How many gunas should match for marriage? 18 out of 36 and what really counts

The first question families ask after a match is "kitne guna mile?" The Ashtakoota system gives a score out of 36. Knowing what the number means, and what it hides, helps you read it calmly.

The eight koots

• Varna, 1 point: work and temperament.
• Vashya, 2 points: mutual attraction and influence.
• Tara, 3 points: health and luck together.
• Yoni, 4 points: physical and natural compatibility.
• Graha Maitri, 5 points: friendship between the two Moon sign lords.
• Gana, 6 points: nature, divided into Deva, Manushya and Rakshasa.
• Bhakoot, 7 points: emotional bond and family harmony.
• Nadi, 8 points: health and energy match.

Together they add up to 36.

What the score means

• Below 18: traditionally not advised without further review.
• 18 to 24: acceptable.
• 25 to 32: good.
• 33 and above: excellent, and rarely seen.

The number is not the whole story

Nadi (8) and Bhakoot (7) together carry 15 of the 36 points. A low score caused only by these two can often be cancelled. A score of 28 with a Nadi dosh may need more attention than a score of 22 with no dosh at all. Gana and Graha Maitri also show how well the two people will get along day to day.

Astrologers also check Manglik status in both charts, the 7th house and the dasha periods of both partners. A good score on the day matters less than how both charts look over the next ten years.

Run the match first, then talk to the people. Chemistry, values and family support carry a marriage far beyond any total.