Author: Zoran Radosavljevic

Atma means Self, while karaka means Indicator. There are naturally two grahas that are called Atmakaraka in the chart. One is natural (naisargik) and another is temporal (chara). Natural Atmakaraka in each chart is Surya, while chara Atmakaraka in each chart is calculated in accordance with a placement of a Graha in a sign.
SUN
Sun is an indicator of dharma (Natural Law principle). It rules self, innate nature and intelligence. While Moon rules manas (mind), sun is an indicator of Atman (a transcendental Self) which is unborn and undying, beyond the relative field of existence.

Avastha simply means “state” . It is a state of a Graha, the way It feels, and consequently behaves. We can compare planets with people. Supposing a man was found in a miserable state, he wouldn’t be able to act in a healthy and efficient manner. On the other hand, if he feels hale and healthy, content or alert, his activities and impact on his surroundings would be positive and evolutionary. Sage Parasara dedicated the whole chapter to Avastha.