The prime minister's declaration of ceasefire in Jammu and Kashmir during the holy month of Ramazan does not seem to be a well-timed move. The ceasefire was declared on Sunday, November 19, when the nakshatra was Magha and the tithi was Krishna Paksha Navami. The nakshatra Magha is inclined towards wars and other hazardous undertakings, rather than activities promoting peace.

The navami tithi is also good for competitions, gambling and other risky pursuits. Our vedic seers' insight into Muhurta or electoral astrology only foresees failure for this ceasefire.

Let's take a look at Kashmir history after Independence. Maharaja Hari Singh signed the instrument of accession with the Indian government on October 26, 1947. The ruling sign of Kashmir, Libra, was heavily afflicted by a debilitated Sun, Mars, Saturn and retrograde Mercury. Signing important papers during the retrogression of Mercury has never been considered a good idea. Mercury became retrograde on October 25, 1947 and Maharaja Hari Singh signed the papers the next day, i.e. on the 26th, subsequently triggering major problems between India and Pakistan.

If we consider October 26, 1947 as the day Kashmir was included in Indian territory, we can get a clear insight into the Kashmir problem. The Moon is positioned in Aquarius. The ninth and sixth houses are heavily afflicted and do not show any signs of peace. There is an exchange between Saturn and Moon, quite indicative of a depressive scene.

According to the Kurma-chakra, Kashmir is ruled by the Purva-Bhadrapada Nakshatra which is currently under Mars. This also increases the danger for Kashmir and highlights the need to be alert on our borders.

The transit of Mars through Libra (between December 13 to February 2), which is the ruling sign of Kashmir, again rings a warning bell. It would be an impossible task to maintain peace in the valley.

Mars, it is well-known, is considered a violent planet that triggers wars, natural calamities and bloodshed, specifically when it is afflicted by Saturn and Rahu. The same holds good here as Mars is going to make a shadashtaka yoga (6/8 inimical relationship) with Saturn during its stay in Libra. All these things hold negative connotations for peace. So, let us keep our fingers crossed and pray for peace in the valley.