Astrological mystery of twins
Published on: Sun, Jun 08, 2025
By: Dr T Selva Text Size: IDENTICAL twins are nature's mirror images. Born from the same womb, often just minutes apart, they share a similar genetic makeup that even science remains intrigued by.
Advertisement But what happens when we turn to the stars? Do twins born a minute apart share the same destiny according to Indian Vedic astrology, or does that single minute mark the beginning of two distinct karmic journeys? This thought-provoking question sparked lively debate among 200 delegates at the International Astrology, Vasthu and Tantra Conference, recently held in the scenic hill town of Bhedetar, Nepal. Renowned Nepali celebrity astrologer Harihar Adhikari brought the issue to the fore, eager to hear diverse perspectives from the participants at the event organised by the World Astro Federation. In classical Vedic astrology, a birth chart is cast based on the exact time, date, and place of birth.
Advertisement When twins are born within a short interval, say one or two minutes, their charts are often nearly identical, especially if no central celestial body changes position in that span. However, veteran astrologers caution against interpreting such charts identically. Why? Because astrology is not just about the static placement of planets, it's also about karma (destiny to be experienced in this life), free will, and the unique unfolding of life's journey. According to Kathmandu-based astrologer Madhav Mangal Joshi, even with nearly identical charts, twins may display different temperaments, pursue other careers, or encounter life's challenges and triumphs at various times. He explained that subtle planetary influences, such as the divisional charts and 'nakshatras' (lunar mansions), can vary slightly even within a minute, offering clues to these differences. The ascendant (lagna), the zodiac sign rising on the eastern horizon at birth, is one of the most crucial elements in a birth chart. It can shift every two to three minutes. If twins are born on the cusp of this shift, they may have different ascendants, leading to dramatically different readings of personality and life direction. Even when the ascendant remains the same, experienced astrologers may use more refined tools such as divisional charts, moon-sign-based interpretations, and planetary period systems (dasha) to distinguish between the twins' karmic blueprints. From a spiritual perspective, India-based astrologer Acharya Ashok Kumar Mishra said Vedic astrology holds that no two souls are alike, even if born at nearly the exact moment. Each individual carries their own karmic imprint, shaped by past actions and destined experiences. 'Twins may grow up in the same environment,' Mishra added, 'but they interpret and respond to life through the lens of their individual karmas. That's why one twin may become a doctor while the other chooses to be a chef, or one might marry early while the other later. Despite external similarities, their inner landscapes, desires, fears, and aspirations are uniquely theirs. Many veteran astrologers view twins as ideal case studies for how astrology intersects with the soul's free will and environmental conditioning. Some believe that even when planetary positions match, transits (ongoing planetary movements), progressions, and personal choices ultimately lead to different life trajectories. Others argue that subtle energy shifts, even within a minute, can alter destinies in ways not fully captured by traditional charts, calling for a more intuitive or spiritually attuned approach. So, do identical twins born a minute apart share the same fate? According to Vedic astrology, the answer lies somewhere between yes and no. They may be born under the same stars, but they walk their own paths, guided by the invisible threads of karma and choice. In the end, astrology reminds us that even when the heavens align, the soul's journey is singular, shaped by intention, coloured by experience, and lit from within by the light of self-awareness. Some traditions also hold that the younger twin may, in fact, be the elder in a spiritual sense. This subject resonates deeply with me because I have twin sons, born just a minute apart, identical in appearance yet infinitely distinct in spirit, who have shown me that age is far more than a number on a birth certificate. One emerged first, greeted the world with a newborn cry, and claimed his place. And a minute later, the other arrived, softer, quieter, but no less present. For years, people have asked: 'Who's the elder?' And I would reply with the answer the clock gave me. But deep within, I sometimes wonder, was the one who waited the elder soul? I remember what the elders say: the second-born twin often chooses to wait and let the other go first. This is a quiet strength that doesn't need to announce itself. Some traditions say the second-born is actually conceived first, making him spiritually senior, a truth that only the soul remembers. As I watch them grow now as young men walking their paths, I see how both carry different flames from the same fire. One leans into leadership, the other into depth. One speaks his truth, the other feels before speaking with wisdom. Both reflect parts of me, and yet both exceed anything I ever imagined. So, when I hear the old saying that the younger is the elder, I smile because in some unseen realm, it just might be true. Over the years, I've seen them take turns being the elder, not by birth, but by presence. Award-winning writer Dr T. Selva is the author of the bestsellers Vasthu Sastra Guide and Secrets of Happy Living. To get a copy, WhatsApp 019-2728464. He can be reached at [email protected]. Facebook: Vasthu Sastra * Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel and Telegram for breaking news alerts and key updates! * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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