What Is Ashtakoot Milan?
Ashtakoot Milan (8-fold matching) is the traditional Vedic method for assessing marriage compatibility. It evaluates 8 specific qualities (Kutas) between two people's Moon positions, assigning points for each. Maximum score is 36.
The 8 Kutas Explained
Varna (1 pt) — Spiritual compatibility and ego alignment between partners
Vashya (2 pts) — Mutual attraction and control in the relationship
Tara (3 pts) — Health and longevity of the couple after marriage
Yoni (4 pts) — Physical and sexual compatibility
Graha Maitri (5 pts) — Mental compatibility and friendship between Moon sign lords
Gana (6 pts) — Temperament match — Deva, Manushya, or Rakshasa nature
Bhakoot (7 pts) — Emotional and financial prosperity together
Nadi (8 pts) — Genetic and health compatibility — the most critical Kuta
Score Interpretation
18+ / 36 — Minimum acceptable for marriage consideration
24–27 / 36 — Good match — recommended for marriage
28–32 / 36 — Very good — strong compatibility
33–36 / 36 — Excellent — rare and highly auspicious
Nadi Dosha — Critical Warning
If both partners share the same Nadi (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha), Nadi Dosha is present — zero points awarded. Traditional astrology considers this the most serious incompatibility, linked to health issues and progeny challenges. Remedies exist but consult an experienced astrologer.
Nadi Dosha can be cancelled (exceptions apply) if both partners share the same Rashi or Nakshatra lord.
Beyond the Score
Ashtakoot score is one lens. A thorough matching also examines Mangal Dosha, Dasha compatibility (are their life periods aligned?), 7th house strength in both charts, and Venus/Jupiter placement. A score alone never tells the full story.
