Chinese astro: 2010, the Year of the Tiger

The New Year according to the Chinese zodiac will fall on February 14 this year -- the Year of the Tiger. Based on the cycle of the moon, the date changes every year and each year is identified with one of 12 animals to express zodiacal time. The choice of these animals is based on a tale from Chinese mythology that has been given several interpretations.

One version is: The rat was assigned the job of inviting a variety of animals to a banquet to meet the Jade Emperor, who rules the heaven and the earth. At this special meal the animals would have a chance to be selected for the zodiac signs. The animals who showed up found a place in calendar. The cat apparently never found a spot because the rat fooled him into believing that the banquet was one day later; hence since that day the rat and the cat have been enemies for eternity.

Based on your year of birth, find out which sign you belong to and click on to read your forecast for the year:

The Rat: 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008

The Ox: 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009

The Tiger: 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010

The Rabbit: 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999

The Dragon: 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000

The Snake: 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001

The Horse: 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002

The Sheep: 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003

The Monkey: 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004

The Rooster: 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005

The Dog: 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006

The Pig: 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007

In the east, the Tiger symbolises power, passion and daring. This fearless and fiery fighter is revered as the sign that wards off the three main disasters of a household -- fire, thieves and ghosts. The Tiger is courageous and active. They have strong character and make for excellent leaders. Restless and reckless by nature, they are always impatiently geared for action.

However, because of their suspicious nature, they are prone to waver and make hasty decisions. While they are quick-tempered, they are equally sincere, affectionate and generous. Blessed with a marvellous sense of humour, they love babies, animals, jazz or anything that spurs their imagination.

Famous people: Charles de Gaulle, Groucho Mark, Queen Elizabeth II, Marilyn Monroe

2010 for the Tiger
2010 for the Tiger begins on a high note with much momentum building in their professional arena. Those in independent business ventures attract visibility, interesting new contacts and challenging contracts. August-September is filled with signing documents, signing amounts and much perseverance to prove your mettle. Health maybe a concern especially as some of you will suffer from exertion and low energy.

Spending quality time over holidays, gardening, catching up with an old hobby and surrounding yourself with loved ones will help. The winter is filled with pleasant changes on the personal front and the single find their match travelling, romancing and could even tie the knot.

Tip for the year: Do not push things. Glow with transition and changes. Meeting a dynamic personality this year enhances happiness.

Best compatibility: Pig, Dog, Horse

The Rabbit symbolises graciousness, good manners, sound counsel, kindness and sensitivity to beauty. Their soft speech, and graceful and nimble ways embody all the desirable traits of a successful diplomat. They are reserved, artistic and possess good judgment and a sharp memory. Their thoroughness also makes them good scholars.

Though flirtations and full of fun, with the help of the mind and brain, they will shine in the fields of law, politics and government. While those under this sign are extremely lucky in business and monetary transactions, they also tend to be very moody!

Famous people: David Rockfeller, Ingrid Bergman, Joseph Stalin, Fidel Castro, Albert Einstein

2010 for the Rabbit
Slow and steady maybe the pace for the Rabbits for 2010, although you are filled with enthusiasm and bursting with new ideas at work. Those of you in the media, advertising or commercial art receive a wonderful platform early April, making the most of opportunities will also involve you to be open-minded and a good listener. The leader in you emerges by October and you make big financial gains and achieve fame. If in love, you may desire more quality time from our mate as you may not appreciate being pushed around. Overall health is good, and you enjoy high life and luxurious living.

Tip for the year: Think before you speak, you may want to rephrase your sentences for a far more dynamic impact. All the best!

Best compatibility: Tiger, Dragon, Monkey

Magnanimous, full of vitality and strength, Dragons are a veritable storehouse of energy. In China, the dragon symbolises the emperor or the male. It represents power and those born in a Dragon year are said to wear horns of destiny. The Chinese also consider the Year of the Dragon to be the best year, as people born under this sign are highly intelligent, lucky, healthy and fully of confidence. They are extroverts and have strong will power.

They are not always easy to get along with and can prove dangerous enemies. If you get on their right side, they make for supportive and helpful friends. The Chinese call the dragons the guardians of wealth and power. Certainly a prosperous sign to belong to. However, it's also a sign most prone to megalomania.

Famous people: John Lennon, St Joan of Arc, Frank Sinatra, Yehudi Menuhin, Che Guevara

2010 for the Dragon
Dragons this year are competing with none other than themselves. Taking up projects that mean more research, following your calling and being daringly different -- is your forte. Satisfied and yet yearning for response may be achieved in the summer as you network and build great contacts. Travel is far, wide and tiring, make sure to take small yet regular breaks to recharge your energy and spirit. Many of you may follow a health routine and enjoy a complete mind-body-soul connection. If single, you meet many like-minded interesting people and be in a romantic relationship by November.

Tip for the year: Try not to be too hard on yourself. Buy yourself something luxurious and expensive. You deserve it.

Best compatibility: Rabbit, Tiger, Ox

Philosophers, theologians, political wizards, wily financers -- Snakes are the deepest thinkers and the most enigmatic of the Chinese cycle. People born under this sign of wisdom are highly intelligent, wise, calm and understanding. They are endowed with an inborn wisdom of their very own right. Graceful and soft-spoken, they love books, food, music, theater and gravitate towards the finer things in life. Elegant in speech, dress and manners, they don't like indulging in useless small talk or frivolities.

They are deep thinkers, love challenges though they take their own time in taking important decisions. They can be quite generous with money but are known to be ruthless when they to want to attain an important objective. Snakes are generally good looking and have plenty of admirers.

Famous people: Indira Gandhi, Mao Tsetung, John Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln

2010 for the Snake
Snakes go up the ladder of high success quickly this year and may need to balance every other area of their life with tact and patience. Taking on more than you can handle is inevitable yet you are particular and choosy making sure you follow your heart and give your best to what you believe in.

Those of you longing and looking for a huge leap/change in your existing career will find many doors open and may face confusion around March. May/June is a good time to implement as you will now be on firmer ground. Loans/licenses will be sanctioned and growth is on its way. Marriage bells for the single are a surety this year end and may a new beginning awaits you.

Tip for the year: Enjoy every moment. You deserve all the glory, fame and success you attract.

Best compatibility: Ox, Dragon, Rabbit, Rooster

Cheerful, popular and quick-witted, the Horse has raw sex appeal rather than straight good looks. The Horse is a socialiser and loves meeting people and making new friends. The unpredictable horse will fall in love easily and out of love just as easily. People born under his sign will have a cheerful nature and revel in being the centre of attention. They have leadership qualities and will not allow for any restrictions or rules that may come in the way of their freedom.

Adventurers at heart, Horses are noted for their keen mind and ability to manage money. Self-reliant, vivacious, energetic, impetuous and even brash, they are known to be showy dressers, partial to bright colours and striking designs to the point of being gaudy on occasion. They love exercise, both mental and physical. Often called the playboy or the playgirl of the cycle, they are just as skillful in business and love.

Famous people: FD Roosevelt, Barbara Streisand, Rembrandt, Chris Evert, Amitabh Bachchan

2010 for the Horse
Horses in 2010 will be able to achieve success in whatever they set out to do this year, making major breakthroughs in March-April in their chosen field. Thus fame, recognition knock on their door. Hectic schedules and erratic timings may rob them of precious moments with their family and romance pretty much stays in the background till after summer. A chance meeting for single Horses with someone interesting from overseas in October-November may set the ball rolling for romance and matrimony.

Their instinctive and charming abilities will assist in resolving old conflicts and legalities in their favour. Health may need to be looked into especially towards the end of the year for those suffering from lower back aches who may need regular rest and relaxation. Yoga, meditation and nature will be rejuvenating to mind, body and spirit.

Tip for the year: Flow with the rhythm and the results will follow.

Best compatibility: Tiger, Goat, Dog

This is the most feminine sign of the Chinese zodiac. Called the Good Samaritan of the cycle, Sheep are righteous, sincere and easily taken in by sob stories. They are artistic, fashionable, creative and appreciative of the finer things of life. Known for their gentle and compassionate ways, they can easily forgive and understand others faults. They dislike strict schedules and cannot take too much discipline or criticism. They are lucky in financial matters and rarely short of funds. They love to live in a relaxed and pressure-free environment.

Famous people: Barbara Walters, Muhammad Ali, Billie Jean King, King George IV, The Shah of Iran

2010 for the Sheep
Hard work will begin to pay off for the Sheep this year. Though delays and obstacles over finances in a business partnership may cause irritation and anxiety, open communication and dialogue in February will have beneficial results. Love life will be exciting and full of pleasant surprises and a vacation with your sweetheart in May-June will strengthen bonds. Though monetary gains will be high, expenses on luxuries and renovation may pinch your pocket in the winter.

The year ends on an optimistic note, as health remains steadfast throughout as you maintain a positive attitude. Infuse your love life with freedom, space, independence and loads of gifts and gestures that will make for exciting times. Avoid speculation and gamble in October-November and be extra cautious as minor accidents/injuries can be avoided in December.

Tip for the year: Allow opportunities to knock on your door by staying calm

Best compatibility: Tiger, Horse, Monkey, Dragon

The Monkey is the sign of the inventor, the improviser and the motivator in the Chinese zodiac. They are clever, flexible and innovative. They can master anything under the sun and they usually have an aptitude for being good linguists.

No challenge is too great for them and the Monkey will be successful at whatever he chooses to do. They like to help and advise people. They can make for successful businessmen, politician and business figures. They are a bit lazy in nature and sometimes neglect major issues of life. On the negative side, they have an inborn superiority complex!

Famous people: Walter Matthau, Edward Kennedy, Mick Jagger, Duchess of Windsor, Nelson Rockfeller

2010 for the Monkey
This year is a fortune year for the Monkey who will literally reap what they sow. They will have to be careful of their thoughts, and be wary of any kind of manipulation or underhand deals that can backfire and cause many an embarrassing moment between March-May. Expansion in business and interests in a new industry will be best developed after June, though discipline will be the keyfactor to success.

Youngsters are likely to indulge in flirtations and this may cause heartbreak and despair in the latter half of the year. Spending time with family and forgiving others will bring respite and slow and steady luck in all affairs. Health will remain satisfactory. Avoid overindulgence in alcohol and addictive substances.

Tip for the year: Meditate to keep your thoughts in order.

Best compatibility: Rat, Ox, Sheep, Snake

Roosters are hardworking, resourceful and have a colourful personality. They are extremely careful about all the minute details of any task they undertake. Roosters, especially men born under this sign will be attractive, dashing and handsome. Known to be sharp, neat, precise, organised, decisive, upright, alert and the most direct, they can also be critical to the point of being brutal. They love to argue and debate showing how knowledgeable and smart they are, sometimes with little regard for the feeling of others.

Witty and amusing, the Rooster will never pass up an opportunity to recount their adventures and enumerate their accomplishments. They are very good organisers, although sometimes they display overconfidence which may damage their reputation, although they are extremely keen on helping others who are less fortunate.

Famous people: Prince Phillip, Elton John, Pope Paul VI

2010 for the Rooster
A year full of changes greets the Rooster, so more flexibility on their part will make many a transition peaceful. Controlling their outbursts of anger will be essential in March-April or they could lose prestigious contracts and projects. Lack of motivation and swinging moods may hinder progress and cause idle gossip. Trusted friends and well-wishers will help bounce them back into action.

Those in the field of sound and electronics will start interesting concepts and work on new ideas, doing exceptionally well. Those in the media and entertainment will be in the limelight in August-September and will add to their popularity. A shift in residence/a new lifestyle will be in the offing, welcome it with a warm embrace. Taking care of your mental well-being will be essential.

Tip for the year: Don't let anything distract you from the end goal and you will create magic!

Best compatibility: Tiger, Horse, Monkey, Dragon

Dogs are faithful, honest and courageous friends and have very firm views. The most likeable sign of the Chinese Cycle, people born under this sign are intelligent and straightforward. Driven by a deep sense of loyalty and a passion for justice and fair play, they make for great friends.

If you have a forthright dog for a friend, you must know that when you are in trouble, all you have to do is dial D-O-G. For no matter how much they complain or feign indifference, they cannot ignore a real call for help. But, if badly treated by someone, they rarely forget. They are extremely steadfast in accomplishing their goals.

Famous people: Charles Bronson, Pierre Cardin, Sir Winston Churchill, Elvis Presley

2010 for the Dog
This year for the Dog is one of restlessness and impatience, as you face many difficulties in the personal front with people misunderstanding you or taking you for granted especially in the first three months of the year. Short-term investments and get-rich-quick schemes should be avoided in the first half of the year and it is advisable for those running an independent business to take note of everything around them with a keen personal interest and perception.

Money flow is good in bits and spurts, though this won't stop you from extravagant spending on a foreign holiday in August- September. Give yourself a break and don't overdo it in any arena and make room to receive and give at all times.

Tip for the year: Spend some quality time honing your professional skills by taking an extra course of study or research on your own.

Best compatibility: Rabbit, Snake, Dog, Rat

Pigs are born under the sign and grace of honesty. They are cultured, kind, caring and have an understanding, peaceful nature. Gallant, sturdy and courageous, people born under this sign will apply themselves to an allotted task with all their strength and you can rely on them to see it through.

Outwardly they may appear rough-hewn and jovial, but scratch the surface and you will find pure gold. The Pig is bound to be one of the most natural people you could come across. They never hit you below the belt. No doubt, they will have fights and differences with others, but they will not carry grudges unless given no choice. They could be lazy, but in a wondrous way, a true friend to have by your side.

Famous people: Ronald Reagan, Julie Andrews, Woody Allen, Alfred Hitchcock

2010 for the Pig
The coming year will bring success in business, politics and sports. An increase in influence and widening of social horizons is also indicated. Though for the employed, promotions can run into rough weather, all will be sorted by April. A lot of social activities in September-October are indicated. Business tours will be successful in this period. Journalists, writers and teachers will get ample opportunity to display their talents.

Old ailments may crop up for some of you and urgent attention may be needed in July-August. Though it's a temporary phase, do not take anything for granted. The year will end with many a happy event and marriages in the family bringing in much pomp and joy.

Tip for the year: Take a break with friends and family on a regular basis to rejuvenate yourself

Best compatibility: Sheep, Tiger, Dog

The charms of the Rat is as universally known and as loved as the Walt Disney character Mickey Mouse. Remarkably easy to get along with the hardworking and thrifty Rat will be generous only to those they are inordinately fond of. So if you get an expensive gift from them, you should certainly rate yourself high in their esteem.

On the surface, a Rat may appear reserved, but this is not so. They are never as quiet as they look and make friends easily. They are charming, bright, happy and sociable, and really cherish their friends, associates and family relations.

Famous people: Pope John Paul, William Shakespeare, Yves St Laurent, Prince Charles, Karim Aga Khan

2010 for the Rat
The coming year for the Rat will be one of ups and downs in their professional life and monetary losses are indicated till March. However, any manipulation will not have desired results and you may have to put in more funds to complete current projects. For literary and artistic pursuits, the summer will be fruitful and a rise in income is indicated adding to self-esteem and confidence. Students will perform well, though they may not get the desired response in their chosen field and will opt for something equally challenging and exciting.

Choices in your personal life will have to be thought over and honesty in love will be paramount or a parting of ways is not ruled out. Those who are ill will recuperate but may need to avoid arguments and stress for a better and healthier outlook in life.

Tip for the year: Spend time on books, music and arts and enjoy the lighter side of life.

Best compatibility: Monkey, Dragon, Ox

The Ox or the buffalo sign symbolises prosperity through fortitude and hard work. People born under this year will be dependable, calm and methodical. Patient and tireless workers, they like routine and convention. Beneath their modest but neat appearance, the Ox usually shields a resolute and logical mind. They walk with their head held high.

People born under this sign are systematic. You can rely on their promises. Once they give their word, they will stick with it. The Ox likes to take their time in the matters of the heart. They are slow to warm up and reveal their true feelings. If you marry an Ox and place your trust in them, you will never be disappointed.

They generally excel in politics, farming and agriculture though their rigid and stubborn nature may lead to conflicts with others time and again.

Famous people: Jawaharlal Nehru, Walt Disney, Richard Nixon, Margaret Thatcher, Adolf Hitler

2010 for the Ox
This year begins with social and financial gains and new business partnerships will be successful. A legacy in January-February may bring in wealth for some. Those on the look out for a job will get good offers after June and students are likely to go abroad for higher studies in September.

A selective new romance is on the cards and adds intensity to your personal life. However avoid making promises you know you can't keep and avoid heartbreak and disappointments. Stomach disorders due to irregular food habits and stress are likely at the end of the year and you urged to love yourself in totality. Speculation will bring benefits, investing money wisely will be the key to financial stability

Tip for the year: Make plans, get organised and forge ahead with confidence.

Best compatibility: Rat, Rabbit, Rooster