Lunar Calendar

The lunar calendar is based on the Moon's phases and its position in the Nakshatras. It forms the backbone of Hindu festivals, rituals, and auspicious timing (muhurta) calculations.

Unlike the solar calendar, the lunar calendar follows the Moon's 29.5-day cycle from new moon to new moon. This creates months of varying length and requires periodic adjustments.

Understanding the lunar calendar is essential for timing important events, understanding festival significance, and following traditional spiritual practices.

Each lunar month is divided into 30 Tithis (lunar days), with 15 in the bright half (Shukla Paksha) and 15 in the dark half (Krishna Paksha). Tithis are based on the angular distance between Sun and Moon.

Important Tithis include Amavasya (new moon), Purnima (full moon), Ekadashi (11th day), and Chaturthi (4th day). Each has specific spiritual and practical significance.

The combination of Tithi, Nakshatra, and weekday creates the Panchanga (five-fold calendar) used for determining auspicious times.