How to Calculate Guna Milan Manually: Step-by-Step
Guna Milan (Ashtakoota matching) evaluates couple compatibility on an 8-factor, 36-point scale. Even though digital calculators exist, learning the manual method helps you understand how each koota affects the relationship, why a match may pass or fail, and what remedies apply. Follow this step-by-step guide to perform Guna Milan manually using the Moon signs and nakshatras of both partners.
Key Takeaways
- Ashtakoota scores 8 factors totaling 36 points; minimum pass is ~18, but context (dashas, doshas) matters.
- Nadi (8) and Bhakoot (7) carry the highest weights; exceptions/remedies can offset deficits when charts are strong elsewhere.
- Manual calculation improves transparency—use nakshatra tables carefully to avoid counting errors.
- Always pair Guna Milan with Manglik checks, dashas, and overall synastry before finalizing marriage decisions.
Quick Reference Table
| Koota | Focus | Max Points |
|---|---|---|
| Varna | Spiritual compatibility | 1 |
| Vashya | Dominance & harmony | 2 |
| Tara (Dina) | Health & luck | 3 |
| Yoni | Intimacy & biology | 4 |
| Graha Maitri | Mental rapport | 5 |
| Gana | Temperament | 6 |
| Bhakoot (Rashi) | Emotional bonding | 7 |
| Nadi | Health & genetics | 8 |
| Total | 36 |
Step-by-Step Calculation
1. Collect Birth Data
- Note both partners’ Moon signs (Rashi) and nakshatras.
- Determine nakshatra padas for precise results.
2. Varna (1 Point)
- Order: Brahmin > Kshatriya > Vaishya > Shudra.
- If groom’s varna is equal or higher than bride’s → 1 point, else 0.
3. Vashya (2 Points)
- Categories: Chatushpad (Aries/Taurus/Leo first half), Manav (Gemini/Virgo/Libra first half), Jalchar (Cancer/Pisces), Vanchar (Capricorn/Sagittarius), Keet (Scorpio).
- Refer to Vashya chart: perfect control scores 2, mutual friendly 1, incompatible 0.
4. Tara / Dina (3 Points)
- Count nakshatra difference from bride to groom and groom to bride.
- Divide by 9; if result is even → auspicious.
- Score: 3 for both auspicious, 1.5 for one auspicious, 0 otherwise.
5. Yoni (4 Points)
- Each nakshatra corresponds to an animal symbol (e.g., Ashwini = Horse, Bharani = Elephant).
- Yoni compatibility chart assigns 4, 3, 2, 1, or 0 points based on harmony/conflict of animal symbols.
6. Graha Maitri (5 Points)
- Based on planetary Lords of Moon signs.
- If lords are friends → 5 points; neutral → 3; enemy -> 1; mutual enemy -> 0.
7. Gana (6 Points)
- Deva (Divine), Manushya (Human), Rakshasa (Demonic).
- Same gana → 6 points, Deva-Manushya combo → 5, Manushya-Rakshasa → 1, Deva-Rakshasa → 0.
8. Bhakoot (7 Points)
- Calculate Moon sign distance from bride to groom.
- Distances of 2/12, 5/9, 6/8 considered inauspicious (0); 1/7 gets 7 points; 3/11 gets 7; 4/10 gets 7 (with some regional variations).
- Many modern astrologers apply conditional remedies rather than outright rejecting.
9. Nadi (8 Points)
- Nadi types: Aadi, Madhya, Antya.
- Same Nadi → 0 points (dosha), different Nadi → 8 points.
- Exceptions exist for same gotra or when horoscopes show strong health yogas.
Sample Calculation
| Koota | Result | Points |
|---|---|---|
| Varna | Groom > Bride | 1 |
| Vashya | Friendly signs | 2 |
| Tara | Both auspicious | 3 |
| Yoni | Harmonious | 4 |
| Graha Maitri | Lords friendly | 5 |
| Gana | Deva & Manushya | 5 |
| Bhakoot | 3/11 relation | 7 |
| Nadi | Different | 8 |
| Total | 35/36 |
Interpretation: Excellent compatibility; still examine individual doshas, Manglik status, and dashas.
Tips for Manual Accuracy
- Use Panchang Tables: Keep nakshatra animal/Gana/Vashya charts handy.
- Double-Check Counts: Counting nakshatra distance incorrectly is a common mistake—use beads or digital counters.
- Consider Exceptions: Many astrologers discount Bhakoot/Nadi doshas if charts show strong 5th/7th house benefics or identical Nakshatras across Purvashada-type alignments.
- Look Beyond Score: Minimum acceptable score is 18; however, evaluate Manglik dosha, longevity, and dasha compatibility before final decisions.
Remedies for Low Scores
- Nadi/Bhakoot Issues: Conduct Nadi dosha shanti or worship Lord Shiva/Parvati.
- Low Graha Maitri: Strengthen lagna/Moon with gemstones, mantras, or counseling.
- Partial Credit: Some families use modern counselors or therapy alongside remedies to balance challenging kootas.
FAQ
Is 18/36 the only acceptable score?
It’s a guideline. Strong charts, positive dashas, and remedies can offset lower scores, especially when Nadi/Bhakoot exceptions apply.
Which kootas matter most?
Nadi (8 points) and Bhakoot (7) weigh heavily; Yoni and Gana also impact harmony. Evaluate all eight, then review doshas separately.
Can I rely solely on Guna Milan?
No. Check Manglik status, individual dashas, longevity indicators, and personal values. Guna Milan is one piece of compatibility.
How do I avoid calculation mistakes?
Use accurate nakshatra data, double-count distances for Tara, and keep animal/gana/vashya tables handy or printed.
What if scores are low but the couple is committed?
Add remedies (pujas, fasting, counseling), schedule muhurat carefully, and strengthen 7th/lagna lords to support the relationship.
🎯 Call to Action
- ✅ Use the Guna Milan Calculator Guide alongside this manual method for double-checking scores.
- ✅ Book a Delayed Marriage Remedies Roadmap session if scores are borderline.
- ✅ Generate both charts via the Free Birth Chart Calculator to ensure accurate Moon sign/nakshatra inputs.
Related Articles
Compatibility & Marriage
- Astrology Compatibility Guide — Core frameworks for harmony.
- Love Marriage vs Arranged Marriage Astrology — Choosing the right approach.
- Dominating Spouse Astrology Signs, Yogas, Remedies — Balance power dynamics.
- Interfaith Marriage Astrology Insights — Navigate cultural blends.
Muhurat & Remedies
- Best Days for Planetary Remedies: Muhurat Guide — Weekly ritual timing.
- Delayed Marriage Remedies Roadmap — Solutions for slow timelines.
- Monthly Planetary Remedies 2026 Guide — Month-wise balancing steps.
- Navgraha Shanti Puja Complete Guide — Ritual blueprint for harmonizing planets.
Tools & Calculators
- Guna Milan Calculator Guide — Digital companion to this manual method.
- Free Birth Chart Calculator — Generate accurate Moon sign/nakshatra data.
- Second Marriage Prediction Calculator Guide — Explore multi-marriage scenarios.
Conclusion
Manual Guna Milan deepens your understanding of how each factor influences married life. Use the steps above to compute compatibility, then consult a professional astrologer for nuanced interpretation, remedial measures, and muhurat planning. Marriage thrives when astrological alignment meets conscious effort and mutual respect.
