The extensive association of Deities with the Nakshatras

When it comes to the deities associated with the Nakshatras, it becomes quite a conundrum as there are plenty of confusions circulating around this topic. There is a Vedic Deity prescribed for each of the 27 Nakshatras and there is also an Adi Devata for each of these 27 stars as enunciated by the holy text "Kumaraswamiyam". In addition to this there are specific birth Nakshatras for many of the deities who may or may not be the prescribed deity for that specific Nakshatra.

You find that in majority of cases there is a strong correlation between Devata and Adi Devata but at times there is a bit of an offshoot. We did see the confusion in the previous article about how there were cases when some of the Navagrahas were born in a particular Nakshatra but happened to be the ruling deity in a completely different Nakshatra. The issue gets further accentuated here as unlike the Navagrahas who are also God's themselves, but when it comes to some of the deities they have happened to take so many different forms, shaktis and avatars across multiple time periods making it difficult to pigeonhole the exact Nakshatra that they belong or took birth in.

When it comes to praying of the correct deity for a Nakshatra, it becomes quite a difficult proposition to track down. Let's take a simple illustration - brothers in arms Vinayaka and Murugan are given as the ruling deity of 2 of the stars viz Uttara Ashada and Vishakha respectively. But when we consider their Thiru Nakshatra which is the holy birth star of divine beings, it is believed that Vinayaka was born in the constellation of Hastha actually whereas Murugan was born in the Nakshatra in which he is also the ruling deity viz Vishakha. To add fire to the wound, Muruga or Subrahmanya as he is called is also associated with various other Nakshatras such as Krithika because he is also named as Karthikeya and due to the nurturing he received from the 6 Krithika sisters. He is also connected to other stars such as Pushya with the Thai Poosam festival conducted in vogue during the month of January/February in the constellation of Pushya around the new moon time. There is also a connection with Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra as his divine marriage to India's daughter Deivanai took place in this constellation of Uttara Phalguni (Uthiram as its called in Tamil) during the solar month of Panguni which runs from around mid March to mid April.

Thus you observe so many different mixing & matching principles coming into the picture. Nothing is really right or wrong but one cannot come to a decision simply abstractly. If one opens the pandora's box there will be many more surprises coming in the way. For instance the Tri Devis and consorts of Trimurtis viz Parvathi, Lakshmi and Saraswathi are said to be born in a Nakshatra which is different from the Nakshatra which they preside over. To exacerbate the situation further, their Shakti forms again tend to have their own singular Nakshatra presided over.

The best way to handle the deity or devata ruling the Nakshatra confusion is to consider the ruling deity provided for a Nakshatra as they exercise complete control over the Nakshatra since they preside and lord over it. That may or may not be the Janma Nakshatra of the particular God but this shouldn't supersede the fact that they are the ruling deity and of prime most importance. Next in line preference should be given to the Nakshatra in which they have taken birth if such information is available and also if they don't happen to be a specific deity of a particular Nakshatra.

The Vedic Deity provided as per the texts are mostly forms of the 33 types of Gods comprising of 12 Adityas, 11 Rudras, 8 Vasus and the Ashwini Kumars. There are also considerations of Aditi, Brahma, Vishwadeva, Indra etc. Since most of these are addressed as a type of God, Kumaraswamiyam helps dissect by also providing a God to worship in majority of the cases. The one provided by it can be considered sacrosanct consisting of the most plausible god to worship for a specific Nakshatra. To make things further clear, also adding a God to worship depending on factors such as Thiru Nakshatra, God connected to a particular Nakshatra etc. In some cases, this can also be a representative God to worship in the absence of a specific worshipping deity not listed out by the Devata/Adi Devata of the Nakshatra. Also it is essential to understand that the majority of the Nakshatras have a Shiva/Vishnu connection. Sharing below the details for each of the Nakshatras.

1) Ashwini
Devata: Ashwini Kumars
Adi Devata: Saraswathi
God: Saraswathi
Note: As Saraswathi is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Ashwini Nakshatra, Goddess Saraswathi should be considered as the main God to pray for Ashwini Nakshatra. Also as Ashwini Kumars are known for healing and being physicians and Saraswathi linked largely for education, any God related to healing, learning can also be considered. 

2) Bharani
Devata: Yama
Adi Devata: Durga
God: Durga
Note: As Durga is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Bharani Nakshatra, Goddess Durga should be considered as the main God to pray for Bharani Nakshatra. As the combination of Yama/Durga indicates shakti, dharma, any form of idol linked to these traits can also be worshipped such as Kali, Amman etc. Bharani is also said to be the birth star of Navagraha Rahu and it can also be considered as an alternative deity for this Nakshatra.  

3) Krithika
Devata: Agni
Adi Devata: Agni
God: Agnishwar
Note: As Agni or fire is an element and not not normally considered for worship in the form of an idol, Shiva worship in fire form can be considered for Krithika such as Agnishwar. Tiruvannamalai is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalas associated with the fire element and hence worship of Annamalai at Arunachaleshwarar temple can be very beneficial. Also Lord Saravana Bhava is strongly linked to this Nakshatra and can be worshipped since Karthikeya was born under divine light & fire and nurtured by the 6 Krithika sisters. The Navagraha Moon is also said to have taken birth in this Nakshatra.

4) Rohini
Devata: Prajapati
Adi Devata: Brahma
God: Krishna
Note: As Brahma is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Rohini Nakshatra, Lord Brahma should be considered as the main God to pray for Rohini Nakshatra. However considering that Brahma is not worshipped much in idol form and also the fact that there are very few famous Brahma temples such as Pushkar Brahma Temple or the Brahmapureeswarar Temple which again is a shrine paying homage to both Brahma + Shiva, Lord Sri Krishna can be considered as the main recipient to pray for this Nakshatra on account of the 8th Avatar of Vishnu being born in the constellation of Rohini. Rohini is also said to be the most favourite Nakshatra of the Moon as scriptures mention the Moon God giving extra importance and preference to Rohini among the 27 daughters of Daksha Prajapati. 

5) Mrigaseerisham / Mrigashira
Devata: Soma
Adi Devata: Chandran
God: Moon
Note: As Moon is a God in planetary form and specifically listed out as the deity for Mriga Nakshatra, the Moon God should be considered as the main God to pray for this Nakshatra. As Lord Shiva wears the crescent Moon on his head, Shiva in a moon form can be worshipped such as Chandra Sudeshwarar, Chandra Mouleeshwarar, Chandra Shekhar, Somaskanda etc. Somnath Jyotirlinga as the name suggests can also be associated with this star. Mrigashira is also the Nakshatra in which Goddess Parvathi is said to have manifested. The temple guardian deity Purusha Mirugam with the body of an animal & head of a human is also associated with this Nakshatra. This is also the Saint Sri Raghavendra Swamy's (aka Rayuru) birth Nakshatra.

6) Thiruvadirai / Aarudra
Devata: Rudra 
Adi Devata: Rudran
God: Shiva
Note: As Rudra is a God and the all encompassing Shiva himself, Lord Shiva is specifically listed out as the deity for Arudra Nakshatra. There are said to be 11 types of Rudras viz Kapali, Pingala, Bhima, Virupaksha, Vilohita, Shastra, Ajapaad, Ahirbudhanya, Shambu, Chanda and Bava. This Nakshatra represents all of the Rudras, thus any form of Shiva be it in the form of Linga, Nataraja or any other can be associated with this Nakshatra. Though there are many Nakshatras directly or indirectly connected with Lord Shiva, Arudra can said to be the defacto primary Nakshatra of Shiva. Sri Ramanujacharya's birth star also happens to be Arudra.

7) Punarpoosam / Punarvasu
Devata: Aditi 
Adi Devata: Devas
God: Rama
Note: Devas can be termed as Gods or divine beings in plurality. As it does not represent one particular God, a defining representative for this Nakshatra can be Sri Rama who was born in this star and said to be a Dharmic force exhibiting righteousness and truth. Aditi is said to be the Mother of Gods and Devas come within the ambit of Gods themselves, thus Lord Rama who manifested as the 7th Avatar of Maha Vishnu in the Thiru Nakshatra of Punarvasu can be the main God to be prayed for this star.  Sri Adi Shankaracharya's birth star as well as Sri Ramana Maharishi, both happen to be that of Punarpoosam or Punarvasu.

8) Poosam / Pushya
Devata: Brihaspati
Adi Devata: Viyazhan
God: Jupiter
God: As Jupiter is a God in planetary form and specifically listed out as the deity for Pushya Nakshatra, the Jupiter God or Guru should be considered as the main God to pray for this Nakshatra. This Nakshatra can also be linked to the Adi Guru "Sri Dakshinamurthy" who happens to be an aspect of Lord Shiva and considered as the primary foremost of all teachers or Gurus. The star of Pushya is also believed to be the birth star of respected Sage Vasishta. Any Guru like God figure can said to be invoked for this Nakshatra such as Dattatreya, Sai Baba, Kula Guru from one's lineage etc as it's a star for paying homage to all Guru like figures.

9) Aayilyam / Ashlesha
Devata: Nagas
Adi Devata: Adiseshan
God: Adishesha
Note: As Adisheshan, the divine serpent who forms a protective canopy and comforting couch enabling Lord Vishnu's cosmic sleep is considered as a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Ashlesha Nakshatra, Adishesha should be considered as the main God to pray for Ashlesha Nakshatra. Any Naga or Sarpa form of deity can be worshipped for this Nakshatra such as Nagamman, Nagaraja, Naga Kanni etc. The Jyotirling of Nageshwar holds a special place for snake worship and can be connected to this star. Another popular temple famous for snakes down south happens to be Sri Nagaraja temple in the town of Nagercoil. Ashlesha is also said to be the birth Nakshatra of both Lakshmana (Ram's brother) and Balaram (Krishna's brother). Venerated Sage Agasthya is also believed to be born in star of Ashlesha during the solar month of Margazhi which runs from mid December to mid January. Ashlesha is also said to be the birth star of Navagraha Ketu and it can also be considered as an alternative deity for this Nakshatra.

10) Magam / Magha
Devata: Pitris
Adi Devata: Shukra
God: Venus
Note: As Venus is a God in planetary form and specifically listed out as the deity for Magha Nakshatra, Venus should be considered as the main God to pray for this Nakshatra. It is also believed that Shukra took birth in this particular star. As this Nakshatra is majorly linked to Pitrus, worshipping at Jyotirlinga temples such as Rameshwaram (purifying sin), Trimbakeshwar (Pitru Dosha), Kedarnath (removing karmic burden) etc can be helpful for dissolving ancestral curses and seeking good karma. Lord Bhairava, a manifestation of Shiva can also be worshipped for this Nakshatra because when Bhairava Jayanthi happens on Krishna Ashtami, it mostly gets aligned with Magha star and since the core principle of this Nakshatra is do with Pitru, Kula Deva and Karma, Bhairava worship can be helpful. Lord Surya Narayana is also connected with this star as the Ratha Sapthami festival originally falls on Magha Nakshatra in the waxing tithi of Sapthami. There is also a saying of Yama Dharmaraj being associated with this Nakshatra since he governs spirits and ancestral lineage. Goddess Sita is also believed to have taken birth in this Nakshatra. Additionally Madurai Meenakshi and Goddess Ambika are said to be born in this star during the solar month of Thai and Maasi respectively.

11) Pooram / Poorva Phalguni
Devata: Aryaman
Adi Devata: Parvathi
God: Parvathi
Note: As Goddess Parvathi is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Poorva Phalguni Nakshatra, Ma Parvathi who is the primary consort of Lord Shiva should be considered as the main God to pray for Poorva Phalguni Nakshatra. Thus any form or shakti occurring from Parvathi is naturally linked to this star. It is also believed that the Thiru Nakshatra of both Kanchi Kamakshi and Kasi Visalakshi fall under this star. The great female poet saint Andal also took birth in this star during the solar month of Aadi.

12) Uthiram / Uttara Phalguni
Devata: Bhaga
Adi Devata: Sastha
God: Aiyappa
Note: As Dharma Sastha Aiyappa is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra, Aiyappa who is revered as the divine son of Lord Shiva and Mohini who is a female avatar of Lord Vishnu should be considered as the main God to pray for Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra. Swamy Aiyappa is also said to have manifested in this particular birth star. It is also believed to be the birth star of Guru Bhagwan and also Goddess Mahalakshmi who manifested from this star through the milky ocean of Ksheera Sagara. When this star coincides with the full moon in the month of Panguni, it is said to be extremely auspicious as many divine deities are said to have exchanged wedding wows on this particular star month such as Shiva & Parvathi, Vishnu & Lakshmi, Rama & Seetha, Murugan & Deivanai, Sage Agasthya & Ma Lopamudra. The Thiru Nakshatra of Poornatrayeesha worshipped as Vishnu in the form of Santhana Gopala Murthy is also said to be Uthiram. The 6th Avatar of Vishnu viz Parashurama is also said to have descended from the star of Uttara Phalguni.

13) Hastham / Hastha
Devata: Savitar
Adi Devata: Suriyan
God: Sun
God: As Sun is a God in planetary form and specifically listed out as the deity for Hastha Nakshatra, the Sun God should be considered as the main God to pray for this Nakshatra. On account of the strong Sun presence, the Gayatri Mantra is connected and hence worship of Gayatri Devi who is an aspect of Saraswati, Lakshmi and Parvati can be taken into account for this Nakshatra. This is also the birth Nakshatra of the ever favorite Elephant God Lord Vinayaka.

14) Chithirai / Chitra
Devata: Tvastar
Adi Devata: Vishwakarma
God: Vishwakarma
Note: As Vishwakarma is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Chitra Nakshatra, Vishwakarma who is the celestial architect of the universe and the master craftsman of the gods should be considered as the main God to pray for Chitra Nakshatra. The most popular deity prayed for this star which also happens to be his birth star is Chakrathalwar or Sudharshana representing the divine discus weapon of Lord Vishnu in an anthropomorphic form. In many shrines one would observe Chakrathalwar born in Chitra star placed on the front side and Yoga Narasimhar born in the subsequent Swathi star placed in the rear side of the discus.

15) Swathi
Devata: Vayu
Adi Devata: Mahalakshmi
God: Lakshmi
Note: As Goddess Lakshmi is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Swathi Nakshatra, Ma Lakshmi who is the primary consort of Lord Vishnu should be considered as the main God to pray for Swathi Nakshatra. Thus any form of Lakshmi can be invoked for this star. 8 types of Lakshmis such as Adi, Dhana, Dhanya, Gaja, Santhana, Veera, Vidya and Vijaya Lakshmi all can be linked to this particular Nakshatra. Lord Narasimha, the famous 4th avatar of Vishnu appearing in the form of half man and half lion manifested in the Nakshatra of Swathi. The fierce Sarabeshwara, a manifestation of Shiva with bird like wings, lion face and multiple arms who was sent to tame Narasimha's fury was also born in this star. Garuda Alwar's divine birth also occurred in the star of Swathi during the solar month of Aadi.

16) Visagam / Vishakha
Devata: Indragni
Adi Devata: Subrahmanya 
God: Subrahmanya
Note: As Lord Subrahmanya is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Vishakha Nakshatra, Murugan or the various names he is called upon and who happens to be the son of Lord Shiva should be considered as the main God to pray for Vishakha Nakshatra. The divine Lord not only presides as deity but is also said to have manifested from the third eye of his father Shiva in the solar month of Vaikasi when the Nakashatra of Vishakha was visible in the skies. The 9th Avatar of Vishnu in the form of Lord Buddha is also said to be born in the star of Vishakha. The Sun God is also said to have taken birth in the constellation of Vishakha.

17) Anusham / Anuradha
Devata: Mitra
Adi Devata: Vayu
God: Lakshmi Narayana
Note: As Vayu or Air is an element and not not normally considered for worship in the form of an idol, Lakshmi Narayana can be considered as worship for Anuradha Nakshatra. Lakshmi Narayana is connected vividly as this Nakshatra represents the symbol of lotus where the Lord Narayana and his consort Lakshmi are said to be seated. As its linked to twin worship and friendship, another divine couple Radha & Krishna also can be invoked for this Nakshatra. Kalahasthi is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalas associated with the air element and hence worship of the Vayu Linga or Sri Kalahasteeswara can be very beneficial. It is believed that a trio of animals viz Sri (Spider), Kala (Snake) and Hasthi (Elephant) worshipped the Linga and received salvation from Lord Shiva and that also forms the origin of its name. This also happens to be the birth Nakshatra of Kanchi Maha Periyava. Sage Vishwamitra and Sage Valmiki are both said to have their birth star as Anuradha. The poet who wrote the Thirukural viz Sage Thiruvalluvar is also said to be born in the month of Vaikasi under this particular constellation.

18) Kettai / Jyeshta
Devata: Indra
Adi Devata: Devendran
God: Varaha
Note: As Lord Indra is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Jyeshta Nakshatra, chief of Gods Indra should be considered as the main God to pray for Jyeshta Nakshatra. However considering that Indra is not worshipped much in idol form and there are hardly any temples associated with Indra, the alternative deity which can be considered for this Nakshatra happens to be Varaha - the bow avatar of Vishnu or Varahi the feminine form with Shakti energy. Venerated Sage Vyasa who penned the Mahabharatha and also the Vedas is believed to have born in this star.

19) Moolam / Moola
Devata: Nirriti
Adi Devata: Asura
God: Anjaneya
Note: Asura can be termed as God of demons or a class of powerful spiritual or supernatural beings. It generally connotes a negative purview but should not be taken verbatim as it also deals with removing the inner hurdles and forces from within. There is a reason that Jupiter is provided the title of Deva Guru (Teacher of the Gods) and Venus ordained as the Asura Guru (Teacher of the Demons). As Asura does not represent one particular God as an entity, Anjaneya or Lord Hanuman who also gets coined as Vayu Putra being born to the wind god can be considered for this Nakshatra. Anjaneya is also said to be born in the Nakshatra of Moola with his steadfast devotion, loyalty and service to Lord Rama being unprecedented. Sage Arunagirinathar who was a devout worshipper of Lord Muruga is also said to be born in this Nakshatra. Also the 10 faced Ravana who was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva having composed the Shiva Tandava Stotram had his birth in the constellation of Moola.

20) Pooradam / Poorva Ashada
Devata: Jala
Adi Devata: Varunan
God: Jambukeshwarar
Note: As Jala or Varuna is water which is an element and not not normally considered for worship in the form of an idol, Shiva worship in water form can be considered for Poorva Ashada. Jambukeshwarar is one of the Pancha Bhoota Sthalas associated with the water element and hence worship of the Shiva Linga at this temple can be very beneficial. Other water related temples associated with Lord Shiva can also be considered such as Jalakandeswarar temple.

21) Uthiradam / Uttara Ashada
Devata: Vishwadeva
Adi Devata: Vinayaka
God: Vinayaka
Note: As Vinayaka is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Uttara Ashada Nakshatra, Lord Vinayaka should be considered as the main God to pray for Uttara Ashada Nakshatra. The term Vishwa Devas are collectively translated as the Universal Gods and consists of 10 principles viz Kratu, Daksha, Vasu, Satya, Kala, Kama, Dhriti, Kuru, Pururavas, Madravas. Vinayak who is called by various names represents all of these characteristics and is assigned the title as the Universal God. The Navagraha Mars is also said to have been born in this Nakshatra along with also being a subsidiary deity of Uttara Ashada Nakshatra. 

22) Tiruvonam / Shravana
Devata: Vishnu
Adi Devata: Vishnu
God: Vishnu
Note: As Vishnu is a God playing out the role of preserving the universe and specifically listed out as the deity for Shravana Nakshatra, Lord Vishnu should be considered as the main God to pray for Shravana Nakshatra. Like Brahma for Rohini and Shiva for Arudra, Vishnu for Shravana is the defacto deity and any version of Vishnu can be invoked for this Nakshatra. The 5th Avatar of Vishnu viz Vamana is specifically said to be born in this Nakshatra. The birth of Hayagriva, a form of Vishnu considered as a God of learning with a human body and face of a horse is also said to have occurred in this Nakshatra. Hayagriva Swamy is believed to have imparted knowledge to the likes of Goddess Saraswathi, Adi Guru Dakshinamurthy and Sage Ved Vyasa. Sukar Brahma Maharishi, an enlightened sage having the face of a parrot who is known for narrating the Bhagavad Purana was also born in Shravana Nakshatra in the solar month of Aani.

23) Avittam / Dhanishta
Devata: Ashta Vasu
Adi Devata: Indirani
God: Indirani
Note: As Indrani is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Dhanishta Nakshatra, Goddess Indrani should be considered as the main God to pray for Dhanishta Nakshatra. She is the consort of Lord Indra and also known by the name of Sachi Devi and also happens to be one of the 7 Saptha Matrikas (seven divine mother goddessess) representing the feminine power of Indra. This Nakshatra is also largely associated with Anantha Sayana Perumal which refers to Lord Vishnu in sacred reclining posture resting on the serpent Adishesha. Mercury Navagraha is said to be born in this Nakshatra and can also be considered an additional deity for Dhanishta. The Ashta Vasus are said to be a combination of 8 elements viz Earth, Water, Fire, Air, Ether, Sun, Moon and the Stars.

24) Sadayam / Satabhisha
Devata: Varuna
Adi Devata: Yaman
God: Mrityunjeshwarar
Note: As Yaman is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Satabisha Nakshatra, Yama Raj should be considered as the main God to pray for Satabisha Nakshatra. Yama is the god of death & justice and protector of law & order known for upholding Dharma. As Yama is not normally prayed in idol form, Lord Mrityunjeshwarar the death defying form of Shiva can be considered apt for worship towards this Nakshatra. Since Lord Anjaneya who also abides by similar principles and known as Chiranjeevi because he is blessed with immortality can be invoked for this Nakshatra. Raja Raja Cholan, the great emperor is said to have been born in this Nakshatra

25) Pooraratathi / Poorva Bhadrapada
Devata: Aja Ekapada
Adi Devata: Kuberan
God: Kubera
Note: As Kubera is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Poorva Bhadrapada Nakshatra, Kubera should be considered as the main God to pray for Poorva Bhadrapada Nakshatra. Kubera is considered as the God of wealth and guarding the riches of the world. He rules over Yakshas associated with treasure and is the custodian of wealth. He is also known as the half brother of the demon king Ravana. As this Nakshatra also happens to be one of the Rudras, it is associated with Eka Pada linked as Ajapaada, a one footed form of Lord Shiva symbolizing transcendence, formless energy and eternal presence.

26) Uthiratathi / Uttara Bhadrapada
Devata: Ahir Budhanya
Adi Devata: Kamadhenu
God: Kamadhenu
Note: As Kamadhenu is a God and specifically listed out as the deity for Uttara Bhadrapada Nakshatra, Kamadhenu should be considered as the main God to pray for Uttara Bhadrapada Nakshatra. Kamadhenu is a divine wish fulfilling cow and revered as the mother of all cows symbolising abundance and purity. This Nakshatra is powerfully associated with the energies of Tirupati Balaji temple in Tirumala and there is also a Govinda (cow) story associated with Lord Srinivasa and Goddess Padmavathi. As this Nakshatra also happens to be one of the Rudras, it is associated with Maha Eshwarar linked as Ahir Budhanya associated with the serpent of the deep waters symbolizing cosmic powers, energy and depth.

27) Revathi
Devata: Pooshan
Adi Devata: Shani
God: Saturn
Note: As Saturn is a God in planetary form and specifically listed out as the deity for Revathi Nakshatra, Saturn should be considered as the main God to pray for this Nakshatra. It is also believed that Shani God took birth in this particular star. It is also believed to be the birth star of Aranganatha Perumal from the foremost Divya Desam temple of Sri Rangam. Lord Dattatreya, who is a combined Hindu incarnation of the Trimurthies - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva is said to have manifested in the Nakshatra of Revathi during the lunar month of Vaishakha in the waning Tithi of Dashami on a Thursday with the rising ascendant sign being Meena or Pisces. Dattatreya was born to Sage Atri and Anasuya and known to possess 3 heads and 6 hands representing the Hindu Trinity.

Birth Stars and Deity Information of Well Known Deities
When we look at the Devata and Adidevata for each of the Nakshatra, it normally tends to align well with the Devata mentioning a form which gets assigned any of the 12 Adityas, 11 Rudras, 8 Vasus, Ashwins, Indra, Prajapati, Yama, Mother God Aditi, God of Destruction Nirriti, Universal God Vishwadeva, God of ocean Varuna or God of the Navagrahas. On the other hand, the Adi Devata describes the relevant God to be allotted for each of the Nakshatra. In couple of the cases, you see a mismatch. For instance the Devata of Bharani is Yama whereas Adidevata of Satabisha is Yama. However deity has been clearly described for Bharani as Durga whereas Yama or any Shiva form like Mrityunjeshwar is prescribed to be the deity for Satabisha. Another set of Nakshatras where this confusion arises is between Swathi and Anuradha. The Devata of Swathi is Vayu whereas the Adi Devata of Anuradha is also provided as Vayu. However, here too Goddess Mahalakshmi is clearly indicated as the deity for Swathi which means any Wind related God should be invoked for Anuradha. There is sometimes a case of Lord Narasimha being linked to Swathi but it should be clearly noted that Lord Narasimha was only born in Swathi whereas the Governing deity of Swathi Nakshatra is well and truly Goddess Mahalakshmi only.

Listed below are the birth stars of some prominent deities to clear and understand the concept of birth star and presiding deity:

Trimurthis:
Shiva - Mentioned to be born in Arudra Nakshatra. Shiva is also clearly the presiding deity of Aruda Nakshatra
Vishnu - Mentioned to be born in Shravana Nakshatra. Vishnu is also clearly the presiding deity of Shravana Nakshatra
Brahma - Mentioned as not having a specified birth star as such but is clearly the presiding deity of Rohini Nakshatra

Tridevis:
Parvathi - Mentioned to be born in Mrigashira Nakshatra. Parvathi however happens to be the presiding deity of Poorva Phalguni Nakshatra
Lakshmi - Mentioned to be born in Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra. Lakshmi however happens to be the presiding deity of Swathi Nakshatra
Saraswathi - Mentioned to be born in Moola Nakshatra. Saraswathi however happens to be the presiding deity of Ashwini Nakshatra

Sons of Shiva:
Vinayaka - Mentioned to be born in Hastha Nakshatra. Vinayaka however happens to be the presiding deity of Uttara Ashada Nakshatra
Subrahmanya - Mentioned to be born in Vishakha Nakshatra. Subrahmanya is also clearly the presiding deity of Vishakha Nakshatra

Aspects of Parvathi:
Durga - Mentioned as not having a specified birth star as such but is clearly the presiding deity of Bharani Nakshatra
Ambika - Mentioned to be born in Magha Nakshatra. Ambika is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Meenakshi - Mentioned to be born in Magha Nakshatra. Meenakshi is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Kamakshi - Mentioned to be born in Poorva Phalguni Nakshatra. Kamakshi is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Visalakshi - Mentioned to be born in Poorva Phalguni Nakshatra. Visalakshi is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra

Avatars of Vishnu:
Narasimha - Mentioned to be born in Swathi Nakshatra. Narasimha is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Vamana - Mentioned to be born in Shravana Nakshatra. Vamana is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Parashurama - Mentioned to be born in Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra. Parashurama is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Rama - Mentioned to be born in Punarvasu Nakshatra. Rama is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Krishna - Mentioned to be born in Rohini Nakshatra. Krishna is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Buddha - Mentioned to be born in Vishakha Nakshatra. Buddha is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Matsya - No authentic information is available regarding birth Nakshatra but the possible one can be Revathi due to the symbolic connection of Fish. Matsya is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Koorma - No authentic information is available regarding birth Nakshatra but the possible one can be Chitra due to the symbolic connection with structure and foundation associated with tortoise. Matsya is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Varaha - Mentioned to be born in Jyeshta Nakshatra as per most Tamil references. Varaha is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra

Vishnu Related Forms
Anjaneya - Mentioned to be born in Moola Nakshatra. Anjaneya is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Garuda - Mentioned to be born in Swathi Nakshatra. Garuda is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Hayagriva - Mentioned to be born in Shravana Nakshatra. Hayagriva is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Andal - Mentioned to be born in Poorva Phalguni Nakshatra. Andal is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra. She is the only female among the 12 Alwar saints

Aspects of Shiva
Dakshinamurthy - No clear birth star but associated with Pushya on account of the Guru connection. Dakshinamurthy is is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Bhairava - No clear birth star but associated with Magha due to Bhairava Jayanthi aligning closely to the star and on account of Pitru connection. Bhairava is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra
Sarabeshwara - No clear birth star but associated with Swathi due to Narasimha connection who was also said to be born on the same star and Sarabeshwara manifested to tame Lord Narasimha's fury

Combined Deities
Ayyappa - Mentioned to be born in Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra. Ayyappa is also clearly the presiding deity of Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra. Ayyappa arose as a combined form of Shiva/Vishnu as he was born as the divine son of Lord Shiva and Mohini who is the female avatar of Lord Vishnu
Dattatreya - Mentioned to be born in Revathi Nakshatra. Ayyappa is also clearly the presiding deity of Uttara Phalguni Nakshatra. Dattatreya is however not specifically assigned as the presiding deity of any Nakshatra. Lord Dattatreya is a combined incarnation of the Trimurthies - Brahma, Vishnu and Shiva
Gayatri Devi - Mentioned to be connected with Hastha Nakshatra as she is also reflected by the name of Savitar who is the Vedic Solar deity of Hastha and Gayatri also goes by the name of Savitri. Goddess Gayathri Devi is the personification of the Gayathri Mantra and represents the collective divine energy of the Tridevis viz Saraswathi, Lakshmi and Parvathi.

Nakshatra Deities associated with the 5 elements:
The holy text of Kumara Swamiyam provides only 3 of the elements to be deities of a particular Nakshatras which are Fire, Air and Water. Regarding the elements of Earth and Ether, they don't standalone preside any of the 27 Nakshatras. However considering that each of the elements are particularly associated with a specific Shiva temple, we will try to chalk out the most plausible option of all the 5 elements connected with a specific Nakshatra.
Fire or Agni - The Fire element is linked with Arunachaleswarar Temple located in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu. Also it is clearly mentioned that Krithika Nakshatra is ruled by Fire God or Agni. Hence Fire element is mainly associated with Krithika Nakshatra
Air or Vayu - The Air element is linked with Srikalahasteeswara Temple located in Srikalahasti, Andhra Pradesh. The Devata of Swathi is said to be Vayu whereas the Adi Devata of Anuradha is also said to be Vayu. But since for Swathi, the presiding deity is clearly laid out as Goddess Mahalakshmi, Air element is to be associated with Anuradha Nakshatra
Water or Jala - The Water element is linked with Jambukeswarar Temple located in Thiruvanaikaval, Tamil Nadu. The Nakshatra linked to the water element happens to be Poorva Ashada since the 
Devata and Adi Devata of Poorva Ashada Nakshatra are said to be Apah & Varuna respectively both which are connected to the waters. There is also a reference of Varuna as Vedic deity for Shatabisha Nakshatra but since Yama Dharmaraj is provided as the presiding deity for Shatabisha, the water element Nakshatra is exclusively connected to Poorva Ashada.
Earth or Prithvi - The Earth element is linked with Ekambareswarar Temple located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. It should be noted that there is no Nakshatra which is exclusively said to be ruled by the Earth God as presiding deity. However one of the Nakshatras which can be a close contender representing the Earth element happens to be Uttara Phalguni. This is because the major annual festival of the temple takes place in the solar month of Panguni when Uttara Phalguni is transiting in the sky. Since there is significant worship of the Prithvi Lingam during Panguni Uthiram at Ekambareswarar, we can consider Uttara Phalguni as the Nakshatra predominantly connected to Earth element.
Ether or Akash - The Ether element is linked with Thillai Nataraja Temple located in Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu. It should be noted that there is no Nakshatra which is exclusively said to be ruled by the Earth God as presiding deity. However similar to Earth when considering temple traditions, the Arudra Darshan or the cosmic dance festival happens during Arudra Nakshatra in the solar month of Margazhi. The name itself connotes Arudra also known as 'Thiruvadirai' and is deeply associated with Chidambaram Nataraja with Shiva's cosmic dance being celebrated widely. We also know that the presiding deity of Arudra by itself is Rudra. So all pointers route to Arudra being the centralized Nakshatra for the Ether element 

Summarizing the Elements with the Temple and respective Nakshatra association
Earth -> Ekambareshwarar, Kanchipuram -> Uttara Phalguni or Uthiram (Derived)
Water -> Jambukeshwarar, Thiruvanaikaval -> Poorva Ashada or Pooradam
Fire -> Arunachaleshwarar, Thiruvannamalai -> Krithika or Karthigai
Air -> Sri Kalahastheshwarar, Kalahasti -> Anuradha or Anusham
Ether -> Thilai Natarajar, Chidambaram -> Arudra or Tiruvadirai (Derived)
Note: The Nakshatra of Dhanishta or Avittam is said to be ruled by the 8 Vasus holding a mixture of all the 5 elements plus Sun, Moon and Nakshatras as a whole but however it does not independently rule any singular element.

Nakshatras Deities associated with the 9 Navagrahas
Coming to Navagrahas, only 5 of the Navagrahas are given deity rulership of Nakshatras. They are Sun, Moon, Jupiter, Venus and Saturn. For the remaining 4 namely Mars, Mercury, Rahu & Ketu specific deity lordship is not been provided. However we can still assign few Naksharas as secondary deities for the Navagrahas who are not given exclusive deity rulership. Listing down below the Navagrahas and their respective Nakshatra in which they happen to be the deity.
Sun - Hastha or Hastham
Moon - Mrigashira or Mrigasheerisham
Jupiter - Pushya or Poosam
Venus - Magha or Magam
Saturn - Revathi
Mars - Uttara Ashada or Uthiradam (Derived)
Mercury - Dhanishta or Avittam (Derived)
Rahu - Bharani (Derived)
Ketu - Ashlesha or Ayilyam (Derived)

Janma Nakshatra of the Navagrahas and its various other connections

The main purpose of this article is to delineate and figure out the correct Janma or birth Nakshatra of the 9 Navagrahas. However with the way Navagrahas are used in propensity with the over dramatizing reference of them being used as Star Lords predominantly, thought it also made sense to connect the different Nakshatras listed against each of the Navagrahas and how they have a much wider scope than just purely as Nakshatra lords.   

However not to digress from the predominant objective of finding out the birth Nakshatra of the Navagrahas, lets go about in collecting information from different sources.
                         
As one would observe from the above table, it all looks like a mess with different sources claiming Navagrahas being born in various Nakshatras. Vichitra Jothidam or the VJ System is a unique branch of Tamil astrology employing Nakshatras in copious abundance. In fact based on this list only rests the DNA astrology based on Karmic registry which takes into account that so and so Navagraha was born in such and such Nakshatra. The Bengali references give 2 Janma Nakshatras for most of the Navagrahas. The book authored by Harihar Majumder titled "Hindu Science of the Future" records the birth Nakshatra of all the Navagrahas and this information is provided in numerous places. In the Brahmanda Purana and Vayu Purana, the inventory of detail is pretty similar except for the shadow planets Rahu & Ketu. A Brihat Yatra reference of Varaha Mihira also aligns largely with the Puranas with the main difference being for planet Mercury. The Jagannath Tradition indexes the data from the book written by Sanjay Rath titled "Brihat Nakshatra" and there are quite a number of differences witnessed when compared to other sources. Lastly there was a source on the net attributed to Vaishvata Manvantara detailing even the padas of the Nakshatra in which the Navagrahas were born. It states the Sun, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Saturn being born in the 1st pada, Moon & Venus in the 4th pada and Rahu & Ketu in the 3rd pada of the respective Nakshatras mentioned.

In down south, most of the Tamil Astrologers stick staunchly to the Vichitra Jothidam source whenever there is a reference involving birth Nakshatra of a Navagraha. The germination of the DNA system of astrology revolves around this and subsequent rules are brought forward based upon this underlying concept. This was confusing a lot since for many of the Navagrahas, the Nakshatras were way off. Then came the very important realization that the catalog given here is not the Janma Nakshatra but instead the ruling deity of the Nakshatra. For instance we know that Moon (Soma) is the deity of Mrigashira and likewise Jupiter (Brihaspati) is the deity of Pushya. So the entire basis of this methodology is the deity and no direct relation to the birth Nakshatra. Of course, in some cases a Navagraha may be born in a particular Nakshatra and the same Navagraha may also be the deity of that particular Nakshatra. A good example of this is Saturn which was presumably born in Revathi star and also happens to be the deity of Revathi star as provided in the hallowed text of 'Kumaraswamiyam'. 

Another important conundrum to take care is the note provided when studying Tara Bala which deems that one's Janma Nakshatra is said to cause a lot of tension, anxiety and stress. There is a saying that on one's Janma Nakshatra, you seek the refuge of the divine for protection and preferably not dabble with any major activity or put your toe hold into something important as it has the potential to cause disappointments. There is no reason to think that Janma Nakshatra is inauspicious as a whole but that particular time is more beneficial for prayers and seeking God's support. Thus, on similar lines extending this principle to the deities themselves which in this case is the Navagrahas, the Janma Nakshatra of the Navagrahas is not expected to be considered as a favorable one.

There is a Muhurtha table which classifies the combination of Nakshatra/Vara into 4 brackets viz Siddha, Amrita, Marana and Prabalarishta. Extending the Vara to the Navagrahas, we can draw some pointers. Of course this will not be applicable for Rahu & Ketu and only relevant for the 7 days of the week ruled by the 7 planets namely Sunday - Sun, Monday - Moon, Tuesday - Mars, Wednesday - Mercury, Thursday - Jupiter, Friday - Venus and Saturday - Saturn. From the table, it can be inferred that the birth Nakshatra can only be falling in either of a category considered as Marana or Prabalarishta. Any Nakshatra/Navagraha in the combination of Siddha and Amrita will fail the Janma Nakshatra test.

Also, in cases where a Navagraha is linked to 2 Janma Nakshatras it makes sense to prefer the Nakshatra that falls in 2 of the rasis as Navagrahas are constantly orbiting and have a role of expansion when it comes to the parlance of Vedic Astrology.

Thus, to summarize on the tests for meeting the condition of Janma Nakshatra:
- The Navagraha born in a particular Nakshatra may or may not be the deity of that Nakshatra
- Irrespective of the above rule, the Janma Nakshatra of the Navagraha should either be classified under Marana or Prabalarishta Yoga. Applies to all Grahas except for Rahu/Ketu
- For those cases of 2 Nakshatras classified as Janma Nakshatra, consider giving extra preference to the Nakshatra which falls in 2 Rasis (Zodiac Signs)

With the above conditions laid, lets dwell into figuring the Janma Nakshatra for each of the Navagrahas.

Sun: 
The different contenders are Hastha, Vishakha, Anuradha and Bharani. The ruling deity of Hastha is provided as Sun as per Kumaraswamiyam. Also it doesn't equate to a Marana/Prabalarishta Yoga. Bharani can also be eliminated as its given based on the formation of Daghda Yoga and doesn't have any direct relevance to Janma Nakshatra. Between Vishakha & Anuradha, the most commonly accepted one happens to be Vishakha. Also considering the case of Nakshatra falling in 2 rasis, Vishakha meets the condition as opposed to Anuradha. Hence Vishakha can be nominated as birth Nakshatra of Sun. Additionally also Vishakha's vedic deity is said to be Indragni translated as Indra (King of the Gods) + Agni (Fire) as compared to Mitra (Friend) for Anuradha. Considering from a deity angle also Vishakha gains prominence.
Janma Nakshatra: Vishakha

Moon:
The different contenders are Mrigashira, Krithika, Rohini and Chitra. The ruling deity of Mrigashira is provided as Moon (Soma) as per Kumaraswamiyam along with it not equating to a Marana/Prabalarishta Yoga. Chitra can also be eliminated as its given based on the formation of Daghda Yoga and doesn't have any direct relevance to Janma Nakshatra. Between Krithika & Rohini, most of the lists give Krithika and also additionally Krithika forms part of Marana/Prabalarishta Yoga whereas Rohini does not. Even considering the falling in 2 rasis theory, Krithika meets the test whereas Rohini does not. The interesting take with Moon is that it exalts in Krithika Nakshatra, it's most favourite Nakshatra as per scriptures is said to be Rohini and it is the ruling deity of Mrigashira. Thus, in every way Moon is very fortunate when it happens to be in Rishaba (Taurus) rasi which contains all these 3 Nakshatras.
Janma Nakshatra: Krithika

Mars:
The different contenders are only between Poorva Ashada and Uttara Ashada. It is a close tie in the sense that this is a mixed one. However Poorva Ashada and Tuesday is neither a Marana/Prabalarishta Yoga and also it doesn't fall in 2 rasis. Additionally Poorva Ashada is said to be a predominant water related Nakshatra ruled by Apah (Water God) as compared to Uttara Ashada which is said to be more earth related and stable in line with Mars significations apart from also meeting the test of Marana/Prabalarishta Yoga and also being stationed in 2 rasis.
Janma Nakshatra: Uttara Ashada

Mercury:
The different contenders are between Dhanishta and Shravana. Again it is a close tie but here also it tilts in favour of Dhanishta on account of it being a Marana/Prabalarishta yoga along with also falling in 2 rasis both of the conditions which Shravana does not meet. Also Shravana's deity is Vishnu and Dhanishta's is Ashta Vasu. Though Mercury is a representation of Vishnu, the main deity will be Vishnu or his several forms and only will Mercury be considered. With regard to Ashta Vasus or 8 elements, Mercury is said to be the main signifier of the 64 art forms and you see the synchroneity here as 8*8 is 64 and Mercury can definitely be considered as a main deity of Dhanishta which is what has been provided in Vichitra Jothidam as well. Irrespective of this extra test, Dhanishta still wins over Shravana as Janma Nakshatra.
Janma Nakshatra: Dhanishta

Jupiter:
The different contenders are Pushya, Poorva Phalguni and Uttara Phalguni. The ruling deity of Pushya is clearly identified as Jupiter (Brihaspati) as per all well known texts along with it also not equating to a Marana/Prabalarishta Yoga. So Pushya is ruled out. Between the 2 Phalgunis - Poorva & Uttara, the stakes are divided. But looking at the conditions, it is clearly Uttara Phalguni which gets the tip as its a Marana/Prabalarishta Yoga along with it also falling across 2 zodiac signs both of the conditions which Poorva Phalguni doesn't manage to meet.
Janma Nakshatra: Uttara Phalguni

Venus:
The different contenders are Magha, Pushya and Jyeshta. This one's a toughie because all 3 fall under the classification of Marana Yoga. Since its given as a singular Nakshatra and also since all 3 fall within a rasi, the last condition does not apply. However Pushya deity is said to be ruled by Brihaspati (Jupiter) who is considered to be the Deva Guru. Shukra or Venus being Asura Guru, it somehow doesn'y sync being born the Nakshatra which its opposite number Guru rules and exalts. Jyeshta is ruled by Indra which is again said to be kingly and ruling by nature against the natural signification of Venus. Magha is associated with Pitrus and Shukra has a major connection with ancestors. Also the text 'Kumaraswamiyam' specifically mentions Shukra to be the deity of this Nakshatra. Considering all possibilities, it appears that Magha should be the most likely candidate to be the Janma Nakshatra
Janma Nakshatra: Magha

Saturn:
The contenders are Revathi and Rohini. Almost all sources unanimously agree that Revathi is the default birth Nakshatra of Saturn Navagraha. Also considering the condition, it is even more clear as Revathi falls under the Marana/Prabalarishta category whereas Rohini & Saturday is clearly said to be a favorable combination.
Janma Nakshatra: Revathi

Rahu:
The contenders are Bharani, Rohini and Vishakha. Here also it's pretty clear that it should be Bharani only as Janma Nakshatra. We don't have the normal conditions to test for the shadow planets but Rohini being Moon's favourite Nakshatra with Rahu being prime enemy of Moon doesn't seem to match up. Vishakha is also just one reference that has been bought in but there is not much traction. Also Rahu's vedic deity being Yama and Adidevata being Goddess Durga as stated by Kumaraswamiyam blends well with the possibility of Bharani being its Janma Nakshatra.
Janma Nakshatra: Bharani

Ketu:
The contenders are Ashlesha and Rohini. It's a no brainer here too that Ashlesha should be the Janma Nakshatra. Ashlesha is a Nakshatra whose deity is said to be Nagas with Ketu signifying everything to do with snakes. The worshipping deity being the divine serpent 'Adishesha' is another pointer in Ashlesha notching it up. Also with regard to Rohini, Ketu is said to hold enmity with Moon and it doesn't seem plausible to think of it as an option for Janma Nakshatra. Thus, Ashlesha seals it here.
Janma Nakshatra: Ashlesha

Coming to the linkage between Janma Nakshatra of the Navagrahas and Navagraha deity for the Nakshatras, it is a paradox in the sense that Kumaraswamiyam provides 5 of the Navagrahas as primary deity for the 27 Navagrahas. In these 5, 2 of them tally with also being the Janma Nakshatra whereas 3 of them happen to be separate.
Venus, Saturn: These 2 planets are said to be the deities of Magha and Revathi respectively. The Janma Nakshatra of Venus and Saturn also happen to be Magha and Revathi.
Sun, Moon, Jupiter: These 3 planets are said to be the deities of Hastha, Mrigashira and Pushya respectively. However as identified earlier the Janma Nakshatra of these planets instead happen to be Vishakha, Krithika and Uttara Phalguni
Mars, Mercury, Rahu and Ketu: For these 4 planets, there is no specific primary deity correlated to the Nakshatras. However these planets can be considered as secondary deities for the Nakshatras 
Uttara Ashada - Ruled by Lord Vinayaka - Secondary Deity Mars
Dhanishta - Ruled by Indrani - Secondary Deity Mercury
Bharani - Ruled by Goddess Durga - Secondary Deity Rahu
Ashlesha - Ruled by Serpent Adishesha - Secondary Deity Ketu

Nakshatra Linkage to Navagrahas - Other Factors
Now that we have linked the Janma Nakshatra and also the respective Nakshatras ruled by the 9 Navagrahas, we will look into few other correspondences connecting the two.

Nakshatra Lord:
This is the most common linking of giving 3 Nakshatras for each Navagraha based on the Vimshottari scheme. For any layman getting vetted with astrology or even with respect to most experts, this is the only connection even seen as it tends to play a key role in horoscope analysis. From Ashwini onwards, the Nakshatras are assigned to Ketu->Venus->Sun->Moon->Mars->Rahu->Jupiter->Saturn->Mercury. The order is repeated from Magha onwards and again from Moola and finally ends with Revathi being assigned to Mercury.

Nakshatra Controller:
There is a tamil text called 'Jathaka Alangaram' which gives this method called 'Angusam'. It is translated as a goad like weapon with a sharp metal spike. As per this Angusam terminology, each of the 3 Nakshatras beginning from Ashwini are ruled by the Sun, Moon, Mars, Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, Saturn, Rahu and Ketu respectively. It is said that any planet falling in the ambit of the 3 Nakshatras are controlled by that respective Navagraha. This is a little different from Nakshatra Lord technique.

Nakshatra DNA: (Karmic Registry)
This method has picked up pace in the last few years. It is said that the karmic registry of each of the Nakshatras are ingrained in all the Navagrahas except for Ketu being Moksha Karaka. The secret formula was given as the days of the week associating with the 7 Nakshatras from Ashwini to Punarvasu followed by the 8th Nakshatra of Pushya provided to Rahu. Following on is the next set of 8 Nakshatras followed by the last set of 8. That leaves 24 with the last 3 Nakshatras again said to be having the karma of Sun, Moon and Mars to finish the total set of 27 Nakshatras.

Nakshatra Exaltation:
Each of the Navagrahas except for Rahu/Ketu are provided an exaltation degree which falls in a particular Nakshatra. For Rahu/Ketu, opinion is divided but in common parlance as per some of the Panchangams, it is said that they both exalt in Jyeshta Nakshatra. However when it comes to nodes, this needs to be taken with a pinch of salt.

Nakshatra Debilitation:
Similar to exaltation, each of the Navagrahas except for Rahu/Ketu are also provided a debilitation degree which falls in a particular Nakshatra. For Rahu/Ketu, opinion is divided but in common parlance as per some of the Panchangams, it is said that they both debilitate in Rohini Nakshatra. However when it comes to nodes, this information can be taken with a grain of salt.

Nakshatra Nature:
The nature or quality of Nakshatras are also divided into 7 types viz Sthira, Chara, Ugra, Mishra, Laghu, Mridu and Tikshana. They are characterized based on activities and are more tenable when a particular day is also linked to them. For instance Sthira means Fixed and represents the Nakshatras of Rohini and the 3 Uttaras - Phalguni, Ashada and Bhadrapada. When it also coincides with Sunday (ruler of Sun), it tends to be more justifiable and favorable. As its distinguished into 7 types, there is no Rahu & Ketu in this equation.
Sunday - Sthira/Dhruva Nakshatras - Fixed - For activities that require fixity such as laying foundation. Eg. coronation, sowing seeds etc.
Monday - Chara Nakshatras - Movable - For activities that require movement. Eg. riding vehicles, undertaking any journey etc.
Tuesday - Ugra Nakshatras - Cruel - For activities involving violence, force. Eg. demolishing structures, breaking things, acting with force etc
Wednesday - Misra Nakshatras - Mixed - For activities involving a mixed variety or things involving duality. Eg. Performing worshipping, engaging in ceremonies, fabricating etc
Thursday - Laghu/Shipra Nakshatras - Swift - For activities involving swiftness or quick action. Eg. involving in pleasures, wearing jewellery, fast decision making etc
Friday - Mridu Nakshatras - Tender - For activities involving learning something new, undertaking any subtle activities etc. Eg enrolling for classes, making friends, learning fine arts etc
Saturday - Tikshana Nakshatras - Sharp - For activities involving bitterness, trickery, deceit etc. Eg. invoking spirits, plotting against enemies, committing unrealistic deeds etc

Nakshatra Auspiciousness: (Amrita + Siddha)
The Muhurtha table above states a combination of Vara + Nakshatra yielding to either of Amrita, Siddha, Marana or Prabalarishta classification. Amrita equates to nourishment and Siddha correlates to accomplishment. There are however 7 combinations which are highly auspicious and termed as Amrita Siddha Yoga with both features in equal measure. Extending the principle to the Navagrahas from the Varas as the 7 Navagrahas barring Rahu + Ketu rule the 7 days of the week, listing below the Nakshatra Amrita Siddha Yoga.
Sunday + Hastha (Aditya Hastha)
Monday + Mrigashira (Soma Mrigashira)
Tuesday + Ashwini (Bhouma Ashwini)
Wednesday + Anuradha (Buddha Anuradha)
Thursday + Pushya (Guru Pushya)
Friday + Revathi (Bhrigu Revathi)
Saturday + Rohini (Manda Rohini)

Nakshatra Incarnation:
The sacred holy astrological text Brihat Parashara Hora Shastra states that "From the Sun God the incarnation of Rama, from the Moon that of Krishna, from Mars that of Narasimha, from Mercury that of Buddha, from Jupiter that of Vamana, from Venus that of Parasu Rama, from Saturn that of Koorma (Tortoise), from Rahu that of Varaha (Pig), and from Ketu that of Meena (Fish) occurred. These Avatars are said to have taken birth in a particular constellation and hence there is an indirect association of the Navagrahas with the Nakshatras in which the Vishnu Avatars were born in. For Tortoise, Pig and Fish alone information is not explicitly clear but on researching Tortoise which represents foundation & structure can be linked largely to Chitra, Pig is linked to Jyeshta as there is also a Tamil tradition of Varaha being prayed for Jyeshta Nakshatra and Fish is largely representative of Revathi Nakshatra.

Lets lay down all these characteristics for each of the Navagrahas and decode what are the different Nakshatras they all get associated with. 

Sun
- Nakshatra Birth: Vishakha
- Nakshatra Deity: Hastha
- Nakshatra Lord: Krithika, Uttara Phalguni, Uttara Ashada
- Nakshatra Controller: Ashwini, Bharani, Krithika
- Nakshatra DNA: Ashwini, Ashlesha, Anuradha, Poorva Bhadrapada
- Nakshatra Exaltation: Ashwini
- Nakshatra Debilitation: Swathi
- Nakshatra Nature: Rohini, Uttara Phalguni, Uttara Ashada, Uttara Bhadrapada
- Nakshatra Auspiciousness: Hastha
- Nakshatra Incarnation: Punarvasu

Moon
- Nakshatra Birth: Krithika
- Nakshatra Deity: Mrigashira
- Nakshatra Lord: Rohini, Hastha, Shravana
- Nakshatra Controller: Rohini, Mrigashira, Arudra
- Nakshatra DNA: Bharani, Magha, Jyeshta, Uttara Bhadrapada
- Nakshatra Exaltation: Krithika
- Nakshatra Debilitation: Vishakha
- Nakshatra Nature: Punarvasu, Swathi, Shravana, Dhanishta, Satabisha
- Nakshatra Auspiciousness: Mrigashira
- Nakshatra Incarnation: Rohini

Mars
- Nakshatra Birth: Uttara Ashada
- Nakshatra Deity: Uttara Ashada
- Nakshatra Lord: Mrigashira, Chithra, Dhanishta
- Nakshatra Controller: Punarvasu, Pushya, Ashlesha
- Nakshatra DNA: Krithika, Poorva Phalguni, Moola, Revathi
- Nakshatra Exaltation: Dhanishta
- Nakshatra Debilitation: Ashlesha
- Nakshatra Nature: Bharani, Magha, Poorva Phalguni, Poorva Ashada, Poorva Bhadrapada
- Nakshatra Auspiciousness: Ashwini
- Nakshatra Incarnation: Swathi 

Mercury
- Nakshatra Birth: Dhanishta
- Nakshatra Deity: Dhanishta
- Nakshatra Lord: Ashlesha, Jyeshta, Revathi
- Nakshatra Controller: Magha, Poorva Phalguni, Uttara Phalguni
- Nakshatra DNA: Rohini, Uttara Phalguni, Poorva Ashada
- Nakshatra Exaltation: Hastha, 
- Nakshatra Debilitation: Uttara Bhadrapada
- Nakshatra Nature: Krithika, Vishakha
- Nakshatra Auspiciousness: Anuradha
- Nakshatra Incarnation: Vishakha 

Jupiter
- Nakshatra Birth: Uttara Phalguni
- Nakshatra Deity: Pushya
- Nakshatra Lord: Punarvasu, Vishakha, Poorva Bhadrapada
- Nakshatra Controller: Hastha, Chithra, Swathi
- Nakshatra DNA: Mrigashira, Hastha, Uttara Ashada
- Nakshatra Exaltation: Pushya
- Nakshatra Debilitation: Uttara Ashada
- Nakshatra Nature: Ashwini, Pushya, Hastha
- Nakshatra Auspiciousness: Pushya
- Nakshatra Incarnation: Shravana

Venus
- Nakshatra Birth: Magha
- Nakshatra Deity: Magha
- Nakshatra Lord: Bharani, Poorva Phalguni, Poorva Ashada
- Nakshatra Controller: Vishakha, Anuradha, Jyeshta
- Nakshatra DNA: Arudra, Chithra, Shravana
- Nakshatra Exaltation: Revathi
- Nakshatra Debilitation: Chithra
- Nakshatra Nature: Mrigashira, Chithra, Anuradha, Revathi
- Nakshatra Auspiciousness: Revathi
- Nakshatra Incarnation: Uttara Phalguni

Saturn
- Nakshatra Birth: Revathi
- Nakshatra Deity: Revathi
- Nakshatra Lord: Pushya, Anuradha, Uttara Bhadrapada
- Nakshatra Controller: Moola, Poorva Ashada, Uttara Ashada
- Nakshatra DNA: Punarvasu, Swathi, Dhanishta
- Nakshatra Exaltation: Swathi
- Nakshatra Debilitation: Bharani
- Nakshatra Nature: Arudra, Ashlesha, Jyeshta, Moola
- Nakshatra Auspiciousness: Rohini
- Nakshatra Incarnation: Chithra

Rahu
- Nakshatra Birth: Bharani
- Nakshatra Deity: Bharani
- Nakshatra Lord: Arudra, Swathi, Satabisha
- Nakshatra Controller: Shravana, Dhanishta, Satabisha
- Nakshatra DNA: Pushya, Vishakha, Satabisha
- Nakshatra Exaltation: Jyeshta
- Nakshatra Debilitation: Rohini
- Nakshatra Nature: -
- Nakshatra Incarnation: Jyeshta

Ketu
- Nakshatra Birth: Ashlesha
- Nakshatra Deity: Ashlesha
- Nakshatra Lord: Ashwini, Magha, Moola
- Nakshatra Controller: Poorva Bhadrapada, Uttara Bhadrapada, Revathi
- Nakshatra DNA: -
- Nakshatra Exaltation: Jyeshta
- Nakshatra Debilitation: Rohini
- Nakshatra Nature: -
- Nakshatra Incarnation: Revathi

As an illustration on how to read this information, lets take the case of Jupiter. Brihaspati was born in the Nakshatra of Uttara Phalguni and it is the deity of Pushya Nakshatra. It rules the Nakshatras of Punarvasu / Vishakha / Poorva Bhadrapada and controls the Nakshatras of  Hastha / Chithra / Swathi. Its DNA Karmic registry is linked to the Nakshatras of Mrigashira, Hastha and Uttara Ashada. It exalts in the Nakshatra of Pushya and debilitates in the Nakshatra of Uttara Ashada. Its quality is aligned with the Nakshatras of Ashwini, Pushya and Hastha. Its extremely auspicious in Pushya known as Guru Pushya on account of it forming an Amrita Siddha Yoga. Its incarnation is linked to the Nakshatra of Shravana as Vamana, an Avatar of Vishnu occurred from Jupiter and was born in this particular Nakshatra.

Thus on observation, it is clearly witnessed that there is an extensively dense association between the Navagrahas and Nakshatras. However, unfortunately in today's day and age, almost every single source only links Navagrahas to the 3 Nakshatra's provided as per the Vimshottari Dasa scheme. Adding to this negligence, there are references equating the Nakshatra to the natural signification of the planet which is blasphemous to say the least. It pains to see videos blatantly mentioning stuff like for instance as an example Bharani/Poorva Phalguni/Poorva Ashada Nakshatra being ruled by Venus and relating every characteristic of Venus with these Nakshatras. Have observed further mockery which makes you squeal such as stating deplorable facts such as planet in 6th Lord Nakshatra giving so and so negative results. As an illustration, if someone were born in say Aquarius Lagna, 6th Lord is Cancer (ruled by Moon). They extend this principle to the Nakshatras and make bizarre statements like planet placed in Rohini, Hastha, Shravana Nakshatra would give problems related to health. There is an over dependence on Nakshatra Lords and equating it in same lines as the Rasi Lord or the planet by itself is the equivalent of jumping into a deep well. In Dasa bhukthi also, one sees random predictions thrown in such as when for eg. let's say Mercury Dasha is running for someone and it's placed in Krithika Nakshatra, then statements are made such as Sun (Nakshatra Lord) being the one controlling and being the main runner of the Dasa.

The biggest irony is that no astrological text of yore has ever mentioned Lords of Nakshatra's exclusively. Probably in the 20th century through methodology of Meena 2 Nadi and KP Astrology, Nakshatra Lords it gained prominence but the sacrilege right now is it's also being mixed unfairly and diabolically thus ruining the sacred principles of Vedic Astrology. A planet being strong in own house cannot be equated to it being equally strong in own Nakshatra. Have been in disbelief when random fluff gets thrown such as Jupiter in Sagittarius is equally powerful as Jupiter in Poorva Bhadrapada (Own Nakshatra or Suya Saaram as they call it in Tamil).

There was a popular astrologer who once claimed that Nakshatras have no relevance in seeing horoscopes for which there was a lot of backlash. The problem is the one who criticized it had absolutely no idea about the inherent characteristics of Nakshatras whereas those opposing it were coming up with the same crap bull planet in own Nakshatra concept, being in the leg of the 6th/8th Lord Nakshatra, dismissing that a planet placed in Rahu or Ketu Nakshatras being a karmic disorder and all sorts of weird theories. Sad are the ways in which Astrology is practiced these days and the less said the better

Reiterating again that I am not against classifying Nakshatras as 3 each given for all the Navagrahas but mixing and matching it by incorporating it into regular Vedic Astrology parlance doesn't bode well. The fact is that there is so much information about Nakshatras from the Puranas describing in detail about its nature but downsizing as just being all about it's house Lord is doing grave injustice to Nakshatras as a whole. This is just scraping the surface level and in effect the comprehension and connection prevalent between the Navagrahas and Nakshatras is as much or even more han sailing the deep waters.