In Vedic tradition, Gun Milan — also called Ashtakoot Milan or Kundli Matching — is the first step in arranging a marriage. It scores the compatibility of two people out of 36 gunas (points) across eight kootas (factors). This guide explains each koota, how many gunas you need, and the doshas to watch for.
You can check any two birth stars instantly with our free Kundli Matching tool.
What is Gun Milan?
Gun Milan compares the Moon's nakshatra and rashi in both partners' charts. Each of the eight kootas measures a different dimension of married life and carries a different weight, adding up to 36.
The 8 Kootas
| Koota | Points | Governs |
|---|---|---|
| Varna | 1 | Spiritual compatibility & ego |
| Vashya | 2 | Mutual attraction & influence |
| Tara | 3 | Health & destiny |
| Yoni | 4 | Physical & sexual compatibility |
| Graha Maitri | 5 | Mental bonding & friendship |
| Gana | 6 | Temperament & nature |
| Bhakoot | 7 | Love, family & prosperity |
| Nadi | 8 | Health & progeny |
Varna (1)
Reflects the spiritual and ego compatibility of the couple. The groom's varna should ideally equal or exceed the bride's.
Vashya (2)
Measures the natural pull and power balance between partners.
Tara (3)
Relates to the health, fortune and destiny of the couple, counted by nakshatra.
Yoni (4)
Based on the animal symbol of each nakshatra, it indicates physical and intimate compatibility.
Graha Maitri (5)
Compares the friendship between the planetary lords of each Moon sign — the basis of mental harmony.
Gana (6)
Classifies each person as Deva, Manushya or Rakshasa nature, measuring temperament.
Bhakoot (7)
Looks at the relationship between the two Moon signs, affecting love, finances and family welfare.
Nadi (8)
The most heavily weighted koota, relating to health and progeny.
How Many Gunas Are Needed?
- Below 18: not recommended without remedial consultation.
- 18–24: acceptable — marriage can be considered.
- 25–32: very good, harmonious match.
- 33–36: exceptional compatibility.
Nadi Dosha and Bhakoot Dosha
Two doshas deserve special attention:
- Nadi Dosha occurs when both partners share the same Nadi (scoring 0 of 8). It is linked to health and progeny.
- Bhakoot Dosha occurs when the Moon signs fall in a 2/12, 5/9 or 6/8 relationship (scoring 0 of 7).
Importantly, both can be cancelled by other factors in the chart, so they should never be judged in isolation.
What Gun Milan Does Not Cover
Gun Milan does not check Manglik (Mangal) Dosha, which depends on the position of Mars and is assessed separately. Always check both. You can run a free Manglik Dosha check alongside your match.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 18 gunas enough for marriage? Yes, 18 or more is traditionally considered acceptable, though 25+ is preferred.
Can a marriage succeed below 18 gunas? Many do. A low score signals areas needing understanding, and doshas can be cancelled. A full chart review by an astrologer is wise.
Does Gun Milan guarantee a happy marriage? No tool guarantees that. Gun Milan is a respected guide, but communication, values and a full-chart reading matter just as much.
Ready to check your match? Try our free Kundli Matching tool, then ask an astrologer anything on AstroSamay — unlimited, no per-minute charges.