Astrologers in Sri Lanka face a nervous time ahead of tomorrow's presidential polls, with worries of repercussions for failed predictions of victory for incumbent Sri Lankan President Mahinda Rajapaksa.

Speaking to the New York Times Sumanadasa Abeygunawardena told of the hazardous task he has as Rajapaksa's “royal astrologer”. Rajapaksa is known to be a strong believer in astrology, frequently seeking the advice of astrologers on a range of issues (see here and here). He recently announced that the Sri Lankan Treasury would provide modern computer technology to a group of astrologers, in order to assist with their predictions.

Describing it as “very dangerous work, very risky work”, Abeygunawardena said “even if there is a slight defect, it can result in something bad.” “The whole thing goes wrong” if an astrologer makes an error he said, adding “sometimes their houses are demolished”.

Abeygunawardena was hospitalised just days ago following reports that he had suffered from a heart attack.

Sri Lanka's astrologers have largely predicted a decisive victory for Rajapaksa. Last month, state run television hosted six astronomers, who all predicted Rajapaksa would "secure a fabulous victory" and "nature" would "completely work against" any challengers.

Abeygunawardena added that it was a “very bad time” for opposition candidate Maithripala Sirisena and that “his house is clearly spoiled irreparably”. “If [Rajapapksa} gives someone else the position, or steps down, or retires, that’s the only way” Sirisena could win, he added.

Despite their public positions though, privately, there are reports the astrologers may not be so confident. Al Jazeera reported that before a group of astrologers met the incumbent president, one made a phone call to a friend. “So what do you think will happen? Will we have to go home?” he had asked.

As Abeygunawardena concluded his interview with the New York Times, he had "one request" for the journalists.

“Don’t put in any words that are against the Rajapaksas,” he said.

In 2009, an astrologer named Chandrasiri Bandara was jailed for 9 days and had a string of death threats, after he predicted Rajapaksa would be kicked out of office. This year Bandara has declined to comment on the presidential elections.

“If I saw which one is better,” he said, “I’ll have to go again in a white van.”