Navratri 2024: These 4 Things to Avoid During Kharmas-Shadowed Chaitra Navratri 2024

The Hindu New Year begins with the Chaitra month. Its commencement coincides with the festival of Navaratri. As Navaratri begins, all auspicious activities such as mundan (head shaving ceremony), weddings, and other ceremonies are initiated. However, this year during Navaratri, no auspicious activities will take place for the first 5 days due to a specific astrological phenomenon.

Navaratri is set to commence on 9th April and will continue until 17th April, but this year, from 9th April to 13th April, there will be a period known as "kharmas," during which no auspicious activities will occur. After 13th April, when the direction of the sun changes, and the influence of kharmas diminishes, all auspicious activities will resume. Due to the occurrence of kharmas during this Chaitra Navaratri, several considerations need to be kept in mind.

Significance of Goddess Durga's Vehicle

During Navaratri, the arrival and departure of the Goddess are significant events, with the mode of transportation holding great importance. This year's Navaratri coincides with the onset of kharmas. Therefore, on the second Tuesday, which marks the first day of Navaratri, the Goddess will arrive on a horse, indicating a possible natural calamity.

Avoid Commencement of Auspicious Activities

During the period of kharmas, all kinds of auspicious activities are avoided. Despite the auspicious occasion of Navaratri, several auspicious activities will not be performed due to the ongoing kharmas. Even if auspicious ceremonies are conducted during kharmas, they may not yield favorable results. According to religious beliefs, initiating auspicious activities during kharmas may lead to adverse consequences.

Avoid Engaging in Marriage-related Activities

During kharmas, all marriage-related activities are prohibited. As some days of Navaratri coincide with kharmas this year, it is advised not to engage in marriage, mundan, or yajna (ritualistic ceremonies) during this time. However, one can still engage in acts of charity and visit temples.

Avoid Purchasing New Property or Moving into a New House

It is advisable not to purchase any new property during kharmas. Even though you may consider buying property during Navaratri, it is recommended to postpone such decisions until after the 13th of April when the influence of kharmas subsides.