Zodiac signs, or Rashi (രാശി) in Malayalam, play an important role in astrology, daily horoscopes, and cultural rituals in Kerala. Each Rashi corresponds to a specific constellation and carries unique meanings related to personality, compatibility, and destiny.
In this article, we’ll explore:
- The 12 Rashi in Malayalam and their English names
- Pronunciation help
- The meaning and symbolism of each sign
- Personality traits and characteristics
- Relevance in Malayalam astrology and traditions
🔮 What is Rashi in Malayalam?
The term “Rashi” (രാശി) translates to “zodiac sign” in English. In Vedic astrology (Jyothisha), your Rashi is determined by the position of the Moon at the time of your birth.
This Moon-based zodiac system is deeply ingrained in Malayalam culture, from naming ceremonies (Namakarana) to marriage compatibility (Jathaka Porutham).
🗂️ List of 12 Malayalam Zodiac Signs (Rashi)
| Malayalam Rashi | English Name | Pronunciation |
|---|---|---|
| മേടം (Mēṭam) | Aries | May-dam |
| ഇടവം (Iṭavam) | Taurus | I-da-vam |
| മിഥുനം (Mithunam) | Gemini | Mi-thu-nam |
| കർക്കിടകം (Karkaṭakam) | Cancer | Kar-ki-da-kam |
| സിംഹം (Siṃham) | Leo | Sim-ham |
| കന്നി (Kanni) | Virgo | Kan-ni |
| തുലാം (Tulām) | Libra | Thoo-laam |
| വൃശ്ചികം (Vṛścikam) | Scorpio | Vrish-chi-kam |
| ധനു (Dhanu) | Sagittarius | Dha-nu |
| മകരം (Makaram) | Capricorn | Ma-ka-ram |
| കുംഭം (Kumbham) | Aquarius | Kum-bham |
| മീനം (Mīnam) | Pisces | Mee-nam |
💫 Meanings and Personality Traits of Each Rashi
1. മേടം (Mēṭam) – Aries
- Element: Fire
- Symbol: Ram
- Personality: Bold, ambitious, confident, natural leader.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Known for taking initiative and high energy. Often seen as pioneers.
2. ഇടവം (Iṭavam) – Taurus
- Element: Earth
- Symbol: Bull
- Personality: Loyal, practical, calm, and loves stability.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Traditional thinkers, often connected to agriculture or business.
3. മിഥുനം (Mithunam) – Gemini
- Element: Air
- Symbol: Twins
- Personality: Curious, social, witty, and adaptable.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Good communicators, often writers, teachers, or speakers.
4. കർക്കിടകം (Karkaṭakam) – Cancer
- Element: Water
- Symbol: Crab
- Personality: Emotional, nurturing, family-oriented.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Deeply connected to home and tradition. Many spiritual leaders are born under this Rashi.
5. സിംഹം (Siṃham) – Leo
- Element: Fire
- Symbol: Lion
- Personality: Charismatic, proud, creative, and passionate.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Leaders and performers; draw people to them naturally.
6. കന്നി (Kanni) – Virgo
- Element: Earth
- Symbol: Virgin
- Personality: Detail-oriented, analytical, practical.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Precise in thoughts and actions. Often scholars or teachers.
7. തുലാം (Tulām) – Libra
- Element: Air
- Symbol: Scales
- Personality: Fair, charming, diplomatic, lovers of balance.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Peace-makers, often involved in law, public service, or art.
8. വൃശ്ചികം (Vṛścikam) – Scorpio
- Element: Water
- Symbol: Scorpion
- Personality: Intense, secretive, determined.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Seen as mysterious and spiritual. Strong-willed and resourceful.
9. ധനു (Dhanu) – Sagittarius
- Element: Fire
- Symbol: Archer
- Personality: Adventurous, optimistic, philosophical.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Seekers of truth, lovers of travel and learning.
10. മകരം (Makaram) – Capricorn
- Element: Earth
- Symbol: Sea Goat
- Personality: Disciplined, responsible, ambitious.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Respected for perseverance and ethics.
11. കുംഭം (Kumbham) – Aquarius
- Element: Air
- Symbol: Water Bearer
- Personality: Independent, innovative, humanitarian.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Visionaries, often ahead of their time.
12. മീനം (Mīnam) – Pisces
- Element: Water
- Symbol: Fishes
- Personality: Imaginative, empathetic, artistic.
- Traits in Malayalam Culture: Spiritual and deeply emotional. Connected to music and healing.
🕉️ Zodiac Signs in Daily Malayalam Life
- Naming Babies: In Kerala, babies are often named based on their Rashi and corresponding Nakshatra (birth star).
- Marriage Matching: Horoscope matching is a key part of arranged marriages.
- Festivals: Rashi is considered during temple festivals and personal ceremonies.
📌 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How do I find my Rashi in Malayalam?
A: Your Rashi is based on the Moon’s position at birth. You can find it using a Malayalam horoscope (ജാതകം) or consult an astrologer.
Q2: What is the difference between Rashi and Nakshatra?
A: Rashi refers to your zodiac sign (12 total), while Nakshatra is your birth star (27 total). Both are important in Vedic astrology.
Q3: Are Malayalam Rashi signs the same as Western zodiac signs?
A: They are similar in number and concept but based on different calculations—Moon sign (Vedic) vs. Sun sign (Western).
🌍 Geo Relevance
This article is highly relevant for:
- Malayalam-speaking families in India and abroad
- Kerala diaspora in the USA, UK, UAE, and Australia
- Learners interested in Malayalam culture, names, and traditions
