Kundali Matching Explained: Gun Milan and the 36 Gunas
In short
Kundali matching compares two horoscopes, most often with the Ashtakoot method, which scores eight aspects for a total of 36 gunas. Many families treat 18 or more as acceptable. The score is one input among many: families also weigh values, education, health and the couple's own feelings.
By Mafimo Editorial Team · Published · How we write our guides
For many Hindu families, and some Jain and other families, matching horoscopes is a step in considering a proposal. This guide explains how the most common method works, so families can understand a result rather than just accept a number.
What kundali matching is
A kundali is a birth chart, drawn from a person’s date, time and place of birth. Kundali matching, also called gun milan, compares the charts of the two people to judge compatibility according to Vedic astrology.
The most widely used method, especially in North and West India, is Ashtakoot, which scores eight aspects (“kootas”) for a maximum of 36 gunas. South Indian traditions often use a different system based on poruthams.
The eight kootas and their points
| Koota | What it is said to reflect | Maximum points |
|---|---|---|
| Varna | Spiritual and working temperament | 1 |
| Vashya | Mutual attraction and influence | 2 |
| Tara | Wellbeing and fortune | 3 |
| Yoni | Physical and intimate compatibility | 4 |
| Graha Maitri | Friendship and mental compatibility | 5 |
| Gana | Nature and temperament | 6 |
| Bhakoot | Family welfare and prosperity | 7 |
| Nadi | Health and progeny | 8 |
| Total | 36 |
What the score means
Families and astrologers commonly read the total like this:
- Below 18: generally considered not recommended.
- 18 to 24: acceptable.
- 25 to 32: good.
- Above 32: very good.
These bands are conventions, not rules, and astrologers may weigh particular kootas more heavily. For example, a score of 0 in Nadi (called Nadi dosha) or in Bhakoot is often discussed separately, even when the total is high.
Manglik dosha
A person is described as manglik when Mars sits in certain houses of their birth chart. Many families check whether both people are manglik or neither is. Views differ widely on how much this matters and on remedies, so it is best discussed with an astrologer your family trusts.
Using the result wisely
- Check birth details first. An incorrect birth time is the most common cause of a misleading result.
- Treat the score as one input. Values, education, health, family and the couple’s own comfort matter just as much.
- Agree on your family’s rule in advance, so a number does not decide for you in the moment.
- Respect families who do not use horoscopes. Plenty of happy marriages never compared kundalis.
Kundali matching on Mafimo
Mafimo offers an optional kundali compatibility report for families who want it. Horoscope details are never required: families who do not use them can leave those fields empty.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many gunas should match for marriage?
Many families treat 18 out of 36 as the minimum, and higher scores as better. Traditions differ, so families often also consult an astrologer they trust.
What information is needed for kundali matching?
The date, exact time and place of birth of both people. Accurate birth time matters, because it changes the positions used in the chart.
What is manglik dosha?
It refers to Mars being placed in certain houses of the birth chart. Many families check it; views on its importance and remedies vary widely.
Is kundali matching necessary?
No. It is a tradition that many families value and many others do not use. It is always a family choice.
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