In Vedic astrology, Mars (Mangal) is the Commander-in-Chief among the Navagrahas (Nine Planets). It governs courage, strength, energy, and aggression. Mars is the planet of action and represents physical and mental stamina. Its fiery nature makes it a powerful force for both creation and destruction.
Attributes of Mangal (Mars)
1. Role and Nature
- Role: Represents courage, willpower, and the ability to take action. Mars governs our drive, ambition, and combativeness.
- Nature: Fiery, energetic, and dry.
- Caste: Royal (Kshatriya), indicating bravery and leadership in challenging situations.
- Gender: Male.
2. Physical Description
- Mars is described as:
- Blood-red eyes.
- Thin waist.
- Fierce and dynamic in appearance.
3. Deity and Element
- Deity: Kartikeya (Subrahmanya), the god of war and valor.
- Element (Tattva): Fire.
- Sense Governed: Taste (associated with bitter and pungent flavors).
4. Abode
- Mars is strongest in places of combat, heat, or strength, such as:
- Fortresses or military bases.
- Deserts or heated environments.
- Gyms and sports arenas.
Zodiacal Details of Mangal
1. Zodiac Signs
- Own Signs: Aries (Mesh) and Scorpio (Vrishchika).
- Exaltation Sign: Capricorn (Makar, at 28°).
- Debilitation Sign: Cancer (Karka, at 28°).
- Mooltrikona: Aries (Mesh, 0°–12°).
2. Nakshatras Ruled by Mars
Mars governs 3 nakshatras:
- Mrigashira (23°20′ Taurus to 6°40′ Gemini).
- Chitra (23°20′ Virgo to 6°40′ Libra).
- Dhanishta (23°20′ Capricorn to 6°40′ Aquarius).
Planetary Relationships
1. Friends, Enemies, and Neutrals
- Friends: Sun, Moon, Jupiter.
- Enemies: Mercury.
- Neutral: Venus, Saturn.
2. Direction and Strength
- Direction: South.
- Directional Strength (Dig Bala): Gains strength in the 10th house (associated with career and public image).
- Time of Strength: Night.
Physical and Material Attributes
1. Governing Body Parts
Mars governs:
- Bone marrow and muscles.
- Blood circulation.
- Head injuries or scars.
2. Associated Colors and Gemstones
- Color: Blood-red.
- Gemstone: Red coral.
- Metal: Copper.
3. Associated Tastes
- Mars is associated with the bitter taste.
4. Day of the Week
- Tuesday is ruled by Mars.
5. Seasonal Influence
- Mars rules over summer.
Astrological Effects of Mars
1. General Effects
- A strong Mars in a horoscope provides courage, physical strength, and determination to overcome obstacles.
- A weak or afflicted Mars can cause anger issues, impulsiveness, or accidents.
2. Effects in the Twelve Houses
| House | Effects of Mars |
|---|---|
| 1st House | Courage, confidence, athletic build, but potential for aggressiveness. |
| 2nd House | Bold speech, wealth through self-effort, but family disputes. |
| 3rd House | Physical stamina, bravery, and successful short journeys. |
| 4th House | Issues in domestic peace, disputes over property, or leadership in real estate. |
| 5th House | Passionate about creativity, but sometimes overly assertive in romance or with children. |
| 6th House | Success over enemies and physical strength, but prone to injuries or legal conflicts. |
| 7th House | Dominance in relationships, potential for marital conflict (Manglik Dosha). |
| 8th House | Interest in occult sciences, sudden gains, or physical injuries. |
| 9th House | Adventurous and bold in spiritual pursuits, but may challenge authority. |
| 10th House | Leadership qualities, success in the military or engineering fields. |
| 11th House | Ambition for financial gains, influential friends, and social networks. |
| 12th House | Expenses on adventures or impulsive behavior, possible overseas connections. |
Exaltation and Debilitation of Mars
Why is Mars Exalted in Capricorn (28°)?
- Capricorn’s Energy:
- Capricorn is a practical, disciplined, and grounded sign ruled by Saturn. Its structured energy balances Mars’ raw power, making it an ideal placement for achieving goals through effort.
- Why 28° in Capricorn?
- At 28°, Mars achieves peak focus and productivity, making it the perfect warrior in a disciplined environment.
Why is Mars Debilitated in Cancer (28°)?
- Cancer’s Energy:
- Cancer is nurturing, emotional, and protective, clashing with Mars’ aggressive and action-oriented nature.
- Why 28° in Cancer?
- At 28°, Mars is at its weakest point in Cancer, where its energy becomes overly reactive or emotionally driven.
Logic Behind Remedies for Mars
1. Chanting the Mars Mantra
Mantra: “Om Mangalaya Namaha”
- Purpose: Invokes Mars’ energy to build courage and strength while reducing aggression.
- Logic: The mantra’s sound vibrations align with Mars’ fiery frequency, balancing impulsiveness.
2. Offering Red Lentils or Copper
- Why Red Lentils?
- Red lentils represent Mars’ fiery and bold energy, symbolizing strength and vitality.
- Why Copper?
- Copper is a metal associated with purification and aligns with Mars’ aggressive nature.
3. Wearing Red Coral
- Why Red Coral?
- Coral resonates with Mars’ energy, enhancing courage, vitality, and physical strength.
- How to Wear It:
- Wear it on Tuesday in a copper or gold ring on the ring finger of the dominant hand.
4. Fasting on Tuesdays
- Purpose:
- Fasting reduces tamasic (lethargic) energy, balancing Mars’ fiery qualities.
- How It Works:
- By fasting, the body becomes disciplined, which aligns with Mars’ need for action and control.
5. Strengthening Mars Through Physical Activity
- Engaging in activities like martial arts, running, or gym workouts channels Mars’ energy positively.
Example with a Birth Chart
Sample Chart:
- Mars in Capricorn (28°) in the 10th house.
Interpretation:
- Exaltation in Capricorn:
- Mars is highly disciplined, focused, and action-oriented, leading to career success in fields like engineering, military, or leadership roles.
- 10th House Placement:
- This gives Mars directional strength (Dig Bala), amplifying professional achievements and public recognition.
Afflicted Mars Example:
- Mars in Cancer (28°) in the 7th house.
- Debilitation in Cancer:
- Causes emotional impulsiveness and conflicts in relationships.
- 7th House Placement:
- Indicates dominance in partnerships, leading to marital discord.
Remedies for This Chart:
- Chant “Om Mangalaya Namaha” daily.
- Wear red coral in copper.
- Practice physical exercise to channel Mars’ energy.
Advanced Points
- Mars in Dasha (Mahadasha):
- The Mars planetary period lasts for 7 years in the Vimshottari Dasha system.
- This period emphasizes action, competition, and ambition but can also bring conflicts if Mars is afflicted.
- Mars in Transit:
- Mars stays in each zodiac sign for approximately 45 days, significantly influencing energy levels and motivation during this time.
- Manglik Dosha (Mars Affliction in Marriage):
We will discuss it in more details in a separate Chapter
- Mars in the 1st, 4th, 7th, 8th, or 12th house creates Manglik Dosha, potentially causing delays or conflicts in marriage.
- Remedy: Chant Hanuman Chalisa or fast on Tuesdays to mitigate its effects.