Profound and comprehensive knowledge that was previously passed on only through family lineages from ancient India is now being made available both online and parallel live classroom sessions in Santa Cruz, California, through JIVA, the Jagannath Institute of Vedic Astrology.

 JIVA means “life force” and is also an acronym for Jagannath Institute of Vedic Astrology. Our school educates people in the science of Vedic Astrology as taught by a long tradition of astrologers from Jagannath Puri, India.

What is Jyotish? Jyotish, also known as Vedic Astrology, is a Sanskrit word that literally means light of divinity. Just as our physical eyes perceive light, Jyotish brings the light of knowledge to our soul.

Our one true treasure in life is soul-level knowledge which helps us to understand ourselves, our destiny, and how to progress spiritually. This is the purpose of Jyotish.

Jyotish also helps to us to optimize the potential in all aspects of our lives including career, education, relationships, health, and family.

Where do the JIVA teachings come from?

Ancient knowledge drawn from wisdom traditions such as Vedic Astrology is best learned through a teacher who can guide one through these subtle and often complex studies.

The Academic Director of JIVA is Pandit Sanjay Rath, whose life goal is to transmit the most profound teachings of Vedic Astrology to serious students, including those outside of India.

Pandit Rath was trained by his uncle from the age of eight in a traditional lineage belonging to Rishi Atri, who was one of the seven main visionary prophets of the Vedas. Sri Achyutananda, a disciple and friend of the well known holy figure Sri Chaitanya, revitalized the tradition in the 1400’s.

Pandit Rath is a prolific author and respected teacher of many students worldwide. He has developed the JIVA curriculum to mirror his own training.

Other JIVA instructors are experienced educators who are trained and authorized by Pandit Rath.

Is this course right for me?

If you are a spiritually oriented person with an interest in self knowledge and self development, you will benefit from our program, even if you have no previous background in astrology or the Vedas.

Counseling and healing arts professionals will find the insights and remedial measures of Jyotish valuable in working with patients and clients. This course is also appropriate if you feel drawn to a rewarding new profession as a Jyotishi (Vedic Astrologer).

What will I gain by enrolling in the JIVA program?

JIVA will give you a thorough understanding of the principles of Vedic Astrology, and help you to understand the karmas that brought you into existence. You will learn how to handle the different areas of your life, whether love, finance, or spirituality.

You will study traditional remedial measures such as mantras that help to relieve suffering and attune you to the divine energies of the cosmos. You will develop the skill of reading other people’s charts and be able to advise them as well.

How is JIVA different than other programs?  

We teach Jyotish as it really is—a limb of the Vedas, the ancient wisdom tradition centered in India. Until now, this level of depth has been rarely available to people outside of certain family traditions in India.

Through JIVA, serious students anywhere in the world can now learn Jyotish.  Students participate in conference calls, web groups, online presentations, and direct interaction with teachers. We help each student to progress and succeed. Students receive a diploma in recognition of their completion of the program.