What Is Kundli Matching?
Kundli matching, also called Kundali Milan, is the comparison of two birth charts to assess compatibility before marriage. Traditional systems look at several dimensions of compatibility rather than a single number.
The Ashtakoota System
Ashtakoota compares eight factors, called Kootas, using the Moon sign and Nakshatra of each partner. Each Koota carries a maximum number of points, and the total is 36.
| Koota | Points | What it compares |
|---|---|---|
| Varna | 1 | Temperament and orientation to work |
| Vashya | 2 | Mutual influence and attraction |
| Tara | 3 | Well-being, from the Nakshatras |
| Yoni | 4 | Physical compatibility |
| Graha Maitri | 5 | Mental compatibility, from the friendship of the Moon sign lords |
| Gana | 6 | Temperament: Deva, Manushya or Rakshasa |
| Bhakoot | 7 | Emotional compatibility, from the relationship of the Moon signs |
| Nadi | 8 | Health and constitution |
What the Gun Milan Score Means
The score is the sum of the points across the eight Kootas. A score of 18 is commonly cited as the minimum, and higher scores are read as stronger compatibility. A high score does not guarantee a relationship outcome, and a low score does not rule one out. The wider chart matters.
Manglik Dosha
Manglik Dosha refers to the placement of Mars in certain houses of the chart, most often the 1st, 4th, 7th, 8th or 12th, with some traditions also counting the 2nd. Traditional texts describe a number of conditions under which it is cancelled, so a full chart review is needed before drawing a conclusion.
Beyond the Score
A complete matching also considers the 7th house of each chart, the Dasha periods each partner is in, and the placement of Venus and Jupiter. The Kundli report for each person gives the underlying chart.