36. A score of 18 or above is generally considered acceptable for marriage.

We use Swiss Ephemeris to compute the exact Moon position (Chandra Rashi and Nakshatra) for each person. The Ashtakoot scoring follows the classical tables as described in Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra (BPHS) and Muhurta Chintamani. Moon position is accurate to arc-second precision using Lahiri ayanamsa. The result depends on the accuracy of the birth time provided: a significant time error can affect the Nakshatra assignment and change the score.

A score of 18 or above (out of 36) is considered the minimum acceptable threshold in classical Vedic astrology. Scores of 21-27 indicate good compatibility; above 27 indicates excellent compatibility. Scores below 18 traditionally require additional analysis and remedies. However, Nadi dosha (Nadi = 0) and Bhakoot dosha (Bhakoot = 0) are treated as serious defects even if the total score is otherwise high.

Mangal Dosha (also called Kuja Dosha or Manglik Dosha) occurs when Mars is placed in the 1st, 2nd, 4th, 7th, 8th, or 12th house of the birth chart. This is believed to create tension in marriage. When both partners have Mangal Dosha, the dosha is traditionally considered cancelled (dosha samya). Our tool automatically detects Mangal Dosha for both charts and indicates whether matching or not.

Traditionally, kundali matching was designed for arranged marriages. For love marriages, many astrologers still recommend checking Nadi and Bhakoot, the two most weighted Gunas, as these relate to health compatibility (Nadi) and financial and emotional harmony (Bhakoot). Even in love marriages, an awareness of the score and any doshas allows couples to take appropriate remedial measures.

Nadi Dosha occurs when both partners have the same Nadi (Adi, Madhya, or Antya). It carries the maximum weight of 8 points in Ashtakoot and is considered the most serious dosha in kundali matching. Classical texts associate it with health issues and difficulty in having children. Exceptions exist when both partners share the same Nakshatra but different padas, or when their Nakshatras are in different Rashis.

Bhakoot Dosha occurs in specific Moon-sign relationships between the two charts: 2/12, 5/9, and 6/8 placements from one chart to the other. It carries 7 points and is considered highly significant. The 6/8 Bhakoot is considered the most difficult, associated with financial disagreements and health concerns. Exceptions apply when both partners have the same Rashi lord.

The Moon sign (Rashi) and Nakshatra are the primary inputs for Ashtakoot matching, and these change relatively slowly compared to the ascendant. However, the Moon changes Nakshatra approximately every 24-27 hours, so birth time matters. If the exact time is unknown, use 6:00 AM as a placeholder. The closer to the actual time, the more accurate the Nakshatra and score.