Mula Nakshatra — Meaning, Deity, Traits & Padas

Mūla means 'root', 'foundation' or 'origin'. It points to getting to the root of things, as well as to uprooting.

About Mula

Mula is the nineteenth nakshatra, spanning Dhanu 0°00′ to 13°20′ at the start of Sagittarius. Its stars form the tail of Scorpius, including Shaula (Lambda Scorpii). The direction of Mula lies close to the centre of the Milky Way galaxy, which some modern writers connect with its theme of origins. Ketu is its Vimshottari lord and Jupiter rules the sign.

Mula is classed as tikshna (sharp), yet it is also included among the eleven classical marriage nakshatras. Its first pada begins at a water-fire junction and is gandanta; a gandamula shanti is customary for births in it. During Navaratri in South India, the day the Moon is in Mula is dedicated to Saraswati, when books and instruments are worshipped.

Traditional characteristics

Mula natives are described as investigative, philosophical, independent and determined to get to the bottom of matters. They are said to experience sudden reversals that lead to renewal. Classical texts also mention pride and a tendency to be outspoken. Research, medicine (especially herbal medicine), philosophy and investigative work are traditionally associated with this star.

These descriptions reflect traditional beliefs recorded in Jyotisha literature. Astrologers read the birth nakshatra together with the whole horoscope, and these attributes are not scientific findings.

Deity and mythology

The deity is Nirriti, the goddess of dissolution and misfortune, who dwells in the southwest. Vedic rituals sought to send Nirriti away, but she also represents the destruction necessary before new growth. Some later traditions name Prajapati or Indra as alternate lords. The symbol of tied roots reflects both foundation and the act of uprooting.

The four padas of Mula

Each pada spans 3°20′ and corresponds to one navamsa (D9) sign. Mula holds padas 73 to 76 of the 108 in the zodiac.

1. Pada 1: Mesha (Aries) navamsa — Dhanu 0°00′ – 3°20′; navamsa lord Mars, emphasising initiative, courage and a pioneering, self-starting drive. Name syllable: Ye.
2. Pada 2: Vrishabha (Taurus) navamsa — Dhanu 3°20′ – 6°40′; navamsa lord Venus, emphasising steadiness, comfort, material security and an eye for beauty. Name syllable: Yo.
3. Pada 3: Mithuna (Gemini) navamsa — Dhanu 6°40′ – 10°00′; navamsa lord Mercury, emphasising curiosity, communication, adaptability and quick learning. Name syllable: Bha.
4. Pada 4: Karka (Cancer) navamsa — Dhanu 10°00′ – 13°20′; navamsa lord the Moon, emphasising nurturing, emotional sensitivity and attachment to home and family. Name syllable: Bhi.