If you have ever planned a car purchase, a journey or a new venture with an elder in the family, you have probably heard, “Wait — it’s Rahu Kalam.” Here is what that means.
What is Rahu Kalam?
Rahu Kalam (Rahu Kaal) is a period of about one and a half hours every day that is traditionally considered unfavourable for starting anything new. It is linked to Rahu, the shadow planet of Vedic astrology.
How is it calculated?
The daytime — from local sunrise to sunset — is divided into eight equal parts. Rahu Kalam is one of these parts, fixed for each weekday:
- Monday: 2nd part · Tuesday: 7th · Wednesday: 5th · Thursday: 6th
- Friday: 4th · Saturday: 3rd · Sunday: 8th
Because sunrise and sunset change with the season and your city, Rahu Kalam changes too — it is not a fixed clock time. That is why our Rahu Kalam calculator asks for your city.
What do people avoid in Rahu Kalam?
- Starting a new business, job or project
- Buying a vehicle, property or gold
- Beginning a journey, signing agreements or ceremonies like engagements
What is fine to do?
Work already in progress continues as normal. Daily routines, office work and household tasks are unaffected. Many people use Rahu Kalam for prayers to Goddess Durga or for Rahu shanti — it is considered a good time for that.
Yamagandam and Gulika Kalam
South Indian panchangams also mark Yamagandam and Gulika Kalam, each another eighth of the day. Together with Rahu Kalam they are checked when choosing a time for important beginnings.
For the positive side of the day, see Abhijit Muhurat and the Choghadiya.