Kharmas : What is the importance of Kharmas
During this period, the Sun changes its position. When it travels from Scorpio to Sagittarius, the day is celebrated as Dhanu Sankranti. People should also perform religious activities during this month, like taking a bath in the holy river, visiting temples, and offering water to Lord Surya. Kharmas is considered to be the inauspicious time when no auspicious things can be done. Organizing marriages, engagements, starting new business, and mundan. All the auspicious activities will be stopped during this period of one month.
Kharmas Significance:
Kharmas is an important time for Hindus and continues for a month. During this period, the Sun changes its position. When it travels from Scorpio to Sagittarius, the day is celebrated as Dhanu Sankranti. People should also perform religious activities during this month, like taking a bath in the holy river, visiting temples, and offering water to Lord Surya. Hindus should also pray to Lord Shiva, light a diya in front of him, recite mantras, read holy books like Gita and Ramayana, donate food and clothes to the needy, and serve brahmins, saints and cows. The Kharmas month is also considered auspicious for performing pilgrimage.
Meanwhile, according to Panchang, Kharmas is not innately inauspicious. The caution against this period and commencing new ventures or engaging in auspicious activities stems from the belief that the Sun is weakened during its transition into Sagittarius.
The Mythological Story
Hindu mythology states that the Lord Surya (Sun God), rides a chariot pulled by seven horses across the cosmos. He is never permitted to stop because it is thought that all life on Earth will cease to exist if he does. But because of their constant travel, the horses grow weary and thirsty. Surya’s heart softens when he sees how they are, and he takes them to a pond to rest.
He ties his chariot to two donkeys and resumes his journey after realizing the repercussions of stopping. The chariot moves more slowly as a result of the donkeys’ slow pace. In this manner, Surya finishes his one-month cycle, and the horses are free to relax. This pattern repeats every year, and this period is called Kharmas or Malmas, when charity and selfless service are at their peak, bringing divine blessings.
Astrological Basis:
- Sun's Movement: Kharmas occurs when the Sun transits from Sagittarius (Dhanu) to Capricorn (Makara) zodiac signs. During this period, the Sun is believed to be weaker in its influence.
- Varying Duration: The length of Kharmas can vary between one to two months, depending on the solar calendar adjustments.
Religious Significance:
- Reduced Divine Influence: Kharmas is associated with a decrease in the influence of auspicious deities.
- Focus on Rituals and Self-Improvement: The emphasis shifts towards introspection, spiritual practices, and performing charity or acts of devotion.
Customs and Practices:
- Restrictions on Rituals: Many Hindus avoid performing auspicious rituals like weddings, engagements, housewarmings, and starting new ventures during Kharmas.
- Emphasis on Routine Activities: Routine daily rituals, offering prayers, and studying scriptures are encouraged during this time.
Modern Interpretation:
- Practical Reasons: Some view the restrictions as a practical way for farmers to take a break from agricultural activities during the winter months.
- Symbolic Message: Kharmas can be seen as a reminder to take a pause, reflect, and prepare for the upcoming auspicious period.
Importance and Variations:
- Regional Variations: Observance of Kharmas and its associated customs can vary across different regions and communities within Hinduism.
- Personal Choice: Ultimately, following these practices is a matter of personal belief and adherence to traditions.
Things to avoid in Kharmas
- It is also advised to avoid purchasing new property or vehicle during this period
- People should not consume non-vegetarian food and alcohol during this month. However, worshipping the Sun during this whole month is highly rewarding.
- People must offer water to Lord Surya and chant - ‘Om Ghrani Suryaye Namah’
- Taking a holy bath in holy rivers has great importance during this month.
As per the Panchang, Kharmas is not inherently considered inauspicious. The advice to exercise caution during this period and refrain from initiating new endeavors or participating in auspicious activities is rooted in the belief that the Sun undergoes a period of debilitation during its transition into Sagittarius.
Conclusion:
Kharmas holds significance in Hinduism as a period of reduced auspiciousness. While some interpret it as a time for religious observances and introspection, others view it as a practical break or a symbol of preparation for a new cycle. The importance of Kharmas is a matter of personal belief and cultural context.
