Rahu (Rahu)
రాహువు
Current Transit
Kumbha ℞
Shatabhisha · 312.96° · Retrograde
Rahu is the north lunar node — a shadow planet with no physical body, yet immense astrological influence. The karaka of ambition, illusion, foreign lands, technology, and unconventional paths, Rahu represents desires that pull the soul toward new experiences and material world fascination.
Planetary Associations
Day
—
Dasha
18 years
Exalted
Vrishabha (Taurus)
Debilated
Vrishchika (Scorpio)
Metal
Lead, Alloys
Gemstone
Hessonite Garnet (Gomed)
Deity
Durga / Kali
Direction
South-West
Element
Air (Vayu)
Color
Smoky, Dark Blue, Navy
Body Part
Nervous System, Skin, Breathing
Beej Mantra
Om Bhraam Bhreem Bhraum Sah Raahave Namah
Rahu in Vedic Mythology
During the churning of the cosmic ocean (Samudra Manthan), a demon named Svarbhanu disguised himself as a deva and drank the nectar of immortality (amrita). The Sun and Moon alerted Lord Vishnu, who immediately severed the demon's head with the Sudarshana Chakra. But the head had already swallowed the amrita and became immortal — this head became Rahu, and the tail became Ketu. Both are forever trying to "swallow" the Sun and Moon, which we experience on Earth as solar and lunar eclipses.
Rahu Keywords
Rahu — Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rahu always retrograde?
Yes. Rahu (and Ketu) are always retrograde — they move in the opposite direction to the other planets, travelling backwards through the zodiac. They complete one full cycle in approximately 18.6 years. Rahu and Ketu are always exactly 180° apart, forming the nodal axis.
What is the Rahu-Ketu axis significance?
The Rahu-Ketu axis in the birth chart shows the soul's karmic journey. The house containing Rahu represents worldly desires and lessons to be learned in this lifetime. The house containing Ketu represents past-life mastery — skills already developed, often resulting in detachment from those areas in this life.
How long is the Rahu Mahadasha?
The Rahu Mahadasha lasts 18 years. This period is often transformative, marked by rapid worldly achievements, sudden changes, foreign travel or influences, and a strong pull toward material desires. The results depend greatly on Rahu's placement and associations in the birth chart.
What are the remedies for a malefic Rahu?
Rahu remedies include wearing a Hessonite Garnet (Gomed) in silver, worshipping Goddess Durga or Kali on Saturdays, reciting the Rahu Beej mantra, donating items of mixed colours (blankets, sesame), and avoiding dishonesty and deceptive behaviour — as Rahu's negative effects are amplified by unethical actions.