Kundli Matching (also called Guna Milan, Horoscope Matching, or Gun Milan) is a traditional Vedic astrology practice used to assess marriage compatibility between two people. By comparing the Moon positions in both birth charts, this system predicts how harmonious the marriage will be across multiple dimensions of life.

What is Kundli Matching?

Kundli Matching is based on the Ashtakoot system—a method that evaluates 8 different factors (Kootas) between the bride's and groom's horoscopes. Each factor is assigned points, with a maximum total of 36 points. The higher the score, the better the compatibility.

Why 36 Points?

The 36-point system has been used in Vedic astrology for over 1,000 years. It's mentioned in classical texts like Muhurta Chintamani and forms the foundation of traditional Hindu marriage matching. Each of the 8 Kootas contributes a specific number of points based on the compatibility level in that area.

The 8 Kootas (Factors) of Guna Milan

Let's break down each of the 8 compatibility factors and what they measure:

1. Varna (Spiritual Compatibility)

1 point

Measures spiritual and ego compatibility based on the classification of Nakshatras into four categories: Brahmin (spiritual), Kshatriya (warrior), Vaishya (merchant), and Shudra (service).

What it indicates: Compatibility in working together towards life goals and spiritual growth. A mismatch suggests potential ego clashes.

2. Vashya (Mutual Attraction)

2 points

Indicates the level of magnetic attraction and influence between partners. Based on five groups: Human, Quadruped (four-legged), Insect, Water, and Wild.

What it indicates: Natural attraction, control dynamics, and mutual influence in the relationship.

3. Tara (Health & Wellbeing)

3 points

Evaluates the birth star compatibility for health, longevity, and overall wellbeing of both partners after marriage.

What it indicates: Impact on each other's health and fate. Important for ensuring both partners support each other's wellbeing.

4. Yoni (Sexual Compatibility)

4 points

Measures physical and sexual compatibility based on animal symbolism (14 animals representing different Nakshatras).

What it indicates: Physical intimacy, biological compatibility, and satisfaction in married life. Natural enemies (like cat & rat) score 0 points.

5. Graha Maitri (Mental Compatibility)

5 points

One of the most important factors—measures psychological and intellectual compatibility based on the relationship between Moon sign lords.

What it indicates: Mental wavelength, understanding, friendship, and day-to-day compatibility. Low scores mean frequent misunderstandings.

6. Gana (Temperament)

6 points

Compares nature and temperament. Three categories: Deva (divine/gentle), Manushya (human/balanced), Rakshasa (demon/aggressive).

What it indicates: Behavioral compatibility and ability to adjust. Deva-Rakshasa combinations are challenging but not impossible.

7. Bhakoot (Emotional Compatibility)

7 points

Examines love, affection, and emotional bonding based on Moon sign positions (Rashi lords). Checks for 2/12, 6/8, and 5/9 relationships.

What it indicates: Family welfare, children, and financial prosperity after marriage. Certain sign combinations (6/8, 2/12) can create Bhakoot Dosha.

8. Nadi (Health & Progeny)

8 points

The most critical factor—measures genetic compatibility and health of children. Three Nadis: Aadi (Vata), Madhya (Pitta), Antya (Kapha).

Critical: Same Nadi (Nadi Dosha) scores 0 points and is considered a significant defect. It may indicate health issues for children or genetic incompatibility.

What Score Do You Need for Marriage?

The minimum score required for marriage varies by tradition, but here's the general consensus:

Guna Milan Score Interpretation

0-18

Poor Match

Marriage not recommended. Very low compatibility with potential for significant conflicts.

18-24

Average Match

Acceptable but requires effort. May face challenges but can work with understanding and remedies.

24-32

Good Match

Strong compatibility. Most marriages in this range are successful and harmonious.

32-36

Excellent Match

Exceptional compatibility. Rare and highly favorable for a blissful marriage.

⚠️ Important: While 18/36 is often cited as the minimum, many experts recommend at least 21-24 points for a stable marriage, especially if there are other doshas present.

Major Doshas to Check Beyond Gun Milan

Gun Milan score is important, but these doshas must also be checked for complete compatibility:

⚔️

Mangal Dosha (Mars Affliction)

If one partner has Mangal Dosha, the other should too for cancellation. Read our complete Mangal Dosha guide.

🌊

Nadi Dosha (Same Nadi)

When both have the same Nadi (Aadi, Madhya, or Antya), it creates Nadi Dosha—considered very serious unless cancelled by other factors.

💔

Bhakoot Dosha (2/12 or 6/8 Signs)

Certain Moon sign combinations create Bhakoot Dosha, affecting family welfare and children.

Can You Marry with Low Gun Milan Score?

Yes—but with caution. Here's when a low score might still work:

Strong Individual Charts: If both charts show strong Venus, Jupiter, and 7th house, marriage can be happy despite low Guna Milan.
Compatible Dashas: If both are running favorable planetary periods (dashas), it compensates for low Gun Milan.
High Marks in Critical Gunas: If you score well in Nadi, Graha Maitri, and Bhakoot (the three most important), overall compatibility may still be good.
Mutual Love and Understanding: Real-world compatibility, communication, and shared values matter more than any astrological score.

Modern Perspective

While Guna Milan is a time-tested system, it should guide—not dictate—marriage decisions. Many successful marriages have scores below 24, and some high-scoring matches end in divorce. Astrology is one tool among many for assessing compatibility. Personal understanding, communication, shared values, and commitment matter far more than any numerical score.

How to Get Your Kundli Matched

To perform accurate Kundli Matching, you need:

Accurate Birth Details: Exact birth date, time (within 5-10 minutes), and place for both partners.
Vedic Birth Charts: Both horoscopes calculated using the Sidereal zodiac system.
Moon Sign & Nakshatra: The Ashtakoot system primarily uses Moon positions.
Complete Dosha Analysis: Check for Mangal Dosha, Nadi Dosha, and other afflictions beyond just the 36-point score.

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What If There Are Doshas?

If Kundli Matching reveals doshas or low compatibility, don't panic. Here are remedies:

1. Vedic Remedies

• Perform Navagraha Shanti Puja to appease afflicted planets
• Chant specific mantras for Venus (marriage significator)
• Wear recommended gemstones after consultation
• Observe fasts on days ruled by afflicted planets

2. Timing Remedies

Choose an auspicious Muhurat (auspicious time) for marriage ceremony. A powerful Muhurat can neutralize many doshas and strengthen the union.

3. Lifestyle Adjustments

Focus on communication, understanding, and compromise. Awareness of astrological challenges can actually help couples navigate them better.

Beyond Kundli Matching: Other Compatibility Factors

While Guna Milan is important, complete marriage analysis should include:

7th House Analysis: The house of marriage in both charts
Venus & Jupiter: Marriage significators—their strength, aspects, and dignity
Dasha Analysis: Current and upcoming planetary periods affecting marriage
Navamsa Chart (D9): The most important divisional chart for marriage matters
Upapada Lagna: A special calculation showing marriage karma

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is 18/36 enough for marriage?

18 is the traditional minimum, but modern experts recommend 21-24+ for better compatibility. What matters more is which specific Gunas scored well—Nadi, Graha Maitri, and Bhakoot are most critical.

What if we love each other but have low Gun Milan?

Love marriages can work despite low scores if you're aware of potential challenges. Get a detailed analysis to understand specific areas of incompatibility, then work on communication and remedies. Many love marriages with low scores succeed through mutual effort.

Can Nadi Dosha be cancelled?

Yes, Nadi Dosha gets cancelled if: both have the same Nakshatra but different Padas, both have the same Rashi but different Nakshatras, or there are strong benefic planetary yogas. Consult an expert for proper analysis.

Should I reject someone with low Guna Milan?

Not automatically. Check the complete chart—individual planetary positions, Dashas, Navamsa compatibility. Many factors beyond Guna Milan affect marriage success. Use astrology as guidance, not as the sole decision-maker.

Does Gun Milan apply to love marriages?

Yes, Kundli Matching applies to all marriages—arranged or love. In fact, checking compatibility before marriage is even more important in love marriages to understand potential challenges you might face together.

Note: This guide explains the traditional Ashtakoot Gun Milan system. For personalized analysis, consult a qualified Vedic astrologer who can examine all factors in context. Astrology should inform—not control—your life decisions.