Guna Milan Calculation: Step-by-Step 36 Guna Guide

Definition (snippet-ready): Guna Milan (Ashtakoota) is the 36-point Vedic compatibility system that scores eight factors—Varna, Vashya, Tara, Yoni, Graha Maitri, Gana, Bhakoot, and Nadi—using the couple’s Moon sign (Rashi) and Nakshatra. A score of 18+ is workable, 24+ is strong, and 30+ is exceptional.
Last reviewed: Dec 2025 (meta refreshed, PAA/FAQ expanded, snippet definition added)

🚀 Quick Score Interpretation (Skip to This First!)

Your Guna Score = Your Compatibility Level

Score	Compatibility	What It Means
30-36	✅ Exceptional	Rare alignment; minimal remedies needed
24-29	✅ Very Good	Strong foundation; minor adjustments
18-23	⚠️ Acceptable	Workable match; recommend remedies
Below 18	❌ Challenging	Significant work required; consult astrologer

Quick Action: Don’t know your score? Get Your Instant Guna Score Now in 2 minutes.

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Complete 36 Guna Table Breakdown

The Guna table—also called the Ashtakoot (eight-category) matrix—is the backbone of traditional Vedic marriage matching. While apps can generate an instant score, understanding the 36 Guna calculation method helps you interpret the numbers accurately, explain results to family, and make confident relationship decisions.

This deep-dive guide demystifies every step of the calculation. We will chart the exact points available in each category, explain how to derive scores from the couple’s Moon sign (Chandra Rashi) and Nakshatra (lunar mansion), and walk through a complete example so you can replicate the process manually or verify automated reports.

Here’s the complete 36 Guna table showing all eight categories and their maximum points:

Quick Score Guide:

• 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 (remedies recommended)

Overview of the 36 Guna Matching Framework

The Ashtakoot system compares eight compatibility pillars. Each pillar contributes a specific number of points to the final score. Total score = 36. Traditionally, a score ≥18 suggests basic compatibility, ≥24 indicates strong alignment, and ≥30 is considered exceptional.

Step-by-Step: How to Calculate Each Guna

1. Varna (Role Alignment) – 1 Point

Varna groups the 12 Moon signs into four spiritual categories:

• Brahmin (spiritual guide): Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces
• Kshatriya (protector): Aries, Leo, Sagittarius
• Vaishya (nurturer): Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn
• Shudra (supporter): Gemini, Libra, Aquarius

If the groom’s Varna is the same or higher than the bride’s, award 1 point; otherwise, 0. This reflects traditional social compatibility but should be balanced with modern equality values.

2. Vashya (Mutual Influence) – 2 Points

Vashya captures the energy dynamics between signs:

• Chatushpada (four-legged): Aries, Taurus, Leo (first half), Capricorn
• Dwipada (two-legged): Gemini, Virgo, Libra, Aquarius
• Jalachara (water-born): Cancer, Pisces
• Vanachara (forest): Leo (second half), Sagittarius
• Keeta (insect): Scorpio

Score 2, 1, or 0 points depending on the compatibility matrix (available in classical tables). Similar groups often receive full points; opposing groups score lower.

3. Tara (Star Harmony) – 3 Points

Count each person’s Nakshatra number. Subtract the smaller from the larger, divide by 9, and observe the remainder:

• Remainder 0, 1, 2 → auspicious; award 3 points
• Remainder 3, 4, 5 → neutral; award 1.5 points
• Remainder 6, 7, 8 → challenging; award 0 points

Tara indicates mutual luck and health outcomes.

4. Yoni (Intimacy Harmony) – 4 Points

Each Nakshatra is associated with an animal symbol representing natural instincts. Pairs from the same or friendly species get higher points, while enemy species reduce the score. Use a Yoni compatibility chart to map scores:

• Same species or best friends → 4 points
• Neutral combination → 2-3 points
• Enemy species → 0-1 point

5. Graha Maitri (Planetary Friendship) – 5 Points

This Guna compares the ruling planets of each Moon sign:

• Friendly planets (e.g., Moon & Mercury) → 5 points
• Neutral combinations → 3 points
• Inimical combinations (e.g., Moon & Saturn) → 0-1 point

Graha Maitri predicts mental compatibility, shared values, and ability to solve problems together.

6. Gana (Temperament) – 6 Points

Nakshatras fall into three temperaments:

• Deva (divine): calm, accommodating
• Manushya (human): balanced, communicative
• Rakshasa (bold): intense, transformative

Same temperament → 6 points
Deva-Manushya mix → 5 points
Manushya-Rakshasa mix → 1 point
Deva-Rakshasa mix → 0 points

Gana sheds light on day-to-day interactions and conflict style.

7. Bhakoot (Prosperity & Emotional Bond) – 7 Points

Bhakoot measures the relationship between the couple’s Moon signs in the zodiac wheel. Count the number of signs separating them:

• 1-1 (same sign) → 7 points (unless it creates Dosha)
• 3-11 or 5-9 positions → 7 points (strengthening prosperity)
• 2-12 or 6-8 positions → 0 points (may cause financial or emotional strain)

Bhakoot is crucial for long-term stability and wealth building.

8. Nadi (Health & Genetic Harmony) – 8 Points

Nadi groups Nakshatras into three energy currents:

• Adi (Vata energy): Vitality and nervous system
• Madhya (Pitta energy): Digestion and metabolism
• Antya (Kapha energy): Immunity and stability

Same Nadi → 0 points (risk of health issues)
Different Nadi → 8 points
Some astrologers allow 4 points with remedial measures if other factors are excellent.

Example: Full 36 Guna Calculation (Step-by-Step)

Let’s walk through a complete example calculation for a real couple:

Couple Details

Step-by-Step Calculation

Final Score Summary

Interpretation: The couple scores 24.5 out of 36 points, which indicates good compatibility. They cross the 18-point threshold and show excellent mental compatibility (Graha Maitri: 5/5) and strong health alignment (Nadi: 8/8). However, Bhakoot is 0 points, indicating potential financial or emotional tension. Recommended actions: Open communication about finances, relationship counseling, and Bhakoot remedies like Mangal Shanti Puja.

Tips for Using the Guna Table Responsibly

• Validate data accuracy before calculating. Even a 4-minute birth-time error can shift the Moon into a different Nakshatra.
• Analyze weak gunas individually. A low Bhakoot score may require additional chart analysis and lifestyle planning.
• Check Manglik Dosha (Mars imbalance) separately. High Guna scores do not neutralize Manglik effects.
• Consider modern equality when interpreting Varna or Gana. Use these insights to discuss expectations rather than judge worth.
• Seek professional guidance for borderline cases or when contradictory signals appear.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can we improve a low Guna score?
Spiritual remedies, mutual understanding, and counseling can help manage weaker gunas. Rituals like Mangal Shanti (Mars harmonizing) or Nadi Dosh Nivaran Puja (energy balancing) are traditionally recommended.

Is manual calculation still necessary in the age of apps?
Apps are convenient, but manual knowledge ensures you can verify results and explain them during family discussions. It also helps you customize remedies.

What if the total score is high but Nadi is zero?
Nadi carries the highest weight because it relates to health and future children. Zero Nadi points require a detailed consultation to assess medical history and plan remedies.

Does Guna matching guarantee a happy marriage?
No system can guarantee outcomes. Guna matching highlights potential harmony areas and challenges. Emotional maturity, communication, and shared values play equally important roles.

Next Steps for Accurate Guna Matching

1. Gather both partners’ birth details and generate precise charts.
2. Use the Guna table method above to calculate each category manually.
3. Note which gunas need remedies or conscious effort.
4. Discuss expectations openly—finance, family, career, lifestyle.
5. Consult a trusted astrologer for personalized guidance and ritual support.

By mastering the guna table calculation method, you build confidence in interpreting the 36-point system and empower couples to approach marriage with clarity, respect, and shared intention.

Build Your Own Spreadsheet Calculator

Creating a personal calculator deepens your understanding and makes it easy to share results with family. Here is a simple structure to recreate in Google Sheets or Excel:

1. Tab 1 – Input Data

   • Columns for each partner’s name, birth details, Moon sign, Nakshatra number, Nakshatra animal (Yoni), ruling planet, Nadi group, and Gana.
   • Use data validation lists so you can pick options quickly without typos.

2. Tab 2 – Calculation Matrix

   • Preload compatibility tables (Varna hierarchy, Vashya combinations, Tara remainder logic, Yoni friend/enemy list, Graha friendships, Gana blending scores, Bhakoot house distances, Nadi matches).
   • Reference these tables using lookup formulas (VLOOKUP or XLOOKUP) to avoid manual errors.

3. Tab 3 – Score Summary

   • Pull values from the matrix and display a bar chart showing how close each Guna is to its maximum.
   • Include conditional formatting to highlight categories scoring under 2 points.

4. Tab 4 – Notes & Remedies

   • Document astrologer feedback, planned rituals, therapy goals, and timeline checkpoints.
   • Add checklist columns to mark when a remedy (e.g., weekly Hanuman Chalisa chanting) is completed.

This DIY tool increases transparency and invites collaborative conversations instead of one-sided verdicts.

Advanced Evaluation Techniques

Weighted Guna Prioritization

Some modern astrologers adjust the traditional weights to reflect contemporary needs. For example, couples prioritizing health may double-weight Nadi, while those managing intercultural marriages may emphasize Gana and Graha Maitri. To experiment:

1. Assign a custom weight (0–2) to each Guna based on mutual priorities.
2. Multiply the original score by the weight to calculate an adjusted total.
3. Compare scenarios—traditional weighting vs customized—to see how priorities shift recommendations.

Time-Bound Analysis with Dashas

Overlay upcoming planetary periods (dashas) on top of the Guna analysis. If an intense Saturn dasha is approaching for one partner, strengthen Bhakoot, Gana, and remedy plans proactively. Use a timeline to map:

• Year-by-year dashas for both individuals
• Major life events you plan (engagement, marriage, relocation)
• Recommended rituals to perform before each milestone

Synastry Layer

After Ashtakoot scoring, analyze actual planetary aspects between charts (synastry). Look for:

• Supportive combinations such as mutual Moon-Venus trines (emotional harmony) or Sun-Jupiter trines (shared values).
• Challenging contacts (e.g., Mars square Venus) that may require boundaries or therapy.
• House overlays to see where each partner activates the other’s life areas.

Integrating synastry ensures you do not over-rely on the Moon alone.

Expanded Case Library

Score	Scenario	Key Insight
34/36	Childhood friends with similar cultural backgrounds	High scores reflected shared routines; focus stayed on career planning rather than remedies.
27/36	Long-distance couple planning relocation abroad	Bhakoot strong, Tara moderate; success came from aligning immigration timing with Jupiter transits.
21/36	Partners from different spiritual traditions	Gana mismatch flagged communication issues; joint counseling + flexible rituals created harmony.
14/36	Second marriage after divorce	Low Nadi and Bhakoot; couple postponed legal marriage and instead built stability via therapy and financial planning before revisiting.

When you catalog multiple real-life cases, patterns emerge about which remedies work fastest and which mismatches require structural lifestyle changes.

Remedial Toolkit Reference

• Mantras: “Om Shukraya Namaha” to soften Venus conflicts, “Om Chandraya Namaha” for emotional balance, “Om Namah Shivaya” to calm intense Mars/Saturn tension.
• Vrat (Fasts): Monday fast for Moon harmony, Friday fast for Venus; align with Nakshatra-specific recommendations when possible.
• Charity: Donate food or clothing on Saturdays to appease Saturn when Bhakoot is weak. Support education initiatives when Graha Maitri is low (Mercury involvement).
• Counseling & Workshops: Communication training, non-violent communication workshops, and financial literacy courses complement Nadi or Bhakoot remedies.

Document which remedies you try, noting dates and emotional shifts. Continuous observation builds confidence in your tailored approach.

Additional FAQs

Can two people with identical Moon signs marry safely?
Yes, especially if individual charts show strong marriage yogas. However, ensure Nadi is different (or remedies applied) and that both charts can handle shared emotional waves during intense transits.

How do we handle borderline scores (18–20)?
Investigate which categories dragged the score down, then focus lifestyle design around those themes. For instance, low Gana and Graha Maitri call for communication rituals, while low Tara and Bhakoot invite health monitoring and financial planning.

Does the groom/bride hierarchy still matter today?
Historically, Varna evaluation required the groom’s position to match or exceed the bride’s. Modern practitioners treat Varna as symbolic, emphasizing mutual respect rather than hierarchy.

What if one partner lacks exact birth time?
Moon sign accuracy becomes uncertain if the Moon changed signs that day. Consult an astrologer for birth time rectification using life events; until then, analyze both possible Moon placements and plan for the most cautious scenario.

How many points are “good enough” for marriage today?
18–23 is workable with remedies and communication; 24–29 is strong; 30–36 is exceptional.

Can remedies improve a low Bhakoot or Nadi score?
They can ease friction—Moon/Venus/Saturn charities, counseling, and health routines help—but clear conversations and realistic plans matter most.

What’s the fastest way to explain this to family elders?
Share the definition box, the score table, and a one-page breakdown of each Guna with remedies. Emphasize respect, clarity, and actionable steps—not fear.

Master Checklist Before Sharing Results with Families

• Confirm both charts use the same ayanamsa (e.g., Lahiri) and timezone adjustments.
• Double-check Moon sign and Nakshatra numbers with at least two trusted software tools.
• Record individual chart strengths (marriage-supporting yogas) alongside the Ashtakoot score.
• Prepare a one-page summary explaining each Guna score in simple language for family elders.
• List recommended remedies and timelines so families see proactive action items, not just numbers.
• Set a follow-up date to review outcomes, ensuring the analysis stays dynamic and compassionate.

Armed with this methodical approach, you transform the Guna table from a mysterious chart into a collaborative roadmap that honors tradition while empowering informed, modern decisions.

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📚 Related Articles

Compatibility Matching

• Kundli Matching - Complete matching guide
• Guna Milan Explained - Detailed calculation methods
• Compatibility Basics - Love astrology fundamentals

Marriage Planning

• 7th House Analysis - Marriage indicators
• Best Marriage Muhurat - Auspicious timing
• Interfaith Marriage - Cross-culture marriages

Remedies & Solutions

• Vedic Remedies - All remedy types
• Delayed Marriage - Overcome obstacles
• Venus Placement - Love indicator

When 36 gunas align, 36 reasons for lasting love emerge.

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Author & Review
VedicGod Editorial Team — guided by senior Vedic astrology editors (10+ years in compatibility analysis). Reviewed Dec 2025 for accuracy, snippet readiness, and PAA coverage. Internal links updated to hubs/tools/services.