Rahu is not actually a planet. It is in fact an intelligent concept which is exclusive to Hindu astrology. Rahu and Ketu are two nodes where Earth’s trajectory around the Sun and Moon’s trajectory around the Earth intersect. Rahu astrology as well as Ketu astrology are based on the concept of two imaginary planets. Therefore, they lend more precision to Indian astrology.

It is believed that Rahu is the head of the demon body and it is responsible for the solar eclipse. According to hindu mythology, Lord Vishnu extracted the holy water by churning the sea. Lord Vishnu invited all the Gods and Devas to drink it. Rahu was not admitted to the ceremony as he was a demon. Rahu disguised himself as a God and attended the ceremony. Rahu sat between the Sun and Moon Gods who were able to identify him. Lord Sun and Lord Moon passed on this information to Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu was furious and cut Rahu’s head. Since Rahu had already drank the nectar, the survived even though his head was cut off.

Rahu astrology also states that the rest of Rahu’s body came to be known as Ketu. According to Hindu mythology, both the planets wanted to take revenge from Lord Sun and Lord Moon. This is said to be the reason for solar and lunar eclipses.

According to Rahu astrology, Rahu is known to be a Shudra Graha, which means low caste. Hence, Rahu is the Lord for illiteracy and uncultured people. Rahu is considered to be malefic planet in horoscopes. It is associated with thieves, magicians, witches, snakes, jails, poison, cemeteries, criminals, terrorists, spies etc. It is believed that Rahu influences people who are associated with occult or dark magic.

According to Rahu astrology and based on the effects, it is believed that Rahu is similar to Saturn. Therefore, if Rahu is not in a positive position, it can subject one with unexpected losses, frustration, failures etc. On the other hand, Rahu gives auspicious results if it is in a good position. It results in success, financial gains, strength etc.

It is believed that Rahu is instinctual and animalistic in nature. According to Rahu astrology, this planet craves for pleasures, and is never satisfied with the gains. It can be associated with fame, success in politics, money and physical attraction. It is said to be exalted in Taurus, giving auspicious results in Libra as well. Virgo can be considered to be Rahu`s own house, as Rahu is similar to Saturn, and Mercury is the friend of Saturn. Rahu likes its friends Mercury, Saturn and Venus. The enemies are Sun, Moon, and Mars.

This planet relates to the mind, and can give brooding habits, fights and trifles to an ignorant man.

• Rahu`s favourite color: Blue, Black.
• Rahu`s favourite Day: Saturday.
• Rahu`s favourite gemstone: Hessonite.
• Rahu`s favourite Lord: Lord Hanuman.

Rahu as a provider of Success and strength makes the mankind realise its best and worst.

Rahu in Vedic Astrology