Magha – The Palanquin
Magha (0.00-13.20 Leo) is ruled by the Ancestors. It is the 10th nakshatra governed by Ketu, which is ruled by the Sun. Magha refers to Maghaban which is the cause of light and brightness.
Magha is also referred to as the Little King/Sun, and is denoted by the words ‘benevolent’, ‘bountiful’, ‘magnificent’ or ‘mighty’. This constellation is symbolized by the throne which is indicated by royalty, power, status and prestige.
Magha refers to the words magnificent, master, mayor, magnanimous and magic. All of them indicate the functioning of Magha at one point or another. Magha aims at shaping the present with the help of the past. If a native has Magha in their astrological chart, they are bound to experience positive karma. It may translate into favors from those in positions of power, although the nature of the favors is sudden and impulsive.
The fierce element of Magha corresponds to Ketu that relates to the fierceness of the sun. As a ferocious planet, Ketu can be as violent in its intensity as the desert sun. On another plane, the sun is also associated with authority which can engender magnanimity and humility, or mercilessness and tyranny, leading to the natives being blinded by power. Magha is in fact a human asterism that fosters the humaneness of the esoteric Ketu.
In fact, Ketu is a planet that is known to detach one from earthly ties, although in this context, Ketu allows one to fulfill worldly duties. The native is hence conscious of their social standing, eminence and performance of duty, and in a negative context, it can lead to over ambition. On a higher reality, Magha displays a high capacity for idealism, even when it is surrounded by material wealth.
Magha helps in maintenance of nature through civilization and tradition. They have a royal demeanor and have lion-like appearances. Magha represents ‘tyaga shepani shakti’ which refers to the ability to sever ties with the object.
Padas or Quarters
The first pada falls on the Aries
Navamsa which is ruled by Mars. It represents willpower. Here, the throne is
secured after Ashlesha, the many headed serpent is slain. Qualities like leadership,
self-assertion, idealism and courage are perfectly displayed.
The second pada falls on the
Taurus Navamsa which is ruled by Venus. The quarter is reflected further by the
king’s ascension to the secured throne. A highly ambitious pada, the emphasis here
is on duty, materialistic organization and image. Planets here receive favors
The third pada falls on the
Gemini Navamsa which is ruled by Mercury. Related to the intellectual aspect,
the throne is now secure and the king pursues art and other discourses from the
scholars. The focus lies on knowledge and mental activities. Planets make the
native succeed through group activity, although Magha, by nature, works alone.
The fourth pada falls on the Cancer
Navamsa which is ruled by the Moon. It stands for Magha's penchant for ceremonies,
ancestor worship, family pride and ritual. The ruler here is concerned with the
wellness of his subjects, his family life and wants his child to keep the
lineage going. Planets make the native derive pride from family, ancestors and charitable
nature. Material prosperity is not projected and self-undoing may be on the
Managers; administrators; royalty; people bestowing
honors and knighthoods; people in high positions in government jobs; legends, aristocrats;
bureaucrats; officials; people heading chosen professions; referees, judges, advocates;
lawyers; magistrates; librarians; orators; politicians; performers; dramatists;
historians; museum jobs; black magicians; exorcists; occultists; astrologers; genetic
engineering experts; archaeologists; antique dealers; ancient knowledge
researchers; documentary makers; lineage experts
Ceremonies requiring pompousness and grandness, public performances, parades, award functions, researching lineage, career strategies, past practices, upgrading to higher status and possessions, ancient knowledge, religious activities, settling disputes, seeking favors from people in authority
Lending, servile activities, planning for the future, technological processes
Magha natives are respectful towards elders. These natives should perform the shradha ceremony for their ancestors in the corresponding suitable tithi for receiving the blessings of their predecessors. They must worship the Goddess Kali or Lord Shiva and chant the root mantra “Om Gham” and “Om Ngam” 108 times during the lunar transition of this nakshatra to alleviate afflictions. Wearing royal colors like gold, red and yellow is also recommended. All important actions should correspond to the course of this constellation for best results.
In the words of Varahamihira, the lunar influence gives Magha wealth and luxury. They are also persevering and spiritual.