Preface

The interest of the common man in astrology has greatly increased in recent years. This is evident from the host of fortune forecast columns published by almost every newspaper, magazine or journal of importance. Everyone goes through them because of inherent interest. However, these do not help the reader much.

At the same time, there is a need for a book of substance on astrology for the common man from which one can learn on one's own. This book aims at fulfilling that need. The work is an effort to lay the subject of astrology on a logical basis.

At first, the basic principles are enunciated, and then the reader is encouraged to derive results using those principles.

The salient features of the book are:

(i) Common Sanskrit/Indian technical words with which the Indian reader is generally conversant, have been used liberally.

(ii) The soul of the subject is based on Vedic/Hindu/Indian astrology. However, the similarities and differences with Western astrology have been clearly explained.

(iii) Although this book is meant to be a text on predictions of astrology, a chapter has nevertheless, been devoted to calculation not only to make the work comprehensive, but also to bring out the basics about the movement of signs and planets in the heaven.

(iv) As and when required, illustrations, figures and tables have been given liberally to help the reader in the understanding of the subject.

(v) A sample horoscope has been constructed and analysed. It has been taken up as a case study so that the reader learns to cast a horoscope, and at the same time analyse and interpret it independently.

(vi) All topics of importance have been included. Hence, both Lagna and Navansha charts have been cast and discussed.

(vi) The last two chapters are an exclusive feature of the book. One on 'Special Topics' covers matters of common interest in detail. Another on 'Remedies' will guide the reader

(a) to accept destiny, which is nothing but the result of one's own Karmas of present and innumerable previous births, and as a divine prescription for happiness in life after exhausting the effects of those Karmas;

(b) to undertake rituals and spiritual practices to alleviate suffering while at the same time following virtuous conduct and reciting prayers;

(c) and to wait for divine grace.

Thanks are due to my son Amitabh for developing the birth-chart on the computer, to my daughter Sangeeta for inspiration and help in preparing the manuscript and to my brother Ajaya for suggesting the name for the book.

Contents