Patna: After the end of Kharmas on January 14, the period considered inauspicious for weddings and major ceremonies has officially concluded. However, unlike earlier years, wedding celebrations will not begin immediately in January. According to astrologers, marriages in 2026 will start only from February 5. Even so, the approaching wedding season has already created excitement among families, traders and service providers, who are preparing for a busy few months ahead.
Astrologers explain that planetary positions play an important role in deciding wedding dates. PK Yug, a well-known astrologer, said that although Jupiter is already in a favourable position, Venus — which is considered essential for marriage rituals — will rise only from February 1. Until both planets are in auspicious positions, weddings are not advised. This is why, despite the end of Kharmas in January, marriages could not be held and were pushed to February.
The wedding calendar for 2026 is packed with favourable dates. Between February 5 and December 12, there are 59 auspicious days for marriage. February has the highest number with 12 dates, followed by eight dates each in March, April, May and June. There are four dates in July and November, while December has seven. Experts believe the main wedding season will remain strong from February to June, when most ceremonies are expected to take place.
This return of weddings is expected to bring major relief to markets that have been slow for months. Business leaders say that demand for gold and silver jewellery, clothes, furniture, electronics and household items increases sharply during the wedding season. Hotels, marriage halls, catering services, bands, decorators and transport services are also likely to see heavy bookings. The vehicle and automobile sectors are expected to benefit as families often buy new two-wheelers and cars during this time.
Industry bodies estimate that the wedding season could generate business worth around Rs 4,000 crore between February and April–May. Hotel and wedding venue owners in Patna say advance bookings have already begun, with many popular dates fully booked. Traders believe that the end of Kharmas will not only bring back celebrations and social gatherings but will also give a strong push to the local economy, helping businesses recover from a long period of slowdown.
