Western astrology focuses on the positions of the planets and their influence on human life. Originating around 2,000–3,000 years ago with the Greeks, it is based on the belief that the Sun, as the center of the solar system, shares a profound connection with Earth. The Sun’s impact on the Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn is thought to influence all living beings on the planet. For this reason, Western astrology is also referred to as Tropical astrology.

In this system, the astrological year begins around March 22, coinciding with the onset of spring and the Vernal Equinox—a day when daytime and nighttime are of equal length. Aries, considered the first sign of the zodiac, is positioned during this period, followed by the remaining signs. Although the Romans later declared January 1 as the start of the new year, this convention holds no astrological relevance.

In contrast, Vedic astrology is far older—dating back nearly 5,000 years—and differs fundamentally from the Western approach. Instead of relying on the Earth’s relationship with the Sun, Vedic astrology uses the sidereal zodiac, based on fixed stars and constellations, to calculate planetary movements. This system incorporates the concept of Ayanamsha—the gradual shift of Earth’s axis over time. Each year, the equinoxes move forward by nearly one minute due to the constant motion of celestial bodies, leading to a loss of one full day approximately every 72 years. Vedic astrology accounts for this adjustment by recalibrating the twelve zodiac signs, ensuring predictions remain accurate and aligned with cosmic reality.