In Vedic astrology, a Nakshatra is one of 27 (sometimes 28) lunar mansions that divide the zodiac into segments of 13 degrees and 20 minutes each. Each Nakshatra has a ruling deity, planetary lord, symbol, and distinct qualities that add nuance beyond the twelve Rashis. Your birth Nakshatra (Janma Nakshatra) — determined by the Moon's position — is central to personality, compatibility matching (Kundli matching), and Dasha timing.