Dosha
Kaal Sarpa Dosha
Kaal Sarpa Dosha is a chart configuration in which all seven visible planets sit on one side of the Rahu-Ketu axis. It is a real, checkable pattern, but it is widely over-marketed; the classical texts treat it far more cautiously than its modern reputation suggests.

Related terms
- Graha
Graha is Sanskrit for 'planet', but the nine Grahas of Vedic astrology include the lunar nodes Rahu and Ketu, which are mathematical points rather than celestial bodies. The nine are the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu.
- Mahadasha
Mahadasha is the 'major period' of the Vimshottari Dasha system — a stretch of 6 to 20 years ruled by one of the nine grahas. The nine Mahadashas run in a fixed order and total 120 years, and the one running now is the most consulted operative timing marker in Vedic astrology.