The 27 Nakshatras: Lunar Mansions, Zodiac Degrees & Planetary Rulers

How the Moon’s 27.3-day orbit through stellar constellations shapes Vedic time and muhurats.

By Stellar Astronomy Desk · Updated August 2026

Each Nakshatra spans 13° 20' of the ecliptic zodiac, divided into four Padas. Discover all 27 Nakshatras from Ashwini to Revati, their planetary lords, symbolisms, and muhurat alignments.

What is a Nakshatra?

The word Nakshatra combines "Naks" (sky/map) and "Shetra" (region). In Vedic sidereal astronomy, the 360-degree zodiac belt is divided into 27 equal sectors of 13° 20' each. As the Moon orbits Earth every 27.3 days, it spends approximately one solar day traversing each Nakshatra sector.

Classification and Muhurat Suitability

Nakshatras are categorized into seven functional groups based on their energetic temperament: 1. Kshipra (Swift): Ashwini, Pushya, Hasta — Ideal for trade, shopping, travel, and medical treatment. 2. Sthira (Fixed): Rohini, Uttara Phalguni, Uttara Ashadha, Uttara Bhadrapada — Ideal for housewarming, planting, and foundation laying. 3. Chara (Movable): Punarvasu, Swati, Shravana, Dhanishta, Shatabhisha — Ideal for buying vehicles and journeys. 4. Mridu (Tender): Mrigashirsha, Chitra, Anuradha, Revati — Ideal for arts, music, weddings, and new relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which is the most auspicious Nakshatra for general activities?

Pushya Nakshatra is universally praised as the king of Nakshatras for spiritual initiation, financial purchases, and learning.