12-animal cycle - Five elements - Instant personality profile
| Element | Years ending in |
|---|---|
| Wood | 4 or 5 |
| Fire | 6 or 7 |
| Earth | 8 or 9 |
| Metal | 0 or 1 |
| Water | 2 or 3 |
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The Chinese zodiac, known as Shengxiao, is a 12-year cycle in which each year is associated with a specific animal and its reputed attributes. The 12 animals in order are: Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, Horse, Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. This cyclical calendar system has been in use for over 2,000 years in China and spread throughout East and South-East Asia. The Chinese zodiac is based on the lunisolar calendar, meaning each Chinese New Year (typically between January 21 and February 20) marks the beginning of a new zodiac year.
Beyond the 12 animals, Chinese astrology incorporates five elements - Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Water - creating a 60-year cycle. Each year combines an animal with one of the five elements, adding further nuance to personality and fortune readings. For example, 2024 is the Year of the Wood Dragon, which occurs only once every 60 years. The elements cycle through each animal sign twice within the 60-year period, producing 10 heavenly stems combined with 12 earthly branches.
India's relationship with Chinese astrology dates back centuries through cultural and trade exchanges along the Silk Road. Today, Chinese zodiac awareness is widespread in India's urban population, particularly among younger generations. Chinese New Year is celebrated in Kolkata's Tangra Chinatown - one of the oldest Chinese communities in India, established in the late 18th century. Millions of Indians check their Chinese zodiac sign for fun and guidance, especially during the Lunar New Year period. This calculator covers birth years from 1900 to 2100 and provides personality traits, lucky colours, compatible signs, and element details.