Bharatiya Jyotihshastra (History of Indian Astronomy), translated by R. V. Vaidya v2.c14.13

v2.c14.13

Many people are sceptical as regards the connection between the planets in the sky and the affairs of human life, and their scepticism is quite natural. But the author believes that such connection exists. It is not possible at present to explain with precision why it should be so but the fact remains true all the same. The following account of astrologer Patvardhan, who used to guess the birth ascendant correctly by simply observing the physical traits of people may make his point clear to the readers.