Work : Start Business 1975 (started Florentine Films)
Work : Begin Major Project 1977 (began work on "The Brooklyn Bridge")
Health : Medical diagnosis 1977
Family : Change residence 1978 (moved to New Hampshire)
Work : Published/ Exhibited/ Released 1981 ("The Brooklyn Bridge" aired on PBS)
Relationship : Marriage 1982 (married Amy Stechler)
Work : Published/ Exhibited/ Released 1990 ("The Civil War")
Work : Prize 1991 (first Emmy)
Work : Published/ Exhibited/ Released 1994 ("Baseball")
Work : Published/ Exhibited/ Released 2001 ("Jazz")
Work : Contracts, agreements January 2007 (Lifetime contract with PBS) chart Placidus Equal_H.
American filmmaker of historical documentaries on such diverse subjects as the American Civil War, baseball and jazz. The son of a professor, the family moved often when Burns was young. His mother died of cancer when he was 11. To escape the pain of her long illness and death, Burns turned toward baseball and his other passion, photography, two interests shared with his father. Fascinated with historical subjects, he read non-fiction as a child. When he was in high school, his father bought him a camera and Burns made his first documentary. He attended Hampshire College where he dreamt of becoming a Hollywood director but met and worked with still photographer Jerome Liebling. There he also met his future wife, Amy Stechler. Just after his graduation in 1975, he founded Florentine Films and moved to New York, where free-lanced. In 1977, while recovering from a bout with pneumonia, he received a copy of "The Great Bridge," and he approached the author, David McCullough, about producing a film based on the book about the Brooklyn Bridge. In 1978, he and Stechler moved to Walpole, New Hampshire and continued to collaborate on "The Brooklyn Bridge," finally released in 1981, broadcast on Public Broadcasting System. The film garnered an Academy Award nomination. He went on to produce and direct "The Shakers: Hands to Work, Hearts to God," aired in 1985, "The Civil War, broadcast in 1990, "Baseball" aired in 1994, Jazz, in 2001, and many others in the interim and afterwards. In 1991, he received his first of many Emmy awards for outstanding informational series and outstanding individual achievement for his writing; he has received over 20 other awards for his work. Burns and Stechler married in 1982 and have two daughters. In January 2007, Burns signed a lifetime contract with the Public Broadcasting Service, essentially committing that he will work exclusively with PBS for the remainder of his career. His upcoming documentary is about WWII, scheduled for release in September 2007. Link to Wikipedia biography Read less
The Ascendant (Lagna) in Vedic astrology represents the self, physical body, personality, and how we interact with the world. It defines our core identity, health, and the first impression we make on others. The sign rising on the eastern horizon at the moment of birth becomes the Ascendant, influencing our temperament and approach to life. Its ruler significantly shapes how we express ourselves a
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, the natal chart provides insights into various aspects of an individual's life. When Cancer is the ascendant (lagna) and it falls in the Aslesha nakshatra, it brings specific traits and influences. Cancer as the lagna indicates a person who is emotional, nurturing, and sensitive, with strong family ties and an inclination towards comfort and security. Aslesha nakshatra, ruled by Mercury, adds a layer of complexity with traits of intuition, intelligence, and a sometimes secretive nature. Individuals with Aslesha as their rising nakshatra might have a penetrating insight into situations and people, but could also struggle with trust issues or manipulative tendencies. The placement of the lagna lord, Moon, in the 8th house in Aquarius sign and Poorvabhadrapada nakshatra adds further dimensions. The 8th house is associated with transformation, secrets, and the unknown, often linked to life changes and challenges. Moon in the 8th house can suggest deep emotional undercurrents and a strong intuition, but also a tendency towards emotional upheaval or anxiety. The Aquarius sign is ruled by Saturn, which can bring a sense of detachment or unconventional thinking. This placement might indicate a person who is drawn to exploring the mysteries of life and possesses a strong desire for understanding deeper truths. Poorvabhadrapada nakshatra, governed by Jupiter, imbues a philosophical and transformative influence. It suggests an individual who is capable of profound changes and might have a visionary approach to life. This nakshatra can bring a blend of idealism and practicality, with a focus on long-term goals and spiritual growth. Overall, this combination suggests a person who is emotionally deep, intuitive, and transformative. They may face challenges related to trust and emotional stability but possess a strong inner drive to explore life's mysteries and seek personal growth. Their journey is likely marked by significant changes and a pursuit of deeper understanding and meaning in life.
The Sun holds great significance in Vedic astrology, representing our consciousness, life force, and vitality. It is known as the King of the planets and has a profound influence on our ego, self-esteem, and leadership qualities. Worship of the Sun is considered highly auspicious, as it is believed to provide energy and life force to all living beings on Earth.In summary, the Sun is closely associ
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, the placement of the Sun, which is the 2nd house lord for a Cancer ascendant, in the 1st house in Cancer sign within Pusya Nakshatra, conjunct Mercury, Ketu, and Mars, creates a unique and complex astrological influence. **Sun in Cancer in the 1st House**: The Sun in Cancer in the ascendant house brings a strong emphasis on self-identity and personal expression. As the 2nd house lord, the Sun's placement in the 1st house indicates that finances, speech, and family values are integral to the individual's self-image. This configuration can manifest as a strong desire to nurture and protect oneself and one's resources, aligning with Cancer's nurturing nature. The individual may possess a strong sense of pride in their heritage and family. **Pusya Nakshatra Influence**: Pusya Nakshatra is ruled by Saturn and associated with nourishment and growth. This nakshatra enhances the nurturing quality of Cancer, emphasizing the importance of care and support. The Sun in Pusya can bestow a sense of responsibility and a desire to uplift others, offering stability and wisdom. **Conjunction with Mercury, Ketu, and Mars**: - **Mercury**: The conjunction with Mercury suggests a sharp intellect and a strong ability to communicate. It enhances analytical skills and brings a focus on learning and adaptability. However, this can also indicate a potential for overthinking or anxiety, particularly related to self-worth and finances. - **Ketu**: Ketu's presence can bring a sense of detachment or spirituality, prompting the individual to seek deeper meaning beyond materialistic pursuits. This can lead to inner conflict between worldly desires and spiritual aspirations. - **Mars**: Mars adds energy, assertiveness, and a competitive spirit. It can enhance leadership qualities but may also lead to impulsiveness or aggression if not managed well. Overall, this configuration suggests a dynamic personality with a blend of nurturing instincts, intellectual prowess, and spiritual inclinations. Balancing these energies can lead to personal growth and fulfillment, especially in areas related to self-expression, family, and financial stability. The individual may need to be mindful of managing stress and maintaining harmonious relationships amidst these diverse influences.
Moon in Vedic astrology is associated with our emotional nature, sense of nurturing, and our mind. It is linked to our subconscious mind, instinctual nature, and relationship with our mother and the feminine energy. The placement of the Moon in a person's birth chart is believed to reveal their emotional nature, ability to connect with their inner self, and receptivity to others. Moon is also thou
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, the placement of the Moon as the 1st lord (Lagna lord) in the 8th house can be quite significant, especially for a Cancer ascendant. The Moon, being the ruler of Cancer, represents emotions, mind, and one's overall personality. When it is positioned in the 8th house, which is traditionally associated with transformation, secrets, longevity, and sudden events, it can create a complex influence on the native's life. **Aquarius Sign Influence:** The Moon in Aquarius can impart a more detached and intellectual approach to emotions. Aquarius is an air sign ruled by Saturn, emphasizing humanitarian ideals, innovation, and unconventional thinking. For a Cancer ascendant, this placement can make the individual more analytical in emotional matters, often seeking logical explanations for feelings and preferring group activities over solitary pursuits. **Poorvabhadrapada Nakshatra:** Poorvabhadrapada, ruled by Jupiter, is known for its dualistic nature and spiritual inclinations. The Moon in this nakshatra can heighten the native's intuitive abilities and may encourage a deeper interest in occult sciences or metaphysical studies. This nakshatra fosters a quest for higher truths and philosophical exploration, which can be a guiding force in the native's life journey. **8th House Dynamics:** The 8th house is often associated with transformation and can bring about significant changes in one's life. With the Moon here, the native might experience fluctuating emotions and a tendency toward introspection. This placement can also bring unexpected inheritances or gains through partners. It may increase the native's interest in mysteries and the unknown, potentially leading to profound personal growth. **Potential Challenges:** The Moon in the 8th house can sometimes create emotional instability, especially if not well-aspected. The native might face challenges in expressing emotions openly, leading to feelings of isolation. It's important to maintain emotional balance and seek constructive outlets for any intense feelings that arise. **Overall Impact:** This placement can be both challenging and rewarding. It encourages the native to explore deeper psychological and spiritual realms, potentially leading to significant personal transformation. Embracing the lessons of this placement can foster resilience and a profound understanding of life's mysteries.
Saturn represents boundaries, restrictions, and limitations. It is also linked to discipline, responsibility, and hard work, earning it the title of Lord of Karma and the planet of justice and fairness.The positioning of Saturn in a person's birth chart is believed to indicate their level of endurance, discipline, and responsibility. It also signifies their ability to work hard and overcome challe
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, analyzing the placement of planets in a natal chart involves understanding the roles they play as house lords, their placement in specific signs and nakshatras, and the resulting influences on an individual's life. For a Cancer ascendant, Saturn becomes a significant planet as it rules both the 7th and 8th houses. Its placement in the 3rd house in the sign of Virgo within the Chitra Nakshatra presents a complex blend of effects. As the 7th house lord, Saturn governs partnerships, relationships, and marriage. Its dual role as the 8th house lord ties it to themes of transformation, longevity, and shared resources. The 3rd house, on the other hand, is associated with communication, courage, siblings, and short travels. With Saturn in Virgo, a sign ruled by Mercury, the influence suggests a methodical and practical approach to communication and relationships. The placement in Virgo indicates a tendency towards disciplined and analytical thinking. Individuals may exhibit a careful and detail-oriented nature in their interactions, valuing precision and efficiency. Saturn’s influence can also bring a sense of responsibility and seriousness to communication and dealings with siblings or in short-term ventures. Chitra Nakshatra, known for its creative and artistic energy, adds another layer to this configuration. Ruled by Mars, Chitra infuses a spark of creativity and a desire for aesthetic expression. This influence could manifest as an inclination towards creative writing, design, or any field that combines artistic flair with practical application. However, Saturn’s inherent nature as a slow-moving planet can bring delays or obstacles in the areas it influences. Relationships may require effort and patience, with a need to work through challenges methodically. The 8th house influence can also introduce transformative experiences through communication or short journeys. Overall, this placement suggests a life path where disciplined effort, practical communication, and creative expression play significant roles. The individual may find fulfillment through structured yet innovative approaches to personal and professional relationships, harnessing the unique energies of Saturn and Chitra Nakshatra.
Jupiter is considered the Guru or divine teacher in Vedic astrology, representing wisdom, knowledge, and spirituality. It is also known as the Great Benefic and associated with growth, abundance, and expansion. Jupiter's positioning in a person's birth chart is believed to indicate their ability to learn, teach, and guide others, and is considered crucial in determining overall success in life. In
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, the placement of planets in specific houses and signs can offer insights into various aspects of an individual's life. For a Cancer ascendant, Jupiter rules the 6th and 9th houses. When Jupiter is placed in the 11th house in Taurus within the Mrigashira Nakshatra, it brings about an intriguing blend of influences. **Jupiter as the 9th Lord:** As the ruler of the 9th house, Jupiter signifies fortune, spirituality, higher learning, and long-distance travel. Its placement in the 11th house, which represents gains, social circles, and aspirations, can enhance one's ability to achieve goals through wisdom and ethical means. This alignment often suggests a strong network of friends and associations that support the individual's growth. The person may also have opportunities for gains through teaching, advisory roles, or international connections. **Jupiter as the 6th Lord:** The 6th house deals with obstacles, health issues, and service. Jupiter's rulership here can indicate an ability to overcome challenges through optimism and a positive outlook. However, it also suggests that one might face issues in social settings or competition within their network. The individual might find success in professions related to health care, law, or service-oriented fields. **Taurus and Mrigashira Nakshatra Influence:** Taurus is a sign known for its stability, practicality, and love for beauty and comfort. Jupiter in Taurus brings a grounded approach to achieving aspirations and goals. Mrigashira Nakshatra, ruled by Mars, adds a layer of curiosity, adaptability, and a quest for knowledge. This combination can make the individual charming, sociable, and interested in diverse pursuits. Overall, this placement can lead to a life enriched with supportive associations, financial gains through wise investments, and a harmonious blend of material and spiritual pursuits. The individual might also have a natural ability to mediate and resolve conflicts, thanks to Jupiter's expansive and benevolent nature combined with Taurus's practical approach.
Rahu is a shadow planet in Vedic astrology, known as the North Node of the Moon. It represents karmic challenges, ambition, and material gains. Rahu is associated with material wealth, power, and diplomacy.The placement of Rahu in a person's birth chart is believed to indicate their potential for material success and worldly achievements. It also signifies their ability to take risks and pursue am
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, Rahu represents obsession, desires, and materialistic pursuits. When Rahu is the 8th lord, it signifies transformation, sudden events, and hidden aspects of life. For a Cancer ascendant, having Rahu as the 8th lord placed in the 7th house in Capricorn, specifically in Shravana Nakshatra, can have several implications. The 7th house is primarily associated with partnerships, marriage, and public dealings. With Rahu positioned here, a person might experience unconventional or transformative relationships. Rahu's influence often brings an element of foreign or unusual characteristics in partners or partnerships. There might be a strong desire to seek partners who are worldly, ambitious, or possess unique qualities. The placement in Capricorn, an earth sign ruled by Saturn, adds a practical and disciplined approach to relationships but may also cause delays or a serious tone in partnerships. Capricorn's influence can also enhance ambitions, leading the individual to form alliances that help in achieving professional goals. Shravana Nakshatra, ruled by the Moon, imbues this placement with a desire for knowledge, listening, and communication. It emphasizes learning through listening and can manifest as an individual with a keen interest in stories, traditions, or cultural history. However, this Nakshatra may also create fluctuations in relationships due to its lunar nature, which can lead to emotional ups and downs. This Rahu placement can also indicate sudden gains through partnerships or through dealing with the public. However, it warns of potential instability or unexpected issues within relationships, necessitating careful handling and maturity. Overall, for a Cancer ascendant, Rahu as the 8th lord in the 7th house encourages embracing change and transformation in relationships, urging the native to seek depth and understanding beyond the surface in their partnerships. It suggests a karmic path where learning through relationships becomes a crucial part of personal evolution.
Mercury is a significant celestial body in Vedic astrology, associated with communication, intelligence, and analytical ability. It is also linked to adaptability, flexibility, and quick thinking and is known as the Prince of the planets or Budh in Sanskrit.The positioning of Mercury in a person's birth chart is believed to indicate their level of intelligence, communication skills, and learning c
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, the placement of planets in specific houses and signs can have profound implications on an individual's life. For a Cancer ascendant, Mercury becomes the lord of the 3rd and 12th houses. When Mercury is positioned in the 1st house in the Cancer sign and Pusya Nakshatra, conjunct with Sun, Ketu, and Mars, it creates a complex astrological scenario. 1. **Mercury as 12th and 3rd Lord**: Mercury governs communication, intellect, and travel. As the 3rd lord, it emphasizes communication skills, siblings, and short journeys. As the 12th lord, it relates to expenses, foreign lands, and subconscious mind. Placed in the 1st house, it influences the native's personality, making them articulate and curious but potentially inclined towards introspection and solitude due to its 12th house association. 2. **Cancer Sign and Pusya Nakshatra**: Cancer, a water sign ruled by the Moon, adds emotional depth and sensitivity. Pusya Nakshatra, associated with nourishment and spiritual wisdom, can enhance the nurturing and protective qualities in the native's expression, making them empathetic and caring. 3. **Conjunction with Sun, Ketu, Mars**: - **Sun**: This conjunction can amplify ego and self-expression, but being combust, Mercury might struggle with clarity in communication and decision-making. - **Ketu**: This can lead to spiritual pursuits and detachment from materialistic endeavors, potentially causing confusion or unconventional thinking. - **Mars**: Adds assertiveness and energy, but might also bring impatience or aggression in speech and actions. Overall, this configuration can result in a dynamic yet internally conflicted personality. The native may have a strong desire to communicate and assert themselves but may also face challenges due to internalized stress or confusion. The influence of Pusya Nakshatra can lead them towards spiritual growth and nurturing roles. Balancing these energies and focusing on clarity in communication can harness the positive aspects of this planetary alignment.
Venus represents love, beauty, and sensuality. It is also associated with creativity, art, and luxury. Venus is known as the Goddess of Love and is considered the planet of love, relationships, and harmony.Placement of Venus in a person's birth chart is said to indicate their romantic nature, artistic talents, and social skills. It also signifies their sense of beauty, aesthetics, and appreciation
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, the placement of Venus, the lord of the 11th and 4th houses, in the 12th house in the Gemini sign under Mrigashira Nakshatra for a Cancer ascendant presents a complex blend of energies that influence various aspects of life. **Venus as the 11th and 4th Lord:** For a Cancer ascendant, Venus rules the 11th house of gains, friendships, and aspirations, as well as the 4th house of home, comforts, and emotional security. These domains suggest a focus on material gains and personal happiness. **Placement in the 12th House:** The 12th house, associated with losses, expenses, foreign lands, and spiritual liberation, tends to absorb the energy of planets placed within it, often redirecting their influences toward more subtle or spiritual dimensions. Venus here may indicate expenditures related to luxury, art, or comforts, and potential gains through overseas connections or spiritual pursuits. There might also be a tendency for secretive or behind-the-scenes relationships. **Influence of Gemini and Mrigashira Nakshatra:** The Gemini sign, ruled by Mercury, brings about a communicative and intellectual flavor to Venus's expressions. The adaptable nature of Gemini can enhance Venus's charm and social skills, potentially benefiting pursuits in writing, media, or networking. Mrigashira Nakshatra is symbolized by a deer's head and is known for its curiosity and quest for knowledge. This star can infuse a restlessness in seeking new experiences, which might manifest in exploring diverse cultural or artistic interests. **Overall Interpretation:** This configuration can lead to a blend of material pursuits and spiritual or artistic inclinations. While there is potential for financial gains through creative or intellectual avenues, the placement also encourages finding beauty and satisfaction in spiritual or altruistic endeavors. The individual may seek comfort and emotional fulfillment through travel, learning, or spiritual practices, as well as through nurturing global connections or partnerships. In relationships, there might be a preference for open-minded and intellectually stimulating partners. However, the 12th house influence could also suggest challenges in attaining long-lasting emotional stability unless spiritual alignment is achieved.
Ketu is a shadow planet in Vedic astrology, known as the South Node of the Moon. It represents karmic challenges, detachment, and spiritual pursuits. The positioning of Ketu in a person's birth chart is believed to indicate their spiritual growth and potential for detachment from worldly desires. It also signifies their ability to overcome past life karmic challenges and attain spiritual liberatio
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, the placement of planets in a natal chart significantly influences an individual's personality, life events, and destiny. When Ketu, the 5th lord, is positioned in the 1st house in Cancer, particularly in Pusya Nakshatra, and conjuncts with Sun, Mercury, and Mars, it creates a complex and multi-faceted astrological scenario for a Cancer ascendant. **Ketu as the 5th Lord in the 1st House:** Ketu, as the 5th lord, governs creativity, intelligence, and past life merits. Its placement in the 1st house suggests a strong influence on the individual's personality and self-expression. Ketu, known for its detachment and spiritual inclinations, might make the native introspective, with a tendency to seek spiritual or mystical knowledge. There could be a natural detachment from materialistic pursuits, and the person might have a unique approach to life, valuing inner fulfillment over external achievements. **Cancer Ascendant and Pusya Nakshatra:** Cancer ascendants are typically emotional, nurturing, and sensitive. With Ketu in Pusya Nakshatra, known for its nourishing and protective qualities, there is an amplification of these characteristics, but with a spiritual twist. Pusya is ruled by Saturn, which lends discipline and structure to Ketu's otherwise nebulous nature, potentially leading to a disciplined spiritual practice or a structured approach to esoteric subjects. **Conjunction with Sun, Mercury, and Mars:** The conjunction with the Sun can enhance the native’s leadership qualities but may also bring ego challenges. The Sun’s presence might illuminate Ketu’s otherwise hidden qualities, bringing a strong desire for recognition in spiritual or intellectual domains. With Mercury conjunct Ketu, there can be an intensified ability to communicate and articulate abstract or spiritual concepts. However, it may also lead to confusion or unconventional thinking processes. The native might possess a sharp intellect but could struggle with expressing themselves in traditional ways. Mars conjunct Ketu can heighten courage and determination, possibly leading to a fearless pursuit of knowledge or spiritual truths. However, it may also cause internal conflicts or impulsive actions driven by deep-seated desires or subconscious motivations. Overall, this configuration suggests a life path centered on spiritual growth, intellectual pursuits, and a unique blend of nurturing and assertive qualities, albeit with potential internal struggles regarding self-expression and ego.
Mars is a significant planet in Vedic astrology, representing energy, passion, and action. It is also linked to courage, strength, and willpower. The positioning of Mars in a person's birth chart is believed to indicate their assertiveness, physical strength, and level of confidence.Mars is associated with warfare, conflict, and competition, making it an essential planet for individuals involved i
...Read MoreIn Vedic astrology, the positioning of planets in a natal chart has profound implications on an individual's life. For a Cancer ascendant, Mars is a significant planet as it rules the 5th and 10th houses, governing creativity, intelligence, children, and career, along with actions and reputation in society. Placed in the 1st house in Cancer, Mars is in its debilitation sign, which can complicate its expression. Mars in Cancer tends to be more emotional and less assertive compared to its usual fiery and direct nature. Its placement in the 1st house indicates a strong focus on self-expression and personal identity. However, being in debilitation, there might be challenges with self-confidence and assertiveness, potentially leading to passive-aggressive behavior or difficulty in taking decisive actions. Pusya Nakshatra, known for its nurturing and protective qualities, may somewhat mitigate Mars' debilitation by infusing a sense of care and responsibility. This placement could enhance one's protective instincts and a desire to support and nurture others, aligning with Cancer's natural tendencies. The conjunction with the Sun, Mercury, and Ketu adds layers of complexity. The Sun, representing authority and vitality, can help bolster Mars' weakened state, providing a boost to confidence and leadership abilities. This can be beneficial for career endeavors, particularly in leadership roles or entrepreneurial ventures. Mercury, governing communication and intellect, joining this conjunction could create a dynamic where the native is articulate, with the ability to express emotions effectively. However, there might be a tendency to overthink or become overly critical due to Mercury's influence. Ketu, the South Node, brings a spiritual dimension, often causing detachment from material pursuits. This conjunction can lead to internal conflicts between pursuing worldly ambitions and seeking deeper, spiritual fulfillment. The native may face challenges in finding a balance between personal desires and career ambitions, often feeling a pull towards introspection and spiritual growth. Overall, this planetary combination suggests a complex personality with a blend of nurturing instincts, leadership potential, and an inclination toward spiritual exploration, albeit with some challenges in assertiveness and emotional expression.
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