Ketu in Vedic Astrology.
By Jyotish Acharya Tarun Sharma

Ketu, also known as the South Node of the Moon, is an important planet in Vedic astrology. It is considered to be a shadow planet, which means it does not have a physical existence. However, it has a profound impact on our lives and is believed to influence our past, present, and future.
In Vedic astrology, Ketu is considered to be a malefic planet. It is associated with detachment, liberation, spirituality, and enlightenment. Ketu represents the karmic pattern that we have carried forward from our past lives. It is said that Ketu represents the lessons that we have learned from our past and the challenges that we have overcome.
Ketu is also known for its unpredictable nature. It is said that Ketu can bring sudden and unexpected changes in our lives. These changes can be both positive and negative, depending on the position of Ketu in our birth chart.
Ketu is associated with the sign of Scorpio, which is ruled by the planet Mars. Scorpio is a water sign, and it represents the deep and mysterious aspects of life. Scorpio is also associated with transformation, regeneration, and rebirth. Ketu’s association with Scorpio reflects its transformative and regenerative qualities.
Ketu is also associated with the Nakshatra of Ashwini, which is ruled by the planet Ketu itself. Ashwini is the first Nakshatra in the Vedic astrology system and is associated with new beginnings, healing, and rejuvenation. The influence of Ketu on Ashwini gives it a unique energy that is both transformative and healing.
Ketu’s placement in the birth chart is said to have a significant impact on our lives. It is said that Ketu’s influence can be both positive and negative, depending on its placement and the other planets that it is in conjunction with.
When Ketu is in a strong position in the birth chart, it can bring spiritual growth, detachment, and liberation. It can help us overcome our past karmic patterns and move towards a more enlightened and spiritual path. Ketu’s influence can also help us develop our intuition and psychic abilities.
On the other hand, when Ketu is in a weak position in the birth chart, it can bring negative effects. It can bring confusion, detachment, and a lack of focus. It can also lead to unexpected and sudden changes in our lives that can be difficult to deal with.
Ketu is also associated with certain body parts, including the head, feet, and stomach. When Ketu is in a weak position in the birth chart, it can cause health problems related to these body parts. For example, it can cause headaches, migraines, and digestive issues.
Ketu is also associated with certain gemstones that are believed to enhance its positive effects. The most popular gemstone for Ketu is cat’s eye. Cat’s eye is believed to help enhance Ketu’s spiritual energy and bring spiritual growth and enlightenment.
In addition to gemstones, there are also certain mantras and rituals that are believed to help enhance Ketu’s positive effects. The most popular mantra for Ketu is the Ketu Beej mantra. This mantra is believed to help balance Ketu’s energy and bring spiritual growth and enlightenment.
Overall, Ketu is an important planet in Vedic astrology that represents our past karmic patterns and the lessons that we have learned from them. Its influence can be both positive and negative, depending on its placement in the birth chart. Understanding the influence of Ketu can help us navigate the challenges and opportunities that life presents us with, and help us move towards a more spiritual and enlightened path.