The Panchangam is a Hindu calendar that is used to determine auspicious dates and times for various events, such as weddings, housewarming ceremonies, and other religious occasions. The word "panchangam" comes from the Sanskrit words "pancha" meaning "five" and "anga" meaning "limbs." The five limbs of the Panchangam are Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana, and Vaara. Understanding Today Panchangam is crucial for Hindus who want to plan their lives according to the lunar calendar. In this article, we'll provide an overview of the Hindu calendar and explain the significance of each limb of the Panchangam.

Overview Of The Hindu Calendar

The Hindu calendar is based on the movements of the moon and is known as the lunar calendar. The calendar is divided into 12 months, with each month corresponding to a specific phase of the moon. The Hindu New Year begins in the spring, typically in March or April, with the festival of Gudi Padwa. The Hindu calendar is also known as the Vikram Samvat, which is named after the legendary king Vikramaditya.

The Panchangam

The Panchangam is a vital component of the Hindu calendar and is used to determine auspicious dates and times for various events. The Panchangam is based on five limbs, which are Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana, and Vaara.

Tithi

It refers to the lunar day and is based on the position of the moon relative to the sun. Each Tithi is approximately 12 degrees of the moon's movement. The Tithi is divided into two halves: Shukla Paksha (the waxing phase of the moon) and Krishna Paksha (the waning phase of the moon). Each Paksha has 15 Tithis, which means that the lunar month has 30 Tithis in total. The Tithi is significant because it determines the timing of many religious ceremonies and rituals.

Nakshatra

The Nakshatra refers to the lunar mansion and is based on the position of the moon relative to the stars. There are 27 Nakshatras, each of which is associated with a particular deity or energy. The Nakshatra is significant because it can determine the auspiciousness of certain activities, such as starting a new business or purchasing a new home.

Yoga

The Yoga refers to the relationship between the sun and the moon and is based on their angular distance from each other. There are 27 Yogas in total, each of which is associated with a particular deity or energy. The Yoga is significant because it can determine the auspiciousness of certain activities, such as marriage or starting a new business.

Karana

The Karana refers to the half-day and is based on the angular relationship between the sun and the moon. There are 11 Karanas in total, with each Karana lasting for approximately six hours. The Karana is significant because it can determine the auspiciousness of certain activities, such as travel or marriage.

Vaara

The Vaara refers to the day of the week and is based on the seven-day cycle. Each day is associated with a particular deity, and certain activities are considered auspicious on certain days. For example, Tuesday is considered an auspicious day for worshipping Hanuman, while Saturday is considered an auspicious day for worshipping Lord Shani.