The planets are also divided into two groups: the saptam mangal, or seven planets, and the astam mangal, or eight planets. The saptam mangal includes Surya, Chandra, Mangala, Budha, Guru, Shukra, and Shani. The astam mangal includes all of the above planets plus Rahu and Ketu.

Hindu astrology places great importance on the saptam mangal, as these are the planets that are most directly involved in human affairs. The astam mangal are considered to be of secondary importance, as they are thought to be more distant and less influential.

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