Concept of Nakshatra Van
Among these, the Nakshatra Van is essentially an ecological structure conceptualized on the idea of an astronomical observatory. The concept of Nakshatras (lunar mansions) is a remarkable contribution of ancient Indian astronomers. The Moon completes one revolution around the Earth in approximately 27.3 days. Accordingly, the sky was divided into 27 segments, each identified with a bright star cluster and designated as a Nakshatra.
Just as humans are connected to the Nakshatras, so too are trees and plants. This relationship is mentioned in the Samhita section of the Triskandha Jyotirshastra. If an individual nurtures the plant associated with their birth Nakshatra, it is believed to enhance health and well-being. These plants also have high medicinal value and are used in treating various chronic illnesses.
Park layout and solar alignment
The design of Nakshatra Van is based on astronomical observations and scientific principles, verified by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru, with reference to the Surya Siddhanta. For Ranchi, annual solar path data was used to map the rising and setting sun. Granite stones mark each Nakshatra beside its row of trees.
Sunrise direction (East) - 13 Nakshatras: Purvashada, Uttarashada, Shravana, Dhanishta, Shatabhisha, Purvabhadrapada, Uttarabhadrapada, Revati, Ashwini, Bharani, Krittika, Rohini and Mrigashira. Associated trees include Ashoka, Jackfruit, Akwan, Shami, Kadamba, Mango, Neem, Mahua, Amla, Twin Trees (Banyan and Pakad), Gular, Jamun and Khair.
Sunset direction (West) - 14 Nakshatras: Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Ashlesha, Magha, Purvaphalguni, Uttaraphalguni, Hasta, Chitra, Swati, Vishakha, Anuradha, Jyeshtha and Mula. Associated trees include Pakad, Bamboo, Peepal, Nagkesar, Banyan, Palash, Rudraksha, Reetha, Bael, Arjun, Vikankat, Maulsari, Pine and Sal.
The unique feature of this Nakshatra Van is that on any given day, the Nakshatra corresponding to the Sun's position is reflected through celestial alignment:
- At sunrise, for Nakshatras marked in the eastern direction, and
- At sunset, for those in the western direction, the shadow of the trees planted within that Nakshatra section extends outward from the centre and falls upon any person standing there.
By having all these trees in a single space, Nakshatra Van promotes biodiversity and ecological balance. Visitors can also engage in nurturing these plants and benefit from their natural surroundings.
Nakshatra (Lunar Mansion)
If the Moon is observed among the stars over several months, it completes one full journey in approximately 27 days and then returns to the same stars. Ancient sages divided this path into 27 segments and named the star clusters Nakshatras. The term Nakshatra means "that which does not move". They were established as reference points to mark the positions of moving celestial bodies (planets), as described in texts such as the Surya Siddhanta.
The 27 Nakshatras and their associated trees planted in this park are as follows:
| S.No. |
Nakshatra |
Tree |
Scientific Name |
Direction |
| 1 | Purvashada | Ashoka | Saraca indica | Sunrise |
| 2 | Uttarashada | Kathal (Jackfruit) | Artocarpus heterophyllus | Sunrise |
| 3 | Shravana | Akwan (Madar) | Calotropis procera | Sunrise |
| 4 | Dhanishta | Shami | Prosopis spicigera | Sunrise |
| 5 | Shatabhisha | Kadamba | Anthocephalus cadamba | Sunrise |
| 6 | Purvabhadrapada | Aam (Mango) | Mangifera indica | Sunrise |
| 7 | Uttarabhadrapada | Neem | Azadirachta indica | Sunrise |
| 8 | Revati | Mahua | Madhuca indica | Sunrise |
| 9 | Ashwini | Aonla (Amla) | Emblica officinalis | Sunrise |
| 10 | Bharani | Yugm Vriksh (Banyan & Pakad) | Ficus benghalensis & Ficus infectoria | Sunrise |
| 11 | Krittika | Gular | Ficus glomerata | Sunrise |
| 12 | Rohini | Jamun | Syzygium cumini | Sunrise |
| 13 | Mrigashira | Khair | Acacia catechu | Sunrise |
| 14 | Ardra | Pakad | Ficus infectoria | Sunset |
| 15 | Punarvasu | Baans (Bamboo) | Bambusa bambos | Sunset |
| 16 | Pushya | Peepal | Ficus religiosa | Sunset |
| 17 | Ashlesha | Nagkesar | Mesua ferrea | Sunset |
| 18 | Magha | Bargad (Banyan) | Ficus benghalensis | Sunset |
| 19 | Purvaphalguni | Palash | Butea monosperma | Sunset |
| 20 | Uttaraphalguni | Rudraksha | Elaeocarpus ganitrus | Sunset |
| 21 | Hasta | Reetha (Soapnut) | Sapindus mukorossi | Sunset |
| 22 | Chitra | Bel (Wood Apple) | Aegle marmelos | Sunset |
| 23 | Swati | Arjun | Terminalia arjuna | Sunset |
| 24 | Vishakha | Vikankat | Flacourtia indica | Sunset |
| 25 | Anuradha | Maulsari | Mimusops elengi | Sunset |
| 26 | Jyeshtha | Cheed (Pine) | Pinus roxburghii | Sunset |
| 27 | Mula | Sal | Shorea robusta | Sunset |
Nakshatra-Based Hindi Month Names
In India, the names of the traditional Hindi (lunar) months are based on Nakshatras. The name of each month is determined by the Nakshatra under which the Moon resides on the night of the full moon in that month.
| Nakshatra |
Hindi Month |
Nakshatra |
Hindi Month |
| Chitra | Chaitra | Ashwini | Ashwin (Asin) |
| Vishakha | Vaishakh | Krittika | Kartik |
| Jyeshtha | Jyeshtha | Mrigashira | Agahan (Margashirsha) |
| Ashadha | Ashadha | Pushya | Paush (Push) |
| Shravana | Sawan (Shravana) | Magha | Magh |
| Bhadrapada | Bhado (Bhadrapada) | Phalguni | Phalgun (Fagun) |
Birth Nakshatra
At the time of a person's birth, the Nakshatra aligned with the Moon as seen from Earth is called that person's Birth Nakshatra. For example, if the Moon is situated under Krittika Nakshatra at the time of birth, then that person's Birth Nakshatra is Krittika.
Deities of Nakshatras
Indian sages believed that each Nakshatra is inhabited by a divine energy or consciousness, known as the deity of that Nakshatra.
Importance of Studying Nakshatras
In ancient India, daily knowledge of the positions of planets and Nakshatras was of great practical use. The study of Nakshatras served several key purposes:
- Weather Prediction: Using signs in the sky and on Earth during specific Nakshatras, local weather could be predicted months in advance. This science is described in texts like Brihat Samhita.
- Agricultural Use: India's agricultural calendar was based on the Sun's movement through the Nakshatras. The Sun appears to stay in each Nakshatra for about 13.5 days. Folk meteorologists such as Ghagh and Bhaddari framed farming guidance in proverbs based on these positions.
- Human Health: Modern studies have linked a 27-day magnetic cycle on Earth, caused by solar rotation, with changes in human activity. Ancient sages listed health effects related to birth Nakshatras.
- Predictive Astrology: Planetary positions are expressed in terms of Nakshatras to prepare birth charts and forecasts.
Nakshatra Trees
According to ancient Indian scriptures and Vedic astrology, the 27 Nakshatras are manifested on Earth in the form of 27 corresponding tree species. Serving or caring for these trees is considered equivalent to honouring the respective Nakshatra. Nurturing the tree of one's birth Nakshatra is believed to bring well-being, while harming these trees is traditionally discouraged. These trees are described in texts such as the Narada Samhita, Sharadatilaka, Vidyarnava Tantra, Narada Purana, Mantra Maharnava and Rajanighantu.
Significance of Nakshatra Trees
- Astrological Significance: According to Narada Purana, when Saturn (Shani) is positioned in a particular Nakshatra, one should worship the tree associated with that Nakshatra. Narada Samhita advises worship of one's Nakshatra tree for peace and happiness.
- Ayurvedic Significance: From an Ayurvedic perspective, individuals should generally not use their birth Nakshatra tree for personal medicinal consumption. According to Rajanighantu, nurturing these trees makes a person revered and grants longevity.
- Tantric Significance: Nakshatra trees are used in various Tantric rituals, as detailed in texts like Sharadatilaka, Vidyarnava and Mantra Maharnava.
- Environmental Significance: Each tree has a unique micro-environmental effect. Planting all 27 Nakshatra trees together balances their subtle energies and creates a harmonious environment.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Agricultural pressure is causing less-commercial tree species to disappear. Planting Nakshatra gardens helps conserve biodiversity and restore ecological balance.
Rashi Van (Zodiac Garden)
There is an interdependent relationship between Nakshatras and Rashis. The Earth completes one revolution around the Sun in a year (360 degrees). Each Rashi spans 30 degrees; thus a complete revolution passes through 12 Rashis. Generally three Nakshatras fall within one Rashi, though some Nakshatras partially span two consecutive Rashis. Each Rashi is also associated with a specific tree.
| S.No. |
Rashi |
English |
Associated Nakshatras |
Tree |
| 1 | Mesh | Aries | Ashwini, Bharani, Krittika (Partial) | Raktachandan (Pterocarpus santalinus) |
| 2 | Vrish | Taurus | Krittika (Partial), Rohini, Mrigashira (Partial) | Chhatvan (Alstonia scholaris) |
| 3 | Mithun | Gemini | Mrigashira (Partial), Ardra, Punarvasu (Partial) | Kathal (Artocarpus heterophyllus) |
| 4 | Kark | Cancer | Punarvasu (Partial), Pushya, Ashlesha | Palash (Butea monosperma) |
| 5 | Singh | Leo | Magha, Purvaphalguni, Uttaraphalguni (Partial) | Vaadal (Stereospermum chelonoides) |
| 6 | Kanya | Virgo | Uttaraphalguni (Partial), Hasta, Chitra (Partial) | Aam (Mangifera indica) |
| 7 | Tula | Libra | Chitra (Partial), Swati, Vishakha (Partial) | Maulsari (Mimusops elengi) |
| 8 | Vrishchik | Scorpio | Vishakha (Partial), Anuradha, Jyeshtha | Khair (Acacia catechu) |
| 9 | Dhanu | Sagittarius | Mula, Purvashada, Uttarashada (Partial) | Peepal (Ficus religiosa) |
| 10 | Makar | Capricorn | Uttarashada (Partial), Shravana, Dhanishta (Partial) | Kala Shisham (Dalbergia latifolia) |
| 11 | Kumbh | Aquarius | Dhanishta (Partial), Shatabhisha, Purvabhadrapada (Partial) | Shami (Prosopis spicigera) |
| 12 | Meen | Pisces | Purvabhadrapada (Partial), Uttarabhadrapada, Revati | Bargad (Ficus benghalensis) |
Note: The duration of Nakshatras within a Rashi may vary slightly each year according to the Panchang. The Rashi Van layout is based on the year 2003.
Navagraha Van (Nine Planets Garden)
The Navagrahas are considered cosmic forces that influence health, education and destiny. Each planet is also linked with a specific plant. Planting and protecting these plants is considered auspicious, and their wood is used as Samidha in Yagya rituals.
| Planet |
English |
Significance |
Plant |
Scientific Name |
| Surya | Sun | Life-force, authority and energy | Akwan (Madar) | Calotropis procera |
| Chandra | Moon | Mind, emotions and temperament | Palash | Butea monosperma |
| Mangal | Mars | Courage, strength and vital energy | Khair | Acacia catechu |
| Budh | Mercury | Intellect, communication and knowledge | Chidchidi | Achyranthes aspera |
| Brihaspati | Jupiter | Guru, wisdom and knowledge | Peepal | Ficus religiosa |
| Shukra | Venus | Love, beauty and the arts | Gular | Ficus glomerata |
| Shani | Saturn | Justice, discipline and Karma | Shami | Prosopis spicigera |
| Rahu | Rahu | Shadow planet; sudden changes | Doob | Cynodon dactylon |
| Ketu | Ketu | Shadow planet; spiritual liberation | Kush | Desmostachya bipinnata |
Nakshatras, Zodiac Signs and Planets across Religions
Various religions and civilizations describe Nakshatras, zodiac signs and planets, and also give special significance to trees and plants. A brief overview is as follows:
- Hinduism: Sacred texts describe Nakshatras, Rashis and Navagrahas for calculating birth Nakshatra, predictive astrology, health effects, weather prediction and associated sacred trees.
- Buddhism: The Kalachakra Tantra mentions planets and Nakshatras. Gautama Buddha was born under a Sal tree, attained enlightenment under the Peepal (Bodhi) tree, and attained Mahaparinirvana among Sal trees. Non-violence also applies to trees and nature.
- Jainism: All 24 Tirthankaras meditated under specific trees known as Kevalya Vriksha. For example, Rishabhdev is associated with the Banyan tree, and Sambhavnath and Mahavir with the Sal tree. Harming plants is considered violence.
- Islam: The Quran mentions Burj (constellations) as part of Allah's creation. Trees, plants and greenery are described as signs of divine power. Planting trees is regarded as a sacred act and a form of worship.
- Christianity: Stars are seen as God's creation. The Star of Bethlehem guided people at the birth of Jesus Christ. The Tree of Life and Tree of Knowledge hold deep spiritual meaning. The Book of Revelation mentions a tree whose leaves are for the healing of nations.
- Zoroastrianism (Parsi Religion): Celestial bodies are seen as divine forces. Nature, water, earth, fire and trees are sacred. The plant Haoma (Hom) is especially used in rituals and medicine.
- Chinese Religion and Taoism: The system of 28 lunar mansions is used in Chinese astrology. In Taoism, Wood is one of the five elements. Bamboo, pine and cedar are revered as symbols of endurance, longevity, luck and health.
- Greek-Roman Tradition: The Zodiac contains twelve signs named after gods. Constellations were used for navigation and agriculture. The olive tree symbolizes peace and prosperity, and the laurel tree represents victory.
Medicinal Forest
The Medicinal Forest is spread across the Nakshatra Van premises. It contains plants recognised by Siddha, Unani, Ayurvedic and traditional home-based systems of medicine. To ensure the safety of the plants, the area is enclosed with an iron grill. At the centre stands a statue of the Ayurvedic scholar Acharya Dhanvantari. The forest is divided into eight sections. Each species is planted in a designated location. Iron plaques provide the plant's common name, botanical name, and the ailments it is used to treat.
These details are for public awareness only. Please consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner or physician before using any plant for medicinal purposes. The complete species-wise list is available in the Nakshatra Van PDF.
Timeless Ayurvedic Acharya Dhanvantari
Acharya Dhanvantari is regarded in Hinduism as the physician of the gods and the originator of Ayurveda. According to one legend, he emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) holding the pot of nectar (Amrit). Another account states that he was born in Kashi (Varanasi), where he studied Ayurveda and imparted this knowledge to disciples such as Sushruta. He is especially worshipped on Dhanteras for health and longevity.
Pathways of the Nakshatra Van Premises
Well-constructed pathways made of checkered tiles and pebbles run throughout the premises. Benches are placed along the sides of these paths. Permanent resting shelters have also been built at various locations so that visitors can sit and enjoy the serene beauty of Nakshatra Van.
Rose Garden
A Rose Garden has been developed within the Nakshatra Van premises. The flower beds have been designed to resemble the shapes of various Nakshatras. During the autumn season, this garden reaches the peak of its beauty.
Perennial Flower Garden
At the entrance of Nakshatra Van, the Rose Garden lies to the right, while the Perennial Flower Garden is located to the left. This garden features flowering and ornamental plants that do not need to be replanted every year, so that flowers bloom across all seasons. The combination of blooms, shrubs, trees and the pond has created a habitat for more than 75 butterfly species, and the park is also a favoured nesting ground for many birds.
Hills and Waterfalls
An artificial hill has been created that resembles the natural landscape of Jharkhand - its mountains, forests and waterfalls. From the top of the hill, waterfalls flow gracefully. At the base there is a bridge which, though made of cement and concrete, has been designed to appear as if crafted from bamboo and wood. Artistically shaped earthen mounds have also been created throughout the area.
Children's Play Area
A section has been developed with play equipment for children, including slides, climbing net, swinging net, tunnel, see-saw and other items, set among trees, plants and flowering shrubs.
Green Lawns and Grass-Covered Earthen Mounds
Several lush green lawns have been developed within the Nakshatra Van garden. Besides their aesthetic value, the lawns help conserve soil nutrients and enrich the soil with organic matter.
Nakshatra Van Pond
The pond located within the Nakshatra Van premises is also known as Hataniya Pond. It has witnessed the celebrations and festivals of thousands of people in the surrounding region. During the Chhath festival, large crowds gather here to offer prayers. As part of the beautification effort, a permanent ghat made of red sandstone was constructed around the pond. Scenic viewpoints have been developed on two sides. A ten-foot-wide sandstone walking path has been built around the embankment, six resting shelters have been created, and a floating fountain has been installed at the centre. A 25-foot-wide gate has been constructed on the side of the fish house to facilitate crowd movement during Chhath.
Additional Facilities Provided in Nakshatra Van Park
- Drinking RO water facility
- Rest areas, seating arrangements and visitor shelters
- Separate toilet facilities for women and men
- Designated ghats for Chhath Puja and Dashakarma rituals
- Primary medical aid facility
- Wheelchair availability and wheelchair-friendly pathways
- Dustbins and other sanitation amenities
For detailed tree-wise medicinal notes, the complete medicinal plant catalogue, and lists of butterflies and birds found in this park, please refer to the Nakshatra Van PDF.
