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Devotees are advised to offer water to the Sun, and chant Vedic mantras.
During this time, no auspicious or celebratory events should be performed.
In Sanatan Dharma, the period of Kharmas holds great significance. According to the Hindu calendar, Kharmas occur twice a year, each lasting for 30 days. During these 30 days, it is believed that no auspicious activities such as weddings, engagements, housewarming ceremonies, or other sacred rituals should be performed. Instead, this period is dedicated to worshipping Lord Surya (the Sun God). Devotees are advised to offer water to the Sun, chant Vedic mantras, and engage in spiritual practices. Let us delve into the details of Kharmas, including its dates, auspicious timings, and the method of worshipping Lord Surya.
When Does Kharmas Start in 2024?
According to Ayodhya-based astrologer Pandit Kalki Ram, Kharmas will begin on Sunday, December 15, at 10:19 PM, when the Sun transits into the zodiac sign of Sagittarius (Dhanu Sankranti). The period will end on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. During this time, no auspicious or celebratory events should be performed. Instead, it is considered a sacred period for worshipping and seeking the blessings of Lord Surya, which is believed to bring manifold benefits.
Rituals and Worship During Kharmas
• Morning Routine: During Kharmas, devotees should wake up early during Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn hours) and take a holy bath.
• Offering Water to the Sun: After bathing, offer water to the rising Sun. The water should contain ingredients such as red vermilion (roli), rice (akshat), jaggery (gud), or red flowers.
• Prayers and Aarti: Bow before Lord Surya and chant Vedic mantras. Reciting the Surya Chalisa is also recommended. Light incense, lamps, and camphor, and perform the aarti of Lord Surya.
• Offerings: Offer fruits and sweets as bhog to Lord Surya, and then consume them as prasada (blessed food).
Mantras to Chant During Kharmas
Devotees are encouraged to chant the following mantras for blessings from Lord Surya:
1. General Surya Mantra:
Om Hreem Ghṛiṇiḥ Sūrya Ādityaḥ Kleem Om.
2. Aditya Mantra:
Om Ādityāya Vidmahe Divākarāya Dhīmahi Tannaḥ Sūryaḥ Prachodayāt.
3. Sahasrākiraṇa Mantra:
Om Hreem Hreem Sūryāya Sahasrakiraṇarāya Manovañchita Phalam Dehi Dehi Svāhā.
4. Invocation Mantra:
Om Aihi Sūrya Sahasrāṃśo Tejorāśe Jagatpate, Anukampaya Māṃ Bhaktyā, Gṛihāṇārghya Divākara.
By performing these rituals and chants with devotion, it is believed that devotees can attract positive energy, eliminate obstacles, and invite prosperity into their lives during the sacred Kharmas period.
