15/05/2025 - Thursday
New Delhi (28.6139, 77.209)
What is Panchang?
Panchang is the traditional Hindu calendar that serves as a comprehensive guide to time and cosmic influences. The word "Panchang" is derived from Sanskrit, where "Panch" means five and "Ang" means limbs.
These five core elements of Panchang track different aspects of celestial movements:
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1
Tithi (Lunar Day): Based on the phases of the moon, each tithi represents the angular distance between the sun and moon.
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2
Nakshatra (Star Constellation): The specific star or constellation that the moon aligns with on any given day.
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3
Yoga (Auspicious Period): Represents the sum of the longitudinal positions of the sun and moon.
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4
Karana (Half of Lunar Day): Each tithi is divided into two karanas, representing half of a lunar day.
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5
Vara (Weekday): Each day of the week is ruled by a specific planet, influencing the day's energy.
How Panchang Helps in Planning Your Day
Auspicious Timings
Panchang identifies Shubh Muhurat (auspicious times) for starting important activities like marriages, new ventures, and religious ceremonies.
Avoiding Negative Periods
Rahu Kaal and other inauspicious times are marked in the Panchang, helping you schedule activities away from these periods.
Festival Planning
Panchang marks all important festivals, fasts, and religious observances, helping you prepare in advance.
How to Understand Panchang
Reading a Panchang might seem complex at first, but focusing on these key elements will help you understand its practical value:
Tithi & Paksha
Tithis are lunar days numbered from 1 to 15 in each phase of the moon.
- Shukla Paksha : The bright fortnight (waxing moon) - generally considered auspicious for new beginnings
- Krishna Paksha : The dark fortnight (waning moon) - often reserved for ancestor rituals
Nakshatra (Constellation)
There are 27 nakshatras, each with unique qualities and ruling deities.
The nakshatra on any given day influences activities, especially celebrations, ceremonies, and other significant events. Some nakshatras are particularly auspicious for specific activities.
Rahu Kaal & Other Timings
Certain periods of the day are considered less favorable for starting important activities:
- Rahu Kaal : A 90-minute period considered inauspicious
- Yamagandam : Another inauspicious period to be aware of
- Abhijit Muhurat : A highly auspicious time period
Practical Tips for Daily Use
- Check Today's Tithi and Nakshatra first – they're the most important elements
- Note Rahu Kaal times to avoid scheduling important activities during these periods
- For important events, look for days with auspicious nakshatras aligned with your purpose
- Use Panchang regularly to develop an intuitive understanding of cosmic rhythms