A day in the Vedic calendar isn’t a smooth, even flow of time — it’s an alternation of strong and weak hours. Rahu Kalam and Abhijit Muhurta are the two most notable of these periods, and together they sketch the shape of the day: where it’s worth holding back, and where it’s worth acting boldly.

Abhijit translates as “unconquered,” and the name speaks for itself: things started during this muhurta are believed to gain a special power to see themselves through to completion. One curious detail: despite its general auspiciousness, Abhijit is traditionally not used for wedding ceremonies — different, more specific calculations apply there.

Rahu Kalam, in turn, is named after the shadow planet Rahu, which in the Vedic tradition is associated with illusion and distorted outcomes. That’s exactly why, during these hours, it’s customary to stick with what’s already underway and save new undertakings for another time.

The calculation above for your city and date takes into account the exact sunrise and sunset times — so the numbers will be more precise than any averaged table. Check the calendar before setting up an important meeting or deal, and the timing itself will point you toward the right part of the day.