Astrool
Glossary
Karana
Half a lunar day: every tithi has two karanas, which show how well suited the moment is for starting something.
Definition
Each tithi is split into two karanas of 6° of Sun–Moon separation, giving 60 per month. There are 11 types.
| Type | Karanas | Nature |
|---|---|---|
| Movable (chara) | Bava, Balava, Kaulava, Taitila, Garaja, Vanija, Vishti | Repeat eight times a month; suitable for everyday work and beginnings |
| Fixed (sthira) | Shakuni, Chatushpada, Naga, Kimstughna | Once a month near the new Moon; weak for new ventures, suited to prayer and inner work |
Vishti (Bhadra)
Vishti, also called Bhadra, is counted the least favourable karana; new work is best not started during it. The Panchang flags it.
See it in your own chart
Astrool calculates your full birth chart, not just your sun sign, and writes your daily, weekly and monthly readings against it.
Common questions
How long is a karana?
About half a day, varying with the Moon's speed.
Why avoid Bhadra?
Tradition considers Vishti karana obstructive for beginnings; activities already underway can continue.