Find out what the traditional Hindu calendar known as ‘Panchang’ is and what elements it includes such as Tithi, Vara, Nakshatra .
“Panchang” is a Sanskrit term that means “five limbs” or “five attributes.” In the context of Hindu astrology and astronomy, Panchang refers to a Hindu calendar and almanac that provides comprehensive information about celestial phenomena, especially the positions of celestial bodies such as the Sun, Moon, and planets. A traditional Panchang typically includes the following five elements:
- Tithi (Lunar Day): Tithi represents the lunar day, which is one of the phases or angles between the Sun and Moon. There are 30 tithis in a lunar month.
- Vara (Weekday): Vara represents the day of the week. The days are named after the seven traditional planets: Sunday (Ravivāsara), Monday (Somavāsara), Tuesday (Maṅgalavāsara), Wednesday (Budhavāsara), Thursday (Guru or Bṛhaspativāsara), Friday (Śukravāsara), and Saturday (Shanivāsara).
- Nakshatra (Lunar Mansion): Nakshatra refers to the 27 lunar mansions or star clusters through which the Moon passes during its monthly journey around the Earth.
- Yoga: Yoga is a combination of the Sun and the Moon positions that influences the mental and spiritual aspects. There are 27 yogas in a lunar month.
- Karana: Karana is a half of a Tithi and is used for certain calculations. There are 11 Karanas in a lunar month.
The Panchang also provides additional information such as Rahu Kaal (inauspicious time for activities), Gulika Kaal, Dur Muhurat (inauspicious period), Abhijit Muhurat (auspicious period), and Hora (planetary hours).
Panchangs are consulted for various purposes, including determining auspicious times for ceremonies, festivals, and rituals, as well as for planning daily activities. Different regions may have variations in their Panchangs based on local customs and traditions. Modern Panchangs are often available online and in print, providing users with the essential astrological information for a given day.
