Guna Milan: 36-Point Compatibility Calculator
Definition (snippet-ready): Guna Milan (Ashtakoota) is the Vedic 36-point compatibility system that scores eight factors—Varna, Vashya, Tara, Yoni, Graha Maitri, Gana, Bhakoot, and Nadi—using both partners’ Moon sign (Rashi) and Nakshatra. A score of 18+ is workable, 24+ is strong, and 30+ is exceptional.
Last reviewed: Dec 2025 (PAA-expanded FAQs, snippet definition, internal links refreshed)
The Guna Milan system stands as one of Vedic astrology’s most sophisticated compatibility assessment tools. This 36-point matching system, rooted in thousands of years of observation and wisdom, evaluates eight crucial dimensions of marital compatibility known as Ashtakoota.
Understanding how Guna Milan works empowers you to make informed decisions about marriage compatibility while appreciating the depth of Vedic astrological wisdom.
⚡ Quick Calculator: Find Your Score in 5 Minutes
Need your compatibility score right now? Use this quick method:
- Find your Nakshatra: Enter your birth details in our Free Birth Chart Calculator
- Find partner’s Nakshatra: Same process for your partner
- Use the tables below: Look up each factor’s score
- Add them up: Total out of 36 points
Quick Interpretation:
- 30-36 points: Excellent compatibility (rare)
- 25-29 points: Very good compatibility
- 20-24 points: Good compatibility
- 18-19 points: Acceptable compatibility
- Below 18: Challenging compatibility
💡 Pro Tip: Want to calculate your compatibility instantly? Use our Free Birth Chart Calculator to get both Nakshatras, then use the tables below!
The Foundation: What is Guna Milan?
Guna Milan (also called Koota matching) is a systematic method of assessing compatibility between two individuals by comparing their birth charts. The word “Guna” means qualities or characteristics, while “Milan” means matching or union.
The system assigns points for compatibility across eight specific factors, with a maximum possible score of 36 points. Each factor examines a different dimension of married life, from physical attraction to spiritual compatibility.
Quick Calculation Table
Before diving into details, here’s your at-a-glance scoring reference:
| Factor | Maximum Points | What It Measures | Key for Full Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Varna | 1 | Spiritual compatibility | Compatible ego levels |
| Vashya | 2 | Mutual attraction | Natural gravitational pull |
| Tara | 3 | Health & destiny | Mutually favorable stars |
| Yoni | 4 | Sexual compatibility | Same/friendly animal symbols |
| Graha Maitri | 5 | Mental compatibility | Friendly ruling planets |
| Gana | 6 | Temperament match | Same or compatible Gana |
| Bhakoot | 7 | Prosperity & progeny | Favorable moon positions |
| Nadi | 8 | Genetic compatibility | Different Nadi types |
| TOTAL | 36 | Overall compatibility | 18+ acceptable, 25+ good |
Compatibility Score Action Plan
| Total Score | Compatibility Mood | What To Prioritize | When To Consult an Astrologer |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-36 | Excellent | Lock wedding dates, plan joint finances, schedule family introductions | Optional check-in for muhurat selection |
| 25-29 | Very good | Work on communication styles, align long-term goals, plan combined rituals | Book a consult for remedial mantras + ideal ceremony timing |
| 20-24 | Manageable | Address conflict triggers early, attend premarital coaching, discuss money scripts | Mandatory—request deeper chart reading + remedies |
| 18-19 | Sensitive | Slow timeline, invest in counseling, perform remedial pujas before engagement | Essential multi-session consultation + health/fertility checks |
| Below 18 | High risk | Decide if relationship goals align, evaluate family expectations | Comprehensive compatibility + divisional chart review before proceeding |
How to Calculate Your Score: Step-by-Step Method
You’ll need:
- Both birth charts (your birth date, time, and place)
- Birth Nakshatra (lunar mansion) for both individuals
- Moon sign (Rashi) for both individuals
Calculation Process:
- Identify both Nakshatras from birth charts
- Use the tables below to find your scores for each of the 8 factors
- Add all scores together for your total (out of 36)
- Compare with interpretation guidelines
The Eight Compatibility Factors Explained
Let’s dive deep into each of the eight Ashtakoota factors:
1. Varna Koota (1 Point Maximum)
What it measures: Spiritual compatibility and ego compatibility
Varna classifies individuals into four categories based on their birth Nakshatra:
- Brahmin (spiritual/intellectual orientation)
- Kshatriya (warrior/leadership qualities)
- Vaishya (business/trade inclination)
- Shudra (service-oriented nature)
Point awarded when: The bride’s Varna is equal to or lower than the groom’s in the traditional hierarchy. Modern interpretations focus on mutual respect rather than hierarchy.
What it means for marriage: Compatibility in life approaches and ability to respect each other’s fundamental nature and ego needs.
Calculation Table for Varna:
| Nakshatra | Varna Type |
|---|---|
| Ashwini, Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Hasta, Jyeshtha, Moola, Revati, Abhijit | Brahmin |
| Bharani, Mrigashira, Poorva Phalguni, Uttara Phalguni, Poorva Ashadha, Uttara Ashadha, Poorva Bhadrapada, Uttara Bhadrapada | Kshatriya |
| Krittika, Rohini, Ashlesha, Magha, Chitra, Anuradha, Dhanishta | Vaishya |
| Swati, Vishakha, Shravana, Shatabhisha | Shudra |
Scoring Rule: 1 point if bride’s Varna is equal or lower in hierarchy (modern: mutual respect regardless of order).
2. Vashya Koota (2 Points Maximum)
What it measures: Mutual attraction and control dynamics
Vashya determines natural attraction patterns based on five animal classifications:
- Chatushpada (quadruped - grounded, stable)
- Dwipada (biped - flexible, adaptable)
- Jalchar (aquatic - emotional, intuitive)
- Vanchar (wild - independent, unpredictable)
- Keeta (insect - detail-oriented, industrious)
Points awarded: 2 points for strong mutual attraction, 1 point for moderate, 0 for no natural attraction.
What it means for marriage: Natural gravitational pull between partners and who influences whom in the relationship.
3. Tara Koota (3 Points Maximum)
What it measures: Health, destiny, and well-being compatibility
Tara analyzes the birth Nakshatras to determine whether partners bring auspiciousness or challenges to each other’s life journey.
The system divides stars into:
- Janma Tara (birth star)
- Sampat Tara (wealth)
- Vipat Tara (danger)
- Kshema Tara (well-being)
- Pratyak Tara (obstacles)
- Sadhana Tara (achievement)
- Vadha Tara (death/destruction)
- Mitra Tara (friend)
- Atimitra Tara (intimate friend)
Points awarded: 3 points when both partners’ stars are mutually favorable, 1.5 for moderate, 0 for unfavorable.
What it means for marriage: Whether partners support or inadvertently harm each other’s health, success, and overall life trajectory.
4. Yoni Koota (4 Points Maximum)
What it measures: Sexual and biological compatibility
Yoni represents the primal, animal nature of individuals, assessing physical and sexual compatibility. Each Nakshatra is assigned one of 14 animal symbols:
- Horse, Elephant, Sheep, Snake, Dog, Cat, Rat, Cow, Buffalo, Tiger, Deer, Monkey, Mongoose, Lion
Points awarded:
- 4 points: Perfect harmony (same or naturally friendly animals)
- 3 points: Good compatibility
- 2 points: Average compatibility
- 1 point: Difficult compatibility
- 0 points: Natural enemies (like cat and rat)
What it means for marriage: Physical attraction, sexual harmony, and biological compatibility including reproductive health.
Calculation Table for Yoni:
| Nakshatra | Yoni (Animal) |
|---|---|
| Ashwini | Horse (Male) |
| Bharani | Elephant (Male) |
| Krittika | Sheep (Female) |
| Rohini | Snake (Male) |
| Mrigashira | Snake (Female) |
| Ardra | Dog (Female) |
| Punarvasu | Cat (Female) |
| Pushya | Sheep (Male) |
| Ashlesha | Cat (Male) |
| Magha | Rat (Male) |
| Poorva Phalguni | Rat (Female) |
| Uttara Phalguni | Cow (Male) |
| Hasta | Buffalo (Female) |
| Chitra | Tiger (Female) |
| Swati | Buffalo (Male) |
| Vishakha | Tiger (Male) |
| Anuradha | Deer (Female) |
| Jyeshtha | Deer (Male) |
| Moola | Dog (Male) |
| Poorva Ashadha | Monkey (Male) |
| Uttara Ashadha | Mongoose (Male) |
| Shravana | Monkey (Female) |
| Dhanishta | Lion (Female) |
| Shatabhisha | Horse (Female) |
| Poorva Bhadrapada | Lion (Male) |
| Uttara Bhadrapada | Cow (Female) |
| Revati | Elephant (Female) |
Yoni Compatibility Scoring:
- 4 points: Same animal OR naturally friendly pairs (Horse-Horse, Elephant-Elephant, Snake-Snake, Cow-Buffalo, etc.)
- 3 points: Compatible but not perfect (most neutral combinations)
- 2 points: Some friction (predator-neutral combos like Tiger-Deer with care)
- 1 point: Challenging (natural enemies need conscious work)
- 0 points: Severe incompatibility (Cat-Rat, Snake-Mongoose, Dog-Deer - traditional enemies)
5. Graha Maitri Koota (5 Points Maximum)
What it measures: Mental, intellectual, and emotional compatibility
Graha Maitri examines the relationship between the ruling planets (lords) of both individuals’ birth Nakshatras. It reveals whether minds naturally synchronize or clash.
Points awarded:
- 5 points: Ruling planets are natural friends or the same
- 4 points: Friendly relationship
- 3 points: Neutral relationship
- 2 points: Somewhat unfriendly
- 0-1 points: Natural enemies
What it means for marriage: Communication effectiveness, emotional understanding, intellectual stimulation, and psychological compatibility. This factor heavily influences day-to-day happiness.
6. Gana Koota (6 Points Maximum)
What it measures: Temperament and behavioral compatibility
Gana classifies individuals into three fundamental temperament types:
- Deva Gana (Divine): Gentle, spiritual, compromise-oriented
- Manushya Gana (Human): Balanced, practical, mixture of qualities
- Rakshasa Gana (Demonic): Aggressive, materialistic, dominant
Points awarded:
- 6 points: Both same Gana or Deva-Manushya combination
- 5 points: Manushya-Manushya
- 1 point: Deva-Rakshasa (usually considered incompatible)
- 0 points: Same Rakshasa can work but requires awareness
What it means for marriage: Daily behavioral harmony, conflict resolution styles, and fundamental approach to life situations.
Calculation Table for Gana:
| Nakshatra | Gana Type |
|---|---|
| Ashwini, Mrigashira, Punarvasu, Pushya, Hasta, Swati, Anuradha, Shravana, Revati | Deva (Divine) |
| Bharani, Rohini, Ardra, Poorva Phalguni, Uttara Phalguni, Poorva Ashadha, Uttara Ashadha, Poorva Bhadrapada, Uttara Bhadrapada | Manushya (Human) |
| Krittika, Ashlesha, Magha, Chitra, Vishakha, Jyeshtha, Moola, Dhanishta, Shatabhisha | Rakshasa (Demonic) |
Gana Compatibility Scoring:
- 6 points: Both same Gana OR Deva-Manushya combination
- 5 points: Manushya-Manushya
- 3 points: Deva-Rakshasa (workable with awareness)
- 1 point: Rakshasa-Rakshasa (requires maturity)
- 0 points: Certain challenging Rakshasa combinations
7. Bhakoot Koota (7 Points Maximum)
What it measures: Prosperity, progeny, and family growth
Bhakoot analyzes the moon sign positions in both charts, specifically the distance between them. Certain combinations create “Bhakoot Dosha” which can affect financial prosperity and children.
Points awarded: 7 points for favorable combinations, 0 for problematic ones (like 2-12, 5-9, 6-8 relationships between moon signs).
What it means for marriage: Financial harmony, ability to accumulate wealth together, fertility, and overall family prosperity.
8. Nadi Koota (8 Points Maximum)
What it measures: Genetic compatibility and health of progeny
Nadi is considered the most critical factor. It represents the pulse or bio-energy channel. There are three Nadis:
- Aadi (Vata) - represents breath/air energy
- Madhya (Pitta) - represents bile/fire energy
- Antya (Kapha) - represents phlegm/water energy
Points awarded: 8 points if Nadis are different, 0 points if same (called Nadi Dosha).
What it means for marriage: Genetic diversity for healthy offspring, complementary energy systems, and overall health compatibility. Nadi Dosha is traditionally considered very serious, though modern astrologers consider exceptions.
Calculation Table for Nadi:
| Nakshatra | Nadi Type |
|---|---|
| Ashwini, Ardra, Punarvasu, Uttara Phalguni, Hasta, Jyeshtha, Moola, Shatabhisha, Uttara Bhadrapada | Aadi (Vata) |
| Bharani, Mrigashira, Pushya, Poorva Phalguni, Chitra, Anuradha, Poorva Ashadha, Dhanishta, Poorva Bhadrapada | Madhya (Pitta) |
| Krittika, Rohini, Ashlesha, Magha, Swati, Vishakha, Uttara Ashadha, Shravana, Revati | Antya (Kapha) |
Nadi Scoring:
- 8 points: Different Nadi types (e.g., Aadi-Madhya, Madhya-Antya, Aadi-Antya)
- 0 points: Same Nadi (Nadi Dosha - requires careful consideration and possible remedies)
Important Note on Nadi Dosha: While same Nadi traditionally receives 0 points, modern astrology recognizes exceptions:
- Exception if both belong to same Nakshatra but different Padas (quarters)
- Exception if both have same Rashi but different Nakshatras
- Remedies available include specific mantras and gemstone recommendations
Practical Calculation Example
Example Couple:
- Bride: Born with Nakshatra = Rohini, Moon Sign = Taurus
- Groom: Born with Nakshatra = Hasta, Moon Sign = Virgo
Let’s calculate their Guna Milan score:
| Factor | Bride (Rohini) | Groom (Hasta) | Points Awarded | Max Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Varna | Vaishya | Brahmin | 1 | 1 |
| Vashya | Chatushpada | Dwipada | 2 | 2 |
| Tara | Calculate from Nakshatra count | - | 3 | 3 |
| Yoni | Snake (Male) | Buffalo (Female) | 2 | 4 |
| Graha Maitri | Moon lord | Mercury lord | 5 (friends) | 5 |
| Gana | Manushya | Deva | 6 | 6 |
| Bhakoot | Taurus (2) | Virgo (6) | 7 (favorable 2-6) | 7 |
| Nadi | Antya (Kapha) | Aadi (Vata) | 8 (different) | 8 |
| TOTAL | - | - | 34 | 36 |
Interpretation: 34/36 is an excellent match with strong compatibility across all dimensions!
Interpreting Your Total Score
After calculating all eight factors:
32-36 Points: Excellent match - maximum compatibility across dimensions 25-32 Points: Very good match - strong foundation with minor adjustments needed 18-24 Points: Average match - requires conscious effort and understanding Below 18 Points: Challenging match - significant compatibility concerns
Important Considerations Beyond Numbers
While Guna Milan provides valuable insights, remember:
Exceptional Cases
- If both charts have Mangal Dosha, it often cancels out
- Strong love and mutual understanding can overcome numerical deficiencies
- Individual planetary positions and Dashas also matter significantly
Context Matters
Modern astrologers emphasize that Guna Milan is one tool among many. A complete compatibility analysis includes:
- Seventh house examination (house of marriage)
- Venus and Mars placement analysis
- Current Dasha periods
- Overall chart strength and benefic influences
When to Book a Personalized Compatibility Session
- Conflicting family expectations: When elders insist on certain norms or temple rituals, an astrologer can propose compromise muhurats.
- Repeat relationship patterns: If either partner has previous relationship failures, detailed divisional chart study highlights karmic loops.
- Health or fertility worries: Blend Guna Milan with medical advice by looking at 5th/7th house strength and recommending specific remedies.
- Cross-cultural marriages: Customized muhurat selection plus remedial rituals help balance differing faith practices.
- Tight wedding timelines: Rapid calculations risk errors—professionals can run software-backed checks and suggest backup dates.
Remedies Available
Even challenging compatibility can be improved through:
- Vedic mantras and prayers
- Gemstone recommendations
- Timing adjustments for marriage ceremony
- Conscious awareness and communication
VedicGod’s Comprehensive Approach
VedicGod’s Guna Milan analysis provides:
- Detailed breakdown of all eight factors
- Clear explanations of what each score means
- Personalized remedy suggestions for challenging areas
- Additional compatibility insights beyond the 36-point system
- Modern, relationship-focused interpretations respecting both tradition and contemporary values
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is a good Guna Milan score for marriage?
A score of 18 or above is considered acceptable for marriage in traditional Vedic astrology. However, modern interpretations suggest:
- 30-36 points: Excellent compatibility (rare, indicates strong alignment across all factors)
- 25-29 points: Very good compatibility (strong foundation with minor areas to work on)
- 20-24 points: Good compatibility (workable relationship with conscious effort)
- 18-19 points: Acceptable compatibility (requires understanding and compromise)
- Below 18: Challenging compatibility (significant differences that need careful consideration)
How accurate is Guna Milan for predicting marriage success?
Guna Milan is a valuable compatibility assessment tool, but it’s not a guarantee of marriage success. It evaluates eight key dimensions of compatibility based on thousands of years of Vedic observation. However, successful marriages also depend on:
- Communication skills and emotional maturity
- Shared values and life goals
- Mutual respect and commitment
- Individual planetary influences (Dashas, transits)
- Personal growth and relationship work
Think of Guna Milan as a sophisticated awareness tool that reveals compatibility strengths and potential challenges, not an absolute verdict.
Can you marry with a low Guna Milan score?
Yes, but it requires careful consideration. Scores below 18 indicate significant compatibility challenges across multiple factors. However, many successful marriages exist with lower scores when:
- Both partners understand the challenges and commit to working through them
- Remedies are performed (mantras, gemstones, timing adjustments)
- Strong love and mutual understanding exist
- Other astrological factors (Dashas, planetary positions) are favorable
Consult with an experienced Vedic astrologer to understand specific challenges and available remedies.
What is Nadi Dosha and how serious is it?
Nadi Dosha occurs when both partners have the same Nadi type (Aadi, Madhya, or Antya), resulting in 0 points out of 8 for the Nadi factor. Traditionally considered serious because it relates to genetic compatibility and health of progeny, modern astrology recognizes exceptions:
- Same Nakshatra but different Padas (quarters)
- Same Rashi but different Nakshatras
- Remedies available through mantras, gemstones, and timing adjustments
While Nadi Dosha requires careful consideration, it’s not an absolute barrier to marriage with proper remedies and awareness.
How do I calculate Guna Milan myself?
To calculate Guna Milan, you need:
- Both birth charts (birth date, time, and place)
- Birth Nakshatras for both individuals
- Moon signs (Rashi) for both individuals
Then follow these steps:
- Use the tables in this guide to find scores for each of the 8 factors
- Add all scores together for your total (out of 36)
- Compare with interpretation guidelines (18+ acceptable, 25+ good)
For accurate calculations, use our Free Birth Chart Calculator to get both Nakshatras, then reference the tables in this guide.
What’s the difference between Guna Milan and Kundli matching?
Guna Milan (also called Ashtakoota Milan) is the 36-point compatibility system that evaluates 8 factors. Kundli matching is the broader term that includes:
- Guna Milan (36-point system)
- Mangal Dosha analysis
- Other doshas (Nadi, Bhakoot, etc.)
- Platitle: “Planetary Positions: Chart Analysis Guide”
- Dasha compatibility
Guna Milan is the most popular component of Kundli matching, but a complete compatibility analysis includes additional factors beyond the 36-point system.
Can Guna Milan scores change over time?
No, Guna Milan scores are based on birth chart positions (Nakshatras and Moon signs) which don’t change. However, the impact of compatibility factors can evolve through:
- Personal growth and maturity
- Relationship work and communication
- Remedies and spiritual practices
- Favorable Dasha periods
While the score remains constant, understanding and working with compatibility challenges can improve relationship outcomes.
How often should we refresh this analysis?
Review when birth times are rectified, at major relationship milestones (engagement, wedding planning), and every 6–12 months to refresh meta, FAQs, and internal links for freshness.
Can remedies balance low Bhakoot or Nadi?
They can soften friction: Moon/Venus/Saturn charities, calm routines, counseling, and health focus. Still align expectations and timelines transparently with family.
How do I explain this to family in simple words?
Share the definition box, the score guide, and one-page summaries of each Guna with remedies. Emphasize respect, realistic planning, and that remedies + communication matter more than fear.
Conclusion
The Guna Milan system represents thousands of years of observation about what makes marriages work. Its 36-point assessment across eight crucial dimensions provides remarkable insights into compatibility dynamics.
However, remember that astrology reveals potentials and tendencies, not absolute destinies. A perfect score doesn’t guarantee happiness, and a lower score doesn’t doom a relationship. The real work of marriage happens through conscious communication, mutual respect, and genuine commitment.
Use Guna Milan as a sophisticated awareness tool - understanding your compatibility strengths and potential challenges empowers you to build a more conscious, harmonious partnership. Knowledge is power, and in relationships, self-awareness combined with astrological insights creates the foundation for lasting love.
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✅ Free Birth Chart Calculator - Get both Nakshatras instantly
✅ Detailed Compatibility Report - All 8 factors explained
✅ Personalized Remedies - Solutions for challenging areas
✅ Modern Interpretations - Respecting tradition and contemporary values
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Author & Review
VedicGod Editorial Team — reviewed Dec 2025 by senior Vedic compatibility editors (10+ years). FAQs/PAA expanded, snippet definition added, and internal links refreshed to hubs/tools/services.