Mahadasha

A Mahadasha is the major planetary period in the Vimshottari Dasha system. Each planet rules a Mahadasha of specific duration: Ketu 7 years, Venus 20 years, Sun 6 years, Moon 10 years, Mars 7 years, Rahu 18 years, Jupiter 16 years, Saturn 19 years, Mercury 17 years. The Mahadasha lord's placement, strength, and aspects in the natal chart determine whether its period brings expansion or challenge.