Astrology has been prevalent in India since ancient times. Astrologers in India, having acquired Vedanga knowledge of Jyotish, have helped the multitude in improving their lives for the better.
Rakkesh Chandra, Jyotishi and Vaastu Shastri, is one such brilliant astrologers in India. In the following interview, Mr Chandra shares valuable insights into the practice of Astrology and also brief details about the story of his success.
Below are the highlights of the interview:
How did your journey towards astrology start? What made you pursue the language of the stars?
I was curious about Astrology and Vaastu since childhood. I belong to a small village. My grandfather was an astrologer. I remember people visiting him from nearby villages to ask him about their day to day dilemma like deciding a boy for daughter’s marriage, childbirth, job etc. I used to get surprised when people came back thanking him for his guidance and their work was done. I used to ask him a lot of things about astrology and he used to give me simple tips by saying, when you will grow up you will understand this.
At an early age of seventeen and half years, I joined Indian Air Force. So, my connection was cut from traditional astrology and my village. But I had an attachment for this knowledge, and I used to read a lot of books, I followed many rituals and mantra as per my horoscope as well as general spiritual practices. Also, by the grace of God I met many people from other regions of country while travelling one corner to another who had interest and knowledge in astrology. But I always felt I need some systematic and advanced knowledge.
In Pune I got an opportunity to learn it from Guru directly. After that I could connect the dots of my previous knowledge and learnt how to apply the knowledge to give suggestions. I was happy to get satisfaction to learn it at a higher level and use it for my own benefits.
Who inspired you to help people using Astrology?
After my retirement from India Air Force, I settled myself in Pune. I met my Guru in Pune and learnt advanced astrology as well as some traditional secrets. My Guru explained me my horoscope and inspired me to start practicing and help people. I was little reluctant to do it for various personal reasons and also to monetize the divine knowledge. But I was convinced by my Guru’s logic and taken oath to follow ethical code of conduct of Vedanga knowledge of Jyotish and started to practice making use of my knowledge for the benefit for society.
As one of the prominent Astrologers in India, what challenges have you faced while helping your clients?
I find most people do not know correctly or understand about Astrology. There is a set of people who think that an astrologer can give only predictions and an event is fixed. Whereas Astrology is all about understanding about our limitations and to increase our capacity by enhancing our Karma. Correction in Karma and Counselling for better life is an integral part of a good astrologer.
Please explain the link between astrology and science to clear myths from the minds of people who believe that it is just blind faith.
Astrology is all about understanding the PARISTHITI (situation) and MANAHSTHITI (mindset) of an individual. By looking at the horoscope suggesting appropriate astrological method one can make positive change to the lives of individual by using various psychological methods as well.
What are the specialized offerings that you provide to your clients when it comes leveraging the power of Astrology?
I offer Vedic Astrology, Vedic Numerology and Vedic Vaastu services. I do not suggest anything which is costly, tiresome, or difficult to achieve.
How much has the Indian Astrology sphere changed since it first came into practice? What is your outlook on the modern way of practicing Astrology?
Principles of astrology are same. Interpretation has to be done as per today’s time. For example, if an ancient text suggests that someone will possess elephants, it does not mean literally an elephant inside his apartment building. Instead, it can be compared with a luxurious car. As an elephant was a status symbol and a comfortable mode of commuting in ancient times. A logical and knowledgeable astrologer can do it perfectly. Some people do commit mistake and misinterpret ancient knowledge and its context.
Also, I do not sit in an office or temple like a traditional astrologer giving Ashirwad to people. I connect with people with internet, audio/video call. I give modern way of solutions, sometimes spiritual guidance.
In these troubling times of the ongoing pandemic, what is your advice to the people? What steps do you suggest that can keep people spiritually healthy?
Ancient scriptures give importance to SHAUCH (purity). It is nothing but maintaining physical hygiene and being mentally strong by positive thinking.
What would you like to share with the aspirants who are looking to enter the Astrology space with an interest to serve and help people in solving their problems?
I would suggest new entrants in this field to be honest about learning Vedic scriptures, correlating it logically with modern lifestyle. Our ancient texts are so vast and have huge knowledge that one course or book is not sufficient to learn all. So, one has to be mentally prepared to keep studying and learning throughout life.
In terms of future growth, where do you see yourself?
I feel I am a just a beginner of this ancient knowledge. I keep learning everyday with people interacting and I connecting their horoscopes with teachings of my Guru and Rishis through scriptures. There is no end of growth and learning, they go hand in hand.
