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 astrologers for the benefit of society, and it plays a critical role in time calculation. The Moon completes one revolution around the Earth in approximately 27.3 days. Accordingly, ancient Indian astronomers divided the sky into 27 segments, identified each segment with a bright star (visible star cluster), and designated each as a Nakshatra (constellation).
Human life on Earth is influenced by the interaction of forces present in the cosmos. These forces work through the elements of Earth (Prithvi), Water (Jal), Fire (Agni), Sky (Gagan), and Air (Samir)—all interacting through various magnetic fields. The different Nakshatras, which are clusters of stars, are also intimately connected with life on Earth. 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 (a classical astrological text). These plants are known to provide significant health benefits to humans—not merely through their physical parts, but through the cosmic interactions and radiations they emit when cared for. If an individual nurtures the plants associated with their birth Nakshatra, it is believed to enhance their health and well-being.
These Nakshatra-linked plants also have exceptional medicinal value and are used in treating various chronic illnesses. They emit solar and cosmic energy, which in turn helps develop human consciousness and vitality.
The design of Nakshatra Van is based on various astronomical observations and scientific principles, verified by the Indian Institute of Astrophysics, Bengaluru. For Ranchi, data was collected for the annual solar path across the horizon. Based on this data, the position of the rising and setting sun throughout the year was mapped. Corresponding to this, plants related to 13 Nakshatras in the sunrise direction—Purvashada, Uttarashada, Shravana, Dhanishta, Shatabhisha, Purvabhadrapada, Uttarabhadrapada, Revati, Ashwini, Bharani, Krittika, Rohini, and Mrigashira—were planted. These included trees like Sita
Ashok, Jackfruit, Akavan, Shami, Kadamba, Mango, Neem, Mahua, Amla, Twin Trees (Banyan and Pipal), Cluster Fig, Jamun, and Khair.
In the sunset direction, 14 other Nakshatras—Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Ashlesha, Magha, and so on—were also matched with specific trees
Corresponding to the Nakshatras of Purva Phalguni, Uttara Phalguni, Hasta, Chitra, Swati, Vishakha, Anuradha, Jyeshtha, and Mula, the associated tree species—Pakar (Ficus infectoria), Bamboo, Peepal (Sacred Fig), Nagkesar, Banyan, Palash (Flame of the Forest), Rudraksha, Soapnut (Reetha), Bael (Wood Apple), Arjuna, Vikankata, Maulshree, Chir Pine, and Sal—have been planted, thereby establishing the Nakshatra Van.
The unique feature of this Nakshatra Van is that on any given day, the Nakshatra corresponding to the sun's position is reflected through a 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 the Nakshatra section will extend outward from the center of that section, falling upon any person standing there.
All the trees associated with the Nakshatras are highly revered and possess multi-dimensional beneficial effects. By having all these trees in a single space, Nakshatra Van promotes biodiversity and ecological balance.
This sacred grove also provides an opportunity for the public to actively engage in the nurturing of these plants. In doing so, they can benefit from the fragrance and cosmic energies emitted by these trees, which are believed to enhance both health and consciousness.
Nakshatra (Lunar Mansion)
If we observe the position of the Moon among the stars on any night, it appears that the stars remain fixed in their positions while the Moon slowly moves forward. If this movement of the Moon is observed over several months, it becomes clear that it completes one full journey among the stars in approximately 27 days. After this, it begins to appear once again each night among the same stars where it was located 27 days earlier.
This sacred grove also provides an opportunity for the public to actively engage in the nurturing of these plants. In doing so, they can benefit from the fragrance and cosmic energies emitted by these trees, which are believed to enhance both health and consciousness.
The ancient Indian sages divided this path of the Moon’s journey into 27 segments and identified distinct star clusters within each segment. They assigned names to these star clusters, which are called Nakshatras. The term Nakshatra means "that which does not move"—in other words, something fixed or stationary.
In reality, Nakshatras were established as reference points to mark the positions of the moving celestial bodies (planets). Their descriptions are documented in texts such as the Surya Siddhanta and other classical astronomical works.
According to Indian tradition, all the members and sub-members of the solar system, including the Sun, Earth, and Moon, are referred to as Grah (planets). Due to their proximity to Earth, the positions of these celestial bodies change daily. However, Nakshatras are so far away that they appear to remain motionless, which is why they are considered stationary or fixed.
From Earth's perspective, the orbital paths of all planets lie more or less within or along the path of the Nakshatras. The 27 Nakshatras, in order, are as follows:
| S.no |
Nakshatra |
| 1. |
Purvashada |
2. |
Uttarashada |
3. |
Shravana |
4. |
Dhanishta |
5. |
Dhanishta |
6. |
Shatabhisha |
7. |
Purvabhadrapada |
8. |
Uttarabhadrapada |
9. |
Revati |
10. |
Ashwini |
11. |
Bharani |
12. |
Krittika |
13. |
Rohini |
14. |
Mrigashira |
15. |
Ardra |
16. |
Punarvasu |
17. |
Pushya |
18. |
Ashlesha |
19. |
Magha |
20. |
Purva Phalguni |
21. |
Uttara Phalguni |
22. |
Hasta |
23. |
Chitra |
24. |
Swati |
25. |
Anuradha |
26. |
Jyeshtha |
27. |
Mula |
Nakshatra-Based Hindi Month Names
In India, the names of the traditional Hindi (lunar) months are based on Nakshatras (lunar constellations). 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. For example:
Chitra Nakshatra → Chaitra Month
Jyeshtha Nakshatra → Jyeshtha Month
Ashadha Nakshatra → Ashadha Month
Shravana Nakshatra → Sawan (Shravana) Month
Bhadrapada Nakshatra → Bhado (Bhadrapada) Month
Ashwini Nakshatra → Ashwin or Asin Month
Mrigashira Nakshatra → Agahan or Margashirsha Month
Pushya Nakshatra → Paush or Push Month
Magha Nakshatra → Magh Month
Phalguni Nakshatra → Phalgun or Fagun Month
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 a person’s 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 in daily life. The study of Nakshatras served several key purposes:
Importance of Studying Nakshatras
In ancient India, daily knowledge of the positions of planets and Nakshatras was of great practical use in daily life. The study of Nakshatras served several key purposes:
Weather Prediction
Using signs in the sky and on Earth during specific Nakshatras, one could accurately predict local weather months in advance. This science was highly developed in ancient India and described in detail in texts like Brihat Samhita.
Sanskrit scholar Late Dr. D.R. Tripathi wrote a book on predicting weather based on Nakshatra patterns. He claimed this method gave 100% accurate weather forecasts.
Agricultural Use
India’s annual agricultural calendar was based on the Sun’s movement through the Nakshatras.
Note that the Earth completes one orbit around the Sun in a year. From Earth’s perspective, the Sun appears to pass through all 27 Nakshatras, staying in each for about 13.5 days.
Famous folklore figures like Ghagh and Bhaddari are known as farmer-meteorologists for their accurate proverbs based on the positions of Nakshatras and constellations. Some of their proverbs are:
Agricultural Proverbs by Ghagh and Bhaddari
1.“Leave aside fertilizer and plough deeply; then farming will be truly enjoyable.” Meaning: Deep ploughing is the best; it yields good results even without fertilizer.
2.If Rohini scorches and Mrigashira too, and the first lunar day of Jyeshtha is hot — all seven grains will grow.” Meaning: Good heat in these Nakshatras leads to a full harvest.
3.“If the sixth bright day of Bhadrapada (Bhado) falls in Anuradha Nakshatra, even rocky soil will yield abundant crops.”
4.“If the second lunar day Moon rises in Ardra, Krittika, Shlesha, Magha, or Bhadra — people will live happily.”
5.“If Rohini brings rain, Mrigashira heats up, and there is some rain in Ardra — rice will grow so well that even dogs will get bored of eating it.”
6.“If Uttara says no, and Hasta turns away, only Chitra helps the people by bringing rain and saving the crops.”
7.“Rain in Hasta, clouds in Chitra — farmers rejoice at home.” Meaning: Chitra’s sunlight is intense, so rainfall here is critical.
8.“A bit of rain in Hathiya (Nakshatra) ensures a good wheat crop.”
9.“Rain in Punarvasu and Swati — no need to spin yarn or run looms.” Meaning: Abundant harvest removes the need for extra labor.
10.“If it rains during Magha — all crops will flourish.”
11.“If Uttara brings rain — there will be so much food even dogs won’t eat it all.”
12.“If it rains during Magha — all crops will flourish.”
13.“Harvest rice in Virgo (Kanya), barley in Pisces (Meena); wherever you want, you’ll get it.”
14.“If there's no rain in Ardra and Krittika — famine is likely,” says Bhaddari.
Human Health
Modern medical science is increasingly discovering signs of how Nakshatras affect human health.
The U.S. Atomic Energy Commission linked a 27-day magnetic cycle disturbance on Earth, caused by solar rotation, to increased accidents.
Ancient sages listed health effects related to birth Nakshatras, and chanting the specific mantras for one's birth Nakshatra is said to bring health benefits and relief from ailments.
Predictive Astrology
In astrology, planetary positions are expressed in terms of Nakshatras.
To create a birth chart or predict someone's future, Nakshatra-based planetary positions are used by astrologers.
Nakshatra – Trees
Indian sages have established a connection between the celestial Nakshatras (lunar constellations) in the sky and specific trees found on Earth. According to ancient Indian scriptures and Vedic astrology, the 27 Nakshatras are manifested on Earth in the form of 27 corresponding tree species. Each of these trees embodies the divine essence of its associated Nakshatra. Serving or caring for these trees is considered equivalent to worshipping the respective Nakshatra. These are known as Nakshatra Trees, and this system is also based on the interaction between the cosmic energies of the trees and the universe.
It is believed that the Nakshatra in which the Moon is positioned at the time of a person’s birth leaves a lasting influence on their mind, which persists throughout life. This is known as the person's birth Nakshatra.
According to recommendations in Vedic astrology, nurturing, protecting, and promoting the growth of the tree corresponding to one’s birth Nakshatra brings all-around well-being. Conversely, harming these trees is believed to result in various forms of misfortune.
The importance of Nakshatra Trees has been elaborated in ancient texts such as the Narada Samhita, Sharadatilaka, Vidyarnava Tantra, Narada Purana, Mantra Maharnava, and Rajanighantu. The Brihat Sushruta and Narayana-Arnava texts also reference these trees in relation to Rajanighantu.
Significance of Nakshatra Trees:
- Astrological Significance:
a) According to Narada Purana: When Saturn (Shani) is positioned in a particular Nakshatra, one should diligently worship the tree associated with that Nakshatra.
b) According to Narada Samhita: Worship of one's Nakshatra tree is advised for peace and happiness.
- Ayurvedic Significance:
a) From an Ayurvedic perspective, individuals should not use their birth Nakshatra tree for medicinal purposes (i.e., for internal consumption).
b) According to Rajanighantu: Nurturing and preserving Nakshatra trees makes a person revered and grants them longevity.
- Tantric Significance:
a)Nakshatra trees are used in various Tantric rituals and spiritual practices. This has been detailed in Tantric scriptures like Sharadatilaka, Vidyarnava, and Mantra Maharnava.
- Environmental Significance:
a) Each tree has a unique micro-environmental effect, but these can be limited or incomplete in isolation. Planting all 27 Nakshatra trees together balances their subtle energies and creates a harmonious environment beneficial for all..
b) Therefore, Nakshatra gardens (Nakshatra Vatikas), where all Nakshatra trees are planted together, are established to create a spiritually and ecologically beneficial balance.
- Biodiversity Conservation:
a) Increasing agricultural pressure on land is leading to the disappearance of economically less-valuable tree species from villages.
b) The loss of tree diversity also affects the diversity of animal and insect species, breaking the ecological chain and threatening both the environment and human life.
c) Planting Nakshatra gardens in every village can aid in conserving biodiversity and restoring ecological balance.
Description of Nakshatras, Zodiac Signs, and Planets Across Various Religions and Civilizations
Various religions and civilizations describe Nakshatras (lunar mansions), zodiac signs, and planets, all of which are connected to human life. The concepts of Nakshatras, zodiac signs, and planets are based on celestial bodies, i.e., astronomical science. At the same time, special significance is also given to trees and plants in these religions. Trees and plants are considered sacred and divine, and are seen as sources of life and nourishment. The details are as follows:
Hinduism
a) All sacred Hindu texts describe Nakshatras, zodiac signs, and planets, which are used to calculate a person's birth Nakshatra.
b) Nakshatras are believed to embody divine consciousness and are worshipped as deities.
c) The concept of predictive astrology is derived from these celestial entities, which includes birth charts and forecasts.
d) Ancient sages explained the effects of Nakshatras, zodiac signs, and planets on human health.
e) They also made accurate weather predictions based on these, which benefited agricultural activities.
f) Several sacred texts describe trees and plants associated with Nakshatras, zodiac signs, and planets. It is a long-standing belief that trees possess life and are inhabited by souls.
g) This booklet provides a detailed and analytical overview of Nakshatras, zodiac signs, and their associated plants, and their impact on human life and the world.
Buddhism
a) The Buddhist text "Kalachakra Tantra" mentions planets and Nakshatras.
b) Symbols related to Nakshatras are found in Buddhist temples in Thailand, China, and Japan, reflecting astronomical significance.
c) Some Buddhist traditions use astrology.
d) Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment under the Ashvattha or Peepal tree (Ficus religiosa), called the Bodhi Tree (Tree of Enlightenment).
e) Trees played significant roles in Buddha's life: he was born under a Sal tree in Lumbini (Nepal), attained enlightenment under a Peepal tree in Bodh Gaya (Bihar), gave his first sermon in the Mrigadava forest of Sarnath (U.P.), and attained Mahaparinirvana among Sal trees in Kushinagar (U.P.).
f) The core Buddhist principle of non-violence applies to not just sentient beings but also to trees and nature. Trees symbolize knowledge, compassion, peace, and liberation..
Jainism
a) Jain texts describe the structure of the universe, including stars, planets, and heavenly realms.
b) Some Jain temples have symbols and yantras related to Nakshatras.
c) All 24 Tirthankaras meditated and attained enlightenment or liberation under specific trees. For example:
d) Rishabhdev is associated with the Banyan tree.
e) Sambhavnath and Mahavir are associated with the Sal tree.
f) These are known as "Kevalya Vriksha" (Trees of Absolute Knowledge) in Jainism.
g) Jainism’s principle of "Ahimsa Parmo Dharma" (non-violence is the supreme religion) extends to plants. Harming plants is considered violence because they possess life.
Islam
a) The Quran mentions "Burj" (constellations), for example: “We have placed constellations in the sky and made them beautiful for those who observe.”.
b) Nakshatras are considered part of Allah’s creation.
c) Stars serve as guides and symbols of the beauty of the universe.
d) The Quran often refers to trees, plants, fruits, and greenery as signs of Allah's power and creation.
e) Tree planting is seen as a sacred act with benefits in the hereafter.
f) Islam considers trees and plants as a mercy (rahmat) for humanity, and caring for them is seen as a religious duty—planting and protecting them is considered an act of worship (ibadat).
Christianity
a) Stars are seen as God's creation in Christianity.
b) The Bible frequently mentions stars, e.g.: “He (God) counts the number of stars and calls each by name.”
c) The "Star of Bethlehem" guided people at the time of Jesus Christ's birth.
d) Trees hold deep spiritual and symbolic meaning, such as:
e) Tree of Life: symbolizes eternal life and communion with God.
f) Tree of Knowledge: represents moral discernment and obedience..
g) Trees are symbols of life, death, and resurrection.
h) The Book of Revelation mentions a tree along the riverbanks of Jerusalem that bears twelve types of fruit and whose leaves are for the healing of nations.
Zoroastrianism (Parsi Religion)
a) Zoroastrianism gives importance to astronomy and Nakshatras.
b) Celestial bodies are seen as divine forces in its texts.
c) The positions of the sun, moon, and planets are considered auspicious for rituals.
d) Nature, water, earth, fire, and trees are held sacred.
e) Trees are considered part of nature’s purity and are to be protected.
f) The plant Haoma (Hom) is especially sacred and used in rituals and medicine.
g) A special ritual called "Gahambars" is performed for trees to ensure continuity of life and energy.
Chinese Religion and Taoism
a) Chinese astrology places great importance on stars and Nakshatras.
b) The 28 Chinese lunar mansions are mentioned in their astrological system.
c) In Feng Shui and the Chinese calendar, stars determine auspicious and inauspicious times.
d) In Taoism, stars represent energy and cosmic balance.
e) It believes in the five elements, one of which is Wood (trees).
f) Taoism emphasizes emotional harmony with nature, believing that aligning with nature's rhythms is the best way to live. Hence, trees are seen as symbols of life.
g) Trees like bamboo, pine, and cedar are especially revered.
h) Trees symbolize virtues like endurance, inner strength, and longevity.
i) Feng Shui views bamboo as a symbol of luck, prosperity, and health.
Greek-Roman Tradition
a) Ancient Greece and Rome linked Nakshatras with deities.
b) The Zodiac is a significant part of Greek astrology.
c) It contains twelve signs, named after Roman and Greek gods (e.g., Mars – God of War, Saturn – Cronus, Jupiter – Zeus).
d) Nakshatras were used for navigation and agriculture.
e) It is believed that the goddess Athena gifted the olive tree to the people of Greece—symbolizing peace and prosperity.
f) The laurel tree is associated with Apollo and represents victory.
Medicinal Forest
The Medicinal Forest is spread across the Nakshatra Van premises. This forest contains plants that are fully recognized and validated by Siddha, Unani, Ayurvedic, and traditional home-based systems of medicine. Due to a lack of awareness, people are often unable to utilize or promote the medicinal herbs that are available around them. To address this, the Medicinal Forest has been established for the general public.
To ensure the safety of the plants, the area is enclosed with an iron grill. At the center of the Medicinal Forest stands a statue of the timeless Ayurvedic scholar, Acharya Dhanvantari.
The forest is divided into eight sections, each briefly described ahead. Each species of plant has been planted in a designated location. On iron plaques, details such as the plant’s common name, botanical name, and the ailments it is used to treat are provided.
In today’s highly scientific age, these medicinal plants are no less relevant than allopathic medicine for the treatment of even the most serious diseases. What is needed is a knowledgeable person who understands how to use these plants effectively for healing.
It is hoped that more and more people will gain knowledge from this site and benefit from it. For easy reference, a species-wise list of the medicinal plants in this forest is provided ahead.
Timeless Ayurvedic Acharya Dhanvantari
Timeless Ayurvedic Acharya Dhanvantari is regarded in Hinduism as the physician of the gods and the originator of Ayurveda. He is worshipped as a deity of health and medicine.
There are several mythological stories about the birth of the eternal Ayurvedic master Dhanvantari. According to one well-known legend, he emerged during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) holding the pot of nectar (Amrit).
Another story suggests that the timeless Acharya Dhanvantari was born in Kashi (Varanasi), where he studied Ayurveda. He imparted the knowledge of Ayurveda to disciples such as Sushruta, who later spread it across the world.
Along with being the father of Ayurveda, Dhanvantari is also worshipped as the god of health and longevity. On the day of Dhanteras, he is specially worshipped. It is believed that worshipping the eternal Dhanvantari grants a person a healthy life and long lifespan.
Pathways of the Nakshatra Van Premises
To allow visitors to walk around and enjoy the Nakshatra Van, well-constructed pathways made of checkered tiles and pebbles run throughout the entire premises. Benches are placed along the sides of these paths. At various locations, permanent resting shelters have also been built. These shelters are equipped with benches so that visitors can sit and enjoy the serene beauty of the entire Nakshatra Van.
Rose Garden
A Rose Garden has been developed within the Nakshatra Van premises. The flower beds in this garden have been designed to resemble the shapes of various Nakshatras (lunar constellations). During the autumn season, this garden reaches the peak of its beauty.
Perennial Flower Garden
At the entrance of the Nakshatra Van, the Rose Garden lies to the right, while the Perennial Flower Garden is located to the left. This garden features species of flowering and ornamental plants that do not need to be replanted every year. The plants have been carefully selected so that flowers bloom here throughout all seasons.
Hills and Waterfalls
Within the Nakshatra Van premises, an artificial hill has been created that resembles the natural landscape of Jharkhand—its mountains, forests, and waterfalls. The stones on the hill are artistically arranged to create a visually appealing structure. From the top of the hill, waterfalls flow gracefully.
At the base, there is a bridge that, while actually made of cement and concrete, has been designed by the artist in such a way that it gives the appearance of being crafted from bamboo and wood.
Throughout the area, artistically shaped earthen mounds have been created. These features help visitors escape feelings of isolation and immerse themselves in the joy and beauty of nature.
Green Lawns and Grass-Covered Earthen Mounds
Several lush green lawns have been developed within the Nakshatra Van garden, enhancing the overall beauty and greenery of the space. These lawns attract visiting guests and provide a refreshing visual appeal.
In addition to their aesthetic value, the lawns also play an important role in the ecosystem. They help conserve and retain soil nutrients and enrich the soil with organic matter.
Nakshatra Van Pond
The pond located within the Nakshatra Van premises holds great significance. It is also known as Hataniya Pond. This pond 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.
Despite its unmatched cultural importance, the beautification of this pond was formally included in the Nakshatra Van project. As part of the beautification effort, a permanent ghat made of red sandstone was constructed around the pond. On two sides of the pond, scenic viewpoints have been developed, offering a captivating view of the water body.
Around the pond embankment, a ten-foot-wide sandstone walking path has been built. Additionally, six resting shelters have been created, and a floating fountain has been installed at the center of the pond.
Considering the large number of devotees during the Chhath festival, a 25-foot-wide gate has been constructed on the side of the fish house to facilitate crowd movement. This pond truly enhances the charm and significance of the Nakshatra Van.
Additional Facilities Provided in Nakshatra Van Park:
a) Drinking RO water facility.
b) Rest areas, seating arrangements, and visitor shelters.
c) Separate toilet facilities for women and men.
d) Designated ghats for Chhath Puja and Dashakarma rituals.
e) Primary medical aid facility.
f) Wheelchair availability and wheelchair-friendly pathways.
g) Dustbins and other sanitation amenities.
