The 6 Sources of

Strength
Thoughts on Shadbala in Jyotish (Vedic-Astrology)
(Concepts and Computation)

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1
Introduction

2
 BPHS 27.37-38.
O Brahmin, the various sources of
strengths should be gathered together
and effects declared. Whatever Yogas,
or effects have been stated with
respect to a Bhava, will come to pass
through the strongest Graha.

3
 Saravali 4.34.
To assess the auspicious and
inauspicious effects of a planet, its
directional, positional, temporal and
motional strengths are important, for
without these it is considered to be
weak.

4
Section 1
Concept

5
 A graha acuires strength in various ways,
such as being placed in a certain rasi,
bhava, varga, day or night time, shukla or
krsna paksha, winning a planetary war etc.
Shadbala is a mathematical model to
quantify the strength attained from 6
different sources.

6
 The taxonomy of Strength
Sthanabala Uccha Saptavargaja Ojayugma Some strengths are
combination of few
Kendradi Drekkana different kinds. For
Dikbala instance Sthana
and Kala bala
Kalabala Paksha Abdamasadinahora Ayana comprises of many
sub-strength which
Natonnata Tribhag Yuddha
build up their overall
Chestabala strength.

Naisargikabala
Drgbala

7
 The Sthanabala is based
on the placement of Grahas
in certain Rasi, Bhava,
Drekkana and Varga.This
represents the Place factor.
8
 1
Shadbala
SthanaBala.UcchaBala
This indicates how far a Graha is situated from its
Uccha-sthana-sphuta or the deepest exaltation
point.
Closer a Graha to its exaltation point, stronger it is
as per UcchaBala.

9
 SthanaBala.SaptaVargajaBala
This indicates the strength of a Graha in 7
(sapta) divisions (varga) viz., Hora, Dreshkana,
Saptāńśa, Navāńśa, Dvadashāńśa and
Trimshāńśa

10
 SthanaBala.OjaYugmaBala
Female planets in female signs and male planets in
male signs are given this strength. This is to be
judged in both Rāśi and Navāńśa charts.
Here, Venus & Moon are considered female and
rest are considered male.

11
 SthanaBala.KendradiBala
The 1-4-7-10 are called Kendra (Quadrant), 2-5-8-11 are
called Panaphara (Succedent) and 12-3-6-9 are called the
Apoklima (Precedent Houses).
Planets in Kendra are strongest and in Apoklima are
weakest. Those placed in Panaphara have middling
strength.

12
 SthanaBala.DreshkanaBala
Male grahas (Sun,Mars,Jupiter) get full strength in 1st Drekkana*. Female
planets (Moon & Venus) get full strength in 2nd Drekkana. Eunuch
planets (Saturn, Mercury) gets full strength in the 3rd Drekkana of a sign.
Saravali 4.38. Drekkana Bala. Male planets are strong in the first
decanate, female planets in the third decanate and neutral planets in the
second decanate of a Rāśi. Planets are strong, only when they are away
from the Sun, as per Yavanas.

*According to Parashara, the 1st Drekkana of a sign falls in the sign itself. The 2nd Drekkana falls
in the 5th from it and the 3rd Drekkana falls in the 9th from its placement.

13
 2
Shadbala
The Dikbala is based on the placement of
Grahas in one of the four Kendras representing 4
directions (Dik).
Lagna represents the East and Guru, Budha
attains Dikbala here.7th house represents the
West and Shani attains Dikbala here. 10th house
represents the South and Surya, Mangal attains
dikbala here. 4th house represents the north and
Chandra-Shukra attain Dikbala here.
 3
Shadbala

The Kalabala is based on the

period of time such as Day, night,
Year, Month, Hour, Fortnight etc.
in which a Graha becomes
stronger. This represents the
Time Factor.
 KalaBala.NathonnataBala
The Day-Night strength

Some Grahas are strong during daytime while some are strong at night time. This strength is
based on this concept.

Sūrya, Guru and Śukra gets this strength highest near to the Noon time. On the other hand
Chandra, Mangal and Śani gets strength highest near to the Midnight time. Mercury is strong
throughout the day. At other times, their strength is proportionally reduced.

Saravali 4.36. The Sun, Jupiter and Venus acquire strength during day-time, while Saturn, the
Moon and Mars become strong during night-time. Mercury acquires vigour at all times.

16
 KalaBala.TribhagaBala
When the Day and Night each are divided by 3, the 6 grahas (excluding Guru) gets
this strength in various portions of the Day.
Budha, Sūrya and Śani are strong in the 1st, 2nd and 3rd portion of the day-time.
Similarly Candra, Śukra and Mangal get full strength in the 1st, 2nd and the 3rd
portions of the night-time. Guru is strong through all the portions.
Saravali 4.39 The Moon, Venus and Mars get this strength in the first, second and
third parts of the night, respectively. This is similarly enjoyed by Mercury, the Sun
and Saturn in day-time, while Jupiter has it always, irrespective of day, or night.

17
 KalaBala.PakshaBala
Some Grahas are strong during Shukla Paksha while others are stronger during Krsna Pasha.

The Shubha Grahas Chandra, Budha, and Guru and Śukra gets highest on this strength during
Purnima. The Krura Graha gets highest on this strength during during Amavasya. At other times,
this strength is proportionally reduced.

Saravali 4.36. Malefics get strength in Dark Half, while benefics become strong in Bright Half.

18
KalaBala.HoraVaraMasaAbdaBala 1
There are four component of this strength each of them is 25% stronger than the previous one.
The components are Hora (Planetary hour), Vara (Vedic weekday), Masa (Solar month) and
Abda (Solar year).

Saravali 4.36. The Hora Bala goes to Hora Lord, Masa Bala (Masa - month) to the Lord of the
month, Dina Bala to the Lord of the week-day of birth and Abda (year) Bala is credited to the
Lord of the year of birth.

19
 KalaBala.HoraVaraMasaAbdaBala 2
Hora Lord is the Graha ruling the hour. It is strongest among all.
Vara Lord is the Hora Lord at the moment of Sunrise. It is 2nd in strength.
Masa Lord is the Hora lord at the moment of Transit of Sun* into a zodiac
sign. Month = duration of Sun’s Transit through one Zodiac sign i.e.,
between two Sankrantis.
Abda Lord is the Hora lord at the moment of Transit of Sun* into Aries.

* The definition of a year based on duration of 4,32,000 years in one Maha-yuga. Although some believe that the year definition should be
based on Soli-Lunar calendar as Chaitra Shukla Pratipada. However, in my opinion, since the original definition of time is based on Yuga,
we should take the definition of year and month based on the same principle.
20
 KalaBala.AyanaBala
This Strength depends on the Uttarayana or Dakshinayana movement of Grahas.
Jataka Parijata Ch 2 mentions that Moon and Saturn are strong in Dakshinayana
(southern movement) and Sun and Jupiter are strong in Uttarayana (northern
movement).
According to BPHS Ch 27, Candra, or Śani are strong in southern Kranti
(declination), while when Sūrya, Mangal, Guru, and Śukra are strong in northern
Kranti. As far as Budha is concerned, is strong in both Uttarayana and
Dakshinayana.
R Santhanam in his book BPHS suggested the following formula for computation of the Ayana Bala
Ayan Bal = 60*(23°27’ + Kranti)/(46°54’) = (23°27’± Kranti)*1.2793.

21
 KalaBala.YuddhaBala
BPHS 27.20. Should there be a war between
the Tara Grahas, the difference between the
Shadbalas of the two should be added to the
victor’s Shad Bala and deducted from the Shad
Bala of the vanquished.

22
 4
Shadbala
ChestaBala
Chesta means effort. This source of strength means how much effort a Graha
is making. The effort is less when the Graha is moving steadily, and highest
when it is Retrograde. Retrogression can be equated with moving against the
river current, which is extremely tough.
Movement of Sun and Moon are always steady, and they never have
retrogression or acceleration, hence their Chestabala equates to their Ayana
Bala and Paksha Bala respectively. For the Tara Grahas (Mars to Saturn), their
Chestabala is computed based on their speed and direction of their motion.

23
 5
Shadbala
NaisargikaBala
The natural strength of Grahas is called Naisargika Bala. The Grahas are progressively
stronger in the order of Śani, Mangal, Budha, Guru, Śukra, Candra and Sūrya, respectively.
When two Grahas influence each other by conjunction or mutual aspect, the one who is
stronger in this order has higher ability to influence the other and give results predominantly
of its own. Since Sun is the strongest, any Graha conjoining with the Sun becomes
Combust, but Sun does not become weaker.
Saravali 4.40. Saturn, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Moon and Sun are stronger than the
other in the ascending order. Should there be similarity in other strengths, then the one with
greater natural strength prevails.

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 6
Shadbala
DrgBala
Drg means aspect.This strength is acquired by the virtue of
being aspected by Natural Benefic or Natural Malefics.
The Aspect of Natural Benefics add to the strength, while that
of Natural Malefics reduces the strength.
The strength of aspect depends on the longitudinal difference
batween the aspecting Graha and the aspected Graha.

25
 Section 2
Computation

26
 Max = 60, Min = 0
1
Shadbala
SthanaBala.UcchaBala
When a Graha is placed in its Highest exaltation, it gets 60 virupas and in its Deepest debility, it gets 0
virupas. At other places, the strength is proportionally reduced. To compute this, one need to determine the
longitudinal difference between the planet position and the deepest debility point and divide that by 3. The
value arrived is the Ucchabala of the Graha in Virupas.

If a Graha is placed in its deepest exaltation point, then the difference will be 180, when divided by 3, it gets
60 Virupas.

Visual estimation: Count the number of signs from the debility sign and subtract by 1, where the Graha is
placed. Add 10 virupas for each sign elapsed. For instance, for Sun, Libra is its debility sign. If Sun is placed
in Leo, counting from Leo to Libra, we arrive at 3 signs. Subtracting 1, we get 2. Multiplying 10 with 2, we get
20 virupas as the approximate stanabala for Sun.

27
 Max = 225, Min = 13.13

SthanaBala.SaptaVargaja
This strength is dependent on the Placement of a Graha in one of the 6 states defined by the
Other
compound friendship and enmity (Panchadha maitri) and its own sign. There is a 7th state, Avastha Rasi
Vargas
which is placement in its Mulatrikona Rasi is only applicable in the Rasi chart (D1). Mulatrikona 45 n.a.
Sva 30 30
The SaptaVargas consists of divisions D1, D2, D3, D7, D9, D12, D30.
Adhimitra 22.5 22.5
First we need to determine the Composite Friendship of the Planet under consideration with Mitra 15 15
other Planets from their Placement in the Rasi chart. Then we check whether the planet it Sama 7.5 7.5

placed in its friend’s or enemy’s sign in various Vargas. Shatru 3.75 3.75
Adhishatru 1.875 1.875
In this computation, there is no concept of Mulatrikona in the Varga chart. Also, exaltation sign
has utility in any Varga, as only thing to look for is the relationship of the Graha with other
Grahas as per the 5 point composite friendship.

The maximum strength possible for any Graha to attain here is 45 (in Rasi) + 30 (in other vargas) * 6 = 45 +
180 = 225 virupas. The minimum possible is 1.875 * 7 = 13.13

28
 BPHS 27.2-4. SaptaVargaja Bala.
When a Graha is placed in its Mulatrikona Rāśi, it gets
45 Virupas, in its Swakshetra (Svastha) it gets 30
Virupas, in its Great Friend’s Sign (Pramudita) it gets
22.5 Virupas, in a Friendly Sign (Shanta) it gets 15
Virupas, in its neutral Sign (Dina) it gets 7.5 Virupas, in
its Enemy’s Sign (Duhkhita) it gets 3.75 Virupas and in
its Great Enemy’s sign (Khala) it gets 1.875 Virupas
Ref: Bhava & Graha Balas by Dr. BV Raman.

29
BPHS 3.55. Naisargika Sambandha. Note the Rāśis, which are the 2nd, 4th,
5th, 8th, 9th and 12th from the Mulatrikona of a Graha. The Graha is friendly
towards the Grahas ruling such Rāśis, and also to the Lord of its exaltation Rāśi.
The Graha is inimical towards the lords other than these. If the Graha becomes
friend as well enemy towards someone, then it becomes neutral to that Graha.
BPHS 3.56. Tatkalika Relationships. The Grahas, posited in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th,
10th, 11th, or the 12th from another, become mutual friend. There is enmity
otherwise.
57-58. Panchadha Sambandha. Should two Grahas be both naturally and
temporarily friendly, they become Adhimitra (extremely friendly). Friendship on one
count and neutrality on another count make them Mitra (friendly). Enmity on one
count combined with friendship on the other turns into Sama (neutral). Enmity and
neutral-ship cause only Shatru (enmity). Should there be enmity in both manners,
Adhishatru (extreme enmity) is obtained. The Jyotishi should consider these and
declare horoscopic effects accordingly.

30
 Max = 30, Min = 0

SthanaBala.OjaYugmaBala
Female (Venus & Moon) planets in female signs and male
(Sun, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter & Saturn) planets in male signs
are given this strength. This is to be judged in both Rāśi and
Navāńśa charts.
In each of Rāśi and Navāńśa charts a Graha gets 15 Virupa,
so maximum strength possible is 30 Virupa.

31
 Max = 60, Min = 15

SthanaBala.KendraBala
Planets in Kendra are strongest (60 virupas)
and in Apoklima (15 virupas) are weakest.
Those placed in Panaphara (30 virupas) have
middling strength.

32
 Max = 15, Min = 0

SthanaBala.DreshkanaBala
Male grahas (Sun,Mars,Jupiter) get full strength in first
Drekkana. Eunuch planets (Saturn, Mercury) gets full
strength in the middle Drekkana of the sign. Female planets
(Moon & Venus) get full strength in last Drekkana.
Maximum possible Drekkana Bala is 15 virupas while
minimum is Zero.

33
Sthana Bala Summary
Maximum Minimum Average
Uccha 60 0 30
Saptavargaja 225 13.13 119
OjaYugma 30 0 15
Kendradi 60 0 30
Drekkana 15 0 7.5
Total 390 13.13 201.5
 Max = 60, Min = 0
2
Shadbala
DikBala
When A Graha is placed in the Dika (Direction) where they belong to, the
attain 60 Virupa of strength. In the opposite sign, they attain 0 Virupa of
strength. In other Bhavas, their strength is proportionally allocated based
on their placement with regards to the Bhava where they attain Dikbala.

The Bhava Graha combination where dikbala is attained are:

Lagna: Guru/Budha | 4H: Chandra/Shukra | 7H: Shani | 10H: Surya/Mangal

35
 BPHS 27.7-7½. Dikbala.
Deduct Sukha Bhava (Nadir) from the longitudes of
Sūrya and Mangal, Saptama Bhava from that of
Guru and Budha, Karma Bhava from that of Śukra
and Candra and lastly Lagna from that of Śani. If the
sum is above 180 degrees, deduct the sum from
360.
The sum arrived in either way be divided by 3, which
will be Dikbala of the Graha.

36
 Max = 60, Min = 0
3
Shadbala
KalaBala.NathonnataBala
The Day-Night strength

Sūrya, Guru and Śukra are strong during the day with Peak at the Noon. On the other hand
Chandra, Mangal and Śani are strong with their peak at the Midnight. Mercury is strong
throughout the day. At other times, their strength is proportionally reduced.

The Maximum attainable strength here is 60 virupa which is during the peak time. Mercury has
always 60 virupa of strength.

37
 Max = 60, Min = 0

KalaBala.PakshaBala
The Pasha Bala is derived from Shukla and Krsna Paksha of Moon
phase. Subha Grahas are Jupiter, Shukra, Waxing Moon and Mercury
devoid of Papa conjunction. On the other hand Papa (Krura) grahas
are Sun, Mars, Saturn, Waning Moon and Papa conjoined Mercury.

Shubha Grahas get 60 virupa during Purnima and 0 during Amavasya.

The reverse is true for Papa Grahas. The Sum-total of the Subha and
Papa Graha Pasha Bala is always 60 virupas.

38
 Max = 60, Min = 0

KalaBala.TribhagaBala
A Graha gets Tribhaga Bala at Certain portion of day and
night when each of them is divided into 3 portions (Bhagas).
The highest achievable bala is 60 when the Graha is placed
in their own portion (Bhaga). Guru always gets 60 virupas as
Tribhaga Bala.

39
 Max = 150, Min = 0

KalaBala.HoraVaraMasaAbdaBala
The abda bala of a Graha is 15, Masa Bala is 30, Vara Bala is 45 and Hora Bala is 60 virupas.

A Graha gets this strength when it gets to rule over the mentioned Time periods i.e., Year,
Month, Day or Hour.

The Maximum strength that can be gained here is 60 + 45 + 30 + 15 i.e., 150 virupas. It is
possible, only when a Graha rules all the 4 period at one time.

40
 Max = 60, Min = 0

KalaBala.AyanaBala
The Ayana Bala depends on the Declination (Kranti) of the Graha. When the Graha
move up in Declination, it is called Uttarayana and on the Reverse is called
Dakshinayana.
The Ayana Bala at Zero Declination is 30.
For Moon and Saturn, at lowest Declination, Ayana Bala becomes 60 and in highest
Declination, it becomes Zero. This is reverse for all other Grahas viz., Shukra, Surya,
Mangal and Guru.
Ayana Bala** = (240 + Kranti)/ 48 * 60

41
Maximum declination is
23 deg 27 min and this
is rounded to 24 by
Vedic savants for ease
of computation.
42
 Steps for determining Ayana Bala (1/3)
(1) Sayana Longitude: Convert Nirayana to Sayana Longitude by adding
Ayanamsa
(2) Bhuja: Bhuja is the distance from the nearest Equinoctial point. The
Equinoxial points are at 0 deg (Aries) and 180 deg (Libra).The
maximum attainable Bhuja is 90 deg.
(3) Portion of Declination: The highest declination of 24 deg (approx. of
23 deg 27 min) is divided into 6 portions, each measuring 15 degrees
of Bhuja. The Bhuja should be divided by 15 to determine the portion
in which the Bhuja falls. Here the Quotient represents the portion of 15
degrees and the Reminder represents the extent of progress of the
Graha within the Portion. So Portion = Quotient, Deg Elapsed = Remainder.
(4) Declination Associated with the Portion: Each portion of 15 degrees is
associated with a Declination value. They are 1st portion: 362 min,
2nd portion: 341 min, 3rd portion: 299 min, 4th portion: 236 min, fifth
portion: 150 min, Sixth portion: 52 min. When the declinations
allocated to various portions are added up, we arrive at 1440 min
which equals to 24 deg of maximum declination.
 Steps for determining Ayana Bala (2/3)
(5) Declination within the Portion: The Maximum declination within a portion
is given before. So declination within a portion can be ascertained by
Declination with the portion (in minutes) = (Portion.Declination * Elapsed) / 15
Portion.Declination = 362 (1st), 341 (2nd), 299 (3rd), 236 (4th), 150 (5th), 52 (6th). The Figures inside the bracket represent
the portion while those outside are the max. declination in that portion.

(6) Total Declination: The total declination is the sum of Declination arrived in
15 deg portion of the Bhuja and the total declination of previous portion.
(7) North Vs. South Declination: If the Sayana longitude is below 180 degree,
it is Northern declination. On the other hand, if the longitude is more than
180 degree, it is Southern declination.
By knowing the Sayana Rasi and Longitude of a Graha, the computation can be easily performed using the table mentioned below.

Tropical sign 1st half 2nd half Tropical sign 1st half 2nd half Tropical sign 1st half 2nd half Tropical sign 1st half 2nd half
Aries 362 341 Cancer 52 150 Libra 362 341 Capricorn 52 150
Taurus 299 236 Leo 236 299 Scorpio 299 236 Aquarius 236 299
Gemini 150 52 Virgo 341 362 Sagittarius 150 52 Pisces 341 362
Count forward from 0 deg Aries Count backward from 0 deg Libra Count forward from 0 deg Libra Count backward from 0 deg Aries
Uttarayana (Northern Course) Dakshinayana (Southern Course)
 Steps for determining Ayana Bala (3/3)
(6) Determine the Ayana Bala: According to Keshava Daivagna, the Ayana
Bala can be found using the following formula
Ayana Bala = (24 deg +/- Declination value) / 48 * 60

Whether the Declination value is added or Subtracted in the formulas

depends on the Graha and their south or north declination. Moon and
Saturn are strong in Southern declination, hence their declination value is
added when they are in south (Libra to Pisces in Sayana chakra). If they are
in the Northern declination (Aries to Virgo), their declination value is
subtracted. This is reverse for the remaining Graha. Mercury’s declination is
always added irrespective of whether it is in South or North.
 Northern Declination Southern Declination

Declination of a Planet
Longitude Aries Taurus Gemini Cancer Leo Virgo Libra Scorpio Sagittarius Capricorn Aquarius Pisces
1 0.4 12.05 20.8 24 20.63 11.72 0.4 12.05 20.8 24 20.63 11.72
2 0.8 12.38 20.97 23.94 20.37 11.34 0.8 12.38 20.97 23.94 20.37 11.34
3 1.21 12.71 21.13 23.88 20.11 10.96 1.21 12.71 21.13 23.88 20.11 10.96
4
5
6
1.61
2.01
2.41
13.05
13.38
13.71
21.3
21.47
21.63
23.83
23.77
23.71
19.85
19.58
19.32
10.58
10.2
9.82
1.61
2.01
2.41
13.05
13.38
13.71
21.3
21.47
21.63
23.83
23.77
23.71
19.85
19.58
19.32
10.58
10.2
9.82
placed at various
Tropical Longitude
7 2.82 14.04 21.8 23.65 19.06 9.44 2.82 14.04 21.8 23.65 19.06 9.44
8 3.22 14.37 21.97 23.6 18.8 9.06 3.22 14.37 21.97 23.6 18.8 9.06
9 3.62 14.71 22.13 23.54 18.54 8.69 3.62 14.71 22.13 23.54 18.54 8.69

(Sayana Graha Sphuta)

10 4.02 15.04 22.3 23.48 18.27 8.31 4.02 15.04 22.3 23.48 18.27 8.31
11 4.42 15.37 22.47 23.42 18.01 7.93 4.42 15.37 22.47 23.42 18.01 7.93
12 4.83 15.7 22.63 23.36 17.75 7.55 4.83 15.7 22.63 23.36 17.75 7.55
13 5.23 16.04 22.8 23.31 17.49 7.17 5.23 16.04 22.8 23.31 17.49 7.17
14 5.63 16.37 22.97 23.25 17.22 6.79 5.63 16.37 22.97 23.25 17.22 6.79
15
16
6.03
6.41
16.7
16.96
23.13
23.19
23.19
23.13
16.96
16.7
6.41
6.03
6.03
6.41
16.7
16.96
23.13
23.19
23.19
23.13
16.96
16.7
6.41
6.03
The declination is highest at the
17
18
6.79
7.17
17.22
17.49
23.25
23.31
22.97
22.8
16.37
16.04
5.63
5.23
6.79
7.17
17.22
17.49
23.25
23.31
22.97
22.8
16.37
16.04
5.63
5.23
beginning of Cancer and
19
20
7.55
7.93
17.75
18.01
23.36
23.42
22.63
22.47
15.7
15.37
4.83
4.42
7.55
7.93
17.75
18.01
23.36
23.42
22.63
22.47
15.7
15.37
4.83
4.42 Capricorn (solstices) while Zero
at the beginning of Aries and
21 8.31 18.27 23.48 22.3 15.04 4.02 8.31 18.27 23.48 22.3 15.04 4.02
22 8.69 18.54 23.54 22.13 14.71 3.62 8.69 18.54 23.54 22.13 14.71 3.62
23 9.06 18.8 23.6 21.97 14.37 3.22 9.06 18.8 23.6 21.97 14.37 3.22
24
25
9.44
9.82
19.06
19.32
23.65
23.71
21.8
21.63
14.04
13.71
2.82
2.41
9.44
9.82
19.06
19.32
23.65
23.71
21.8
21.63
14.04
13.71
2.82
2.41
Libra (equinoxes).
26 10.2 19.58 23.77 21.47 13.38 2.01 10.2 19.58 23.77 21.47 13.38 2.01
27 10.58 19.85 23.83 21.3 13.05 1.61 10.58 19.85 23.83 21.3 13.05 1.61
28 10.96 20.11 23.88 21.13 12.71 1.21 10.96 20.11 23.88 21.13 12.71 1.21
29 11.34 20.37 23.94 20.97 12.38 0.8 11.34 20.37 23.94 20.97 12.38 0.8
30 11.72 20.63 24 20.8 12.05 0.4 11.72 20.63 24 20.8 12.05 0.4
 KalaBala.YuddhaBala (1/2)
Two planets are supposed to be in Planetary War when distance between
Two Grahas is less than 1 deg. The one in the North is victorious.
Only the Tara Graha (Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn) get into
war. Planets conjoining Sun get into Combustion and those conjoining
Moon get into Samagama.
The quantum of Yuddha Bala = Difference in the total of Tri-balas (Sthana,
Dik, Kala) / Difference of disc circumference.

47
 KalaBala.YuddhaBala (2/2)
The YuddhaBala has to be deducted from the Kalabala of
the defeated planet and added to that of the Victor. The
resultant Kalabala is the final Kalabala used for all purposes.
In the Kalabala, Natonnata, Paksha,Tribhaga and Abda-
Masa-Vara-Hora bala are included. Here Ayana Bala is
excluded.

48
 The Disc Circumference
(Bimba Parimana)
Planet Bimba Parimana
Mars 9.4 sec
Mercury 6.6 sec
Jupiter 190.4 sec
Venus 16.6 sec
Saturn 158.0 sec

Source: Graha & Bhava Balas by Dr BV Raman

 How to determine the Victorious between
Two fighting Grahas?
0 Deg Aries
In Sayana Chakra
The The
(Tropical Zodiac), when
planet planet the fighting Grahas are in
having having
higher
Capri Aries
higher Uttarayana (Capricorn to
Aqua Taurus longitude
longitude
wins Pisces Gemini wins Gemini), one having
0 Deg Capricorn 0 Deg Cancer
Highest South
The Libra Cancer The Highest North
higher longitude wins.
planet planet
Declination Scorp Leo Declination
having having
lower
Sagit Virgo
lower
When they are in
longitude longitude Dakshinayana (Cancer to
wins wins
Sagittarius), one having
Lower Longitude wins.
0 Deg Libra
Kala Bala Summary
Maximum Minimum Average
Natonnata 60 0 30
Paksha 60 0 30
Tribhaga 60 0 30
Horavaramasaabda 150 0 75
Ayana 60 0 30
Total 390 0 195
 Max = 60, Min = 7.5
4
Shadbala
Chesta Bala
The Chesta Bala can be known from the speed of the Grahas. The
computation involve determining the mean position and the true position and
identifying the difference to determine the speed. The computation is complex,
hence an approximate method is suggested. The Approximation will introduce
only a small error in Shadbala as its maximum contribution is only 60 virupas.

The rate of change of longitude can be determined from any standard

ephemeris of astrological software and compared with the average speed.

52
 Mean Motion of Planets in a Mahayuga
Surya Siddhanta
Length of revolution in
Number of Revolution in Number of revolution in
Planet mean solar time Mean daily motion
a Mahayuga 1,080,000 years
days-nadis-vinadis-prana
Sidereal years Quarter Yuga d n y p 0 ‘ “ “‘ “‘‘
Sun 4,320,000 1,080,000 365 15 31 3.14 0 59 08 10 10.4
Mercury 17,937,060 4,484,265 87 58 10 5.57 4 05 32 20 41.9
Venus 7,022,376 1,755,594 224 41 54 5.06 1 36 07 43 37.3
Mars 2,296,832 574,208 686 59 50 5.87 0 31 26 28 11.1
Jupiter 364,220 91,055 4,332 19 14 2.09 0 04 59 08 48.6
Saturn 146,568 36,642 10,765 46 23 0.41 0 02 00 22 53.4

The strengths, allotted due to such 8 motions are 60 (Vakra),

30 (Anuvakra), 15 (Vikala), 30 (Manda), 15 (Mandatara), 7.5
(Sama), 45 (Chara) and 30 (Atichara).
 BPHS 27.21-23.
There are eight kinds of motions are attributed to
Grahas. These are Vakra (retrogression),
Anuvakra (entering the previous Rāśi in retrograde
motion), Vikala (devoid of motion), Manda (slower
than usual), Mandatara (even more slower), Sama
(neutral motion), Chara (faster than Sama) and
Atichara (entering next Rāśi in accelerated
motion).
The strengths, allotted due to such 8 motions are
60, 30, 15, 30, 15, 7.5, 45 and 30.
 5
Shadbala
NaisargikaBala
The natural strength of Grahas is called Naisargika Bala. The Grahas
are progressively stronger in the order of Śani, Mangal, Budha, Guru,
Śukra, Candra and Sūrya, respectively.
Saravali 4.40. Saturn, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Moon and Sun
are stronger than the other in the ascending order. Should there be
similarity in other strengths, then the one with greater natural strength
prevails.

55
 BPHS 27.14. Naisargika Bala.
Divide one Rupa by 7 and multiply the
resultant product by 1 to 7 separately,
which will indicate the Naisargika Bal,
due to Śani, Mangal, Budh, Guru,
Śukr, Candr and Sūrya, respectively

56
Naisargika Bala of Grahas
Graha Naisargika Bala

Guru 34.0

Budha 25.7
Surya 60.0
Chandra 51.4
Shukra 42.8
Mangal 17.0
Shani 8.6
 Max = 60, Min = 0
6
Shadbala
Drg Bala
When a Natural Benefic (Jupiter, Venus, Waxing Moon and Benefic Mercury)
aspects a Graha, it adds to their strength.

On the other hand, when Natural malefic (Saturn, Mars, Sun, waning Moon
and Malefic Mercury) aspects a Graha, it reduced their strength.

The computation of this strength is time-consuming, hence an approximation

has been suggested. This will introduce some insignificant error, which can
be ignored.

58
 BPHS 27.19. DrgBala.
Reduce one fourth of the Drishti Pinda, if a
Graha receives malefic Drishtis and add a
fourth, if it receives a Drishti from a benefic.
Super add the entire Drishti of Budha and
Guru to get the net strength of a Graha.

59
 DrgBala Approximation
30 0 3.75 11.25 7.5 0 15 11.25 7.5 3.75 0 0 0

0 0 3.75
When the Aspecting “Benefic Graha” is placed in a
certain house from the aspected Graha, Add figures
0 Position of 11.25 mentioned in the House in the diagram.
the Aspected
Graha
3.75 7.5 Instead, when a “Malefic Graha” is aspecting a Graha
from another Bhava, Deduct figures mentioned in
7.5 11.25 15 0
House in the Diagram.

Rider: Guru’s 5/9 aspect should be taken as 7.5.

Saturn’s 3/19 aspect should be taken as -11.25 and
Mars’s 4/8 aspect should be taken as -3.75.
Actual DrgBala computation method
1. Determine the Drsti Kendra
Drsti Kendra = Aspected Graha Longitude - Aspecting Graha Longitude

2. Based on the Drsti Kendra, determine the Drsti Bala

Depending on where the Aspecting Graha is situated (from the Aspected Graha), different
formula is applied to determine the Drsti Bala.

3. Add the Drsti Bala of Natural Benefics and Subtract that of Natural Malefics

Drsti Kendra Drsti Bala

1800 - 3000 (3000 - DK) / 8 Rider: Guru’s 5/9 aspect
1500- 1800 (DK - 1500) / 2
should be taken as +7.5.
Saturn’s 3/19 aspect should
1200 - 1500 (1500 - DK) /4
be taken as -11.25 and
900 - 1200 (1200 - DK) / 8 + 7.5
Mars’s 4/8 aspect should be
600 - 900 (DK - 600) / 4 + 3.76
taken as -3.75.
300 - 600 (DK - 300) / 8
Degrees 0-30 30-60 60-90 90-120 120-150 150-180 180-210 210-240 240-270 270-300 300-330 330-360
DrgBala
Reference Table
1 0 0.125 4 11.125 7.25 0.5 14.875 11.125 7.375 3.625 0 0
2 0 0.25 4.25 11 7 1 14.75 11 7.25 3.5 0 0
3 0 0.375 4.5 10.875 6.75 1.5 14.625 10.875 7.125 3.375 0 0
4 0 0.5 4.75 10.75 6.5 2 14.5 10.75 7 3.25 0 0
5 0 0.625 5 10.625 6.25 2.5 14.375 10.625 6.875 3.125 0 0 Using the formula provided in the previous
6 0 0.75 5.25 10.5 6 3 14.25 10.5 6.75 3 0 0 slides, the drsti bala is derived for various
7 0 0.875 5.5 10.375 5.75 3.5 14.125 10.375 6.625 2.875 0 0 Drsti Kendra (DK: longitudinal difference
8 0 1 5.75 10.25 5.5 4 14 10.25 6.5 2.75 0 0 between the aspecting and aspected planet).
9 0 1.125 6 10.125 5.25 4.5 13.875 10.125 6.375 2.625 0 0
10 0 1.25 6.25 10 5 5 13.75 10 6.25 2.5 0 0
Usage: Determine the 30 range where the DK
11 0 1.375 6.5 9.875 4.75 5.5 13.625 9.875 6.125 2.375 0 0
12 0 1.5 6.75 9.75 4.5 6 13.5 9.75 6 2.25 0 0 is falling. Determine the column associated
13 0 1.625 7 9.625 4.25 6.5 13.375 9.625 5.875 2.125 0 0 with that range.
14 0 1.75 7.25 9.5 4 7 13.25 9.5 5.75 2 0 0
15 0 1.875 7.5 9.375 3.75 7.5 13.125 9.375 5.625 1.875 0 0 After the range has been identified,
16 0 2 7.75 9.25 3.5 8 13 9.25 5.5 1.75 0 0
determine the DK elapsed from the
17 0 2.125 8 9.125 3.25 8.5 12.875 9.125 5.375 1.625 0 0
beginning of the range. Then, for the
18 0 2.25 8.25 9 3 9 12.75 9 5.25 1.5 0 0
19 0 2.375 8.5 8.875 2.75 9.5 12.625 8.875 5.125 1.375 0 0
combination of the Row and Column,
20 0 2.5 8.75 8.75 2.5 10 12.5 8.75 5 1.25 0 0 determine the Drsti Bala value
21 0 2.625 9 8.625 2.25 10.5 12.375 8.625 4.875 1.125 0 0
22 0 2.75 9.25 8.5 2 11 12.25 8.5 4.75 1 0 0 Example: Lets try determining, the Drsti Bala
23 0 2.875 9.5 8.375 1.75 11.5 12.125 8.375 4.625 0.875 0 0
for Surya who is aspected by Guru from 7th
24 0 3 9.75 8.25 1.5 12 12 8.25 4.5 0.75 0 0
house at192 from the Sun. 192 falls in the
25 0 3.125 10 8.125 1.25 12.5 11.875 8.125 4.375 0.625 0 0
26 0 3.25 10.25 8 1 13 11.75 8 4.25 0.5 0 0
range of 180-210. It is 12 degree away from
27 0 3.375 10.5 7.875 0.75 13.5 11.625 7.875 4.125 0.375 0 0 the beginning. So looking at 12 in Row
28 0 3.5 10.75 7.75 0.5 14 11.5 7.75 4 0.25 0 0 under, the 180-240 Column, we arrive at
29 0 3.625 11 7.625 0.25 14.5 11.375 7.625 3.875 0.125 0 0 +13.5. This is the Drsti Bala of Surya due to
30 0 3.75 11.25 7.5 0 15 11.25 7.5 3.75 0 0 0 Guru’s aspect.
All other Bala Summary
Maximum Minimum Average
Dik Bala 60 0 30
Chesta Bala 60 7.5 33.75
Naisargika Bala 60 0 30
Drg Bala 60 0 30
Total 240 7.5 123.75
 Section 3
Assessment of
strength

64
 Assessment of Strength
The Stanabala and Kalabala individually
contribute to strength that is more that
combined strength of Dik, Chesta, Naisargika
and Drg.
The highest strength attainable under
Sthanabala and Kalabala is the same i.e., 390
virupas. The combined strength of the other four
balas are 240.
 In a horoscope, if the strength of “a Graha” is low due
to its position in Bad Avastha, such as sign of Debility,
sign of enemy or great enemy, in Apoklima etc., it can
be compensated by Birth in a auspicious time when the
Graha under consideration is strong.
In general, it is excellent if the Lagnesha (LL),
Mantresha (5L) and Dharmesha (9L) are endowed
with Great strength either through Stanabala or
Kalabala, if not all the other strengths.
The Maximum Strength attainable by the Grahas

Sthana Dik Kala Chesta Naisargik Drg Total

Surya 390 60 390 60 a
60 60 1020
Chandra 390 60 390 60 51.4 45 996.4
Mangal 390 60 390 60 17 60 977
Budha 390 60 390 60 25.7 45 970.7
Guru 390 60 390 60 34 45 979
Shukra 390 60 390 60 42.8 45 987.8
Shani 390 60 390 60 8.6 60 968.6
BPHS 27.34-36. Minimum Prescribed Strength
Guru, Budha and Sūrya are strong, if each of
their Sthanabala, Dikbala, Kalabala, Cheshtabala
and Ayanabala are, respectively, 165, 35, 50,
112 and 30 Virupas. The same required for
Candra and Śukra are 133, 50, 30, 100 and
40. For Mangal and Śani these are 96, 30, 40,
67 and 20.
 BPHS 27.32-33 Minimum Shadbala Requirement
390, 360, 300, 420, 390, 330 and 300 Virupas are the
Shadbala Pindas, needed for Sūrya etc. to be considered
strong.
If the strength exceeds the above-mentioned values, the
Graha is deemed to be very strong. If a Graha has the
required Shadbala, it will prove favourable to the native by
virtue of its strength. However, Śani’s extreme strength will
give long life as well as miseries.

Minimum Shadbala Requirements

420

315

210 390 420 390

360 330
300 300
105

0
Sūrya Candra Mangal Budha Guru Śukra Shani
 Naisargika Total with Min Strength
Graha Sthanabala Dikbala Kalabala Cheshtabala Ayanabala Total Naisargiaka Diff.
Bala Prescribed
Bala
Guru 165 35 50 112 30 392 34.0 426.0 390 -36.0
Budha 165 35 50 112 30 392 25.7 417.7 420 2.3
Surya 165 35 50 112 30 392 60.0 452.0 390 -62.0
Chandra 133 50 30 100 40 353 51.4 404.4 360 -44.4
Shukra 133 50 30 100 40 353 42.8 395.8 330 -65.8
Mangal 96 30 40 67 20 253 17.0 270.0 300 30.0
Shani 96 30 40 67 20 253 8.6 261.6 300 38.4
Total 953 265 290 670 210 2388 239.5 2627.5 2490 -137.5

180
165 165 165

135 133 133

112 112 112

100 100 96 96
90
67 67
60
50 50 50 50 51.4 50
45 40 40 42.8 40 40
35 35 35
30 34 30 25.7 30 30 30 30 30
20 17 20
8.6
0
Guru Budha Surya Chandra Shukra Mangal Shani
Section 4
Conclusion

71
It is always not possible to mathematically determine the
strength of the Grahas. However, a good understanding
of the conditions in which different Grahas attain strength
can help in quick visual estimation of strength.
The Authors of Jataka Parijata and Phaladeepika provided
their views on the circumstances in which Grahas attain
strength which is same as Parashara’s Shadbala model,
however, the focus is more on getting a sense of the
strength through quick visual estimation.
When one attains proper understanding of 6 sources of
strength, one does not need to rely upon complete
computation.
 Strengths of Planets (1/2)
Jataka Parijata 2.61-69

Planet Sources of strength Planet Sources of strength Planet Sources of strength

1. Exaltation 1. On Tuesday 1. In Pisces, Scorpio, Sagittarius and
2. Own sign 2. Own Vargas Cancer
3. Own Vargas 3. In Pisces, Scorpio, Aquarius, Capricorn 2. Own Vargas
4. Sunday and Aries 3. On Thursday
Sun
5. During Uttarayana Mars 4. At night 4. Middle part of the day
6. First Drekkana of a sign 5. When retrograde 5. During Uttarayana
Jupiter
7. Friend’s Drekkana, Hora and Navamsa 6. In Southern direction (10th house) 6. Middle Drekkana of a sign
8. In the 10th house 7. First Drekkana of a sign 7. In Aquarius
1. In Cancer and Taurus 8. Even in Cancer while in the 10th house 8. Jupiter is strong even in debilitation sign
2. On Monday 1. In Virgo and Gemini 9. If in Lagna, Fourth or 10th, gives much
3. Own Vargas 2. On Wednesday wealth. Also in Cancer in the 10th
4. Last drekkana of a sign 3. Own Vargas house.
5. Aspected by benefics Mercury 4. Sagittarius if not placed with the Sun 1. Exaltation sign
Moon
6. At night 5. Both during day and night 2. Own divisions
7. 4th house 6. Middle drekkana 3. On Friday
8. During Dakshinayana 7. In Lagna 4. Middle drekkana of a sign
9. On Full Moon 5. In 4th house
Venus
10.Not in rasi sandhi 6. During Noon
7. In planetary war
8. Placed with Moon (Samagama)
9. Retrograde
10.Ahead of Sun

73
 Strengths of Planets (1/2)
Jataka Parijata 2.61-69

Planet Sources of strength Planet Sources of strength Planet Sources of strength

1. In Libra, Capricorn, Aquarius
2. In 7th house
1. In Virgo, Pisces, Taurus and
3. During Dakshinayana
Sagittarius
4. In own drekkana 1. In Aries, Taurus, Cancer, Virgo
2. At night
Saturn 5. On Saturday Rahu 2. In Scorpio, Aquarius, Ketu
3. When rising (refer to Brhat Samhita
6. In the 3rd drekkana of a sign 3. In the 10th house
chapter 46)
7. In planetary war
4. At rising time (JP chapter 11)
8. During Krsna Paksha (waning Moon)
9. When retrograde

74
 Special Strength of the Moon
Phaladeepika 4.21
It is said that Pakshabala (fortnightly strength) is of special importance to
the Moon, while the Bala arising from Sthana (position) is important for the
other planets.
This strength when added to the other varieties of strength of a planet will
greatly increase the strength of that planet. There are many such types of
strength.

75
Strength of Planets from Phaladeepika (1/2)

Phaladeepika 4.2(a)
The Moon gets Cheshtabata when she is full. The Sun gets it when he is
in his northern course; the other planets, when in their retrograde motion.
In planetary war, those that are posited in the north and who have got
brilliant rays should be considered as victorious.
Planets have their full Uchchabala when in their highest exaltation.

76
Strength of Planets from Phaladeepika (1/2)

Phaladeepika 4.2 (b)

As regards directional strength, the Sun and Mars are strong in
the 10th; Venus and the Moon in the 4th; Mercury and Jupiter in
the 1st and Saturn in the 7th.
Mercury, Saturn and the Moon have their Ayanabala in their
southerly course. The rest have the same in their northern.
Comments: According to Maharishi Parashara, only Moon and Saturn attain Ayanabala when in Southerly
course (Dakshinayana) and Mercury is strong in both the Ayanas. In my view Maharishi Parashara’s view
should be considered authentic in this regard.
77
 Vargabala and Kendrabala
Phaladeepika 4.9 (a)
The strength accruing to a planet in the six Vargas (viz., Rasi, Hora,
Drekkana, Navamsa, Dwadasamsa and Trimasamsa) on a consideration of
its being posited in its exaltation, its own and its friendly signs etc., is
termed its positional strength.
That arising from its being in Kendra and other Bhavas (i.e., Phanapara and
Apoklima) will be one 1, ½ and ¼ Rupa respectively.

78
Drekkana bala and Naisargika bala
Phaladeepika 4.9 (b)
The hermaphrodite planets are strong in the middle, the male
ones at the initial and the female ones at the concluding portions
of a Rasi.
Saturn, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, the Moon and the Sun are
in their order increasing in their natural strength.

79
Chesta Bala compensating for Stana Bala

Phaladeepika 4.4
A planet is said to possess strength when he is retrograde or when his rays
are full and brilliant, though posited in a depression or inimical Rasi or
Amsa.
Like the Moon, a planet though occupying an exaltation, friendly or his own
Rasi or Amsa becomes weak, should his rays be overpowered or eclipsed.

80
Special Strength of Moon and Sun
Phaladeepika 4.5 (a)
All planets are strong when they are in exaltation. The moon is
strong and auspicious when she has her full Paksha bala and the
Sun when he has his full Dikbala.
The other five non-luminous planets (Tara Graha) are strong when
they are retrograde (Chesta bala).

81
 Strength of Rahu and Ketu
Phaladeepika 4.5 (b)
Rahu is strong in Karkataka, Vrishabha, Mesha, Kumbha and
Vrischika.
Ketu is strong in Meena, Kanya, Vrishbha and the later half of Dhanus.
It is also strong in Parivesha and Indra-chapa (through conjunction)
and at night when there is conjunction of the Sun and the Moon.

82
 Bhava strength
Phaladeepika 4.6a
If the first Bhava be a Human sign (Manushya Rasi), 1 Rupa has to be
allotted to it; if it be Vrischika (Keeta Rasi), the Bala is ¼; if it be any
other sign, the strength is ½.
The strength of the Lagna is equal to that of its lord and is very powerful
when the lord occupies an Upachaya (3rd, 6th, 10th or 11th) house.

83
 Day signs and Night signs
Phaladeepika 4.6b
The same is also the case when the Bhava is occupied or
aspected by Venus, its lord, Mercury or Jupiter, and is at the
same time without the conjunction or aspect of any other planet.
The day signs possess strength in day-births, while night signs
are declared powerful in night-births.
Comments: According to Phaladeepika 4.11, the strength of Guru is 1 rupa,
Budha is 1/2 rupa and that of Shukra is 1/4 rupa to ward off evil.
84
Positional strength in different signs (Avasthas)

Phaladeepika 4.7
A planet gets 1 Rupa as positional strength when he is in his
exaltation Rasi. The strength is ¾ when he is posited in his
Moolatrikona Rasi. It is ½ when the planet occupies his own Rasi.
When the planet is in a friendly house, his strength is only ¼. In an
inimical sign, he gets only very little. The strength is nil when he is in
his depression sign or eclipsed by the Sun’s rays.

85
Difference in strength between the Kendras

Phaladeepika 4.8
The strength of the planets occupying the 4 Kendras (1st,
4th, 7th and 10th) has been distinguished by the astrologers
in the following manner; It is ¼th in the 4th house; ½ in the
10th, ¾ in the 7th and full in the 1st or Lagna, thus increasing
it by ¼ in each stage

86
 Strength of Aspect
Phaladeepika 4.9
The aspect from the 7th house is the only one that should be
declared as most effective in all cases; not so, the rest. But
there are others who opine that the special aspect (of Saturn,
Jupiter and Mars) is in no way less efficacious in producing
full effect in all Yogas and the like.

87
 Stronger between Naisargika & Tatkalika
Sambandha

Phaladeepika 4.10
Natural enmity or friendship between two planets is more fully
effective than and preferable to their corresponding temporal ones
as the latter is only a variable quantity and not a permanent one.

88
Special power to block Inauspicious Results

Phaladeepika 4.11
In completely warding off evil and in promoting prosperity, Jupiter is the most
powerful of all the planets. Mercury and Venus have a ¼ and ½ respectively of
that power.
The Moon’s strength serves as a basis as it were for the strength of all the
planets.

Comments: Moon’s strength in any horoscope is paramount as when Moon is

endowed with strong Paksha Bala, it all the Grahas in the horoscope gain
strength to fight evils.
89
When a Graha considered strong?
Phaladeepika 4.22 Phaladeepika 4.23

The Sun is declared strong when his
strength is 6½ Rupas. In the case of the
Moon, it is 6½ Rupas. Five Rupas are
assigned to Mars and 7 to Mercury.
Jupiter's Purnabala is similar to that of
the Sun, that is 6½ Rupas. Venus is
strong when he gets 5½ Rupas.
Saturn should have 5 Rupas. These are
the figures representing the total
Shadbala for the several planets. If the
respective figures are less than the
mentioned, the planets should be
considered as weak.

It is only after a minute examination of the several kinds of strength (Shadbalas)

of the several planets, one ought to declare their effects.

90
Thank you

91