In Indian astrology, Jupiter holds prominence over all the planets, not only because he is generally a benefactor, but also because he is regarded as the Guru or Teacher and is known to impart knowledge and wisdom. Jupiter moves slowly along the Zodiac, and progresses by one sign each year. This year Jupiter makes a move to the sign of Aquarius temporarily in April where he will remain for a few months. Jupiter’s transit to the sign of Aquarius has great astrological importance in India.
Aquarius, or ‘Kumbha’ represents the pot. The pot is a carrier of water. In Indian mythology when the Samudhra Manthan was done, the Goddess brought forth the Amrita or ‘nectar of immortality’ in a pot (Kumbha). Thus Kumbha is of particular significance and variously represents the carrier of nectar, water or of other important things for the benefit of mankind. Thus when the planet of wisdom, Jupiter, moves into Kumbha, it is given importance since it implies that this pot of knowledge is available to those who are seekers. Thus also the myth, that when Jupiter moved into Aquarius, the nectar spilled from the pot into different places in India.
The Kumbha Mela is held once every 12 years, each time when Jupiter moves into Aquarius and the Sun is exalted in Aries. Sun represents the soul, so when the Sun is in Aries and exalted, and Jupiter is in Kumbha, the soul is fully open to receive the knowledge and get enlightened. The Kumbha Mela historically was an occasion when the Kings would meet his subjects and donate gifts and valuables. It was also an occasion when people would gather at the Ganges to wash away the sins and start afresh on spiritual learning and enlightenment.
Jupiter has already crossed over to Aquarius during April, while Sun moves into Aries on the Vishu day (Tamil New Year). Thus, this year’s Vishu is special. The Sun shines in Aries and the Jupiter transits to Aquarius. Inline with our tradition, lets wash away our past sins, all our troubles and start afresh on a journey and quest for spiritual knowledge and wisdom.