Mumbai: Kharmas is a special period in Hindu tradition, lasting for about a month when Surya Dev (the Sun God) transits through the Sagittarius (Dhanu) and Pisces (Meen) zodiac signs. During this time, many auspicious activities such as weddings, engagements, housewarming ceremonies, and even mundane rites like mundan (head-shaving ceremonies) are avoided. It is also considered inauspicious to start new ventures or buy or sell property during Kharmas.
According to the Hindu calendar, Kharmas begins when the Sun enters Sagittarius (Dhanu) or Pisces (Meen). This period occurs twice a year and lasts for approximately 30 days. In 2024, the second Kharmas will start on December 15, 2024, at 10:19 PM as the Sun transitions into Sagittarius, also known as Dhanu Sankranti. The Kharmas will conclude on Makar Sankranti 2025, when the Sun enters Capricorn (Makar).
Rituals for Worshiping Surya Dev During Kharmas
Worshipping Surya Dev during Kharmas is considered highly auspicious and helps to reduce negative influences. Here’s how you can perform Surya Dev puja:
Steps for Puja
Description
Morning Rituals
Wake up early, preferably before sunrise, and take a bath.
Prepare the Altar
Place a red cloth on a clean platform and install an idol or picture of Surya Dev.
Decorate the Puja Area
Clean the space thoroughly and decorate it with flowers, lamps, and incense.
Offerings to Surya Dev
Offer water, flowers, incense sticks, and light a diya (lamp).
Chanting Mantras
Recite the Aditya Hriday Stotra while praying.
Charity and Donations
After the puja, donate to the needy as it holds special significance during Kharmas.
Offerings for Surya Dev
During Kharmas, offering specific items to Surya Dev can bring peace, prosperity, and health.
Item
Significance
Red Flowers
Red roses or marigolds are dear to Surya Dev and symbolize energy and vitality.
Jaggery (Gur)
Offering jaggery promotes good health and helps ward off illnesses.
Copper Vessel
Pouring water from a copper vessel to the Sun is considered highly auspicious.
Wheat
Offering wheat ensures peace and harmony in the household and gradually resolves problems.
Red Sandalwood
Applying or offering red sandalwood calms the mind and removes obstacles.
Performing these rituals with devotion during Kharmas is believed to mitigate inauspicious effects and invoke blessings from Surya Dev.
Important Guidelines for Kharmas
While Kharmas places restrictions on certain activities, it encourages focusing on spiritual practices.
Do’s
Don’ts
Regularly worship Surya Dev with devotion.
Avoid major life events like weddings.
Engage in meditation, prayers, and chanting.
Don’t start new projects or ventures.
Practice self-control and avoid anger or greed.
Avoid buying or selling property.
Donate to the poor and help the needy.
Do not ignore religious observances.
Kharmas is not just a period of abstaining from certain activities but also an opportunity to focus on spiritual growth, self-discipline, and service to others. Performing Surya Dev puja during this time helps bring balance, calmness, and positive energy into one’s life. Adhering to the guidelines of Kharmas with faith can lead to blessings and overall well-being.
Kharmas 2024 begins on 15th December. Learn about the essential offerings to make to Surya Dev, such as red flowers, jaggery, and copper vessels, to eliminate obstacles and invite peace and prosperity into your life. Spirituality Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
