The 360 degrees zodiac is divided into 12 signs of approximately 30 degrees each. Each sign is further subdivided into number of generally equal divisions, wherein the position of each planet is mapped in each particular Amsa (Vargas/Divisions).
The zodiacal circle which is spread over 360º of the visible skies is divided into 12 zodiacal signs of 30º 00´ 00˝ each. The Varga Charts are based on further subdivisions of these 12 zodiacal signs.
As we see Nakshatra is yet another division of the zodiacal into 27 constellations of 13º 20´ 00˝ each but the divisional charts have no reference to this division and have different sub- divisions.
According to ancient texts, the zodiacal circle has 15 types of sub-divisions in addition to the above mentioned basic division into 12 zodiacal signs, 16 in all, which are now termed as D-1, D-2, D-3 and so on.
These are equal divisions of the zodiacal signs and extend across a sign – 30º (called kshetra), half – 15º 00´ 00˝ (called as Hora), one third – 10º 00´ 00˝ (called as Dreshkaan) and so on, up to such minute one sixtieth – 00º 30´ 00˝ (called as Shastiamsha).
These are called Divisional Charts or Vargas. Each Varga signifies a specific aspect of a native’s life, like wealth, education, marriage, love affairs, children, profession, obstacles, spiritualism rather each and every aspect of life giving help in very minute diagnosis.
For detailed analysis of a particular query and to arrive at a precise point of prediction of the horoscope these divisional charts are of extremely valuable significance. Complete results cannot be seen without considering these Divisional Charts.
They can also be referred as mini horoscopes for analysis particular aspects of life as mentioned above. Divisional charts are very important tools to find out the actual functioning & deliverance of any particular planet during its dasa periods.
Analysis of the planetary strength is very important while studying the divisional charts, whether the planet under consideration is in exaltation, in own sign, placed in friend’s house, in enemy sign or under debilitation.
We can also see the overall combined strength of planet in different divisions.
Apart from the Main D1 Chart- Most frequently used and referred Sub-Divisional Charts are following only:
D3, D7, D9 and D10