Month of Capricorn/Pushya (Mid-Jan to Mid-Feb)
The Sun's annual journey through Capricorn is known as Pushya/Pausa month, தை மாதம் in Tamil. It typically spans from mid-January to mid-February. This period is termed Pushya because, during the full moon (purnima) and new moon (amavasya) of this month, the Sun aligns with the nakshatra of Pushya. Although it also influences other nakshatras, the primary impact is observed on Pushya, hence the name. In English, it is called the Month of Capricorn.
Capricorn, the natural 10th house (representing the south direction and midday), is a significant placement for the Sun. Sun gets directional strength here (to be the natural leader). Sun's transit in Capricorn is favourable for career prospects, reputation, and success.
Lord Kartikeya significations
This month marks one of the most auspicious times to worship Lord Kartikeya (Murugan), who is the presiding deity (Adhi Devata) of Mars. Mars reaches its exaltation in Capricorn, gaining maximum strength in the natural 10th house, making it an opportune time for success-oriented endeavours. According to puranas, Kartikeya is believed to have vanquished asuras during this month, precisely on the day of purnima in the Pushya nakshatra. This significant event is commemorated annually as Thaipusam, a widely celebrated Hindu festival in various parts of the world, including South India, Sri Lanka, Singapore and Malaysia.
Shravana nakshatra is directly opposite to Pushya, reflecting balancing energies. So explore Shravana, Pushya together and their connections to Lord Kartikeya and Guru tattva to understand a lot about these nakshatras.
Sun and Mars' Directions in Capricorn
Sun and Mars share a harmonious connection. The Sun attains exaltation in Mars's sign, and both receive directional strength in the 10th house. Both are fire planets, associated with Lord Kartikeya and Krittika Nakshatra. In Hindu Puranas, Sun represents Shiva, while Mars represents Kartikeya, highlighting the father-son relationship between Sun and Mars. According to Vedic astrological principles, Sun represents the king, Mars represents the warrior and Capricorn represents the land. Thus, the king and the warrior come into power when they secure a land.