Bhadra (Bhadrakal) Dates and Timings in January 2026
Bhadra, also known as Bhadrakal, is considered an inauspicious time period in Hindu astrology. It is traditionally avoided for important beginnings and शुभ कार्य because activities initiated during Bhadra are believed to face obstacles, delays, or negative outcomes.
In January 2026, Bhadra occurs multiple times. Knowing these exact timings is essential for planning religious ceremonies, social events, business decisions, and travel wisely.
What Is Bhadra (Bhadrakal)?
Bhadra is a specific part of Vishti Karana, which is considered the most inauspicious among all Karanas in the Hindu Panchang. During Bhadra, certain activities are strictly avoided according to traditional beliefs.
Astrologically, Bhadra is associated with:
- Instability and obstruction
- Delays in completion of tasks
- Increased chances of conflict or loss
Because of this, Bhadra is treated as a period of caution rather than fear.
Read This: Panchak Dates and Timings in 2026
Astrological Significance of Bhadra
Bhadra holds importance because:
- शुभ कार्य started during this period may not yield desired results
- New beginnings may face repeated hurdles
- Important decisions may need reconsideration later
However, it is important to note that Bhadra does not affect all activities equally, and its impact also depends on whether it occurs during day or night.
Bhadra Dates and Timings – January 2026
Below is the complete and accurate list of Bhadra periods in January 2026:
January 2, 2026 (Friday)
Begins: 06:53 PM
Ends: January 3, 2026 (Saturday) at 05:11 AM
January 5, 2026 (Monday)
Begins: 08:53 PM
Ends: January 6, 2026 (Tuesday) at 08:01 AM
January 9, 2026 (Friday)
Begins: 07:05 AM
Ends: 07:39 PM
January 13, 2026 (Tuesday)
Begins: 01:59 AM
Ends: 03:17 PM
January 16, 2026 (Friday)
Begins: 10:21 PM
Ends: January 17, 2026 (Saturday) at 11:15 AM
January 22, 2026 (Thursday)
Begins: 02:40 PM
Ends: January 23, 2026 (Friday) at 02:28 AM
January 25, 2026 (Sunday)
Begins: 11:10 PM
Ends: January 26, 2026 (Monday) at 10:16 AM
January 29, 2026 (Thursday)
Begins: 03:16 AM
Ends: 01:55 PM
Activities to Avoid During Bhadra
Traditionally, the following activities are avoided during Bhadra:
- Marriage and engagement ceremonies
- Griha Pravesh (housewarming)
- Starting a new business or venture
- Property purchase or registration
- Important financial investments
- Auspicious religious rituals
The belief is that these activities may face delays, cancellation, or repeated effort if begun during Bhadra.
Activities Allowed During Bhadra
Despite its inauspicious nature, Bhadra does not completely halt daily life.
Permitted Activities
- Routine office and professional work
- Household chores
- Travel, if unavoidable
- Completion of ongoing tasks
- Personal activities that do not involve new beginnings
In modern practice, many unavoidable actions continue, but major auspicious starts are postponed.
Day Bhadra vs Night Bhadra
An important traditional distinction is made between:
- Daytime Bhadra – Generally considered more inauspicious
- Night Bhadra – Considered less harmful and sometimes acceptable for limited activities
This distinction is why detailed timings are always checked carefully.
Bhadra vs Other Inauspicious Periods
| Period | Nature | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Bhadra | Inauspicious | Avoid new beginnings |
| Panchak | Inauspicious | Avoid major rituals |
| Rahu Kalam | Inauspicious | Avoid starting tasks |
| Yamagandam | Inauspicious | Avoid auspicious work |
Among these, Bhadra is specifically avoided for शुभ कार्य, especially ceremonies and investments.
Important Notes on Timings
- All timings are given in 12-hour format based on the local time of New Delhi, India.
- Daylight Saving Time (DST), if applicable, has been adjusted.
- Periods extending beyond midnight clearly mention the next calendar date.
- As per the Hindu Panchang, a day begins and ends with sunrise, not midnight.
Conclusion
Bhadra in January 2026 appears several times and serves as a period of caution in the Hindu calendar. While it is not considered suitable for auspicious beginnings, awareness of Bhadra timings allows individuals to plan wisely, avoid unnecessary obstacles, and choose more favorable yogas for important actions.
By respecting Bhadra periods and aligning major activities with auspicious yogas, devotees believe they can ensure smoother progress and better outcomes.
