Ashtakavarga: Point-Based Planetary Strength System
Ashtakavarga (literally "eight divisions of strength") is a unique quantitative method in Vedic astrology that assigns benefic points (Bindus) to each sign from eight sources — seven planets (Sun through Saturn) and the Ascendant. It produces a numerical map showing which signs and houses are strong or weak for each planet.
How Ashtakavarga Is Calculated
Each planet contributes either a benefic point (Bindu) or a malefic point (Rekha) to every sign, based on its position relative to the other seven planets and the Ascendant. The individual charts (Bhinnashtakavarga) show each planet's score across all twelve signs. These are then combined into the Sarvashtakavarga — a grand total revealing overall strength of each sign.
Interpreting the Scores
In a planet's individual Ashtakavarga, a score of 4 or more Bindus in a sign is considered favorable. Scores below 4 indicate weakness. The Sarvashtakavarga total averages around 28 points per sign — houses with scores above 28 are generally supportive areas of life. This system excels at predicting transit results: Saturn transiting a sign where it has high Ashtakavarga points produces notably better outcomes.
Practical Applications
Ashtakavarga is invaluable for Muhurta selection and transit timing. It complements Shadbala by offering a sign-by-sign perspective rather than an overall strength score. AstroPath reports use Ashtakavarga scores to fine-tune Dasha predictions and identify the most productive periods within each planetary cycle.