The “Death Month” vs. The “Wealth Month”: A Guide to Construction Timing

Don’t Dig Your Own Grave (Literally)

You’ve done the hard part.

You spent months scouring real estate websites, arguing with brokers, and checking bank balances. You finally found the perfect plot. You checked the slope (the Plav) like we talked about in the last post. You even did the “Bucket Test” to make sure the soil is solid.

The papers are signed. The loan is approved. You are itching to call the contractor and tell him, “Start digging tomorrow!”

Stop.

Put the phone down.

In the world of Vastu Shastra, “Where” you build is only half the battle. The other half—and honestly, the scarier half—is “When” you build.

I know how it feels. You are excited. You want to see progress now. But imagine planting a mango seed in the middle of a freezing winter snowstorm. It doesn’t matter how expensive the seed is or how fertile the soil is—that seed is going to die. Why? Because the time was wrong.

Your house is just like that seed. It is a living entity. And just like a seed, it has a specific season for birth.

In Chapter 2 of the ancient text Vishwakarma Prakash, the rules for timing (called Kaal Shuddhi) are laid out in black and white. And let me tell you, the text doesn’t sugarcoat things. It explicitly lists months that bring “Gold and Gems” and months that bring “Death and Fire.”

If you start your construction (specifically the Khanan or digging of the foundation) in the wrong month, you aren’t just building a house; you might be building a trap for yourself.

Let’s look at the cosmic calendar and find out if you are about to make a mistake that no amount of interior design can fix.

The Logic: Why Does “When” Even Matter?

Before we get into the list of “Good” and “Bad” months, let’s address the skeptic in the room.

You might be thinking, “Come on, Jagdish. It’s 2026. A brick is a brick. How does the position of the sun change the strength of my concrete?”

That’s a fair question.

But Vastu isn’t magic; it’s environmental science. The ancient Rishis understood something we often forget: We live inside a giant magnetic field, powered by the Sun.

When we talk about “Months” in Vastu, we aren’t talking about January or February. We are talking about Solar Months (the position of the Sun) and Lunar Months (the phases of the Moon).

Here is the simple logic: The sun radiates different types of energy at different times of the year. In some months, the solar energy is harsh, destructive, and “drying.” If you disturb the earth (digging) during these times, you release that chaotic energy into the foundation of your life.

In other months, the solar energy is creative, nurturing, and “growing.” Digging during these times is like catching a wave—the universe actually helps you finish the project.

I once knew a developer in Pune who laughed at this. He was in a rush to meet a deadline, so he started excavation in the month of Jyeshtha (roughly June). Jyeshtha is strictly prohibited in the texts.

Within two months, three of his laborers were injured, his main funding partner pulled out, and the project sat as a skeleton for four years. Was it coincidence? Maybe. But when you read the Vishwakarma Prakash, it predicts exactly that: “Death and Destruction.”

Why take the risk?

The “Death Months” vs. The “Wealth Months”

Okay, grab your calendar.

In the Vishwakarma Prakash, the year is divided into Lunar months. These don’t align perfectly with the English calendar (January, February, etc.), so I’ve provided the approximate overlap.

Here is the breakdown of the Results of Foundation Digging (Griha Arambha) strictly according to the text.

A. The Danger Zone (Avoid These at All Costs)

1. Chaitra (March – April)

• The Verdict: “Chaitre vyadhimavapnoti.”
• Translation: In Chaitra, one obtains Disease.
• The Reality: This is usually when spring is turning into harsh summer. The text warns that starting a home now invites chronic illness into the family. If the head of the house is constantly sick, how can they enjoy the home?

2. Jyeshtha (May – June)

• The Verdict: “Jyeshthe mrityum.”
• Translation: In Jyeshtha, Death.
• The Reality: This is the strongest warning in the entire chapter. It doesn’t necessarily mean physical death (though the text says it), but it often means the “death” of the project. This is the peak of summer heat in India. The energy is too aggressive for new beginnings.

3. Ashadha (June – July)

• The Verdict: “Ashadhe bhrityanaashanam / Pashunaasham.”
• Translation: Destruction of servants and loss of cattle.
• The Reality: In modern terms, “cattle” equals “assets” or “vehicles,” and “servants” equals “employees.” If you are a business owner building an office, starting in Ashadha is a disaster for your workforce stability.

4. Bhadrapada (August – September)

• The Verdict: “Bhadrapade shoonyam.”
• Translation: In Bhadrapada, Zero (Emptiness).
• The Reality: This is fascinating. The text says the result is “Zero.” It means no matter how much effort you put in, the house will never feel like a home. It might end up vacant, or you might be forced to sell it due to financial emptiness.

5. Ashwin (September – October)

• The Verdict: “Ashwine kalaham.”
• Translation: In Ashwin, Strife and Quarrels.
• The Reality: Starting now plants the seed of conflict. You might see family feuds, legal battles over the property, or constant fighting with neighbors.

6. Kartik (October – November)

• The Verdict: “Kartike bhrityanaashanam.”
• Translation: Destruction of servants (similar to Ashadha).
• The Reality: Again, bad for wealth and support systems.

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B. The Golden Windows (Start Digging Now!)

Now for the good news. If you see these months coming up, get your shovels ready.

1. Vaishakha (April – May)

• The Verdict: “Vaishakhe dhana-ratnadam.”
• Translation: In Vaishakha, one gets Wealth and Gems.
• The Reality: This is considered one of the best times. It promises that the house will be a source of financial gain. If you are building a commercial complex or a rental property, this is your month.

2. Shravana (July – August)

• The Verdict: “Shravane mitravardhanam.”
• Translation: In Shravana, Increase in Friends/Support.
• The Reality: This is the rainy season month. It brings growth. The text says it increases “mitra” (friends) and “bhritya” (servants/support). It’s great for a family home where you want social happiness.

3. Margashirsha (November – December)

• The Verdict: “Margashirshe dhana-gama.”
• Translation: In Margashirsha, Inflow of Wealth.
• The Reality: This is an excellent month. It specifically mentions “Dhana-gama”—money coming in.

4. Phalgun (February – March)

• The Verdict: “Phalgune kanchanam.”
• Translation: In Phalgun, Gold.
• The Reality: This is the last month of the Hindu calendar. It is said to bring “Lakshmi” (Goddess of Wealth) directly into the home. It is a very peaceful, highly auspicious time to begin.

(Note: There are two other decent months—Paush and Magh—but they come with specific conditions regarding fear of theft or fire, so most Vastu experts prefer to stick to the “Big Four”: Vaishakha, Shravana, Margashirsha, and Phalgun.)

Is the Spirit of Your House Asleep? (The Vastu Purusha)

So, you picked a “Wealth Month” like Vaishakha or Phalgun. Great job. You are 50% safe.

But now we have to talk about something a little more mystical, yet essential. We need to talk about the Vastu Purusha.

If you follow my blog, you know that the Vastu Purusha is the cosmic deity or “spirit” that embodies your building. Imagine him as the soul of the structure.

Here is the catch: He isn’t awake 24/7.

According to the ancient scriptures, the Vastu Purusha sleeps for most of the year and only wakes up on specific days for short periods.

Think about it this way. Imagine you are deep in a peaceful sleep. Suddenly, someone barges into your room and starts drilling a hole in your bed frame. How would you react? You’d be angry, grumpy, and probably kick them out.

When you dig the foundation (Griha Arambha) while the Vastu Purusha is sleeping, you are essentially drilling into his bed while he rests. This disturbs the energy of the land before the house is even built.

The Golden Rule of “Awake” Times: While the calculation for this is complex (it depends on solar degrees), the general rule is that the Vastu Purusha is “Awake” and ready to bless you mostly during:

1. Mesha (Aries) – approx mid-April
2. Vrishabha (Taurus) – approx mid-May
3. Karka (Cancer) – approx mid-July
4. Simha (Leo) – approx mid-August
5. Tula (Libra) – approx mid-October
6. Vrischika (Scorpio) – approx mid-November
7. Makara (Capricorn) – approx mid-January
8. Kumbha (Aquarius) – approx mid-February

(Notice how these align closely with our “Wealth Months”? The system is interconnected!)

When the Vastu Purusha is awake, his mouth is open to receive offerings. This is the precise moment we perform the Bhoomi Pujan (Earth Worship). If you time it right, the “Soul” of your house is fed, happy, and ready to protect you.

Pinpointing the Perfect Date: Nakshatras and Weekdays

We have narrowed down the Month. We know we need the Vastu Purusha to be awake. Now, let’s zoom in to the specific Day.

In the Vishwakarma Prakash, not all days are created equal. You need to look at three things:

1. The Nakshatra (Constellation)
2. The Tithi (Lunar Day)
3. The Vaar (Weekday)

This is where you might need to buy a local Panchang (Hindu Almanac) or use an app, but here is the cheat sheet.

A. The Best Stars (Nakshatras)

The sky is divided into 27 Nakshatras. For starting a house, we want stable, gentle stars.

• The Superstars: Rohini, Mrigashira, Chitra, Hast, Swati, Anuradha, Uttarashada, Uttarabhadrapada, and Revati.
• Why? These stars are associated with stability, art, and growth. Starting under Rohini, for example, is said to ensure the house stays in the family for generations.
• Avoid: Fiery stars like Krittika or aggressive stars like Bharani. They carry too much heat.

B. The Best Lunar Days (Tithis)

The moon cycles from New Moon (Amavasya) to Full Moon (Purnima).

• Good Tithis: 2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th, 7th, 10th, 11th, 12th, 13th, and Full Moon (Purnima).
• Strictly Avoid: Amavasya (No moon = No energy). Also avoid the 4th, 9th, and 14th tithis (called Rikta or “Empty” days). Starting on an “Empty” day leads to an empty bank account.

C. The Best Weekdays (Vaar)

• Monday: Ruled by the Moon. Good for peace.
• Wednesday: Ruled by Mercury. Great for commercial buildings or intellectual homes.
• Thursday: Ruled by Jupiter. The absolute best day for large homes and family estates.
• Friday: Ruled by Venus. Great for luxury villas and artistic homes.
• Avoid: Sunday (Too hot/aggressive), Tuesday (Ruled by Mars – risk of fire/conflict), and Saturday (Ruled by Saturn – causes extreme delays).

The First Strike: The “Khat Muhurat” Ritual

Okay, you have your Month (Vaishakha), your Day (Thursday), and your Star (Rohini). You are ready to dig.

But where do you dig?

You don’t just let the excavator guy start wherever he parked his truck. The Vishwakarma Prakash prescribes a specific ritual called Khat Muhurat (The First Excavation).

The Process:

1. Clean the Site: Before the date, clear the land of thorns, stones, and trash.
2. The Spot: The first strike of the pickaxe should essentially be in the North-East (Ishan) corner. This is the most sacred zone.
3. The Apology: This is my favorite part of the ritual. Before digging, we pray to Mother Earth (Dharti Mata) and the organisms living in the soil. We essentially say: “I am about to disturb your peace to build my shelter. Please forgive me for any harm caused to the worms, insects, and roots.”
4. The Strike: The first dig is done by the owner, not the laborer. You strike the earth gently.

This ritual shifts your mindset. You aren’t just “conquering” the land; you are asking for permission to coexist with it.

Respecting the Clock of the Universe

Building a house is probably the biggest financial transaction of your life. You insure your car. You insure your health. You put a passcode on your phone.

Why wouldn’t you insure your home against bad timing?

I have seen people rush to start construction in the “Death Month” of Chaitra just because their loan got sanctioned early. And I have seen those same people struggle with contractor disputes, material shortages, and health issues for years.

On the other hand, I’ve seen humble families wait patiently for the “Wealth Month” of Margashirsha or Phalgun. Their budget was small, but the construction flowed like water. No accidents. No delays. The house just… worked.

Vastu Shastra teaches us that we are not separate from nature. The Sun, the Moon, and the Earth are dancing in a rhythm. When you check the Kaal Shuddhi (Purity of Time), you are simply trying to step into the dance without stepping on anyone’s toes.

So, before you break ground, look at the calendar.

• Is it a Wealth Month?
• Is the Vastu Purusha awake?
• Is the Moon strong?

If the answer is yes, then pick up that shovel. You are ready to build not just a house, but a legacy.

The “When to Build” Master Cheat Sheet

1. The Month Check (Solar/Lunar Months)

This list is strictly based on the effects described in the Vishwakarma Prakash.

Month (Approx. English)	Sanskrit Name	The Result	Verdict
Mar – Apr	Chaitra	Disease & Illness	❌ AVOID
Apr – May	Vaishakha	Gems & Wealth	🌟 BEST
May – Jun	Jyeshtha	Death & Destruction	❌ AVOID
Jun – Jul	Ashadha	Loss of Assets/Staff	❌ AVOID
Jul – Aug	Shravana	Friends & Growth	✅ GOOD
Aug – Sep	Bhadrapada	Zero Result (Emptiness)	❌ AVOID
Sep – Oct	Ashwin	Quarrels & Strife	❌ AVOID
Oct – Nov	Kartik	Loss of Wealth	❌ AVOID
Nov – Dec	Margashirsha	Inflow of Money	✅ GOOD
Dec – Jan	Paush	Fear of Theft	⚠️ CAUTION
Jan – Feb	Magh	Fear of Fire	⚠️ CAUTION
Feb – Mar	Phalgun	Gold & Prosperity	🌟 BEST

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2. The Day & Star Check (Micro-Timing)

Factor	✅ Go for it	❌ Avoid it
Weekdays	Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Sun, Tue, Sat
Moon Phase	5th, 10th, Full Moon (Purnima)	New Moon (Amavasya), 4th, 9th, 14th
Top Nakshatras	Rohini, Mrigashira, Chitra, Uttara*, Revati	Krittika, Bharani, Ashlesha, Magha

*Uttara includes Uttarashada, Uttarabhadrapada, and Uttaraphalguni.

Actionable Takeaways (Your “Start Date” Checklist):

• Avoid the “Big 3” Bad Months: Never start digging in Chaitra (March/April), Jyeshtha (June), or Ashadha (July).
• Aim for the “Big 3” Good Months: Plan your loan and permits so you can start in Vaishakha (May), Margashirsha (Nov/Dec), or Phalgun (Feb/March).
• Watch the Moon: Never start on Amavasya (New Moon).
• Check the Day: Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays are your safest bets.
• Consult: Use a reputable Panchang or ask a Vastu consultant for the exact “Muhurat” time down to the minute.

FAQs: Best Timing for House Construction (Griha Arambha)

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(Disclaimer: This guide provides general Vastu principles. Planetary positions change every year. Always consult a local Pandit or Vastu expert for the precise calculations for your specific location and year.)