How much importance should one give to astrology, particularly when choosing a partner?

Question - Gurudev, how much importance should one give to astrology, particularly when choosing a partner?

Gurudev Sri Sri - It is good, you can compare the charts to see how much you naturally match with each other and how much you have to compromise. So what you can do? You can do chanting. That is why it is said, 'Om Namah Shivaya' is a chant which controls all the planets. On top of all the planets is the Shiva principle. So correction is available there. The correction is Om Namah Shivaya because this chant has all the elements which can nullify any bad effect. Do you know the reason why there is the number 108?

How many of you don't know what 108 signifies? 108 signifies the nine planets and 12 houses, the constellations. When nine planets move through 12 constellations, they make 108 different changes. So to nullify those changes or any unpleasant effect, we say Om Namah Shivaya. So it is like a shield. It is considered a very auspicious mantra. Even the steps to this hall are 108 steps from the bottom. That means you transcend all planetary effects and rise to pure consciousness. Sadhana, pranayama, meditation, satsang, chanting, singing, what is the point of doing all this if everything is being ruled by the planet? No, these are like the checks and balances. They will counter the effects and bring more independence, otherwise our consciousness is dependent on time and space. Also, sadhana brings freedom, to a great extent. I won't say 100%, but yes, to a great extent. It is like, when it is raining and you go out, you have a choice, either you go out and get drenched, or take a rain coat and not get drenched.