Chitra, the “star of opportunity,” is beautifully reflected by the fixed star, Spica. It is symbolized by a bright jewel or pearl representing the divine spirit within us. Chitra means “the brilliant,” “the bright,” or “the beautiful.” It reflects the many, variegated colors seen in the radiance of a white star. Chitra also translates as a painting or work of art suggesting “pretty pictures” or something pleasing to look at. Artistic talent and ability to arrange things creatively is observed here. Chitra people are usually attractive, charismatic and possess dynamic personal charm. They are excellent conversationalists. They usually wear bright and colorful clothing and jewelry. Chitra also has a fondness for flowers, garlands and other objects of natural beauty. This nakshatra is mridu or soft in nature. Chitra’s influence is excellent for learning music, dance and drama.
The presiding deity is Tvashtar or Vishvakarma, the celestial architect of the universe. He is the master of maya and magic who fashioned the thunderbolts of Indra and the chalice of Soma. Tvashtar represents prosperity, regenerative power and longevity. Its power is the ability to accumulate merit in this life {punya cayani shakti).3 Chitra is one of the most mystical nakshatras and has a deep spiritual depth. Sudden flashes of inspiration and the urge to realize one’s true self is encouraged here. Mars is the ruling planet, reflecting the strong desire to explore the caverns of the soul. Chitra allows us to gain the fruit of our good karma that comes through righteous activity.
The challenges of Chitra involve strong sexual desires that must be harnessed. Its animal symbol is a female tiger, and it is sometimes associated with serpents. A passionate, seductive persona can develop. The primary motivation of Chitra is kama or desire. Chitra people usually have beautiful eyes and a well-proportioned body. A smug, arrogant, self-indulgent nature
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can also result. According to Bepin Behari, there is a “tendency to give a reply on any matter without forethought and then wake up at the eleventh hour and try to rectify one’s utterances when it is too late/’4 Chitra’s temperament is demonic in nature. Chitra can reflect the world of maya and delusory appearances. It is connected with the work of magicians and other masters of illusion, A strong ego and self-centeredness can occur here. Chitra people should focus on allowing the ego to die. They should remember what the word ego stands for… Edging God Out.
| Chitra at a Glance | |
| Range: 23′ 20′ Virgo – 6‘ 40′ Libra | |
| Symbol: Pearl or bright jewel | |
| Ruling Planet: Mars | |
| Nature; . Rakshasa (demon) ‘ | |
| Primary Motivation; Kama (desire) | |
| Animal Symbol: Femal | e Tiger |
| Direction: West | |
| Sounds: Pay Poe Ra Ree | |
| Qualities: Tamas/Tamas/Tamas | |
| Deity: Tvashtar, the celestial architect | |
| Chitra on the Ascendant | Famous People |
| Strong ego, engaged in a variety | Adolf Hitler, JFK, |
| of pursuits . | Frank Sinatra |
| Wealthy, lives away from birthplace | Nelson Rockefeller |
| Wears colorful clothes, jewelry. | Ellen Burstyn.Cary Grant |
| Expressive nature, graceful | Christian Dior |
| Desire for spiritual liberation, honest | Ramana Maharshi |
| Moon in Chitra | Famous People |
| Beautiful body, attractive eyes, artistic | Richard Chamberlain |
| Strong sexual appetite, great lovers | Wilt Chamberlain |
| Recognized even in a large crowd | George Bush, |
| Nicholas Cage | |
| Trouble with father, benefits thru mother Dwight FJsenhower | |
| Difficulties in marriage for women | Marie Antoinette |
| Good for astrologers, intuitive, prophetic K N. Rao, Jim Lewis, | |
| Sidney Poitier | |
| Sun in Chitra | Famous People |
| Warrior nature, militant | Evander Holyfield |
| Cunning, harsh at times | Margaret Thatcher, |
| Barbara Walters | |
| Interest in art, photography, music | Tim Robbins |
| Strong need for recognition | Deepak Chopra, |
| Eleanor Roosevelt | |
| Chitra Career Interests | Health Issues |
| Interior design, architects, jewelers | Ulcers, stomach |
| Lawyers, judges, priests | Kidney problems |
| Religious people, learned in the Vedas | Sunstroke, forehead |
| Publications, radio, TV, film | Wounds fronvinsects |
| Armed forces, police detective | Skin allergies
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