What the Stars DON’T Foretell

Sundeep Kochar is a renowned astrologer, but he believes that more than the stars in your horoscope, your attitude dictates your destiny Read on…

Corporate Citizen: You are a renowned astrologer, but you believe in taking charge of your own destiny

Sundeep Kochar: In my 25-year journey with astrology, one truth stands out: what’s meant to happen, will happen.

Astrology has two powerful dimensions. The first is your timeline—the unfolding of events, whether good, bad or unexpected. Sometimes, success comes easily to someone who’s barely trying, while it is denied to another who has relentlessly struggled. The difference? Timing.

CC: Understanding your timeline is key, but astrology goes beyond that.

At its core, astrology is a tool for self-awareness. It helps you understand your unique perception, emotional responses, and behavioural patterns. No two people are alike, and astrology celebrates that individuality.

It’s really about mindset. Life requires acceptance, tolerance, letting go, and the ability to see the bigger picture. But, not everyone is wired that way. Like Android and iOS, people function according to their inner programming.

Astrology brings that programming to light. It helps individuals recognise their strengths, weaknesses and untapped potential—guiding them to live their journey with greater clarity and purpose. That's the true beauty of astrology.

CC: Astrology is rooted in the Vedas, an ancient science that has journeyed from scriptures to screens. If it still resonates today, it clearly holds substance.

In earlier times, life was confined to small communities with little to no communication or transport. When someone felt lost, anxious or directionless, they turned to astrology for guidance.

Astrologers would suggest simple, symbolic acts like feeding a cow or fish—not as superstition, but as a way to bring hope and purpose. These remedies offered emotional relief and a sense of control, helping people stay positive during tough times.

At its core, astrology gives structure to uncertainty. It creates hope—not false, but empowering. It aligns with the power of visualisation—believing that what you do today can shape a better tomorrow.

In ancient times, rituals created hope— mainly because knowledge and options were limited. People sought comfort in symbolic acts. But, in today’s world things have evolved.

Unfortunately, the perception of astrology hasn't. Many still expect quick fixes or magical remedies. But, that’s not what astrology is about—not anymore.

In the modern context, astrology is about self-awareness and timing. It’s not about shortcuts; it’s about understanding when to act and how you’re wired. People today are far more self-aware—even children grasp technology and decision-making early on.

So, as an astrologer today, I focus on guiding people to align their efforts with their timelines and inner potential—not just giving them rituals, but real insight.

As an astrologer, my approach is to make you aware, of both your timeline and your behaviour. These two go hand-in-hand. If your behaviour is positive but your time is tough, people will support you. If your time is good but your behaviour is poor, you won’t benefit from it. So, understanding who you are is just as important as knowing when things will happen.

I don’t read horoscopes in isolation. I begin by understanding the person, especially their spiritual depth. If someone is truly spiritual—meditates, prays with sincerity, shows compassion—I consider them already blessed.

I believe rituals done out of fear or in expectation, are not spiritual. Real spirituality is about surrender, gratitude, kindness, and connection to the divine. That inner strength becomes your shield, even during difficult times.

In fact, those who are truly spiritual often don’t need an astrologer, they’re already aligned with their journey.

CC: Can meditation change a person?

Absolutely. It requires belief, patience and surrender. Meditation isn’t just a practice, it’s a divine process. It’s not about doing it all day, but about showing up consistently with the right intent.

Many give up too soon. They try it for a few days, get distracted, and conclude it’s not for them. However, even a saint starts with the same wandering thoughts. The difference is, (s)he persists.

Meditation is simple, but its depth is powerful. With time, it aligns your energy and brings inner clarity. Anyone can do it—it just takes patience and faith.

CC: Why are so many marriages struggling today?

The dynamics have shifted. In earlier generations, there was greater acceptance and a strong belief in the institution of marriage. Roles were clearly defined. Men were the breadwinners, while women were more dependent, and that shaped the balance.

Today, women are educated, independent, and financially self-sufficient. While this is a great leap forward, it has also changed relationship expectations. Women no longer tolerate what they once quietly accepted. Meanwhile, many men haven’t evolved at the same pace, they still operate from a mindset of control or ego, expecting relationships to mirror those of their fathers. This mismatch leads to conflict. The lack of emotional understanding, reduced tolerance, and unwillingness to adapt are key reasons for rising separations.

However, relationships aren’t about proving who’s right or wrong. They’re about love, acceptance, and emotional intelligence. I often say, life is not a courtroom, it’s about creating a space of peace and joy, not constant judgment.

Unfortunately, many now part ways easily because there’s no longer dependency. Divorce has become more common, and it’s the children who often carry the emotional burden. We’re seeing a generation raised in fractured homes, now reluctant to marry at all.

Sustaining a marriage today takes more than commitment—it takes conscious effort, empathy, and evolution from both partners.

CC: Should horoscopes be matched before marriage?

Absolutely, but not just for the numbers. Matching horoscopes isn't just about scoring 32 out of 36 in compatibility. It’s about understanding the personality, behaviour, and emotional patterns of your future partner.

People often present their best selves before marriage. Astrology offers a deeper layer of insight—what triggers them, how they respond, whether they’re emotional, stubborn, or sensitive.

Think of it as premarital counselling—when you know each other’s traits beforehand, there’s more acceptance and fewer surprises. You’re not trying to change each other; you’re learning how to live with each other. That’s the real value of astrology in marriage—prevention, not post-damage control.

Matching horoscopes isn't just about scoring 32 out of 36 in compatibility. It’s about understanding the personality, behaviour, and emotional patterns of your future partner

— Sundeep Kochar

CC: Today’s children are a generation ahead— five-year-olds now think like 15-year-olds.

Parenting needs to evolve accordingly. Most of us raise our kids based on how we were raised, not on who they are. This approach doesn’t work anymore.

We were disciplined differently, sometimes even harshly, but times have changed. Children today are more aware, more expressive and emotionally complex.

Astrology can help parents understand their child’s inherent personality—whether they’re natural leaders, sensitive thinkers or highly creative. If you impose strict rules on a leader-type children, they may become rebellious. If you pressure a sensitive child, they may shut down emotionally.

Understanding your child’s psychology early on can prevent long-term damage. Don’t wait 15 years to realise who they are. Know them now, guide them wisely.

It’s also important to note that a child’s emotional wiring begins in the womb. In Indian astrology, the Moon represents the mother’s mental state during pregnancy. A restless or reactive child may reflect emotional stress the mother experienced while carrying the baby.

Early astrological guidance isn’t about prediction—it’s about conscious parenting

I do believe in destiny. Each person is meant to grow in a particular environment as part of their life journey. Astrology, however, offers a divine connection that can guide this journey with more awareness. Not all parents consult astrologers, and even when they do, not all find the right one who truly cares about the child's well-being. Still, when used wisely, astrology can help shape a child’s path. A child destined for greatness may still reach success, but if raised in a negative or harsh environment, their nature may become rigid or unhappy. On the other hand, a child brought up with love, positivity, and spiritual grounding, will likely grow into a compassionate, balanced human being— someone like the late Ratan Tata, who led not just with success, but with humanity.

The true purpose of life is to be happy

If you're genuinely happy, you're blessed.We live in Kalyug, ruled by Rahu, the planet of illusion. So many chase fame, money or status without real fulfillment. Aspiration is natural, but if it's only materialistic, it leads to emptiness.

Real success is, growing while staying grounded—being a good son, spouse, parent and friend. If you're constantly chasing numbers, yet lack joy, hobbies or deep connections, what’s the point?

My philosophy of life

Happiness, simplicity, meaningful bonds, and doing things that light up your soul—that's my philosophy. A happy heart is the highest blessing.

Even people living in palaces can be miserable if they lack inner peace. True success is being content with what you have while still striving for more, without letting the pursuit consume your joy.

Happiness is a habit, not a destination. If you're waiting for a milestone to feel happy, you'll always be waiting. Learn to enjoy the journey, not just the outcome.

I believe in the power of visualisation— dream big, manifest and work hard, but stay joyful along the way. Positivity is energy, and that energy shapes your environment. A happy person can uplift an entire household.

Simple things matter—laughter, music, prayer, kindness, fresh air and meaningful connections. Everyone, whether a student, parent, or professional, has the power to create a positive space. And that, truly, is the hand of God at work.