Kharmas 2026 begins on Wednesday, 16 December 2026, when the Sun moves into Dhanu (Sagittarius). The period lasts about a month and ends with Makar Sankranti in January 2027. In many North Indian families, it is a time to pause weddings and other big ceremonies.
If you are planning a wedding, a griha pravesh or a mundan, these dates matter. All timings below are for New Delhi.
Kharmas 2026 start and end dates
- Dhanu Sankranti (start): 16 December 2026, Sankranti moment at 10:29 AM
- Punya Kaal: 10:29 AM to 4:00 PM
- Maha Punya Kaal: 10:29 AM to 12:13 PM
- Makar Sankranti (end): the Sun enters Makara at about 9:14 PM on 14 January 2027, so the festival is observed on Friday, 15 January 2027
The December timings are from Drik Panchang. The Makar Sankranti timing is cited by Hindutone from Drik Panchang. Some holiday lists still show 14 January, so check with your family priest before fixing a date.
What people usually avoid
The belief is that the Sun’s stay in Dhanu, a sign ruled by Jupiter, is not suited to starting new worldly ventures. Families that follow this custom generally put off:
- Weddings and engagements
- Griha pravesh (housewarming) and starting a new house
- Mundan and janeu (sacred thread) ceremonies
- Some also delay a new shop, vehicle or big purchase
This is a regional and family custom, not a rule for every Hindu. Many communities do not follow it at all.
What is encouraged
Kharmas is seen as a good time for prayer rather than celebration. Daily puja, havan, japa, reading scriptures and giving to charity are all considered fitting. Surya worship with an offering of water at sunrise is common.
In South India, the same solar month is Dhanurmasam, or Margazhi in Tamil Nadu. Early-morning temple worship and the recital of Andal’s Tiruppavai are central there, so the mood is devotional rather than restrictive.
Where the name comes from
A popular folk story explains the name. The Sun’s horses, tired from endless travel, are said to rest while donkeys (“khar”) pull the chariot, slowing the Sun’s pace. It is a story, not an astronomical fact, but it is why the month carries this name in North India.
If your auspicious date falls close to 16 December, speak to your pandit soon. Muhurat slots in the days just before Kharmas tend to book up fast.
Information based on Drik Panchang, Bhakti Bharat and Hindutone.
Featured image: Ilya Mauter, via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 3.0)
