Ashvini (अश्विनी, IAST: aśvinī) is the first nakshatra (lunar mansion) in Indian astronomy having a spread from 0°-0'-0" to 13°-20', corresponding to the head of Aries, including the stars β and γ Arietis. The name aśvinī is used by Varahamihira (6th century). The older name of the asterism, found in the Atharvaveda (AVS 19.7; in the dual[1]) and in Panini (4.3.36), was aśvayúja, "harnessing horses".[2] This nakshatra belongs to Mesha Rasi. Notable personalities born in this nakshatra are Sania Mirza, Bhimsen Joshi, Yukta Mookhey.

Aries constellation showing Ashivini

Astrology

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Ashvini is ruled by Ketu, the descending lunar node. In electional astrology, Ashvini is classified as a small constellation, meaning that it is believed to be advantageous to begin works of a precise or delicate nature while the moon is in Ashvini.[3] Ashvini is ruled by the Ashvinas, the heavenly twin brother gods who served as physicians to the gods and goddesses.[4] Ashvini is represented by the bee hive.[5]

Traditional Indian names are determined by which pada (quarter) of a nakshatra the Ascendant was in at the time of birth. In the case of Ashvini, the given name would begin with the following syllables: Chu, Che, Cho, La.[6]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ "Atharva Veda: Book 19: Hymn 7: A Prayer to the Lunar Mansions and other Powers for protection and prosperity".
  2. ^ "അശ്വതി നക്ഷത്രക്കാരുടെ പൊതുസ്വഭാവം". ManoramaOnline (in Malayalam). Retrieved 2021-02-17.
  3. ^ Hart De Fouw, Robert Svoboda. ‘’Light on Life: An Introduction to the Astrology of India.’’ 2003: pg. 204. ISBN 0-940985-69-1
  4. ^ Ralph Griffith, The Rig Veda 1895
  5. ^ Dennis M. Harness. The Nakshatras: The Lunar Mansions of Vedic Astrology. Lotus Press, 1999. ISBN 0-914955-83-7. pg. 2
  6. ^ "Baby names". mypanchang.com.