In the rich tapestry of Telugu culture, astrology, or Jyotishyam , is not merely a predictive tool but a revered science that intertwines with daily life, ethics, and spirituality. While Western astrology is widely recognized globally, the Telugu-speaking populace traditionally adheres to the Vedic or Sidereal zodiac system. Unlike the tropical zodiac (used in the West), which is based on the relationship to the Sun and the seasons, the Telugu zodiac is calculated based on the fixed positions of stars and constellations. This essay explores the Telugu zodiac signs ( Rashulu ) as determined by one’s date of birth, examining their names, ruling planets, and cultural significance. The Sidereal Difference: Why Dates Vary Before listing the signs, it is crucial to understand that the Telugu (Vedic) zodiac dates differ from the Western ones by approximately 23 degrees, a phenomenon known as the Ayanamsha . Consequently, a person born on April 15th, who would be an Aries in Western astrology, is likely a Pisces ( Meena Rasi ) in the Telugu system. Therefore, the date ranges provided below correspond to the traditional Telugu Panchangam (almanac) and may shift slightly from year to year due to the precession of equinoxes. The Twelve Telugu Rashulu (Zodiac Signs) In Telugu, each zodiac sign is called a Rasi (రాశి). Below are the twelve signs, their Telugu names, standard date ranges, and key characteristics as understood in Telugu Jyotishyam.