Why do we match kundalis — does it decide everything?

it is a useful traditional check of compatibility, but character, values and mutual respect matter far more.

The most common method in North India is aṣṭakūṭa milan, which compares the Moon signs and nakṣatras of the two people across eight factors worth 36 guṇas in total. A score of 18 or more is usually considered acceptable. Astrologers also look at maṅgala doṣa, the 7th house, and the overall strength of each chart. In South India a related system of porutthams is used.

The purpose is to anticipate areas of harmony and friction, not to pass a verdict on two people's worth. A low score does not doom a marriage, and many doṣas are considered cancelled (parihāra) by other factors in the charts — something a careful astrologer will check before alarming anyone.

Use matching as one input among many: family values, education, health, and above all the couple's own understanding of each other. Our kundali milan tool shows the guṇa score with explanations. If your situation is specific, Ask Chiluka.

Source: Muhūrta Cintāmaṇi; common practice · Aṣṭakūṭa: 36 guṇas, 18+ usual

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