Prashna Kundali

Introduction to Prashna

In the rich tradition of Vedic astrology, there exists a unique method that gives answers to specific questions even without knowing the time or date of birth. This method is called Prashna Kundali or horary astrology. The Sanskrit word Prashna means “question,” and a kundali is a chart. Thus, Prashna Kundali refers to a horoscope created for the exact time and place when a question is asked. Unlike a natal chart, which describes a person’s entire life path, this chart describes the destiny of the question itself.

The underlying principle is that the universe is interconnected. The very moment a question arises already carries within it both the problem and the solution. When an astrologer casts a chart for that moment, it becomes an encrypted answer, guiding the seeker toward clarity.

Why Prashna Kundali is Needed

Prashna Kundali becomes invaluable in several scenarios:

Absence of Birth Details: Many people do not know their exact time of birth, and sometimes even the date is uncertain. A natal chart cannot be created in such cases, but Prashna fills this gap perfectly. Urgent Decisions: When immediate choices must be made, such as whether to sign a contract, relocate, or marry, Prashna provides swift insight. Checking Current Situations: Questions like “Will my loan be repaid?” or “Can I trust this business partner?” can be judged through Prashna. Locating the Missing: From lost documents and objects to missing animals or even people, Prashna charts are frequently consulted for guidance.

This makes Prashna not just an alternative, but often the most reliable tool when time is limited or details are unavailable.

The Astrology of the Moment

Prashna Kundali is often called the “astrology of the moment.” Just as a natal chart reflects the cosmic arrangement at the time of birth, Prashna reflects the cosmic imprint of the question’s birth. The Lagna (ascendant) of the moment, the Moon’s placement, and divisional charts like the Navamsa reveal the nature of the situation.

Astrologers look at:

The Lagna: which shows the essence of the question. The Moon: which reflects the emotional state of the querent. The Karaka planets: which signify the subject of the query (e.g., Venus for marriage, Mercury for trade, Saturn for debts). The strength and dignity of planets: benefic aspects suggest favorable results, while afflictions suggest delays or obstacles.

For example, if a woman asks about meeting a business partner and the Lagna lord is weak, the Moon is in the twelfth house of loss, and Venus (significator of partnership) is afflicted by malefics, the astrologer can clearly conclude the meeting will bring obstacles and deceit.

Classical Texts on Prashna

Two of the most celebrated works on Prashna astrology are Prasna Marga and Prasna Tantra.

Prasna Marga

Written by Narayanan Nambutiri in 1649 in Kerala. Considered one of the most comprehensive manuals of horary astrology. Explores all twelve houses in detail and uses advanced techniques such as Ashtakavarga bindus and rare divisional approaches like Navamsa-Navamsa.

Prasna Tantra

Attributed to Neelakantha Daivagya, part of the Tajaka tradition (16th century or earlier). Structured into four main chapters: Prashna Vichara: preliminaries and rules for casting charts. Bhava Prashna: questions related to the twelve houses. Vishesha Prashna: fixed or special questions, such as theft or missing persons. Prakirnaka Adhyaya: miscellaneous matters and conclusion.

Both these works demonstrate the depth of Prashna and the variety of situations it can address.

Advanced Yogas in Prashna

The depth of Prashna lies in its ability to weave multiple factors together. Some important yogas include:

Yamaya Yoga: When two important lords do not aspect each other but a slower planet lies between them and is aspected by both, this planet acts as a bridge, transferring strength. Kamboola Yoga: When one of the two lords also forms Itthashala (a Tajika aspect condition) with the bridging planet, the outcome improves, especially in matters like marriage or cooperation. Rules for Pregnancy and Delivery: By analyzing Navamsa divisions of the Lagna and aspects on the twelfth house, astrologers can predict the stage of pregnancy and whether the child will survive. Marriage and Alliances: If the eighth house or Moon is afflicted, alliances may fail due to quarrels or deception, as highlighted in case examples in Prasna Marga.

These yogas illustrate that Prashna is not simply “yes or no” astrology, but a highly nuanced system requiring mastery of planetary speed, aspects, and relative positions.

Advantages of Prashna Kundali

Prashna offers several practical benefits:

No need for birth details, making it accessible to all. Quick results, often within minutes of casting the chart. High precision, particularly for binary or urgent questions. Flexibility of application, from personal matters to professional, financial, or spiritual issues.

Because it responds to the sincerity of the query, Prashna allows astrologers to provide answers in real time.

When Prashna Does Not Answer

It is important to note that Prashna does not always speak. Certain conditions in the chart suggest silence or karmic closure:

The Moon in unfavorable positions such as Gandanta or under heavy affliction. The Lagna or its lord being weak or troubled. The situation itself being karmically blocked, meaning the seeker is not ready to hear the answer.

In these cases, ethical astrologers refrain from predictions rather than risk misleading the querent.

Prashna as a Tool for Astrologers

For practicing astrologers, Prashna expands their consulting power. It allows them to:

Work with clients who lack birth details. Provide immediate answers to pressing questions. Gain trust quickly by demonstrating the accuracy of Jyotish in real-life situations.

In skilled hands, Prashna is not just an ancient tradition but a living tool that continues to prove its relevance today.

Prashna Kundali, the astrology of questions, is a profound method that reveals how the universe responds to a query at the very moment it is asked. Rooted in classical texts like Prasna Marga and Prasna Tantra, it offers advanced techniques and yogas that go far beyond simple predictions. Whether guiding urgent decisions, locating lost items, or clarifying relationships, Prashna provides answers when they are most needed.

It shows not only what will happen, but why and how, giving seekers the opportunity to act with awareness. Above all, it reminds us that every thought, every question, is already part of a greater cosmic design—and Prashna Kundali is the key to unlocking that design.