Brihat Jataka of Varaha Mihira

Brihat Jataka of Varaha Mihira, translated and commented upon by Usha Shashi, is an English edition of the celebrated classical text authored by Varahamihira, one of the greatest scholars of ancient Indian astrology. Regarded as one of the foundational works of Vedic natal astrology (Jataka Shastra), the book presents the essential principles of horoscope interpretation through concise Sanskrit verses accompanied by explanatory notes. It covers the core doctrines required for analyzing birth charts and has served as a standard reference for astrologers for centuries.

The book systematically explains the effects of planets, zodiac signs, houses (Bhavas), planetary aspects, Yogas, divisional charts, planetary strengths, and Dashas. It also discusses important topics such as Raj Yogas, Chandra Yogas, Nabhasa Yogas, profession, marriage, longevity, character analysis, and planetary results in different signs and houses. Usha Shashi’s translation makes the classical Sanskrit text more accessible by combining faithful rendering with practical explanations, enabling readers to apply Varahamihira’s predictive principles to modern horoscope analysis.

Key Topics

• Fundamentals of Jataka (Natal) Astrology
• Interpretation of planets, signs, and houses
• Planetary Yogas and their effects
• Raj Yogas, Chandra Yogas, and Nabhasa Yogas
• Planetary strengths and predictive techniques
• Dashas and horoscope interpretation
• Prediction of career, marriage, wealth, health, and longevity
• Classical Sanskrit verses with commentary