Session 1 of 17 : The Grand Commencement

BGNR-ENG-09 – Session 1 Recap

Date: April 29, 2025

Session: Ice-Breaker + Introduction to Vedic Astrology

Mentor: Guruji E K Dhilip Kumar

In our first session of the BGNR-ENG-09 Beginners Astrology Course, Guruji laid the foundation for Vedic astrology with deep insights into its scientific, symbolic, and spiritual dimensions.

🪐 Topics Covered:

Introduction to the Course

• Astrology is as complex as medical science; both require humility and depth of study.

• Proper pronunciation of "astrology" and Sanskrit terms was emphasized.

• The concept of Ganesha was introduced as the remover of obstacles in learning.

• The role of karma and unpredictability in life and astrology was discussed.

• Listening, patience, and regular practice were highlighted as key to progress.

Vedic Astrology: Basic Concepts

• Overview of Sun, 12 Zodiac Signs, 27 Nakshatras, and 9 Planets (Grahas)

• Importance of the Ascendant (Lagna)

• Learning both Indian and English names for planets and signs

• Introduction to Rahu & Ketu, their mythological background, and daily influence

• Moon cycles: Draconic (27.2 days) vs. Synodic (29.5 days)

Astronomy & Ancient Indian Wisdom

• Geocentric model explained and contrasted with modern astronomy

• Evolution of life represented through Matsya & Kurma Avatars

• Zodiac signs as symbols – importance of visual learning over textbook memorization

• Celestial influence on tides, birth cycles, and emotional rhythms

Zodiac and Planetary Motion

• The sky divided into 360°, with 180° above and below the horizon

• Explanation of planetary movement, ecliptic path, and eclipse formation

• Rahu & Ketu as results of the moon's orbital tilt

• Kepler’s Second Law and planetary speeds: Moon (fastest) to Saturn (slowest)

Earth’s Tilt and Cosmic Alignment

• Earth’s 23.5° tilt and its role in seasons, solstices, and equinoxes

• Reference to Mahabharata mentioning astronomical events

• Significance of the number 108: 12 signs × 9 planets = 108; 27 nakshatras × 4 padas = 108

Chart Creation and Nakshatra Mapping

• Introduction to South Indian vs. North Indian charts

• Recommendation to use South Indian format for better clarity

• Memorization of Nakshatras: both traditional order and by planetary groups

• Understanding how the 1st Dasha is determined by the Moon's Nakshatra at birth

Astrological Houses

• Explanation of the 12 houses: starting with the Sun as ruler of the 1st house

• Each house represents an area of life: body, wealth, relationships, etc.

• 6th, 8th, and 12th houses are karmic and often challenging

• Importance of meaning over memorization when studying houses

Symbolism and Planetary Representations

• Planets and their symbols (e.g., Saturn and the crow)

• Understanding planets through behavior, characteristics, and stories

• Interpreting astrology as a language of symbols, energy, and karma

• Brief prayer by Chandrika to conclude the session

📚 Next Steps for All Students:

1. Memorize the 27 Nakshatras

   • In sequential order

   • Grouped by planetary rulers

2. Create your own birth chart

   • Use the South Indian format as shown in class

3. Prepare a short explanation

   • Topic: “How planets are similar to human beings”

   • This will be shared and discussed in the next session

4. 
   

🧑‍🏫 Additional Tasks:

• Kishore & Gautham: To conduct support/discussion sessions beyond the 17 core sessions

• Chandrika: To lead chanting/prayer in upcoming sessions

We’ve only just begun this beautiful journey through the cosmic design. Stay curious, consistent, and connected 🌌

📅 See you in Session 2!

—Astrology EKDK www.astrologyekdk.com