Budha (Mercury)
బుధుడు
Current Transit
Kumbha
Purva Bhadrapada · 323.41°
Budha (Mercury) is the planet of intelligence, communication, trade, and analytical ability. The karaka for speech, writing, and commerce, a strong Budha produces scholars, orators, traders, and skilled craftspeople.
Planetary Associations
Day
Wednesday
Dasha
17 years
Exalted
Kanya (Virgo)
Debilated
Meena (Pisces)
Metal
Bronze, Brass
Gemstone
Emerald (Panna)
Deity
Vishnu / Saraswati
Direction
North
Element
Earth (Prithvi)
Color
Green, Dark Green
Body Part
Nervous System, Skin, Hands, Lungs
Beej Mantra
Om Braam Breem Braum Sah Budhaaya Namah
Budha in Vedic Mythology
Budha is the son of Chandra (Moon) and Tara, the wife of Brihaspati (Jupiter). His birth was the result of Chandra's abduction of Tara, an event that precipitated the war between the devas and asuras. Budha is therefore both brilliant and slightly ostracised — intelligent but born in controversy. He is depicted as green-skinned, riding a lion, and carrying a sword and shield. Despite his unusual birth, Budha became the teacher of Vedic grammar and commerce.
Budha Keywords
Rashis Ruled by Budha
Budha — Frequently Asked Questions
Which rashis does Budha rule?
Budha rules both Mithuna (Gemini) and Kanya (Virgo), and is also exalted in Kanya — making it extremely powerful there. It is debilitated in Meena (Pisces). A strong Budha in the chart indicates sharpness of intellect, eloquence, and business acumen.
What is Budha retrograde?
Budha (Mercury) retrogrades approximately three times per year for about three weeks each time. During this period, Vedic astrology advises caution in signing contracts, making travel plans, and starting new communication-heavy projects. Existing projects and matters requiring review tend to go well.
How long is the Budha Mahadasha?
The Budha Mahadasha lasts 17 years — one of the longest in the Vimshottari system. This extended period brings education, business, communication, and intellectual pursuits to prominence. It is generally considered a positive dasha for those with a well-placed Mercury.
What are the remedies for a weak Budha?
Budha remedies include wearing an Emerald set in gold, worshipping Lord Vishnu or Goddess Saraswati on Wednesdays, donating green items (moong dal, green cloth) on Wednesdays, and reading aloud or practicing writing to strengthen Mercury's significations.