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Chara Dasha System in Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra (BPHS)
1. Significance of Chara Dasha
Chara Dasha is a Rashi-based (Sign-based) predictive system introduced by Maharishi Parashara and further elaborated by Jaimini Maharishi. Unlike Nakshatra-based Dashas such as Vimshottari, Chara Dasha assigns time periods to zodiac signs, making it a unique system for analyzing life events.
Applicability Conditions:
- Chara Dasha is applicable to all charts, regardless of planetary placements.
- It is particularly useful in Jaimini astrology, emphasizing the movement of Atmakaraka (AK) and the Karaka planets.
2. Calculation of Chara Dasha
Chara Dasha is based on the movement of Rashis (signs) rather than planetary positions. The duration of each Mahadasha is determined by the number of houses counted from the concerned sign.
Step-by-Step Calculation
- Identify the Ascendant (Lagna) sign in the birth chart.
- Count the number of signs from Lagna to its lord’s position in the horoscope.
- The counted number becomes the duration of the first Mahadasha.
- The sequence follows a Zodiacal (forward) or Anti-Zodiacal (reverse) order based on whether the Lagna is Movable, Fixed, or Dual:
- Movable Signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn) → Chara Dasha moves forward (direct zodiac order).
- Fixed Signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius) → Chara Dasha moves backward (reverse zodiac order).
- Dual Signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces) → Chara Dasha moves alternately (switching directions).
- Each sign runs as a Mahadasha for a period calculated as per its Lord’s position.
3. Structure of Chara Dasha
Chara Dasha consists of multiple divisions:
- Mahadasha (Main period): The ruling zodiac sign for a specific duration.
- Antardasha (Sub-period or Bhukti): A secondary sign’s influence within the Mahadasha.
- Pratyantar Dasha: A further breakdown for finer event predictions.
4. Application of Chara Dasha
Chara Dasha is widely used for:
- Career Growth: Influence of the 10th house sign during its Mahadasha.
- Marriage & Relationships: Effects of the 7th house sign in the Dasha sequence.
- Health & Longevity: Activation of the 6th, 8th, and 12th house signs.
- Financial Gains: Signs connected to the 2nd and 11th houses.
Analysis Methods
- Placement of Atmakaraka (AK): The position of Atmakaraka in a sign influences the results.
- Influence of Karakamsa (the sign of AK in Navamsa): Determines personal achievements.
- Aspects & Conjunctions: Modify the impact of each period.
- Transits Correlation: Helps refine predictions.
5. Special Considerations in Chara Dasha
A. Role of Benefic vs. Malefic Planets
- Signs associated with benefic planets (Jupiter, Venus, Mercury, Moon) generally bring positive results.
- Signs ruled by malefic planets (Mars, Saturn, Rahu, Ketu) may cause challenges unless well-placed.
B. Influence of Yogas
- If a sign forms Raj Yoga or Dhana Yoga, it brings success.
- Vipreet Raj Yoga may indicate initial struggles followed by unexpected gains.
C. Transition Between Mahadashas
Major life changes occur when shifting from one Mahadasha to another, particularly when moving from a Karakamsa-influenced sign.
Conclusion
Chara Dasha, as explained in Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra, is a powerful sign-based predictive system focusing on the Atmakaraka, house lords, and Yogas. By analyzing the placement of Rashis, their lords, and transits, highly accurate predictions can be made about major life events.
