Like the other significant parts of the Nepalese heritage Astrology too links its origin to the Vedas, the major source of virtually everything (for the Hindus) written thousands of years ago. Mesh (Aries), Brish (Taurus), Mithun (Gemini), Karkat (Cancer), Simha (Leo), Kanya (Virgo), Tula (Libra), Brishchik (Scorpio), Dhanu (Sagittarius), Makar (Capricorn), Kumbha (Aquarius) and Meen (Pisces) are the 12 signs of the zodiac, and in Nepali they are called Rashi.

In Nepal the moment a baby is born, the first thing they do is note down the exact time of birth. Then it is given to the astrologer, who according to the position of the different planets in the solar system at that precise moment prepares a Cheena (horoscope). Cheena is a rectangular chart, which indicates the degree of influence of the planets from the solar world on the people born to a particular Rashi. Besides highlighting the positive as well as negative aspects of one's life comprising of achievements and failures, when it comes to facing difficult times the Nepalese people go to their astrologer with their Cheena for consultations and they act according to his recommendations.

As an astrological document, Cheena, they say, pre-determines the entire course of an individual s life. For the Nepalese people on their birthday, the day is partly set aside to worship their planet that occupies a major position in their horoscope made according to the position of stars at the time of birth. It is also a day for them to please the other ones who are not placed in such a favourable position in their Cheena. As well on this day they also go through a number of rituals with their priest, who is offered grains and cash in order to stay in good health for the entire year. Astrologers are also consulted on various occasions like rice feeding, sacred thread and weddings. Tika in Dashain, Bhai Tika in Tihar, including a series of national festivals, are occasions when the as- trologers are involved in choosing the auspicious hours for these festivities to take place. As well, they forecast the solar and lunar eclipses and their impact on the people. When a person dies his Cheena is taken to the crematorium or ghat along with his dead body.