Vedic astrology (Jyotish) is an ancient Indian system that uses the sidereal zodiac, aligned with actual star positions. Western astrology uses the tropical zodiac based on seasons. The difference (ayanamsa) is currently about 24 degrees, which means your Vedic sign may differ from your Western sign. Vedic astrology also emphasizes the Moon sign over the Sun sign and uses the Dasha timing system for predictions.

Exact birth time is strongly recommended for the most accurate results. Even a 4-minute difference can change your Ascendant (rising sign) and house positions. Birth time determines your Ascendant, house cusps, and Dasha period start dates. If you don't know your exact birth time, planetary sign positions and basic chart analysis are still possible.

A Dasha is a planetary period system unique to Vedic astrology. The most common system, Vimshottari Dasha, divides life into a 120-year cycle where each of 9 planets rules a major period (Mahadasha) lasting 6-20 years. The Dasha system predicts which planet is most influential at any given time, providing specific timing for life events that Western astrology's transit system cannot match.

Vedic astrology uses the sidereal zodiac which is astronomically aligned with actual star positions, while Western astrology's tropical zodiac has drifted about 24 degrees from the constellations. Additionally, the Dasha timing system provides specific predictions for life periods that Western transits cannot replicate. However, both systems have dedicated practitioners and different strengths.

Your free Vedic birth chart on DashaClub includes: planetary positions in sidereal signs, your Ascendant (Lagna) and Moon sign, house placements for all 9 planets, your birth nakshatra (lunar mansion), and your current Vimshottari Dasha period. These reveal personality traits, career tendencies, relationship patterns, and timing of major life events.