Choghadiya and Rahu Kaal are two popular time-keeping systems used in Hindu astrology. While both are used to determine auspicious and inauspicious times for various activities, they differ in their methods and significance. In this article, we will explore the differences between Choghadiya and Rahu Kaal and how they are used in astrology.

What is Choghadiya?

Choghadiya is a time-keeping system that divides the day into eight parts, each of which is ruled by a particular planet. The eight parts are calculated based on the time of sunrise and sunset and are known as Shubh, Labh, Amrit, Kaal, Shubh Rahu, Udwega, Chal, and Rog. Each part has a duration of approximately one and a half hours and is considered either auspicious or inauspicious for different activities.

What is Rahu Kaal?

Rahu Kaal is a time period in each day that is considered inauspicious for any important activity. It is calculated by dividing the time between sunrise and sunset into eight equal parts and identifying the period that is ruled by the planet Rahu. The duration of Rahu Kaal varies depending on the location and time of year, but it typically lasts for around 90 minutes.

Differences between Choghadiya and Rahu Kaal

While both Choghadiya and Rahu Kaal are used to determine auspicious and inauspicious times, there are several differences between them.

Method of calculation

Choghadiya is calculated based on the time of sunrise and sunset and the ruling planet for each part. In contrast, Rahu Kaal is calculated based on the time between sunrise and sunset and the position of Rahu during that period.

Duration

Choghadiya divides the day into eight parts of approximately one and a half hours each, while Rahu Kaal is a fixed period of around 90 minutes.

Significance

Choghadiya is used to determine the most auspicious time for specific activities, while Rahu Kaal is used to identify inauspicious times and avoid them.

Planetary rulers

Choghadiya is ruled by different planets during each part of the day, while Rahu Kaal is always ruled by the planet Rahu.

How Choghadiya and Rahu Kaal are used in astrology?

Choghadiya and Rahu Kaal are both important in Astrology and are used to determine the most auspicious and inauspicious times for various activities. Here's how they are used in practice:

Choghadiya

Choghadiya is used to determine the best time for specific activities such as starting a new business, getting married, or performing a religious ceremony. Each part of the day is ruled by a particular planet, and it is believed that performing an activity during the ruling planet's time can enhance its positive effects.

For example, the Shubh Choghadiya is considered the most auspicious time for starting a new venture or signing an important contract, while the Amrit Choghadiya is ideal for religious activities such as visiting a temple or performing a puja.

Rahu Kaal

Rahu Kaal is considered an inauspicious time and is typically avoided for any important activity. It is believed that starting a new project or undertaking an important task during Rahu Kaal can result in failure or negative outcomes.

Therefore, people typically avoid scheduling meetings, signing contracts, or starting new ventures during Rahu Kaal. Instead, they choose a more auspicious time during one of the Choghadiya periods.