12 Zodiac Signs (Rashi) of Astrology

In Vedic astrology, the 12 zodiac signs, or Rashis, each symbolize specific archetypes with different basic personality traits and life themes impelling an individual on a journey with regard to their soul’s purpose. Each Rashi typifies a particular elemental force within the cosmic design of things influencing humanity in personal tendencies and worldly interactions. The importance of 12 zodiac signs in Vedic astrology lies in their role as foundational markers in the horoscope, guiding an understanding of character, behavior, and spiritual path.
Starting from fiery Mesha (Aries), a sign of energy and initiative, to Vrishabha (Taurus), with its steadfast nature, each sign defines certain qualities. Mithuna (Gemini) nurtures communication and curiosity, while Karka (Cancer) embodies the signs of nurturing and emotional depth. Simha (Leo) symbolizes courage and leadership, while Kanya (Virgo) stands for meticulousness and service. Tula (Libra) stands for harmony and balance, while Vrishchika (Scorpio) is the sign of transformation and intensity. Dhanu (Sagittarius) aligns with wisdom and exploration, and Makara (Capricorn) stands for discipline and hard work with ambition. Kumbha (Aquarius) is the sign of innovation and social vision, while Meena (Pisces) talks about compassion and spiritual connection.
The 12 Rashi in astrology each carry distinct energies, contributing to the holistic makeup of the 12 zodiac of astrology and offering insight into one’s strengths, challenges, and karmic direction. These signs taken together form the heavenly map that assists in decoding the subtle play of heavenly forces in the life of an individual.

The 12 Zodiac Signs in Order with Symbols

Here's a list of the 12 zodiac signs in order along with their symbols, dates, and English/Hindi names. This guide showcases the zodiac signs by month and provides zodiac symbols in order for quick reference to the 12 zodiac signs and dates in both Western and Vedic contexts.
These 12 zodiac signs in order each represent unique characteristics and life themes, symbolized by their distinct zodiac symbols and rooted in both Western and Vedic traditions. This table makes it easy to understand the zodiac signs and dates while providing an accessible look at 12 zodiac signs in astrology.

1. Aries (Mesha) मेष ♈️

Symbol and Element: Ram; Fire
Personality Traits: Known for courage, independence, and enthusiasm, Aries embodies leadership and drive. This 12 horoscope sign is passionate but may face challenges with impulsiveness.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Representing new beginnings, Aries in Vedic astrology emphasizes self-growth and the power of initiative, making it a sign focused on pioneering and ambition.
Dates: March 21 - April 19

2. Taurus (Vrishabha) वृषभ ♉️

Symbol and Element: Bull; Earth
Personality Traits: Taurus is stable, patient, and values security. This sign relishes comfort but can sometimes be overly stubborn.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Symbolizing prosperity and family, Taurus emphasizes grounding and steadfastness in one’s path.
Dates: April 20 - May 20

3. Gemini (Mithuna) मिथुन ♊️

Symbol and Element: Twins; Air
Personality Traits: Adaptable and curious, Gemini is known for its intellectual curiosity and social nature, though it can sometimes struggle with consistency.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Gemini symbolizes communication and learning, encouraging individuals to explore diverse ideas.
Dates: May 21 - June 20

4. Cancer (Karka) कर्क ♋️

Symbol and Element: Crab; Water
Personality Traits: Compassionate and family-oriented, Cancer is protective and nurturing but may experience emotional sensitivity.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Cancer highlights themes of family, ancestry, and emotional connections, fostering compassion.
Dates: June 21 - July 22

5. Leo (Simha) सिंह ♌️

Symbol and Element: Lion; Fire
Personality Traits: Confident and charismatic, Leo is known for its warmth and leadership, although it may at times seek excessive attention.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Leo is associated with self-expression and vitality, guiding individuals toward honor and creativity.
Dates: July 23 - August 22

6. Virgo (Kanya) कन्या ♍️
Symbol and Element: Maiden; Earth
Personality Traits: Virgo is analytical, practical, and detail-oriented, valuing precision but can lean toward perfectionism.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Virgo signifies health, self-improvement, and service, emphasizing purity and discipline in life’s journey.
Dates: August 23 - September 22

7. Libra (Tula) तुला ♎️
Symbol and Element: Scales; Air
Personality Traits: Diplomatic and fair-minded, Libra values harmony in relationships but may struggle with indecision.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Libra emphasizes balance, justice, and relationships, promoting harmony and social grace.
Dates: September 23 - October 22

8. Scorpio (Vrishchika) वृश्चिक ♏️
Symbol and Element: Scorpion; Water
Personality Traits: Intense and resourceful, Scorpio is known for its passion and depth but may lean toward possessiveness.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Scorpio represents transformation, rebirth, and exploration of life’s mysteries.
Dates: October 23 - November 21

9. Sagittarius (Dhanu) धनु ♐️
Symbol and Element: Archer; Fire
Personality Traits: Optimistic and adventurous, Sagittarius loves to explore but may sometimes lack tact.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Sagittarius embodies wisdom, philosophy, and the search for higher truths, encouraging learning and purpose-seeking.
Dates: November 22 - December 21

10. Capricorn (Makara) मकर ♑️
Symbol and Element: Goat; Earth
Personality Traits: Responsible and ambitious, Capricorn is known for discipline and dedication, though it can lean toward workaholism.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Capricorn represents duty, social standing, and the achievement of goals, focusing on perseverance and integrity.
Dates: December 22 - January 19

11. Aquarius (Kumbha) कुम्भ ♒️
Symbol and Element: Water Bearer; Air
Personality Traits: Independent and innovative, Aquarius is socially aware and values freedom but may be detached.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Aquarius symbolizes innovation and vision, promoting individuality and community service.
Dates: January 20 - February 18

12. Pisces (Meena) मीन ♓️
Symbol and Element: Fish; Water
Personality Traits: Compassionate and imaginative, Pisces is intuitive and empathetic but can struggle with escapism.
Significance in Vedic Astrology: Pisces signifies spirituality and compassion, fostering unity and empathy, guiding individuals toward a higher sense of purpose.
Dates: February 19 - March 20

This guide on all zodiac signs provides a concise yet detailed exploration of the 12 astrological signs and dates, capturing each 12 horoscope sign with essential traits, elemental influences, and Vedic interpretations. Each Rashi offers unique themes that illuminate the path to personal growth and self-understanding within the broader cosmos.

Elements of the Zodiac Signs: Fire, Earth, Air, and Water

In Vedic astrology, the 12 zodiac elements—Fire, Earth, Air, and Water—play a vital role in shaping each zodiac sign’s approach to life, forming a unique blend of traits, motivations, and behaviors. These elements of zodiac signs reflect the fundamental energies that influence personality, relationships, and life path, with each element being associated with specific zodiac symbols and elements.

Fire Signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius)
•    Zodiac Symbols and Elements: Represented by the Ram (Aries), Lion (Leo), and Archer (Sagittarius), the Fire element embodies enthusiasm, passion, and leadership.
•    Core Characteristics: Fire signs are bold, spirited, and driven by an intense zest for life. Their presence is magnetic, often inspiring those around them.
•    Personality Traits: Known for courage, creativity, and ambition, Fire signs are natural leaders who thrive on challenge. However, they may sometimes act impulsively, prioritizing action over patience.
•    Behavioral Influence: Fire signs bring excitement, optimism, and dynamic energy to any situation, often leading with their enthusiasm and desire to initiate positive change.

Earth Signs (Taurus, Virgo, Capricorn)
•    Zodiac Symbols and Elements: Represented by the Bull (Taurus), Maiden (Virgo), and Goat (Capricorn), the Earth element is grounded, practical, and detail-oriented.
•    Core Characteristics: Earth signs value stability, reliability, and the material aspects of life. They are often deeply connected to the physical world and prioritize security and comfort.
•    Personality Traits: Earth signs are dependable, hardworking, and thorough, with a focus on tangible goals. They may sometimes appear cautious or overly conservative, but this stems from their need for certainty and order.
•    Behavioral Influence: Earth signs approach life with patience, persistence, and a methodical mindset, often excelling in roles that require attention to detail and a steady commitment to long-term success.

Air Signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius)
•    Zodiac Symbols and Elements: Represented by the Twins (Gemini), Scales (Libra), and Water Bearer (Aquarius), the Air element symbolizes intellect, social connection, and adaptability.
•    Core Characteristics: Air signs are mentally agile, communicative, and socially inclined. They thrive on intellectual exploration and are often known for their open-mindedness.
•    Personality Traits: Curious, analytical, and versatile, Air signs are drawn to conversations, new ideas, and social interaction. However, they may sometimes appear detached or indecisive, as they enjoy keeping their options open.
•    Behavioral Influence: Air signs prioritize mental engagement and social connections, bringing a refreshing perspective to relationships and conversations. Their adaptable nature allows them to thrive in varied environments.

Water Signs (Cancer, Scorpio, Pisces)
•    Zodiac Symbols and Elements: Represented by the Crab (Cancer), Scorpion (Scorpio), and Fish (Pisces), the Water element is emotional, intuitive, and nurturing.
•    Core Characteristics: Water signs are deeply in tune with their emotions and possess a strong intuitive sense. They excel in roles that allow them to support and connect with others on a meaningful level.
•    Personality Traits: Compassionate, sensitive, and imaginative, Water signs are empathetic and understanding. They may sometimes struggle with emotional intensity or sensitivity, especially in challenging situations.
•    Behavioral Influence: Water signs are nurturing and receptive, often prioritizing emotional depth in relationships. Their intuition and empathy allow them to forge profound connections with others.

Together, the 12 zodiac elements outline how each of those signs of the zodiac expresses itself. We are going to understand more about the elements of the zodiac signs and their associated-the zodiac symbols and elements-so valuable for insights into the fundamental energies shaping personality, behavior, and life purpose within the astrological tradition.

Modalities of the Zodiac Signs: Movable, Fixed, and Dual Signs

In Vedic astrology, the zodiac modalities—Movable, Fixed, and Dual signs—reveal how each sign navigates life, approaches change, and interacts with the world. These movable, fixed, and dual signs bring balance to the zodiac, defining varied approaches to action, stability, and adaptability. Understanding these fixed and mutable signs helps to grasp the different ways individuals pursue goals, handle change, and engage with others.

Movable Signs (Aries, Cancer, Libra, Capricorn)
•    Core Qualities: Also known as Cardinal signs, the Movable signs Aries, Cancer, Libra, and Capricorn embody dynamic, forward-moving energy. These signs are characterized by their drive to initiate and their desire to create change. They are quick to take action, often becoming pioneers in their fields or leaders in their communities.
•    Personality Traits: Movable signs are action-oriented, goal-driven, and excel at starting new ventures. They bring energy, enthusiasm, and motivation to any endeavor. However, they can sometimes struggle with restlessness or impatience, as they prefer continuous progress and momentum.
•    Approach to Life: As initiators of the zodiac, Movable signs approach life with determination and a proactive mindset. They often set trends, push boundaries, and embrace opportunities for growth, thriving in roles that require vision and leadership.

Fixed Signs (Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, Aquarius)
•    Core Qualities: The Fixed signs—Taurus, Leo, Scorpio, and Aquarius—are stable, enduring, and highly determined. Known for their commitment and loyalty, Fixed signs are the anchors of the zodiac. They embody steadfastness and consistency, often providing the backbone in any group or community.
•    Personality Traits: Fixed signs are reliable, persistent, and deeply rooted in their beliefs. They prefer routine and are dedicated to their goals, displaying patience and resilience. However, they may sometimes appear stubborn or resistant to new ideas, as they thrive on consistency and structure.
•    Approach to Life: Fixed signs approach life with a focus on stability and follow-through, often excelling in situations that require persistence and attention to detail. They are the steady forces in the zodiac, providing strength and dependability in both personal and professional spheres.

Dual Signs (Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, Pisces)
•    Core Qualities: Also referred to as Mutable signs, the Dual signs—Gemini, Virgo, Sagittarius, and Pisces—are adaptable, flexible, and responsive. These signs embody duality and versatility, allowing them to navigate change with ease and approach life from multiple perspectives.
•    Personality Traits: Dual signs are curious, open-minded, and capable of adjusting to different situations. They are versatile and thrive on variety, although they may sometimes struggle with indecisiveness or inconsistency due to their adaptable nature.
•    Approach to Life: Dual signs approach life with a willingness to change, an open mind, and the ability to see different viewpoints. Their adaptability makes them skillful mediators, communicators, and problem-solvers, often thriving in environments that require quick thinking and flexibility.

The movable, fixed, and dual signs in zodiac modalities represent distinct pathways to growth and transformation. While Fixed signs offer stability and persistence, Movable signs drive action and innovation, and Dual (or Mutable) signs provide the flexibility to adapt and adjust. Together, these fixed and mutable signs form a dynamic framework, shaping how individuals respond to challenges, relationships, and personal development within the zodiac.

Lagna Rashi or Ascendant in Vedic Astrology

Lagna Rashi, according to Vedic astrology, is the zodiac sign that was rising on the eastern horizon at the exact time of one's birth. It is also called the 'First House' in the birth chart and plays a very important role in molding the inner core of a person's personality, appearance, and immediate approach in life. While the Moon sign shapes the way one thinks and feels, and the Sun sign reflects ego and self-identity, the Ascendant regulates the way one looks toward and deals with the world from practical and outer angles. The Ascendant is a kind of 'mask' that one wears when relating to others, setting natural attitudes, self-image, and ways of behaving. According to Vedic astrology, Lagna Rashi forms the very base on which the path of an individual's life is built; it sets a base for further planetary placements and their influences. It also governs the physical body, health, and vitality and symbolizes the instinctive ways of approaching new experiences, challenges, and relationships. Knowing one's Ascendant better provides insight into one's personal, unique journey of growth and expression-a lens through which the self-actualizes and grows in concert with the cosmic energies.

Janma Rashi or Moon’s Zodiac Sign in Vedic Astrology

In Vedic astrology, the 12 Rashi in astrology represent the twelve zodiac signs, but the focus shifts significantly from the Western emphasis on the Sun sign to the Moon sign—also known as the Janma Rashi. The Moon sign is considered quite significant in reflection to the inner self, alluding to a great deal about emotional responses and mental disposition, often used more than just personality determination, which applies a lot to the Sun sign in Eastern astrological thought. Apart from the representation of the ego, identity, and the outward expression that the Sun sign allocates, the Moon sign portrays those layers of personality, which are somewhat transitory: the emotional and subconscious fluctuations, through which one finds natural habits, emotional needs, and even mental well-being.
The debate of Rashi vs. Sun sign arises because while the Sun takes about 30 days in each zodiac, the Moon changes its sign approximately every 2.5 days and inherits a much more personal astrological stamp upon the individual. Thus, knowledge of one's Moon sign becomes fairly essential for any deeply personal insight into one's character, relationships, and inner balance; it describes the emotional core and instinctive responses that run and rule behavior.
The Moon is one of the main factors in predictive astrology according to Vedic astrology, especially when considering the Dasha periods or star periods; it shapes not only personal growth but also much more significant features in one's life. The Moon sign importance in the 12 Rashi in astrology provides a unique lens into the soul’s journey, aligning one's inner landscape with the larger cosmic influences that shape destiny.