In "An Astrologer's Day," the astrologer was lucky that Guru did not recognize him. The astrologer could have been in danger if Guru had happened by in the day time. Fortunately for the astrologer, it was dark and most of the vendors had put out their lights.

Truly, it was fortunate that Guru Nayak was smoking. When the match lit up Guru's face, the astrologer was lucky enough to see Guru's face. This was indeed a lucky break for the astrologer. The astrologer recognized Guru. He could determine who Guru was. In this way, the astrologer could share much needed information to convince Guru that he was indeed a true astrologer:

The astrologer then catches a glimpse of Nayak's face (previously shrouded in darkness) in the light of the match Nayak has struck under his cheroot, and, though at first chilled by the sight, decides to play out Nayak's game:

It was lucky for the astrologer that Guru did not recognize his face or voice. Guru could have recognized the astrologer if all the occurrences had happened in the bright light of day. Normally, the astrologer began his wok at midday:

He begins his work every day at midday in a public place under a large tree that is close to a public park in his town. The place chosen for his work is generally full of people who pass by or gather there, such as customers attracted by vendors of nuts, sweetmeats, and other snacks.

Also, the astrologer was lucky that Guru did not begin to ask more questions when the astrologer began to share with Guru the incident that left him in the well for dead. Guru could have become suspicious that the astrologer could know such details of the unfortunate incident. Luckily, Guru did not suspect the astrologer as being the one who left him in the well for dead.

Because it was dark and a poorly lighted area, the astrologer luckily was not recognized:

It is a place poorly lighted in the evening, and because the astrologer has no light of his own, he must depend on what light comes from the flickering lamps kept by neighboring vendors; a dully lighted, murky place is best for his purpose.

The astrologer was fortunate to escape with his life. Under any other circumstances, the astrologer could have been recognized and killed by Guru.