In Hindu mythology there is an interesting fiction that describes how Rahu and Ketu came into existence. Once both, the gods and the demons agreed to form an alliance to produce nectar that could give them immortality. Nectar was to be obtained by churning the ocean. In the process, nectar was churned out. When the nectar was being served to the gods, a demon, disguised as a god, and sat between the Sun and the Moon in an attempt to acquire the nectar. The demon was recognized by the Sun and the Moon who complained of the demon to Lord Vishnu. Lord Vishnu immediately severed his head from his chakra. But the demon had already consumed enough nectar to make him immortal. The head of the demon, known as Rahu, became immortal. And the remaining corpse of the demon was known as Ketu. Ever since, Rahu and Ketu became the strong enemy of Sun and Moon. Sun and Moon eclipses occur due to Rahu and Ketu who swallow up Sun and Moon when they come near to them. In this way Rahu and Ketu take their revenge from Sun and Moon.
In Vedic astrology Rahu and Ketu are known as two invisible planets and they are strong enemies of the Sun and the Moon. Rahu and Ketu are actually the astronomical points in the sky respectively called the north and south lunar nodes. The places of intersection where the Moon`s path meet the Sun`s path is known as North Lunar Node and South Lunar Node respectively. Thus, the relation of Rahu and Ketu with Sun and Moon has been described through the language of symbol in Hindu mythology.
Rahu is a powerful and malefic planet. This is a favorable planet of the politicians. He gives them great opportunity and power to rise in the politics through any means fair or unfair. He also rules over thieves, jail, magicians, snake, poison and isolated places etc. Rahu has also the power to confer sudden wealth.
Being a shadow planet, Rahu has not been allotted any Zodiac Sign. Even then, Rahu exalts in Taurus Sign. If placed negative in a horoscope, he can create confusion, depression and emotional imbalances. On the other hand, he also has the power to make a person wealthy and popular. During his transit or Mahadasha, a person is more prone to fall prey of black magic. He is powerful when placed in 3rd, 6th and 11th house of a horoscope. Summarized details of this planet are represented below:
Direction: North Lunar Node
Colour: Grey, Black
Orbit time in One Zodiac Sign: One and half year
Orbit time of whole Zodiac: 18 Years (Average)
Nature: Dirty, Furious and aggressive
Constellations ruled: Adra, Swati, Shatbhisha
Friendly planets: Mercury, Saturn, Venus
Enemy planets: Sun, Moon, Mars
Neutral planets: Jupiter
Own Sign (Rashi): Aries & Scorpio
Mool Trikon in: Taurus
Exalted in: Taurus
Debilitated in: Sagittarius
Special features: Delay and hurdles
Metal: Graphite, Lead
Precious Stone: Hassonite (Gomed)
Vimshottari Mahadasha period: 18 years
If well placed signifies: Prosperity, wealth, Good position
If adversely placed signifies: Arrogance and jealous nature
Representation: Very old people
Diseases given by Rahu: Fever, Leprosy, Snake bite, paranormal activities, Restlessness
