Emerging from the womb of time, a strange mystery rose in the sky – a shadow planet named Rahu. It was neither entirely physical nor entirely spiritual. Its presence exerted a strange influence on human destiny, which baffled the scholars of Hindu astrology. Rahu’s mysterious nature and extraordinary powers gave it a special place among the Navagrahas.
A Fascinating Introduction
In Hindu Navgraha Vedic Science, Rahu is given a special place. It is neither a normal planet nor a radiating star. It is known as a ‘Chhayaa Graha’ which has its own specific significance and influence. The presence and activities of Rahu graha have a profound impact on human life and hence its study is important in Vedic Astrology.
Why is Rahu a Chhayam Graha?
According to Vedic texts, Rahu was an Asura who tried to drink Amrit. However, the Gods caught hold of it and Lord Vishnu cut off Rahu’s head with his Sudarshan Chakra. But having already drunk the Amrit, Rahu’s body became immortal and that is why even today it exists in the sky as a Chhaya Graha.
As Rahu is 2 parts – the head is called Raha dev and remaining lower part called Ketu dev! Alternatively it is also called moon north node and south node respectively.
Scientific View
From a scientific point of view, Rahu is actually a point between the Earth and the Sun where the shadow of the moon falls. This is the point where lunar eclipses occur. Hence, Rahu is considered a shadow planet because it is not actually a physical object but just a point where the shadow of the moon falls, the point is north node.
Effects of Rahu
According to Vedic astrology, the effects of Rahu can never be ignored. It affects various aspects of human life, such as health, career, relationships, and wealth. The effects of Rahu are mostly considered negative and hence people take various measures to reduce its effects in their lives.
To overcome Rahu effects, the astrologers advice to chant the Rahu beej mantra. By chanting the beej mantra of Rahu beej mantra for 108 times in a day, you can get positive results and succeed in life. The mantra is:
- In Sanskrit: ॐ भ्रां भ्रीं भ्रौं सः राहवे नमः॥
- In English: Om Bhram Bhreem Bhraum Sah Rahave Namah
Final Words
Overall, Rahu is a shadow planet that has its own specific significance and effects. It is not only associated with Hindu religion and culture, but can also be interpreted from a scientific point of view. Understanding and managing the effects of Rahu is an important aspect of Vedic astrology, and this is why it is studied in depth.
That’s about the story of why Rahu is called shadow planet and if you would like to know then please let us know in the comments and don’t forget to share it with others!
