The personal panchanga is the secret key in vedic astrology to understanding the deeper levels of your chart, and this book will help decode it. Panchanga is the Indian Almanac used from ancient times to tabulate the effect of many diverse cosmic factors that influence the quality of the day. Panch means five, and Anga means limbs, so panchanga literally means five limbs - or the five sources of energy through which the luminaries have to pass in order to reach consciousness. The panchanga on the day of the birth effects our physical energy, mental makeup, emotional connections, practical desires and our sense of security. It additionally tells of the gunas, Ayurvedic doshas, prakriti, chakras, the five great elements, dysfunctional or burnt signs, the good luck points, the lucky and unlucky planets, how to choose the right name, the best career options, relationship compatibility and much more. After reading this book, you may wonder how you ever analysed the natal chart without it.

This is an entertaining and informative guide to the subject of astrology. It explains the workings of this most ancient and fascinating art and explains how many of the supposed criticisms often levelled against it are founded on mis-information and ignorance. The first few chapters deal with the make-up of the birth chart, the kinds of astrologer at large in the world today, and what you can expect if you choose to have a proper consultation done through a professional practitioner. The book then goes on to list and to discuss the 12 most commonly presented criticisms of astrology, with arguments and counter arguments presented in detail, including scientific discussion. Later, there are chapters dealing with astrology's place in the modern world and some cautionary tales for astrologers themselves! Intelligence and rationality are no barriers for anybody wishing to explore this fascinating area of study, and here is a book designed to help us do just that. On a lighter note, cartoons are sprinkled throughout the book, making for a blend of serious scholarship and light-hearted fun. It's a good read. Useful for the complete layman and also for the professional. I hope you will enjoy it.