Rahu Kala Puja

About This Ceremony

Rahu Kala is a 90-minute period each day that is ruled by the shadow planet Rahu. It is traditionally considered inauspicious for starting new ventures or important activities. However, in the Tantric and Shakta traditions, this very period is considered extraordinarily powerful for worshipping guardian deities, Rahu Bhagavan, and fierce forms of the goddess. At Sri Aadhi Varahi Temple, the Rahu Kala period is used for special worship of Sri Aadhi Varahi Amman (who is a Tantric deity par excellence), Sri Rahu Bhagavan, and Sri Maha Rudra Bhairavar. The practice of worshipping during Rahu Kala is believed to convert the malefic energy of Rahu into protective grace. Devotees facing Rahu Dosha, Naga Dosha, or undergoing Rahu Dasha are especially encouraged to attend the Rahu Kala Puja. Lemon garlands, blue cloth offerings, and specific mantras are used to propitiate Rahu and seek his transformation from an obstacle into a protector.