What is Panchangam?
A Fundamental Guide to the Hindu Calendar
Meaning of Panchangam
Panchangam is a Sanskrit word derived from "Pancha" (five) and "Anga" (limb or part). It is the Hindu calendar system that comprises five important astronomical elements. This system is used to determine auspicious times, festivals, and rituals for each day.
The Five Elements (Pancha Anga)
1. Tithi
Lunar day - determined by the angular distance between the Sun and Moon. There are 30 tithis in a lunar month.
2. Vaara
Day of the week - seven days from Sunday to Saturday. Each day is ruled by a planet.
3. Nakshatra
Lunar mansion - the constellation in which the Moon is positioned. There are 27 nakshatras in total.
4. Yoga
Sun-Moon combination - the sum of the longitudes of the Sun and Moon. There are 27 yogas.
5. Karana
Half of a tithi - each tithi has two karanas. There are 11 karanas in total.
Importance of Panchangam
- Muhurtham: Selecting auspicious times for important events like marriage and housewarming
- Festivals: Determining dates for Hindu festivals
- Vratas: Fasting days like Ekadashi and Pournami
- Astrology: Horoscope predictions and planetary positions
Drik vs Vakya Panchangam
Drik Panchangam: Based on modern astronomical calculations. Takes into account the actual positions of planets. Our calendar follows the Drik method.
Vakya Panchangam: Based on formulas given in classical texts. Traditional calculation method.