Prasna Aaroodha or Problem Solving Astrology

The Science of Astrology is usually divided into three categories: calculation, horoscopy and inquiry. Determining the rising star at the time of birth and preparing the horoscope of the native and on this basis predicting the good and the bad effects that may ensue in the course of his life is called the art of horoscopy. But the Science of inquiry (or 'PRASNA') is a more intriguing one.

A man loses his property all of a sudden; how does it happen? can he ever recover it? A person hides an object in his hand and inquires the astrologist whether he can declare what it is. Or he thinks of some object or idea; can the astrologist predict its nature, quantity and characteristics? That science which solves these enigmas is named Prasna. The means by which one is able to determine exactly the various configurations of the planets at one particular moment, whether in the present, past or future is called the science of calculation. All these three aspects of the science of astrology had to be mastered, if one is to make predictions correctly.

Having brought out publications on the science of horoscopy by translating ancient classical Sanskrit books on the subject, we now undertake the work of transcreating another classic entitled Pragnaana Deepikaa which deals with predictions in relation to questions asked now. We have supplemented this work by quoting from a Tamil classic on the subject under the title JINENDRA MAALAI at appropriate places.

We will be failing in our duty if we do not acknowledge the encouragement given to us by the KARC Advisory committee.

We are particularly indebted to Professor B. Ardhanareeswarar for all his help and encouragement.

We are highly appreciative of the expeditious and efficient service done by the enthusiastic publisher Mr. M. A. Jaishankar, grandson of Revered Pandit Kadalangudi Natesa Sastri