Rahu

Rahu is a significant name in Hindu mythology and Vedic astrology. It refers to a 'shadow planet' or a lunar node, specifically the ascending lunar node (the point where the Moon's orbit crosses the ecliptic from south to north). Rahu is often depicted as a serpent's head without a body, a demon who swallows the sun or moon, causing eclipses. Despite its demonic associations, Rahu is also believed to grant worldly desires and fame.

The mythological tale describes Rahu as an Asura (demon) who disguised himself to drink the divine nectar (Amrita) during the Samudra manthan (churning of the ocean). Vishnu, recognizing the deception, severed Rahu's head with his Sudarshana Chakra. However, since Rahu had already consumed some Amrita, his head and body became immortal. The head is known as Rahu, and the body as Ketu (the descending lunar node).