Part 14: Predicting Results
We've calculated Shadbala and Bhava Bala—comprehensive strength measurements. Now the ultimate question: What results will planets deliver?
B.V. Raman provides formulas to convert strength into predicted outcomes:
- Ishta Phala: Good results, favorable outcomes
- Kashta Phala: Bad results, difficulties
These aren't vague predictions—they're numerical values showing the ratio of benefic to malefic effects during planetary Dasa/Bhukti periods.
Ishta = desired, favorable. This measures the positive effects a planet will deliver.
Formula Components:
- Sthanabala contribution (positional advantage)
- Kalabala contribution (temporal favorability)
- Benefic aspects received (positive Drikbala)
- Natural beneficence (if Jupiter/Venus/Waxing Moon)
Interpretation: High Ishta Phala (above 40-50 units) suggests the planet's Dasa will bring prosperity, success, and fulfillment in its significations. Mercury with 598 Shadbala in our example translates to high Ishta Phala—expect intellectual success, communication skills, business acumen during Mercury periods.
Kashta = difficult, troublesome. This measures obstacles and negative effects.
Formula Components:
- Weakness in position (low Sthanabala)
- Unfavorable timing (low Kalabala)
- Malefic aspects received (negative Drikbala)
- Natural maleficence (if Sun/Mars/Saturn/Waning Moon)
Interpretation: High Kashta Phala warns of difficulties during that planet's periods. Mars with only 281.6 Shadbala (lowest in chart) generates high Kashta Phala—expect struggles with energy, property disputes, conflicts with siblings during Mars Dasa.
The critical insight comes from comparing Ishta vs Kashta:
| Ratio | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Ishta >> Kashta | Overwhelmingly positive period—success, growth, fulfillment |
| Ishta > Kashta | Mostly positive with minor challenges |
| Ishta ≈ Kashta | Mixed results—ups and downs, neutral overall |
| Kashta > Ishta | Difficult period—obstacles, setbacks, struggles |
| Kashta >> Ishta | Severely challenging—major difficulties, crises |
Example: If Mercury Dasa shows Ishta = 55 and Kashta = 15, the ratio is 55:15 (roughly 3.7:1 good-to-bad). Expect Mercury period to be highly favorable with 3-4 times more positive than negative events.
Vedic astrology divides life into planetary periods (Dasas) and sub-periods (Bhuktis). Ishta/Kashta Phala reveals:
- Which Dasas will be prosperous (high Ishta, low Kashta)
- Which Dasas bring challenges (low Ishta, high Kashta)
- Best sub-periods within each Dasa (combine strengths)
In our Standard Horoscope:
Best Dasas: Mercury (598), Sun (507), Venus (480) Challenging Dasa: Mars (281.6, below threshold) Moderate Dasas: Moon, Jupiter, Saturn (410-456 range)
We've completed the core teaching. Parts 15-18 provide:
- Part 15: Summary of all Shadbalas with quick reference formulas
- Part 16: Minimum strength thresholds for all planets
- Part 17: Astronomical calculation tables (Ahargana, mean motions)
- Part 18: Index of technical terms and glossary
These serve as bookmarks for quick lookups when applying Shadbala in practice.