What is Karana? — Half-Tithi in Hindu Calendar

Karana (करण) is half of a Tithi — the smallest time unit in the Panchang. Since each Tithi has two halves, there are 60 Karanas in a lunar month (30 Tithis × 2).

There are 11 Karanas total: 7 Chara (movable) that repeat 8 times each, and 4 Sthira (fixed) that appear only once per month.

7 Chara Karanas: Bava, Balava, Kaulava, Taitila, Gara, Vanija, Vishti (Bhadra). 4 Sthira Karanas: Shakuni, Chatushpada, Naga, Kimstughna.

Vishti (Bhadra) Karana is considered inauspicious — avoid starting new work during Bhadra. Bava and Balava are the most auspicious Karanas.