Kharmas begins for a period of one month when the Sun enters Sagittarius (Dhanu Rashi). In 2025, Kharmas will start on December 16. The word “Khar” means donkey, and according to belief, during this period the Sun God’s chariot is said to be drawn by donkeys instead of horses, symbolising a slowdown in the Sun’s movement. Due to this, certain activities are restricted during Kharmas. It is important to know what should and should not be done during this period.
What Not to Do During Kharmas
Kharmas is also known as Malmas, and during this period, auspicious and ceremonial activities are avoided. The following rituals and events should not be performed:
Naming ceremonies (Naamkaran)
Beginning of education (Vidya Aarambh)
Ear piercing (Karn Chhedan)
First feeding ceremony (Annaprashan)
Sacred thread ceremony (Upanayan)
Marriage ceremonies
Housewarming (Griha Pravesh)
Vastu Puja and other major auspicious rituals
What to Do During Kharmas
Although major ceremonies are avoided, Kharmas is considered ideal for spiritual practices, devotion, and charity. Recommended activities include:
Worship your personal deity (Ishta Dev) regularly
Offer Arghya (water) to Lord Surya every morning
Donate sesame seeds, clothes, and grains
Feed fodder to cows
Take holy baths in sacred rivers such as the Ganga or Yamuna
Observe fasting for Guru (Jupiter) and perform related remedies
On Thursdays, donate yellow items at temples
Special Rituals on Dhanu Sankranti
On the day of Dhanu Sankranti, devotees recite the Satyanarayan Katha. This is followed by the aarti of Goddess Lakshmi, Lord Shiva, and Lord Brahma, and Charanamrit is offered as prasad.
