HeraldMahesh Bang|Published 5 minutes agoQ1. Everyone says Rahu Mahadasha is not good and can ruin a person's life. Is this true, or is it just a myth? My Rahu Mahadasha will start in 2027, and I am feeling very worried. How will this dasha be for me? | UpasanaA1. According to your horoscope, your future is very bright. Just be patient for now and do not lose hope.Rahu generally gives positive, negative and neutral results. Whenever an eclipse is visible in your city, it is believed to affect your horoscope negatively. The results of Rahu depend on its degree, position, house placement and zodiac sign in your birth chart.Rahu's next transit will begin in December 2026, when it enters Capricorn for 18 months. During this period, the shadow planet is expected to bring you positive results and all-round prosperity.To understand Rahu better, read the following:Rahu is the north lunar node and, together with Ketu (the south lunar node), is regarded in Vedic astrology as a "shadow planet" associated with eclipses. Rahu has no physical form and is considered an imaginary planet.Rahu is generally believed to produce malefic effects if it is unfavourably placed in a horoscope. It is associated with laziness and delays in work. Rahu remains in each zodiac sign for approximately 18 months. If negatively placed, it may create dilemmas, depression and emotional distress.If Rahu occupies an auspicious position in a person's horoscope, it is believed to improve fortune significantly. A person may suddenly gain recognition, honours or success in their career. Rahu is considered friendly towards Venus, Mercury and Saturn, while the Sun and Moon are regarded as its enemy planets.According to Hindu astrology, Rahu and Ketu have an orbital cycle of approximately 18 years and are always positioned 180 degrees apart, both astronomically and in birth charts.Basic astronomical facts about Rahu and KetuAccording to Hindu astrology, Rahu and Ketu represent the two points where the paths of the Sun and Moon intersect as they move across the celestial sphere. They are therefore known as the north and south lunar nodes. The occurrence of eclipses when the Sun and Moon align at these points gave rise to the myth of Rahu swallowing the Sun.Here are some astrological remedies that are believed to strengthen Rahu's positive influence and help open new opportunities in your life.Jupiter is the only planet believed to control Rahu. Jupiter represents the Guru, so I advise you to respect your guru, teachers, parents, priests and all spiritual and kind people.If you are unable to sleep peacefully, keep a copper lota filled with water beside your bed for a few days.I suggest that you fast on Saturdays and on eclipse days.Donate black or dark brown blankets or food to underprivileged people during winter. This is believed to please Rahu and bring positive results.Add a few spoons of milk to your bath water for 22 consecutive days.On every new moon, make a donation of any amount to anyone in need. There are 12 new moons each year, so you should donate at least 12 times annually.On every new moon, ensure your house is thoroughly cleaned before sunset.Wear a five-carat yellow sapphire in a ring or pendant to improve your finances.Recite the Shree Hanuman Chalisa and Sankat Mochan daily.During winter, donate two dark brown blankets to needy people on any Saturday.Drink tea or coffee made with goat's milk twice a year. This is believed to soften the negative effects of Rahu.On every eclipse day, fast and chant "Om Namo Bhagavathe Vasudevya." Never look directly at the sky while an eclipse is taking place.Rahu and Ketu are shadow planets that influence one's horoscope for long periods. During their dasha, unexpected events may occur. They are believed to have stronger negative effects on people who engage in gossip or harbour jealousy towards others. Therefore, avoid gossip and do not compete with others unnecessarily.Rahu is also believed to produce very positive results. Overall, its ruling period is generally regarded as one of mixed experiences. Be patient, remain steadfast in your prayers, and things should gradually improve. According to your birth chart, your favourable period is still ahead. Follow the above remedies with devotion and discipline.sundaytribune.co.za