What is Ashtakoota?

Ashtakoota means “eight factors.” It is the framework behind Guna Milan, where each factor is given a maximum number of points and the totals add up to 36.

The eight factors

Varna (1 point)

Broad temperament and working nature of each person.

Vashya (2 points)

Mutual attraction and the natural give-and-take between the two.

Tara (3 points)

Health and fortune indicators drawn from the birth stars.

Yoni (4 points)

Instinctive nature and physical compatibility, described through symbolic animals.

Graha Maitri (5 points)

Mental and intellectual friendship, based on the ruling planets of the Moon signs.

Gana (6 points)

Temperament and conduct, grouped as Deva, Manushya or Rakshasa.

Bhakoot (7 points)

The overall well-being and prosperity of the couple, based on the sign relationship.

Nadi (8 points)

Health and progeny indicators. This carries the highest weight; see What is Nadi dosha?

Reading the factors together

The eight points are considered together, not in isolation. A strong total with a weak individual factor still invites reflection. Ashtakoota is a traditional framework for understanding compatibility, not a guarantee of any outcome.