The word Nadi here refers to a “channel” or “narrow tube” in the context of chart-based Nadi Astrology. To understand this concept, consider how the zodiac is divided. When the zodiac is divided into 12 parts, each zodiac sign spans 30°. This creates relatively broad divisions of the zodiac.

When the zodiac is instead divided into 27 parts, each nakshatra spans 13°20′ (approximately 13.33°). These are much narrower divisions and can be viewed metaphorically as channels or Nadis. In this sense, nakshatra-centric analysis forms an important foundation of chart-based Nadi Astrology.

Each nakshatra can also be further subdivided. The most familiar division is into four padas, while some Nadi traditions and lineages may employ additional subdivisions or specific methods of analysis.

Thus, although different Nadi traditions may follow different techniques and lineages, the use of fine zodiacal divisions—particularly nakshatras—plays an important role in many forms of chart-based Nadi Astrology. Traditionally, Nadi Astrology is also closely aligned with the Vedantic view of non-doership.

Here, Nadi Astrology specifically refers to chart-based Nadi Astrology and should not be confused with the separate palm-leaf manuscript tradition of Nadi readings.