Dasha

Generic term for any timing period (Mahadasha / Antardasha / Pratyantardasha). The Vimshottari Dasha is the most-used; other systems (Yogini, Kalachakra) exist but appear less in modern practice.

Related terms

• Mahadasha

  A 'major period' — the planetary lord whose influence dominates a span of years in the Vimshottari Dasha cycle. The 9 grahas each get a Mahadasha; the cycle totals 120 years. The current Mahadasha is the single most consulted operative timing tool in Vedic astrology.

• Antardasha

  A 'sub-period' inside a Mahadasha — same 9 lord rotation, scaled to the Mahadasha's duration. Adds finer timing inside the Mahadasha.