Hasta Nakshatra

Lunar mansion 13 of 27 — ruled by Moon

Updated 19 October 2026

Hasta is the 13th of the 27 nakshatras (lunar mansions) in Vedic astrology, spanning 160° to 173.333° sidereal in Kanya (Virgo). It is ruled by Moon, presided over by the deity Savitur / Surya, and its symbol is the hand / fist.

Also spelled: Hastha, Hastam, Atham, Athagam, Corvus nakshatra

Hasta mythology and symbolism

Hasta means "the hand", and the five stars of the constellation Corvus form a shape like a palm with spread fingers. Its deity is Savitar (Savitri), the Vedic aspect of the Sun who sets all things in motion, the one who impels us to rise and work at dawn. The famous Gayatri mantra is addressed to Savitar: the prayer asks that his light may inspire our understanding. The nakshatra therefore joins the Sun's life-giving impulse to the human hand that shapes the world.

A Rigvedic image describes Savitar as "golden-handed". One tale says that when his hand was lost in a sacrificial mishap, it was replaced with a golden one, so that the god who gives all things is shown with a hand that never withholds. The Moon, ruler of the nakshatra, adds a receptive, nurturing quality. Hasta is the star of skilled giving: the craftsperson, the healer, the blessing hand.

Hasta nakshatra characteristics

People born in Hasta are often resourceful, dexterous and quick-witted. They tend to learn by doing, and they usually have clever hands, whether for crafts, cooking, writing, music or repairs. A light, humorous way of talking and an ability to size up a situation at a glance are common. The Moon gives them sensitivity and an easy way with people, while the Deva gana adds refinement and goodwill.

Hasta natives are practical problem-solvers who like to see their work completed and well-finished. They tend to be self-reliant and are often happiest when they can manage their own schedule and tools. A subtle intelligence runs through the nakshatra: they are good at reading people and at the small adjustments that make things work smoothly.

The cleverness can become restlessness or anxiety. Hasta natives may fret over details, overthink what others have said, or use humour to deflect deeper feelings. They may also struggle with self-doubt about their talents. When they trust their skill and finish what they begin, their gifts shine.

Strengths

• Skilled with the hands and good at practical tasks
• Quick-witted, humorous and persuasive
• Adaptable and resourceful when plans change
• Perceptive about people and their needs
• Kind, helpful and generous with skills
• Good eye for detail and neat finishing

Challenges

• Tendency to worry or overthink small matters
• May use humour to avoid serious feelings
• Self-doubt despite real ability
• Can be fidgety or restless without a task
• Difficulty delegating, preferring to do it themselves

Career and work

Hasta is associated with careers that rely on skill, craft and precision. Traditional fields include crafts and handiwork, surgery and dentistry, massage and physiotherapy, palmistry and astrology, writing and typing, cooking and the culinary arts. Its Moon and Virgo qualities also suit trade, accounting, retail, pharmacy, nursing and health services. Natives are often excellent technicians, designers, tailors, potters, jewellers or magicians. Self-employment, workshops and small businesses are common choices.

Relationships and compatibility

Hasta natives tend to be affectionate, attentive and playful in love, expressing care through thoughtful gestures and practical help. They need a partner who appreciates both their humour and their sensitivity. Hasta belongs to the Deva gana and the female buffalo yoni; Swati, the male buffalo, is the ideal yoni partner, and the horse (Ashwini, Shatabhisha) is the classical enemy. Fellow Deva nakshatras such as Ashwini, Mrigashira, Punarvasu, Pushya, Anuradha, Shravana and Revati usually match well in temperament. The full chart decides the final answer.

The four padas of Hasta

Each nakshatra is divided into four quarters (padas) of 3°20′, and each pada maps onto one sign of the Navamsa (D9) chart.

Pada 1 — Aries navamsa (Mars)

Pada 1 lies in Virgo rashi with an Aries navamsa, ruled by Mars, and a Dharma emphasis. It is the most energetic and enterprising quarter of Hasta. Natives often combine skilful hands with courage, and can be quick-tempered if criticised.

Pada 2 — Taurus navamsa (Venus)

Pada 2 is in Virgo rashi with a Taurus navamsa, ruled by Venus, and an Artha emphasis. It is the most comfort-loving and artistic pada, with an eye for quality materials, music and food. Natives tend to be steady earners and enjoy making beautiful things.

Pada 3 — Gemini navamsa (Mercury)

Pada 3 lies in Virgo rashi and Gemini navamsa, ruled by Mercury, and has a Kama emphasis. It is the most talkative, witty and intellectual quarter. Natives are often gifted writers, traders or speakers, quick with ideas but inclined to nervous energy.

Pada 4 — Cancer navamsa (Moon)

Pada 4 sits in Virgo rashi with a Cancer navamsa, ruled by the Moon, and a Moksha emphasis. It is the most caring and intuitive pada, with strong feelings about home and healing. Natives may be gentle, imaginative and protective of loved ones.

Health (traditional associations)

Hasta is traditionally associated with the hands, the intestines and the digestive system in line with Virgo, and with the nervous system through the Moon. Older advice emphasises calming the mind and attending to digestion. This is cultural symbolism and not medical advice; consult a qualified doctor for specific concerns.

Remedies and practices

Traditional practice includes "Om Savitre Namah", the Gayatri mantra and the Moon mantra "Om Chandraya Namah", ideally at sunrise or on Mondays. Using one's hands in service, such as cooking for others, crafting gifts or tending a garden, is considered a natural offering. Favourable colours are white, light green and cream; pearl is the traditional Moon gem, worn only after consulting a qualified astrologer. Slow breathing and mindful, single-task work help settle the active mind.

Hasta in your chart

Your birth (Janma) nakshatra is set by the Moon's exact sidereal position at birth. Navagraha computes it precisely from astronomical data and explains what Hasta means for your temperament, relationships, career timing and Vimshottari dasha — because the nakshatra lord (Moon) also opens your dasha sequence.

Frequently asked questions

Navagraha provides Vedic astrology for informational and reflective purposes only; it is not a substitute for professional advice.