Sun (Surya) in Vedic Astrology

Sun (Surya) is one of the nine grahas of Vedic astrology, ruling Leo, exalted in Aries 10°, with a 6-year Vimshottari mahadasha. The Sun (Surya) is the atmakaraka — the soul, ego and life-force. It signifies the self, vitality, confidence, the father, authority, kings and government, fame, status and health. Natural ruler of Leo, it is the king of the planetary cabinet around which all else revolves.

Significations (karakatva)

The Sun (Surya) is the atmakaraka — the soul, ego and life-force. It signifies the self, vitality, confidence, the father, authority, kings and government, fame, status and health. Natural ruler of Leo, it is the king of the planetary cabinet around which all else revolves.

When strong or well-placed

A well-placed Sun (exalted in Aries, in its own Leo, or strong in the 1st/10th) gives leadership, dignity, government favour, recognition, robust health, a noble character and a positive bond with the father.

When weak or afflicted

A weak or afflicted Sun (debilitated in Libra, combust, or with malefics) can bring low confidence, ego clashes, friction with authority or the father, and issues of the eyes, heart or bones.

Career & domains

Government and administration, leadership and management, politics, medicine, the gold and power sectors — any role of authority, responsibility and visibility.

Remedies

Offer arghya (water) to the rising Sun, recite the Aditya Hridayam or the Surya beej mantra, donate wheat and jaggery on Sundays, and honour your father. A Ruby is worn only if the Sun is benefic for your ascendant.

What does Sun (Surya) signify in Vedic astrology?

The Sun (Surya) is the atmakaraka — the soul, ego and life-force. It signifies the self, vitality, confidence, the father, authority, kings and government, fame, status and health. Natural ruler of Leo, it is the king of the planetary cabinet around which all else revolves.

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

Sun rules Leo. It is exalted in Aries 10° and debilitated in Libra 10°, with moolatrikona in Leo 0°–20°.

How long is the Sun Mahadasha in Vimshottari dasha?

The Sun (Surya) mahadasha lasts 6 years out of the 120-year Vimshottari cycle.

What is the gemstone and remedy for Sun?

The gemstone for Sun is Ruby (Manik). Offer arghya (water) to the rising Sun, recite the Aditya Hridayam or the Surya beej mantra, donate wheat and jaggery on Sundays, and honour your father. A Ruby is worn only if the Sun is benefic for your ascendant.