Gun Milan is the first step of Kundli matching in Vedic astrology. Before a marriage is fixed, the bride and groom charts are compared on eight factors, and the total score is out of 36 points. In this guide, Astrologer R.K Sharma Ji explains how Gun Milan works, what each point means, and what to do if the score is low.
What Is Gun Milan?
Gun Milan, also called Ashtakoot Milan, compares the Moon sign and Nakshatra of two people. The Moon shows the mind, emotions and daily behaviour, so the match tells us how well two minds can live together. A good Gun Milan score suggests easy understanding, while a low score shows areas that need care.
Gun Milan is only one part of a full match. A complete Kundli matching also checks Mangal Dosha, the 7th house, Dasha timing and planetary strength. You can read our guide on Kundli matching before marriage for the full process.
The Eight Koots of Gun Milan and Their Points
Each koot tests one area of life. The points add up to 36.
- Varna (1 point): spiritual compatibility and ego balance.
- Vashya (2 points): mutual attraction and influence.
- Tara (3 points): health, luck and well-being of the couple.
- Yoni (4 points): physical and intimate compatibility.
- Graha Maitri (5 points): mental friendship and thinking style.
- Gana (6 points): temperament, divided into Deva, Manushya and Rakshasa.
- Bhakoot (7 points): love, family growth and financial harmony.
- Nadi (8 points): health, genes and the well-being of children.
How to Read Your Gun Milan Score
Most astrologers use the following simple scale for Gun Milan.
- Below 18: not recommended without deeper analysis.
- 18 to 24: acceptable, with some adjustments.
- 25 to 32: very good match.
- 33 to 36: excellent match.
However, a high number alone does not guarantee a happy marriage. A couple with 30 points but a weak 7th house may still face problems, and a couple with 21 points but strong charts can do very well. This is why a human astrologer must read the whole chart.
The Three Big Doshas in Gun Milan
Nadi Dosha
Nadi Dosha occurs when both partners share the same Nadi (Aadi, Madhya or Antya). It takes away all 8 points. Traditionally it is linked to health and childbirth concerns. Many cases have cancellation rules, so do not panic if you see it.
Bhakoot Dosha
Bhakoot Dosha appears when the Moon signs fall in certain pairs, such as 2-12, 5-9 or 6-8. It is linked to money, family harmony and emotional bonding. It is cancelled in several situations, such as when both Moon signs have the same ruling planet.
Gana Dosha
Gana Dosha shows a clash of temperament, for example a Deva with a Rakshasa Gana. Communication, patience and maturity can reduce its effect.
Gun Milan Example
Suppose a couple scores Varna 1, Vashya 2, Tara 3, Yoni 3, Graha Maitri 5, Gana 6, Bhakoot 0 and Nadi 8. The total is 28, which is a very good Gun Milan score. The zero in Bhakoot shows that money habits and family planning need open discussion, yet the strong Graha Maitri and Nadi support a good bond.
What If the Gun Milan Score Is Low?
A low score is not the end of the story. First, check whether any dosha is cancelled. Second, study the 7th house, its lord and Venus in both charts. Third, check the running Mahadasha, because good timing can support even an average match. Fourth, look at Mangal Dosha and Shani influence on the marriage house.
Remedies such as prayer, charity, mantra and, where suitable, a gemstone can reduce stress. See our guide on Kundli doshas and remedies to understand common doshas. Above all, mutual respect and honest talk matter more than any number.
Tips for Families Before Gun Milan
- Use the exact birth time and place, because a few minutes can change the Moon Nakshatra.
- Do not match using only names or a printed chart from an unreliable source.
- Meet and talk, since Gun Milan supports your judgment but never replaces it.
- Check health, career goals and family values along with the chart.
For a general background on the system, see this overview of Jyotisha, the Vedic astrology tradition.
Get Your Gun Milan Checked
If you have two birth charts and want a clear opinion, share the details on our contact page or book a session through counseling. R.K Sharma Ji will explain your Gun Milan score, the doshas and the practical next steps in simple words.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good Gun Milan score?
A score of 18 out of 36 is the minimum accepted. Scores from 25 to 32 are very good, and above 32 is excellent. The full chart should still be checked.
Is Nadi Dosha always serious?
No. Nadi Dosha has several cancellation rules, and many couples with this dosha live happily after proper analysis and remedies.
Can marriage happen with less than 18 Gun Milan points?
Some families go ahead after a deeper chart review that shows strong 7th houses, good Dasha timing and cancelled doshas. It needs expert advice.
How many points is each koot in Gun Milan?
Varna 1, Vashya 2, Tara 3, Yoni 4, Graha Maitri 5, Gana 6, Bhakoot 7 and Nadi 8, for a total of 36.
Is Gun Milan enough for marriage matching?
No. Mangal Dosha, the 7th house, Dasha periods and planetary strength must also be studied along with Gun Milan.

















