Astrology Glossary
What is Mahadasha?
महादशा - Mahadasha (Major Period)
The Major Planetary Period in Vedic Astrology
Mahadasha Definition
Mahadasha (Sanskrit: महादशा, "great period") is the major planetary period in the Vimshottari Dasha system. Each planet rules a Mahadasha lasting 6 to 20 years: Sun (6), Moon (10), Mars (7), Rahu (18), Jupiter (16), Saturn (19), Mercury (17), Ketu (7), Venus (20). During a Mahadasha, that planet's themes dominate your life experiences.
Effects of Each Mahadasha
Sun Mahadasha (6 years)
Focus on self-identity, authority, government matters, father, and career advancement. Good for leadership roles.
Moon Mahadasha (10 years)
Emotional development, mother, public image, mental well-being, travel, and domestic life become prominent.
Mars Mahadasha (7 years)
Energy, courage, property matters, siblings, and physical activities. Can bring conflicts if Mars is afflicted.
Rahu Mahadasha (18 years)
Ambition, foreign connections, unconventional paths, material desires. Can bring sudden rise or unexpected events.
Jupiter Mahadasha (16 years)
Wisdom, education, children, fortune, spirituality. Generally considered auspicious for growth and expansion.
Saturn Mahadasha (19 years)
Discipline, hard work, karma, delays, longevity. Teaches patience and rewards sustained effort.
Mercury Mahadasha (17 years)
Intellect, communication, business, education, writing. Good for learning and commercial activities.
Ketu Mahadasha (7 years)
Spirituality, detachment, past karma, liberation. Can bring isolation or spiritual awakening.
Venus Mahadasha (20 years)
Love, marriage, luxury, arts, wealth, pleasures. The longest period, bringing comfort if Venus is well-placed.
Usage Examples
"My Jupiter Mahadasha of 16 years began in 2020, bringing educational opportunities."
"During Saturn Mahadasha, expect slow but steady progress through hard work."
"The astrologer said Venus Mahadasha is favorable for marriage."
Related Terms
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