Vedic Matchmaking Glossary
Plain-language definitions of the terms you will meet in kundli matching — each linked to a deeper guide where one exists.
Ashtakoota
The eight-part Vedic compatibility system used in Indian matchmaking. It scores a couple across 8 kootas for a maximum of 36 gunas.
What is Ashtakoota Guna Milan?Guna Milan
Literally 'compatibility scoring' — the process of comparing two birth charts to compute a guna score. A score of 18/36 is traditionally considered the minimum for a good match.
How Does Kundli Matching Work?Koota
One of the eight compatibility factors in the Ashtakoota system: Varna, Vashya, Tara, Yoni, Graha Maitri, Gana, Bhakoot, and Nadi.
The eight kootas explainedGuna
A point in the Ashtakoota scoring system. The 36 gunas are distributed across the eight kootas, with the heaviest weights on Nadi (8), Bhakoot (7), and Gana (6).
How gunas are scoredDosha
A flaw or affliction in a birth chart that can affect marital harmony. The most discussed in matchmaking is Manglik (Mangal) dosha.
Manglik dosha explainedManglik / Mangal Dosha
A condition arising when Mars is placed in certain houses of the birth chart (traditionally 1, 2, 4, 7, 8, or 12). It can be canceled when Mars is exalted, in its own sign, or under other chart conditions.
Manglik Dosha Matching ExplainedNadi
The 8-point koota relating to genetic compatibility and the health of future children. Same-nadi pairs traditionally score 0 here (Nadi Dosha).
Bhakoot
The 7-point koota relating to emotional bonding, health, and family prosperity, based on the moon sign distance between the couple.
Gana
The 6-point koota comparing temperament and social behavior, categorized as Deva (divine), Manushya (human), or Rakshasa (demon).
Graha Maitri
The 5-point koota measuring mental rapport and friendship between the planetary lords of the couple's moon signs.
Yoni
The 4-point koota comparing instinctual and physical compatibility, mapped to animal symbols in the Vedic tradition.
Tara
The 3-point koota assessing destiny and longevity based on the nakshatra (constellation) positions of the couple.
Vashya
The 2-point koota measuring mutual attraction and the balance of control in the relationship.
Varna
The 1-point koota comparing spiritual and ego compatibility between the couple.
Kundli
The Vedic birth chart — a map of planetary positions at the moment of birth, used as the basis for all matching calculations.
How a kundli is usedNRI Matrimony
Matchmaking for Indians living abroad, combining traditional compatibility checks with tools for long-distance connection like video calling.
NRI Matrimony with Kundli Matching