The short answer
Guna milan adds up points from eight checks (kootas) between two kundlis, out of 36. Traditionally 18 is the minimum, 18 to 24 is average, 25 to 32 is good and above 32 is very good. The total matters less than which kootas are missing, especially nadi and bhakoot.
The eight kootas and their points
The score is built from eight checks, each worth a fixed number of points: varna 1, vashya 2, tara 3, yoni 4, graha maitri 5, gana 6, bhakoot 7 and nadi 8. Together they make 36.
Each koota compares the two moon signs or birth nakshatras for one part of married life, such as temperament (gana), friendship of the sign lords (graha maitri) or health and family (nadi).
What the total score means
Below 18 is traditionally not advised. 18 to 24 is read as average, 25 to 32 as a good match and 33 to 36 as very good. A full 36 is rare.
These bands are a starting point. Two matches with the same total can be very different, depending on which kootas scored zero.
Why nadi and bhakoot matter most
Nadi carries 8 points and bhakoot 7, the two biggest. When either scores zero it is called nadi dosh or bhakoot dosh, and a match with a good total can still be held back.
Traditional texts also list exceptions for both, such as certain nakshatra and pada pairs. A careful match checks these before deciding.
What guna milan doesn't check
Guna milan looks only at the two moons. It does not look at the 7th house, Venus, manglik status or the planet periods both people are running.
That is why a full kundli milan reads the guna score together with manglik status and both full charts.
What astrology can and can't tell you here
Astrology is a tradition, not a scientific test. A score can't promise a happy marriage or rule one out.
Use it as one input alongside what you know of each other, your families and your values.
Frequently asked questions
Is 18 gunas good for marriage?
18 is the traditional minimum. It is read as acceptable, especially when nadi and bhakoot are not zero.
Is 24 gunas a good match?
24 is read as an average to decent match. Check which kootas scored low before deciding.
What does 36 out of 36 mean?
All eight kootas score full points. It is rare, and the full charts still need to be read.
Can a match work with a low score?
Many astrologers look at cancellations and the full charts before saying no. A low total alone is not the final word.
The report for this
A note on interpretation
These guides explain traditional practices and the AstroDestiny product. They do not make scientific or guaranteed predictive claims. Your choices and real-world evidence still matter.
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