Rahu, according to Vedic astrology, is an inauspicious planet. It’s believed that undertaking important tasks during Rahu Kaal, the time each day under Rahu’s influence, can lead to unfavorable outcomes. Activities like Puja, Hawan, or Yagya performed during this period are thought to be hindered by Rahu’s malefic nature, potentially preventing desired results. Therefore, consulting the Rahu Kaal timings before commencing any new endeavor is crucial for increasing the likelihood of success.
Conversely, tasks associated with Rahu itself are believed to yield positive results during Rahu Kaal. This includes rituals specifically aimed at propitiating Rahu.
Rahu Kaal is particularly significant in South India, where it heavily influences the scheduling of auspicious events. Activities such as marriage ceremonies, engagements, Graha Pravesh (housewarming), purchasing valuable assets (stocks, gold, property, vehicles), and launching new businesses or ventures are generally avoided during this period. It’s important to note that Rahu Kaal primarily applies to the commencement of new activities; ongoing projects can continue without interruption.
Rahu Kaal, also spelled Rahu Kala, Rahu Kal, Rahu Kalam, and Rahu Kalaam, is a daily period lasting approximately one and a half hours. It constitutes one of the eight segments into which the daytime, between sunrise and sunset, is divided. These segments are calculated by dividing the total time between sunrise and sunset by eight.
The precise timings and duration of Rahu Kaal fluctuate daily and geographically due to variations in sunrise and sunset times. Consequently, it’s essential to determine the specific Rahu Kaal for each location and day.
The first of the eight daytime segments following sunrise is always considered auspicious and free from Rahu’s negative influence. The specific segment in which Rahu Kaal falls depends on the day of the week: Monday (2nd period), Saturday (3rd), Friday (4th), Wednesday (5th), Thursday (6th), Tuesday (7th), and Sunday (8th).
While less prevalent, some also observe Rahu Kaal during the night. This nighttime Rahu Kaal is calculated by dividing the time between sunset and the following sunrise by eight. Certain beliefs hold that Rahu Kaal on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays carries more potent negative effects compared to other weekdays.
