Ketu (Ketu)
కేతువు
Current Transit
Simha ℞
Magha · 132.96° · Retrograde
Ketu is the south lunar node — the shadow planet of moksha, spiritual liberation, past-life karma, psychic abilities, and sudden insights. Where Rahu pulls toward the material world, Ketu pulls inward, toward renunciation, wisdom, and the dissolution of ego.
Planetary Associations
Day
—
Dasha
7 years
Exalted
Vrishchika (Scorpio)
Debilated
Vrishabha (Taurus)
Metal
Iron, Mixed Metals
Gemstone
Cat's Eye (Lehsunia)
Deity
Ganesha / Chitragupta
Direction
North-West
Element
Fire (Agni)
Color
Smoky Grey, Spotted, Multi-colour
Body Part
Spine, Feet, Psychic System
Beej Mantra
Om Sraam Sreem Sraum Sah Ketave Namah
Ketu in Vedic Mythology
Ketu is the severed tail of the demon Svarbhanu, made immortal by the amrita but stripped of a head and therefore consciousness. He represents the accumulated karma of past lives — experiences already lived, lessons already learned. Ketu is associated with Lord Ganesha and with the mystical, the occult, and enlightenment. While Rahu seeks, Ketu finds. While Rahu obsesses, Ketu releases.
Ketu Keywords
Ketu — Frequently Asked Questions
What does Ketu in a house signify?
Ketu in a house indicates a past-life area of mastery. The native often feels a sense of been-there-done-that with those house matters, leading to detachment or unusual circumstances in those areas. For example, Ketu in the 7th house may indicate detachment from conventional marriage, yet deep spiritual understanding of relationships.
What is the Ketu transit significance?
Ketu transits each sign for approximately 18 months. Its transit through the janma nakshatra (birth nakshatra) — called Janma Ketu — is considered particularly transformative, often triggering sudden realisations, unexpected changes, and spiritual awakenings.
How long is the Ketu Mahadasha?
The Ketu Mahadasha lasts 7 years. This period often brings unexpected changes, spiritual inclinations, and a sense of confusion about worldly goals. Losses can occur in the areas governed by Ketu's house placement, but profound inner growth and spiritual insights are possible.
What are the remedies for a malefic Ketu?
Ketu remedies include worshipping Lord Ganesha, wearing a Cat's Eye gemstone (Lehsunia) after careful consultation, reciting the Ketu Beej mantra, donating blankets and grey or spotted items on Saturdays, and engaging in meditation, yoga, or spiritual practice to align with Ketu's true purpose of liberation.