Amitabh Bachchan once said: “Only those who have at least 50% of Sachin Tendulkar’s credit have the right to criticize him.” With that in mind, I approach this review with humility. My understanding of astrology feels like part of what Sarajit Poddar, who previously wrote under the pseudonym Varahamihara, acquired. As someone who has followed his blog since its inception, I am in awe of the depth of his knowledge and the incredible effort it takes to produce work of this caliber.
I currently own 10 of Poddar’s 33 books. Among them, Book 5A: Janma, The Birth – Part A and its sister Part B stand out as the volumes I have read the most. These books provide deep insight into the complex relationship between conception and birth and Jyotish principles.
basic concepts: Birth and pregnancy
The book begins with the shocking words, “Birth has several definitions, but the most important is the moment of conception.” However, the authors acknowledge that “locating the moment of pregnancy is fraught with difficulty and confusion.” Poddar explores this idea in depth, advocating relying on the moment of birth since we don’t know a reliable time of conception.
Beyond philosophical and practical considerations on the definition of birth, Poddar delves into the distinction between Adanakundali (figuration of conception) and false kundali (figuration of sexual intercourse). He shows the procedure for deriving a fake kundali from a janmakundari (natal chart) and emphasizes that janmakundari should be used only when the adhanakundari cannot be constructed accurately.
Accuracy of the definition of Giammaranha
The author makes it clear that in Kali Yuga, the Jammaranya (Ascendant) should be determined when the baby is completely out of the womb. However, recording the exact time of birth is practically difficult, so Poddar outlines how to correct the lagna using classical principles.
style and structure
This book is written in Roman alphabet, specifically IAST (International Alphabet of Sanskrit Transliteration) format. It takes a few pages to get used to reading English texts in this style, but it’s worth the effort as you’ll be able to pronounce Sanskrit terms accurately.
Qualifying
The book has a section called ‘Preparation’ which explains some important Jyotish terminology. Even experienced astrologers may find value in the Karakatwas (signs) of Grahas (Planets) and Bhavas (Houses) shared in this section. The depth of these meanings is impressive and provides a fresh perspective even for experienced practitioners.
Additionally, this section contains the transit results of planets in different houses from the natal Moon. For example, the author explains how the transit of Jupiter affects various houses:
• First home: Leaving your home country.
・2nd house: Gain wealth and weighty words.
• 3rd house: Loss of position.
• 4th house: Sadness due to relationships.
– 5th house: Birth of children and royal favor.
• 6th house: Trouble from enemies.
• 7th house: Auspicious business.
• 8th house: boring journey.
• 9th house: success and prosperity.
• 10th house: Danger to prosperity.
• 11th House: Honor and new status.
・12th house: Fear by nature.
Applicability of Dasha system
The author also provides an excellent discussion on determining the best dasha system for your birth chart. Key insights include:
• Vimshottari Dasha: Applicable to all charts.
-Ashtottari Dasha: Used when birth occurs in Shukla Paksha and Rahu is neither in Lagna nor in Kendra or Trikona from Lagnasha.
• Sodashottari Dasha: Associated with childbirth.
• During the day of Krishna Paksha or
• Night of Shukla Paksha.
• Shatrimsasama Dasha: Applicable in the following cases.
• Birth occurs during the day and the lagna rises in Surya Hora.
• Birth occurs at night and the lagna rises in Chandra Hora.
Other dashas discussed include Dwadashottari dasha, Panchottari dasha, and Sudarshan Chakra dasha. Sudarshan Chakra Dasha is said to be the simplest system for making yearly, monthly or daily predictions.
Ritual and timing of conception
This book provides interesting insights into Garbadana, the ritual practice of sexual intercourse to ensure the birth of a healthy and virtuous baby. Poddar details the most auspicious times for sexual intercourse from the Jatakaparijata and other classical texts and warns about certain days to avoid. These sections are accurately written and supported by classical references.
Classical Yoga and Astrology Insights
Podar offers a treasure trove of astrological principles covering:
Yogas for Pregnancy: These yogas, drawn from Brajataka, Saravari, Jaimini Sutra, Horaratna, and other sources, determine whether intercourse will lead to pregnancy or not.
• Pregnancy outcome: yoga to predict miscarriage, abnormally prolonged pregnancy, or safe delivery.
• Fetal characteristics: Poddar explains how Adanakundali can be used to monitor fetal development during pregnancy, similar to modern medical scans.
– Unique births: Yogis with breech birth, nuchal birth, multiple births, or physical abnormalities such as deafness, dumbness, or retardation.
naming principles
The book also covers Namakarana (naming rituals) and explains the importance of creating a well-crafted name that resonates with Dharmic principles. “There must be a reason why names like Rama, Hanumana, Shiva and Durga have survived through the ages,” Poddar writes. The authors provide case studies and practical steps for naming newborns, making this section engaging and applicable.
Integration of classical and modern perspectives
Podar bridges ancient wisdom and modern understanding. For example, I incorporate techniques explained by British astrologer Cephalial to increase the depth of my writing. It also draws extensively on classical sources to explain concepts such as the desires of a pregnant woman, the timing of childbirth, and the personality of the fetus.
critical reflection
Poddar does not hesitate to criticize modern skepticism. He says, “The narrow perspective of so-called rationalists is depriving the world of this beautiful field of research.” His dedication to Jyotish ensures that readers understand the deep knowledge encapsulated in this important area of ​​astrology.
final thoughts
In Search of Jyotish, Book 5A: Janma, Birth – Part A is a meticulous and deep exploration of one of the most fundamental aspects of Jyotish. Its breadth and depth make it a must-read for anyone seriously studying astrology. This book is not for those looking for a quick shortcut to Kundli analysis, but its detailed insights and classical references make it very useful for those who want to delve deeper into the nuances of conception, birth, and naming. has become a valuable resource.
I was fortunate to have access to this profound work, which combines timeless wisdom with practical application. This book is a treasure trove of knowledge for anyone who wants to deepen their understanding of astrology.
Book Title: Janma, Birth – Part A: A Journey into the World of Vedic Astrology
Book author: Sarajit Poddar
reviewer: Bharat R. Ram
I want to buy this book: Janma, Birth – Part A: A Journey into the World of Vedic Astrology
Source: Saptarishis Astrology – saptarishisshop.com
