Kharmas, also known as the inauspicious month, is a significant period in Hindu astrology during which no auspicious ceremonies or new ventures should be initiated. It occurs twice a year when the Sun transits through Jupiter-ruled signs—Sagittarius and Pisces. In 2025, Kharmas will begin on March 14 and end on April 14. Let’s delve into its significance, impact, and what should be avoided during this period.
When is Kharmas in 2025?
According to Hindu Panchang, Kharmas will begin on March 14, 2025, at 6:59 PM when the Sun transits into Pisces (Meena Rashi). This marks the start of Meena Sankranti, a critical astrological event that signifies the beginning of an inauspicious period for Hindu rituals and new endeavors.
The Kharmas period will conclude on April 14, 2025, when the Sun enters Aries (Mesha Rashi) at 3:30 AM, marking the onset of Mesha Sankranti and the beginning of a new Hindu month, Vaishakha.
What is the Significance of Kharmas?
In Hinduism, the Sun (Surya Dev) is considered the king of all planets and holds immense astrological importance. When the Sun enters Sagittarius (Dhanu) or Pisces (Meena)—both ruled by Jupiter (Brihaspati)—it is believed to lose some of its strength. This weak solar influence makes it an inauspicious time for new beginnings.
Kharmas is observed with great seriousness, especially in North India, Bihar, Jharkhand, and Uttar Pradesh, where devotees avoid all major ceremonies during this period.
Key Hindu Festivals During Kharmas 2025
Despite being considered inauspicious for specific rituals, some religious observances and fasting days hold spiritual importance during Kharmas. These include:
- Falgun Purnima (March 14, 2025): The last full moon of the Hindu lunar year, observed with ritualistic baths, charity (daan), and worship.
- Holi (March 14, 2025): The festival of colors, celebrated with great enthusiasm across India.
- Papmochani Ekadashi (March 26, 2025): Observing a fast on this day is believed to absolve sins.
- Amavasya (April 8, 2025): A significant day for Pitru Tarpan (ancestral offerings).
What Should You Avoid During Kharmas?
During Kharmas, starting new ventures and performing auspicious ceremonies is strictly prohibited. Here are some things to avoid:
- Marriage and Engagements: Hindu weddings are not conducted during Kharmas as this period is considered inauspicious for uniting two individuals in a sacred bond.
- Griha Pravesh (Housewarming): Entering a new home during Kharmas is believed to bring bad luck and financial instability.
- Starting a New Business: Entrepreneurs and investors refrain from launching businesses, signing contracts, or making large financial investments.
- Buying a Vehicle or Property: Purchasing assets like cars, real estate, or gold is avoided as it may lead to unfavorable outcomes.
- Daughter’s or Bride’s Farewell (Vidaai): It is believed that sending a daughter or daughter-in-law to her marital home during Kharmas brings misfortune.
- Consumption of Tamsik Food: Avoiding non-vegetarian food, alcohol, onions, and garlic is recommended to maintain spiritual purity.
Can Any Rituals Be Performed During Kharmas?
Yes! While auspicious events are restricted, devotional activities, fasting, and charity are encouraged. Here’s what can be done:
- Daily Worship and Meditation: Chanting mantras, reading sacred texts like the Bhagavad Gita or Ramayana, and practicing meditation are highly beneficial.
- Bathing in Holy Rivers: Taking a dip in the Ganga, Yamuna, or other sacred rivers is considered highly meritorious.
- Performing Daan-Punya: Donating essentials like food, clothes, or money to the needy is believed to remove past karmic sins.
- Fasting on Ekadashi and Purnima: Observing fasts on Papmochani Ekadashi (March 26) and Falgun Purnima (March 14) brings spiritual benefits.
- Worshiping Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva: Devotees offer Tulsi leaves to Lord Vishnu and Bilva leaves to Lord Shiva to seek divine blessings.
When Will Kharmas End in 2025?
Kharmas will conclude on April 14, 2025, when the Sun enters Aries (Mesha Rashi), marking the beginning of Mesha Sankranti. This transition signifies the return of favorable planetary energies, making it a highly auspicious time to resume postponed ceremonies and ventures.
From April 14 onward, weddings, housewarmings, business inaugurations, and all other auspicious events can be conducted without any restrictions.
Kharmas is an essential period in Hindu tradition, believed to be inauspicious for new beginnings but spiritually beneficial for self-reflection, devotion, and charity. Understanding its impact helps in planning important life events wisely. By following the dos and don’ts of Kharmas, one can ensure peace, prosperity, and divine blessings in life.
If you’re planning an auspicious event, wait until April 14, 2025, when the positive energy of Mesha Sankranti restores favorable conditions.
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