Panchang & Muhurat5 min read · Updated 2026-06
Rahu Kaal is the daily period traditionally avoided for new beginnings. Learn how it is calculated and which other periods to watch.
Rahu Kaal is a roughly 90-minute period each day, ruled by the shadowy node Rahu, which is traditionally considered inauspicious for starting important new ventures. Many people avoid beginning journeys, signing deals, or holding ceremonies during this window, though ongoing work is generally unaffected.
It is one of several inauspicious daily periods identified in the Panchang.
Rahu Kaal is found by dividing the daytime — from sunrise to sunset — into eight equal parts. Each weekday assigns Rahu Kaal to a particular one of these eight segments: for example, it falls in a different slot on Monday than on Tuesday. Because sunrise and sunset vary by date and location, the exact timing shifts daily and by city.
This is why a reliable Panchang calculates Rahu Kaal precisely for your place rather than using a fixed clock time.
Two related inauspicious periods are Yamaganda and Gulika Kaal, calculated by the same eightfold division but ruled by different influences. Gulika (linked to Saturn's son) and Yamaganda are likewise avoided for auspicious beginnings.
Conversely, Abhijit Muhurat — a short, generally auspicious window around solar noon — is often used when no other muhurat is available. Together these periods help time the day's activities.
It is a daily period of about 90 minutes ruled by Rahu, traditionally avoided for starting important new activities.
The day from sunrise to sunset is divided into eight equal parts, and each weekday assigns Rahu Kaal to a specific part.
Abhijit is a short auspicious window around midday, often used as a fallback when no other good muhurat is available.
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