Dhanishta (Devanagari: धनिष्ठा) is the twenty-third nakshatra in Hindu astronomy, corresponding to α to δ Delphini.[1] It is also known as Dhanishtha or Avittam.[2] In Jyotiṣa, Dhanishta is ruled by Mangala (the planet Mars). Dhanishta is classified as a Movable nakshatra, meaning that, under electional astrological beliefs, it is best to begin activities like travel when the moon is in Dhanishta.[3]
The deities which preside over Dhanishta are the eight vasus: Agni, Prithvi, Vāyu, Antariksha, Āditya, Dyaus, Chandramas and Nakstrani. The symbol most commonly used to represent Dhanishta is the drum known as the mridanga, and the flute.[4]
Traditional Hindu given names are determined by which pada (quarter) of a nakshatra the moon was in at the time of birth. In the case of Ashvini, the given name would begin with the following syllables:
|
|||||||||||||||||