Ketu (Ketu (South Node)) in Vedic Astrology

Ketu (Ketu (South Node)) is one of the nine grahas of Vedic astrology, ruling no sign directly (a shadow planet), exalted in Scorpio, with a 7-year Vimshottari mahadasha. Ketu, the south lunar node, is the shadow of detachment and moksha — the headless graha. It signifies spirituality, liberation, past-life karma, intuition and the occult, sudden losses that turn the soul inward, and ultimate release. Where Rahu craves, Ketu renounces.

Significations (karakatva)

Ketu, the south lunar node, is the shadow of detachment and moksha — the headless graha. It signifies spirituality, liberation, past-life karma, intuition and the occult, sudden losses that turn the soul inward, and ultimate release. Where Rahu craves, Ketu renounces.

When strong or well-placed

A well-placed Ketu gives spiritual depth, sharp intuition, occult and healing ability, detachment from the trivial, mastery through letting go, and progress on the path of liberation.

When weak or afflicted

An afflicted Ketu can bring confusion, sudden losses, feelings of emptiness or alienation, mysterious ailments, and a sense of being uprooted; with Rahu it forms Kaal Sarp yoga.

Career & domains

Spirituality and healing, research and investigation, medicine and pharmacology, technology, the occult and astrology, and any field of depth, intuition or liberation.

Remedies

Recite the Ketu beej mantra, worship Ganesha and your Ishta-devata, feed dogs, donate a multi-coloured blanket and sesame, and pursue meditation, detachment and spiritual practice.

What does Ketu (Ketu (South Node)) signify in Vedic astrology?

Ketu, the south lunar node, is the shadow of detachment and moksha — the headless graha. It signifies spirituality, liberation, past-life karma, intuition and the occult, sudden losses that turn the soul inward, and ultimate release. Where Rahu craves, Ketu renounces.

Which signs does Ketu rule, and where is it exalted and debilitated?

Ketu rules — (co-rules Scorpio). It is exalted in Scorpio and debilitated in Taurus, with moolatrikona in Sagittarius.

How long is the Ketu Mahadasha in Vimshottari dasha?

The Ketu (Ketu (South Node)) mahadasha lasts 7 years out of the 120-year Vimshottari cycle.

What is the gemstone and remedy for Ketu?

The gemstone for Ketu is Cat's Eye (Lehsunia). Recite the Ketu beej mantra, worship Ganesha and your Ishta-devata, feed dogs, donate a multi-coloured blanket and sesame, and pursue meditation, detachment and spiritual practice.