“Your marriage will end up in divorce, and there are chances of remaining childless,” astrologers told Binu and Chander, years ago. Their horoscopes were far from compatible with only 12.5 gunas matching out of 36 and the presence of Nadi Dosha — a serious astrological mismatch often associated with marital discord and potential childlessness.
“We were told that our marriage was nearly impossible to last. Predictions suggested we would either end up divorced or live apart despite being married,” Binu Bhatia, associate technical architect from Bengaluru recalls.
One astrologer even claimed that if they could delay the wedding for a year, Binu and Chander would abandon the idea altogether. Instead of giving up, the couple accelerated their plans, marrying within two months. “Getting married at 21 and 24 was not easy,” says Binu. “There were many ups and downs in our marriage, and I had moments where I considered divorce. But Chander never brought it up even once. Our love and commitment got us through.”
Now, 18 and a half years later, with a teenage son, their love story is proof that free will can override astrological predictions.
In India, where astrology often holds as much weight as love in determining the success of a marriage. But there are many love stories out there that have fought the test of astrology and a living proof of the fact that when love and belief is strong then you can change what is written in the charts. So, this Valentine’s Day, if you are stuck in this doubt, let’s try and give you some answers in the form of real life examples today.
Love at first sight!
Lets say, Jyoti Ohri and Pawan Ohri, a couple from Delhi, are now married for around 20 years years with a beautiful daughter but they were also told by astrologers that their marriage would not last. Pawan Ohri saw Jyoti’s picture and he just said yes without matching any kundali. Families tried to stop them but it was the case of ‘love at first sight’, Pawan said and hence “they couldn’t do anything”. “Look at us now, we are happily married it’s just the matter of how committed and understanding you are. And ours is the case of arranged marriage,” adds Pawan.
School sweethearts
For Sanjana, a 28-year-old senior content writer in Bengaluru, astrology nearly stood in the way of her decade-long relationship with her school sweetheart. “We dated for years, but my family was hesitant about our match. My husband and I decided to keep our relationship private until we were stable in our careers.”
When the time came to take the next step, she suggested consulting an astrologer. Their kundali scored six out of 10 — a result that was considered less than ideal in her community. "The astrologer warned us that this might create tension with my family. But when my husband’s family approached mine, they surprisingly agreed to the marriage without even mentioning Kundali matching again."
Instead, both families placed more importance on their love and mutual understanding. Now, nearly two years into marriage, Sanjana reflects, “Astrology may have played a role initially, but in the end, love was what mattered most.”
Heartbreak + doshas
It’s sad to see many couples breaking ties because their horoscopes don’t match. Honestly, I believe in astrology but when I see people trusting the science more than their own power to believe in themselves or their love, it breaks my heart.
Many people have to give up on their relationship when one partner is manglik and the other is not. Similarly, there are many doshas in astrology that make hearts break when people overly trust the science.
Recently, a close friend had to let go of his love because the couple’s kundali had dosha, which meant if the couple got married the girl would either get really sick or die within one year of marriage. Girl’s parents then decided to not go ahead with the wedding. Such things not only make people lose love but often people lose their sanity in between.
Astrologers speak
In the case of my friend, the astrologers said, “Why did you even get your horoscopes matched when you had already decided to marry each other? I might give you upaay (solution) for dosha, but even I can’t give you solution for the strong notion you have made in your mind.”
And that’s true. It all lies in the belief. In case of love marriages, astrologers themselves ask the couple to vary from showing their horoscopes as it might create doubts in their minds.
Astrologer Dr. Rashi Gupta Virmani emphasises that horoscope matching has been an integral part of Indian traditions for centuries. “Before medical advancements in blood and DNA tests, Kundali matching was the ultimate tool to predict compatibility and ensure stable relationships,” she explains.
However, she acknowledges that modern couples are increasingly challenging astrological constraints. “Yes, astrology provides guidance, but love, trust, and commitment are the real foundations of a lasting relationship. Even the most compatible kundali matches can face difficulties — look at Ramji and Sitaji. What matters is how two individuals choose to navigate challenges together.”
Vanya Mishra, Co-founder and CEO of Astrosure.ai, shares her perspective as both a believer in astrology and a tech entrepreneur in the field. “Astrology encourages relationships to thrive through free will,” she says. “Even the most experienced astrologers will tell you that the choice to move forward in a relationship ultimately lies with the individuals involved.”
She highlights how in earlier times, when arranged marriages were the norm, kundali matching played a crucial role in predicting compatibility. But in today’s world, where love marriages are more common, personal compatibility often outweighs astrological charts.
“Use astrology as a tool for insight and personal growth,” Vanya advises. “But when it comes to love, sometimes it’s worth following your heart. If it’s meant to be, the stars will align!”
While astrology continues to hold significance in Indian culture, stories like these and many more out there showcase the power of love, determination, and mutual respect. Horoscope matching can provide insights, but it is ultimately the couple’s journey, decisions, and commitment that shape their destiny.
As Dr. Virmani wisely says, “Believe in astrology or not, but understand your partner’s values and build a deep emotional connection. That is the true key to a fulfilling life.”
