Venus Mahadasha: 20 Years of Shukra

Twenty years is the longest of the nine periods: the mahadasha of Shukra, Venus, comes after Ketu and closes the vimshottari cycle. A mahadasha is the major period entrusted to a planet, of constant length, and each antardasha is a sub-period that a second planet directs inside it. When Venus holds a sub-period, its effects recall those of its mahadasha. This is the first period of life for someone whose Moon is in Bharani, Purva Phalguni or Purva Ashadha.

Venus stands for intoxication, ecstasy, pleasure and pride. When your natal Venus is exalted, in its own sign, in a kendra or in a trikona, the angular as well as the trine houses, the period takes on a flavor of comfort: jewelry, songs, dances, refined dishes, family celebrations, visits from friends. In moolatrikona, these effects are guaranteed. Works done for others are added: reservoirs, temples, gifts. Venus in house 4 and ruler of the 9th or the 10th brings the leadership of a place, energy at work and renown. In house 6, 8 or 12, it turns to discord, with relatives who pull away.

The Lagna adds its role: Venus is yogakaraka for Makara and Kumbha, and very good for Kanya. It can also bring you music, a taste for knowledge, wishes fulfilled, friends, a talent for trade and agriculture. The possible downside is quarrels with crowds and sorrow brought on by your own friends.

For timing, look at the drekkana, the third of a sign where Venus stands: first third, effects at the beginning; second, in the middle; third, toward the end; in reverse order if Venus is retrograde.

To read about the graha itself, open the Shukra guide.