Complete Hindu-Tamil Lunar Calendar Guide: Tithi, Festivals, Panchang

The Hindu calendar is a lunisolar system that beautifully weaves together the movements of the Sun and Moon to create a framework for religious observances, festivals, and auspicious timings. At its heart lies the concept of tithi—the lunar day—which governs when millions of Hindus observe fasts, celebrate festivals, and perform rituals.

What is Tithi? Understanding the Lunar Day

Tithi: Not a Solar Day

Tithi (திதி in Tamil) is fundamentally different from a solar day. While a solar day is the time Earth takes to complete one rotation (24 hours), a tithi is based on the angular relationship between the Sun and Moon.

Definition:

A tithi is the time required for the longitudinal angle between the Sun and Moon to increase by 12 degrees.

Key Characteristics:

• Duration: Variable, ranging from 19 to 26 hours (average ~23 hours 37 minutes)
• Not fixed: Unlike solar days, tithis can be shorter or longer
• Moon-based: Depends on the Moon’s position relative to the Sun
• 360° cycle: 30 tithis complete one lunar month (30 × 12° = 360°)

Visual Understanding: Sun-Moon Angle

graph TD
    A[New Moon - Amavasya] -->|12° separation| B[Pratipada - 1st Tithi]
    B -->|12° more| C[Dwitiya - 2nd Tithi]
    C -->|12° more| D[Tritiya - 3rd Tithi]
    D -->|...continuing...| E[Purnima - Full Moon - 15th Tithi]
    E -->|12° separation| F[Krishna Paksha begins]
    F -->|...continuing...| G[Back to Amavasya]
    
    style A fill:#1a1a1a,color:#fff
    style E fill:#fffacd,stroke:#ffd700
    style F fill:#e6e6fa
    style G fill:#1a1a1a,color:#fff

The Two Pakshas: Moon’s Waxing and Waning

Each lunar month is divided into two phases (pakshas), each containing 15 tithis:

1. Shukla Paksha (வளர்பிறை - Waxing Moon)

Sanskrit: शुक्ल पक्ष (Shukla Paksha)
Tamil: வளர்பிறை (Valarpirai)
Meaning: Bright fortnight, waxing phase
Duration: From New Moon (Amavasya) to Full Moon (Purnima)

Etymology:

• शुक्ल (Shukla) = White, bright, shining, luminous
• पक्ष (Paksha) = Side, wing, half of anything (here: fortnight in lunar calendar)

Characteristics:

• Moon’s visible portion increases daily
• Considered auspicious for new beginnings
• Most major festivals fall in this period
• Spiritually associated with growth and prosperity

2. Krishna Paksha (தேய்பிறை - Waning Moon)

Sanskrit: कृष्ण पक्ष (Krishna Paksha)
Tamil: தேய்பிறை (Theypirai)
Meaning: Dark fortnight, waning phase
Duration: From Full Moon (Purnima) to New Moon (Amavasya)

Etymology:

• कृष्ण (Krishna) = Black, dark, deep blue (referring to the darkening moon)
• पक्ष (Paksha) = Side, wing, half of anything (here: fortnight in lunar calendar)

Characteristics:

• Moon’s visible portion decreases daily
• Considered suitable for introspection, ancestor worship
• Important for certain spiritual practices
• Associated with letting go and dissolution

flowchart LR
    A[Amavasya
New Moon
அமாவாசை] -->|Shukla Paksha
வளர்பிறை
15 Tithis| B[Purnima
Full Moon
பௌர்ணமி]
    B -->|Krishna Paksha
தேய்பிறை
15 Tithis| C[Amavasya
New Moon
அமாவாசை]
    
    style A fill:#1a1a1a,color:#fff
    style B fill:#fffacd,stroke:#ffd700,stroke-width:3px
    style C fill:#1a1a1a,color:#fff

The 15 Tithis: Complete List with Tamil Names

Each paksha has 15 tithis. Here’s the complete list with Sanskrit, Tamil, and English meanings:

Tithis 1-15: Same Names in Both Pakshas

Special Tithis and Their Significance

Ekadashi (ஏகாதசி) - 11th Tithi

The most important tithi for fasting and spiritual practices:

• Occurs twice a month (Shukla & Krishna Paksha)
• 24 Ekadashis in a year (+ 2 extra in leap years)
• Dedicated to Lord Vishnu
• Strict fasting observed by devotees

Famous Ekadashis:

• Vaikunta Ekadashi (வைகுண்ட ஏகாதசி) - Margashirsha Shukla Ekadashi
• Rama Ekadashi - Kartik Krishna Ekadashi

Chaturthi (சதுர்த்தி) - 4th Tithi

Sacred to Lord Ganesha:

• Sankashti Chaturthi / Sankatahara Chaturthi (சங்கடஹர சதுர்த்தி) - Krishna Paksha Chaturthi (monthly)
  • संकष्ट (Sankashti) = Difficulty, trouble, calamity
  • संकटहर (Sankatahara) = Remover of obstacles/difficulties (संकट = obstacle + हर = remover)
  • Observed to remove obstacles and seek Ganesha’s blessings
• Vinayaka Chaturthi (விநாயக சதுர்த்தி) - Bhadrapada Shukla Chaturthi (annual festival)
  • भाद्रपद (Bhadrapada) = The sixth month in Hindu calendar, auspicious for Lord Ganesha
  • भद्र (Bhadra) = blessed, auspicious, prosperous + पद (Pada) = foot/step

Ashtami (அஷ்டமி) - 8th Tithi

Sacred to Goddess Durga:

• Durga Ashtami during Navaratri
• Krishna Jayanti (கிருஷ்ண ஜெயந்தி) - Bhadrapada Krishna Ashtami

Navami (நவமி) - 9th Tithi

• Rama Navami (ராம நவமி) - Chaitra Shukla Navami (சித்திரை வளர்பிறை நவமி)
• Maha Navami during Navaratri

Shashthi (சஷ்டி) - 6th Tithi

Sacred to Lord Murugan (Kartikeya):

• Skanda Shashthi (ஸ்கந்த சஷ்டி) - Monthly observance on every Shashthi
• Maha Skanda Shashthi (மஹா ஸ்கந்த சஷ்டி) - The grand annual festival
  • Date Formula: Shashthi (6th tithi) of Shukla Paksha (வளர்பிறை) in Aippasi month (ஐப்பசி மாதம்)
  • Calculation: 6th day of the waxing moon in Tamil month of Aippasi (October-November)
  • Corresponds to Kartik month in North India
  • Devotees fast for 6 days leading up to this day
  • Celebrates Lord Murugan’s victory over demon Soorapadman

Pradosham: The Sacred Twilight Period

What is Pradosham?

Pradosham (பிரதோஷம்) is one of the most auspicious times for worshipping Lord Shiva. It occurs twice every lunar month on the Trayodashi (13th tithi) of both pakshas.

Etymology:

• Pra (प्र) = Before
• Dosha (दोष) = Darkness/Evening
• Pradosha = The period just before darkness sets in (twilight)

Pradosha Kaalam (பிரதோஷ காலம்) - Timing

Pradosha Kaalam is the specific time window for worship:

Duration: 1.5 hours centered around sunset

• Start: 1 hour and 30 minutes before sunset
• Peak: Sunset time
• End: 1 hour after sunset

Formula:

1
Sunset Time = S
2
Pradosha Start = S - 1.5 hours
3
Pradosha Peak = S
4
Pradosha End = S + 1 hour

Example: If sunset is at 6:00 PM

• Pradosha Kaalam: 4:30 PM to 7:00 PM
• Most auspicious: 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM

Types of Pradosham

There are two types of Pradosham each month:

1. Shukla Paksha Pradosham (வளர்பிறை பிரதோஷம்)

When: Trayodashi (13th tithi) during Shukla Paksha (waxing moon)
Tamil: வளர்பிறை திரயோதசி பிரதோஷம்
Moon Phase: Waxing, nearly full
Significance: Growing moon symbolizes prosperity and growth

2. Krishna Paksha Pradosham (தேய்பிறை பிரதோஷம்)

When: Trayodashi (13th tithi) during Krishna Paksha (waning moon)
Tamil: தேய்பிறை திரயோதசி பிரதோஷம்
Moon Phase: Waning, crescent
Significance: Waning moon symbolizes removal of obstacles

flowchart TD
    A[Lunar Month
30 Tithis] --> B[Shukla Paksha
வளர்பிறை
15 Tithis]
    A --> C[Krishna Paksha
தேய்பிறை
15 Tithis]
    
    B --> D[Trayodashi - 13th Tithi
திரயோதசி]
    C --> E[Trayodashi - 13th Tithi
திரயோதசி]
    
    D --> F[Shukla Paksha Pradosham
வளர்பிறை பிரதோஷம்
Waxing Moon]
    E --> G[Krishna Paksha Pradosham
தேய்பிறை பிரதோஷம்
Waning Moon]
    
    F --> H[Sunset ± 1.5 hours
Lord Shiva worship]
    G --> H
    
    style F fill:#fffacd,stroke:#ffd700
    style G fill:#e6e6fa,stroke:#9370db
    style H fill:#ffe4e1,stroke:#ff6347

Special Pradoshams

Certain Pradoshams have additional significance based on the weekday:

Maha Pradosham: When Pradosham coincides with Saturday, it’s called Maha Pradosham (மஹா பிரதோஷம்) and is considered exceptionally auspicious.

Maha Shivaratri: The Great Night of Shiva

When is Shivaratri?

Maha Shivaratri (மஹா சிவராத்திரி) is the most sacred night dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Date Formula:

• Paksha: Krishna Paksha (தேய்பிறை - waning moon)
• Tithi: Chaturdashi (சதுர்த்தசி - 14th lunar day)
• Month: Magha or Phalguna (மாசி - Masi in Tamil)
• Timing: The 14th night of the dark fortnight

Why this specific time?

On this night, the Moon is a thin crescent (nearly new moon), symbolizing:

• Maximum darkness before renewal
• Union of Shiva and Shakti
• Convergence of spiritual energy
• The night when Shiva performed the Tandava (cosmic dance)

Understanding the Month

Hindu Calendar Months:

The month varies slightly based on regional calendars:

North Indian Calendar (Purnimanta System):

• Phalguna Krishna Chaturdashi (फाल्गुन कृष्ण चतुर्दशी)
• Usually falls in February-March

South Indian Calendar (Amavasyanta System):

• Magha Krishna Chaturdashi (माघ कृष्ण चतुर्दशी)
• Same astronomical date, different naming convention

Tamil Month:

• Masi (மாசி) month
• Corresponds to mid-February to mid-March

Shivaratri Observance

Key Practices:

1. Fasting: Complete fast or fruits/milk only
2. Night Vigil: Staying awake the entire night
3. Four Prahara Puja: Worship at four intervals during the night
4. Bilva Leaves: Offering to Shiva Linga
5. Om Namah Shivaya: Continuous chanting

What is Prahara (प्रहर)?

Prahara is an ancient Vedic unit of time dividing the day and night into 8 equal parts (4 for day, 4 for night).

• Duration: Each prahara = 3 hours
• Night Division: The night (sunset to sunrise, ~12 hours) is divided into 4 praharas of 3 hours each
• Shivaratri Special: Worship is performed during each of the 4 night praharas

Timeline:

1
Sunset → 1st Prahara → 2nd Prahara → 3rd Prahara → 4th Prahara → Sunrise
2
(6 PM)   (6-9 PM)      (9 PM-12 AM)  (12-3 AM)     (3-6 AM)     (6 AM)

Each Prahara Offering:

• 1st Prahara: Milk
• 2nd Prahara: Curd/Yogurt
• 3rd Prahara: Ghee
• 4th Prahara: Honey

Monthly Shivaratri vs Maha Shivaratri

Tamil Months vs Hindu Months: The Correlation

Two Calendar Systems

The Hindu calendar has regional variations. Here’s how Tamil months align with North Indian Hindu months:

Tamil Month Duration and Zodiac Signs

Month Length:

• Tamil lunar months typically have 29, 30, or 31 days
• Special case: Aavani (ஆவணி) sometimes has 32 days
• Duration varies based on lunar cycle and solar transit alignment

Tamil Months and Their Zodiac Signs (Pournami Correspondence):

Each Tamil month is associated with a specific zodiac sign (Rashi). The Pournami (Full Moon) of that month occurs when the Moon is in that particular zodiac sign.

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pie title Tamil Months and Zodiac Signs
    "1 - சித்திரை (மேஷம்)" : 8.33
    "2 - வைகாசி (ரிஷபம்)" : 8.33
    "3 - ஆனி (மிதுனம்)" : 8.33
    "4 - ஆடி (கடகம்)" : 8.33
    "5 - ஆவணி (சிம்மம்)" : 8.33
    "6 - புரட்டாசி (கன்னி)" : 8.33
    "7 - ஐப்பசி (துலாம்)" : 8.33
    "8 - கார்த்திகை (விருச்சிகம்)" : 8.33
    "9 - மார்கழி (தனுசு)" : 8.33
    "10 - தை (மகரம்)" : 8.33
    "11 - மாசி (கும்பம்)" : 8.33
    "12 - பங்குனி (மீனம்)" : 8.33

Understanding the Connection:

flowchart LR
    A[Tamil Month] --> B[Sun's Position
Solar Transit]
    A --> C[Moon's Pournami Position
Opposite Zodiac]
    
    B --> D[Example: Chithirai
Sun in Aries]
    C --> E[Pournami Moon
in Aries]
    
    style A fill:#ffeb3b
    style D fill:#4caf50,color:#fff
    style E fill:#2196f3,color:#fff

Special Note on Aavani (ஆவணி):

• Aavani is the only Tamil month that can have 32 days
• This occurs due to specific astronomical alignments
• Happens when there are two Pournami (Full Moons) or specific tithi patterns within the month
• Not every year—depends on lunar-solar synchronization

Why Month Lengths Vary:

• A lunar month (one complete Moon cycle) = ~29.5 days
• Solar transit through a zodiac sign = ~30-31 days
• Tamil calendar balances both lunar and solar cycles
• This creates the variation: 29, 30, 31, or occasionally 32 days

Major Festival Calculations: How and When

1. Diwali (தீபாவளி - Deepavali)

Diwali is the festival of lights celebrating Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya.

Date Formula:

• Paksha: Krishna Paksha (தேய்பிறை)
• Tithi: Amavasya (அமாவாசை - New Moon)
• Month: Kartik (கார்த்திகை - Karthigai in Tamil)
• Timing: The darkest night of Kartik month

Tamil Name: தீபாவளி (Deepavali) or தீபத் திருநாள் (Deepa Thirunaal)

Why Amavasya?

• Symbolizes victory of light over darkness
• New Moon = darkest night, lamps dispel darkness
• New beginning (start of financial year in some regions)

Regional Significance:

• North India: Celebrates Lord Rama’s return to Ayodhya after 14 years of exile
• South India (Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh): Celebrates Lord Krishna’s defeat of the demon Narakasura
  • Also called Naraka Chaturdashi (நரக சதுர்த்தசி)
  • Celebrated one day before Amavasya in the South

Timing Relation to Navaratri:

• Diwali falls approximately 20 days after Navaratri ends
• Count: Navaratri ends on Navami (Ashwin Shukla 9th day), then ~20 days later = Kartik Krishna Amavasya (Diwali)
• Calculation: Ashwin Shukla 9 (Navaratri end) → Ashwin Purnima (6 days) → Ashwin Krishna Paksha (15 days) → Kartik Krishna Amavasya = approximately 21 days
• Note: Vijayadashami/Dussehra (the day after Navaratri) is also about 20 days before Diwali

Diwali Panchang (5-Day Celebration):

flowchart LR
    A[Kartik Month
கார்த்திகை மாதம்] --> B[Krishna Paksha
தேய்பிறை]
    B --> C[Chaturdashi - Day 14
சதுர்த்தசி]
    C --> D[Amavasya - Day 15
அமாவாசை
NEW MOON]
    D --> E[DIWALI
தீபாவளி
Darkest Night
Light the Lamps!]
    
    style D fill:#1a1a1a,color:#fff,stroke:#ffd700,stroke-width:3px
    style E fill:#ff6347,color:#fff,stroke:#ffd700,stroke-width:4px

2. Navaratri (நவராத்திரி - Nine Nights)

Navaratri celebrates the divine feminine (Shakti/Durga) over nine nights and ten days.

There are FOUR Navaratris in a year, but two are widely celebrated:

Sharad Navaratri (शरद नवरात्रि) - Most Famous

Date Formula:

• Paksha: Shukla Paksha (வளர்பிறை)
• Tithis: Pratipada to Navami (1st to 9th)
• Month: Ashwin (ஐப்பசி - Aippasi in Tamil)
• Season: Autumn (September-October)

Tamil Name: நவராத்திரி (Navaratri) or தசரா (Dasara)

Culmination: 10th day - Vijayadashami (விஜயதசமி) on Dashami (10th tithi)

Vasanta Navaratri (वसंत नवरात्रि) - Spring Navaratri

Date Formula:

• Paksha: Shukla Paksha
• Tithis: Pratipada to Navami
• Month: Chaitra (சித்திரை - Chithirai in Tamil)
• Season: Spring (March-April)

Culmination: Rama Navami (ராம நவமி) on the 9th day

The Nine Days of Navaratri:

flowchart TD
    A[Ashwin/Aippasi Month
ஐப்பசி மாதம்] --> B[Shukla Paksha begins
வளர்பிறை
Waxing Moon]
    B --> C[Day 1: Pratipada
பிரதமை]
    C --> D[Days 2-8
Dwitiya to Ashtami]
    D --> E[Day 9: Navami
நவமி
Maha Navami]
    E --> F[Day 10: Dashami
தசமி
Vijayadashami/Dussehra
விஜயதசமி]
    
    style B fill:#fffacd
    style E fill:#ff6347,color:#fff
    style F fill:#ffd700,stroke:#ff6347,stroke-width:3px

3. Pongal (பொங்கல்) - Solar Festival

Pongal is unique—it’s a solar festival, not based on tithi!

Date Formula:

• Based on: Solar calendar (Surya Siddhanta)
• Event: Sun’s transition into Capricorn (Uttarayana)
• Tamil Month: Thai (தை)
• Fixed Date: January 14-15 every year (Gregorian)
• Tamil: தைப்பொங்கல் (Thai Pongal)

Why Solar?

Pongal celebrates the harvest and the Sun’s northward journey (Uttarayana), which is based on solar movement, not lunar phases.

Four Days of Pongal:

4. Karthigai Deepam (கார்த்திகை தீபம்)

Karthigai Deepam is the ancient Tamil festival of lights, older than Diwali in Tamil tradition.

Date Formula:

• Nakshatra: Krittika (கார்த்திகை நட்சத்திரம்)
• Tithi: Purnima (பௌர்ணமி - Full Moon) preferred
• Month: Karthigai (கார்த்திகை - Nov-Dec)
• Calculation: When Krittika nakshatra coincides with Full Moon in Karthigai month

Tamil Name: கார்த்திகை தீபம் (Karthigai Deepam) or கார்த்திகை விளக்கு (Karthigai Vilakku)

Why Krittika Nakshatra?

Unlike most festivals that use tithi, Karthigai Deepam uniquely uses nakshatra (star constellation):

• Krittika is the nakshatra (star cluster known as Pleiades)
• Lord Murugan was raised by the six Krittika maidens
• When Krittika aligns with Full Moon in Karthigai month = festival day

Special Feature:

On this day, a huge beacon (Mahadeepam) is lit atop Tiruvannamalai hill in Tamil Nadu, visible for miles. This represents Lord Shiva as a column of fire (Annamalai).

Observance:

• Lighting rows of oil lamps at home
• Lighting lamps in temples
• Special prayers to Lord Murugan and Shiva

flowchart TD
    A[Karthigai Month
கார்த்திகை மாதம்
Nov-Dec] --> B[Look for Purnima
பௌர்ணமி
Full Moon]
    B --> C[Check Nakshatra
நட்சத்திரம்]
    C --> D{Is it Krittika
Nakshatra?
கார்த்திகை}
    D -->|Yes| E[KARTHIGAI DEEPAM!
கார்த்திகை தீபம்
Light the lamps]
    D -->|No| F[Wait for next day
or closest Krittika]
    
    E --> G[Light Mahadeepam
at Tiruvannamalai
திருவண்ணாமலை]
    
    style D fill:#fffacd
    style E fill:#ff6347,color:#fff,stroke:#ffd700,stroke-width:3px
    style G fill:#ffa500,color:#fff

Other Important Tithi-Based Observances

Major Festivals by Tithi

Hanuman Jayanti: Regional Variations

Hanuman Jayanti (அனுமன் ஜெயந்தி) celebrates the birth of Lord Hanuman, but the date varies significantly by region:

North India (Most Common)

• Date: Chaitra Purnima (சித்திரை பௌர்ணமி)
• Calculation: Full Moon day in Chaitra month (March-April)
• States: Most of North India, Maharashtra, Gujarat

South India - Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka

• Date: Margashirsha Amavasya (மார்கழி அமாவாசை)
• Calculation: New Moon day in Margashirsha/Margazhi month (December-January)
• Tradition: Celebrated during the Tamil month of Margazhi

Andhra Pradesh & Telangana - 41-Day Festival

• Start Date: Chaitra Purnima (சித்திரை பௌர்ணமி)
• Duration: 41 continuous days of celebration
• Culmination: Ends on the 10th day of Krishna Paksha in Vaishakha
• Unique Feature: The longest Hanuman Jayanti celebration in India

Krishna Jayanti (Janmashtami): Tithi vs Nakshatra

Krishna Jayanti (கிருஷ்ண ஜெயந்தி), also known as Janmashtami (ஜன்மாஷ்டமி) or Gokulashtami (கோகுலாஷ்டமி), celebrates Lord Krishna’s birth.

Standard Date Formula:

• Tithi: Ashtami (அஷ்டமி - 8th lunar day)
• Paksha: Krishna Paksha (தேய்பிறை - dark fortnight)
• Month: Shravana or Bhadrapada (ஆவணி or புரட்டாசி in Tamil)
• Special: Corresponds to Tamil months Aadi or Aavani (August-September)

The Tithi vs Nakshatra Debate:

Different traditions prioritize different astronomical factors:

Ashtami Tithi Priority (Most Common)

• Focus: 8th day (Ashtami) of Krishna Paksha in Shravana/Bhadrapada
• Timing: Celebrated at midnight when Ashtami tithi is present
• Followed by: Most of North India, ISKCON temples worldwide
• Logic: Krishna was born on Ashtami, so this tithi is most important

Rohini Nakshatra Priority (Traditional)

• Focus: When Rohini Nakshatra (ரோகிணி நட்சத்திரம்) coincides with Ashtami
• Timing: Some years, Rohini nakshatra may overlap with Ashtami differently
• Followed by: Traditional South Indian calculations, some regional temples
• Logic: Krishna was born under Rohini star, so nakshatra alignment is crucial

What is Rohini Nakshatra?

• Rohini (रोहिणी) is the 4th of 27 nakshatras (lunar constellations)
• Known as the “red one” or “growing one”
• Considered highly auspicious for birth
• Associated with beauty, fertility, and prosperity

When Both Don’t Align:

In rare years, Ashtami tithi and Rohini nakshatra may not perfectly overlap:

• Scenario 1: Ashtami exists but Rohini is on a different day → Some follow Ashtami, some follow Rohini
• Scenario 2: Rohini spans two days → Choose the day when both Ashtami and Rohini overlap maximally
• Panchang Decision: Local almanacs specify which date to follow based on regional tradition

Solar Festival Details

Vishu (விஷு) - Kerala & Tamil New Year

• Type: Solar festival
• Date: April 14-15 (fixed Gregorian date)
• Calculation: Sun’s transition into Mesha Rashi (Aries)
• Significance: Astronomical New Year for Kerala, agricultural importance
• Tamil Connection: Corresponds to Tamil month Chithirai beginning

Holi (ஹோலி) - Festival of Colors

• Type: Lunar festival
• Date: Phalguna Purnima (பங்குனி பௌர்ணமி)
• Calculation: Full Moon of Phalguna/Panguni month (February-March)
• Celebration: Bonfire on Purnima night (Holika Dahan), colors next day
• Timing: Day after Purnima is main Holi celebration day

Onam (ஓணம்) - Kerala Harvest Festival

• Type: Nakshatra-based festival
• Date: Thiruvonam (திருவோணம்) nakshatra in Chingam month
• Calculation: When Shravana nakshatra (called Thiruvonam in Malayalam/Tamil) falls in Malayalam month Chingam (ஆவணி - August-September)
• Duration: 10-day festival, main day is Thiruvonam day
• Significance: Celebrates return of King Mahabali

Aadi Perukku (ஆடிப் பெருக்கு)

• Type: Date-based (not tithi)
• Date: 18th day of Tamil month Aadi (ஆடி மாதம் 18)
• Gregorian: Typically falls in late July or early August
• Significance: Water/river festival, monsoon celebration
• Calculation: Simply count to 18th day of Aadi month (solar calendar)
• Ritual: Worship of water bodies, rivers, and rain

Mahalaya Amavasya (மஹாளய அமாவாசை)

• Type: Lunar - Amavasya
• Date: Ashwin/Purattasi Krishna Amavasya (புரட்டாசி அமாவாசை)
• Significance: Marks the end of Pitru Paksha (16 days for ancestor worship)
• Timing: Precedes Navaratri by one day
• Ritual: Tarpana (water offering) to ancestors, Shradh ceremonies
• Importance: Most significant Amavasya for honoring departed souls

Amavasya (New Moon) Observances

Monthly Amavasyas are important for:

• Pitru Tarpan (பித்ரு தர்ப்பணம்): Ancestor worship
• Mahalaya Amavasya: Special Pitru Paksha ending (for Shradh rituals)
• Soma Amavasya (Monday New Moon): Especially sacred

Purnima (Full Moon) Observances

Every Purnima is considered auspicious for:

• Satyanarayan Puja (சத்யநாராயண பூஜை)
• Fasting and meditation
• Temple visits

Special Purnimas:

• Guru Purnima (ஆடி பௌர்ணமி in Tamil Nadu)
• Sharad Purnima (Kojagari Purnima)
• Kartik Purnima (Dev Deepavali)

How to Find Tithis: Using a Panchang

What is a Panchang?

Panchang (பஞ்சாங்கம் in Tamil) literally means “five limbs” - a Hindu almanac that provides:

The Five Elements (Panchangam):

1. Tithi (திதி): Lunar day
2. Vara (வாரம்): Weekday
3. Nakshatra (நட்சத்திரம்): Constellation
4. Yoga (யோகம்): Astronomical combination
5. Karana (கரணம்): Half-tithi

1. Tithi (திதி) - Lunar Day

We’ve covered tithi extensively above. It’s the angular relationship between Sun and Moon (12° increments).

2. Vara (வாரம்) - Weekday

Vara (வாரம்) refers to the day of the week, each ruled by a celestial body (planet).

The Seven Days:

Significance:

• Certain rituals and festivals gain special significance based on the vara
• Example: Shani Pradosham (Saturday Pradosham) is most powerful
• Fasting days often align with specific varas (e.g., Monday fasts for Shiva)

3. Nakshatra (நட்சத்திரம்) - Lunar Constellation

Nakshatra (நட்சத்திரம்) are the 27 (or 28) lunar mansions or constellations through which the Moon travels during its monthly cycle.

Key Concepts:

• The zodiac (360°) is divided into 27 equal parts of 13°20’ each
• Moon spends approximately one day in each nakshatra
• Each nakshatra has its own deity, characteristics, and auspiciousness

The 27 Nakshatras:

Special Nakshatras:

• Rohini (ரோகிணி): Most auspicious, associated with Krishna’s birth
• Krittika (கார்த்திகை): Sacred to Murugan, Karthigai Deepam festival
• Ardra/Thiruvathira (திருவாதிரை): Sacred to Shiva, major Kerala festival
• Shravana/Thiruvonam (திருவோணம்): Onam festival day
• Pushya (பூசம்): Extremely auspicious for all activities
• Ashlesha (ஆயில்யம்): Associated with serpents, Naga worship

Usage:

• Birth star (Janma Nakshatra) is crucial for astrology
• Festival timing (Karthigai Deepam on Krittika, Onam on Thiruvonam)
• Muhurta selection for auspicious activities
• Marriage compatibility (matching birth stars)

Agni Nakshatra (அக்கினி நட்சத்திரம்) - The Fire Star Period

Agni Nakshatra (அக்கினி நட்சத்திரம்), also known as Kathiri Veyil (கதிரி வெயில்) in Tamil, is a specific hot period based on the Sun’s transit through certain nakshatras.

Definition:

Agni Nakshatra refers to the approximately 25-day period when the Sun travels from the 3rd pada (quarter) of Bharani nakshatra through the entire Krittika nakshatra.

Calculation Method:

Solar Transit Basis:

• Unlike lunar nakshatras (Moon’s daily position), Agni Nakshatra is based on the Sun’s position
• Each nakshatra = 13°20’ of the zodiac
• Each nakshatra has 4 padas (quarters) of 3°20’ each

Start Point:

• Bharani 3rd Pada (பரணி 3வது பாதம்)
  • Bharani spans: 13°20’ to 26°40’ of Aries (மேஷ ராசி)
  • 3rd pada starts at: 20°00’ of Aries
  • When Sun reaches 20° Aries, Agni Nakshatra begins

Transit Path:

• Sun continues through Bharani 4th pada (பரணி 4வது பாதம்)
• Then enters Krittika nakshatra (கார்த்திகை நட்சத்திரம்)
• Traverses all 4 padas of Krittika
• Total coverage: ~25 days

End Point:

• Ends when Sun completes Krittika nakshatra (கார்த்திகை முழுவதும்)
• Krittika ends at: 10°00’ of Taurus (ரிஷப ராசி)

Visual Representation:

flowchart TD
    A[Sun enters
Bharani 3rd Pada
பரணி 3வது பாதம்
20° Aries] --> B[Bharani 4th Pada
பரணி 4வது பாதம்]
    B --> C[Krittika 1st Pada
கார்த்திகை 1வது பாதம்]
    C --> D[Krittika 2nd Pada
கார்த்திகை 2வது பாதம்]
    D --> E[Krittika 3rd Pada
கார்த்திகை 3வது பாதம்]
    E --> F[Krittika 4th Pada
கார்த்திகை 4வது பாதம்]
    F --> G[Sun exits
~25 days total
அக்கினி நட்சத்திரம் முடிவு]
    
    style A fill:#ff9800,stroke:#e65100,color:#fff
    style G fill:#4caf50,stroke:#2e7d32,color:#fff
    style C fill:#ffeb3b,stroke:#f57c00
    style D fill:#ffeb3b,stroke:#f57c00
    style E fill:#ffeb3b,stroke:#f57c00
    style F fill:#ffeb3b,stroke:#f57c00

Typical Dates (Gregorian Calendar):

• Usually occurs in May-June (வைகாசி-ஆனி மாதங்கள்)
• Approximately May 4-5 to May 28-29 each year
• Can vary by 1-2 days depending on precise solar transit
• Coincides with peak summer heat in Tamil Nadu

Why Called “Agni” (Fire)?

1. Association with Krittika:

   • Krittika nakshatra’s ruling deity is Agni (அக்னி) - the Fire God
   • Symbol: Razor, flame (சுடர்)
   • Represents intense heat and fire energy

2. Peak Summer Period:

   • This period experiences the hottest temperatures of the year in South India
   • Sun is at high declination, creating intense heat
   • Called “கதிரி வெயில்” (Kathiri Veyil) = “Scorching Sun of Krittika”

3. Bharani’s Influence:

   • Bharani (பரணி) is ruled by Yama (death deity)
   • Represents transformation through heat and intensity
   • Combined with Agni’s fire = extreme heat period

Characteristics of Agni Nakshatra Period:

Physical Effects:

• 🔥 Extreme heat and high temperatures (40-45°C common)
• ☀️ Intense solar radiation
• 💧 Low humidity in most regions
• 🌡️ Peak summer conditions

Agricultural Significance:

• Important for harvest drying of summer crops
• Water scarcity concerns
• Traditional irrigation practices intensified
• Mango harvest period (மாம்பழ காலம்)

Health Precautions:

• ⚠️ Heat stroke risk increases
• 💦 Stay well hydrated
• 🏠 Avoid midday sun exposure
• 🥤 Consume cooling foods (நீர்மோர், நுங்கு - buttermilk, palm fruit)

Traditional Practices:

What to Avoid:

• ❌ Avoid starting major construction work (excessive heat affects materials)
• ❌ Minimize travel during peak noon hours (நண்பகல் பயணம் தவிர்க்கவும்)
• ❌ Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
• ❌ Not ideal for weddings due to heat (though not strictly prohibited)

What to Do:

• ✅ Cooling rituals: Temples offer cold water, buttermilk (நீர் மோர் தானம்)
• ✅ Dietary changes: Consume cooling foods like நுங்கு (palm fruit), நீர்மோர் (buttermilk), watermelon
• ✅ Plant care and irrigation (தண்ணீர் பாய்ச்சுதல்)
• ✅ Agni puja: Some perform special prayers to Agni to reduce heat’s intensity
• ✅ Traditional drink: பதனீர் (Padhaneer - palm nectar), நன்னாரி (Nannari sherbet)

Cultural References:

Tamil Proverbs:

• “கதிரியில் குளிர்ச்சி இல்லை” (Kathiriyil kulirchi illai) - “No coolness during Krittika period”
• “அக்கினி நட்சத்திரம் கடும் வெயில்” (Agni nakshatra kadum veyil) - “Agni nakshatra brings severe heat”

Traditional Knowledge:

• Farmers time their harvest to complete before/during this period
• Mango season peaks during Agni Nakshatra (மாம்பழம் பருவம்)
• Water conservation becomes critical
• Temples organize water distribution (தண்ணீர் பந்தல்)

Modern Relevance:

Climate Considerations:

• Important for weather forecasting in Tamil Nadu
• Agricultural planning and irrigation scheduling
• Heat wave preparedness
• Water resource management

Health Advisories:

• Government issues heat warnings during this period
• Schools may have altered timings
• Outdoor work restrictions during peak hours
• Public health campaigns for hydration

Calculation Example:

For 2026:

1. Sun enters Bharani 3rd pada: ~May 4-5, 2026
2. Agni Nakshatra period: ~May 4-5 to May 28-29, 2026
3. Duration: Approximately 25 days
4. Peak heat expected in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka

How to Determine Agni Nakshatra:

• Check Tamil Panchangam for Sun’s nakshatra position
• When it shows “சூரியன் - பரணி 3வது பாதம்” (Sun in Bharani 3rd pada), Agni Nakshatra begins
• Continues until “சூரியன் - கிருத்திகை முடிவு” (Sun exits Krittika)
• Modern apps and panchangam websites mark this period

Distinction from Other Periods:

• Agni Nakshatra: Solar transit-based, ~25 days, May-June
• Karthigai Deepam: Lunar festival, Krittika + Purnima, November-December
• Summer Solstice: Astronomical event, June 21-22
• Aani month: Solar month, mid-June to mid-July

Religious Significance:

• Some devotees perform special Agni homa (fire rituals) during this period
• Temples dedicated to Agni may have special pujas
• Krittika nakshatra worship intensifies
• Connection to Lord Murugan (கார்த்திகேயன்), who is associated with Krittika

4. Yoga (யோகம்) - Astronomical Combination

Yoga (யோகம்) is a specific angular relationship between the Sun and Moon, calculated differently from Tithi.

Definition:

• Sum of the longitudes of Sun and Moon, divided into 27 equal parts
• Each yoga = 13°20’ of combined Sun-Moon movement
• 27 yogas complete one full cycle (360°)

The 27 Yogas:

Usage:

• Important for muhurta (auspicious timing) selection
• Avoided yogas: Vyaghata, Vyatipata, Vaidhriti (very inauspicious)
• Preferred yogas: Siddhi, Ayushman, Saubhagya, Dhruva, Brahma

5. Karana (கரணம்) - Half-Tithi

Karana (கரணம்) is half of a tithi. Since a tithi is 12° of Sun-Moon separation, a karana is 6°.

Key Facts:

• There are 11 types of karanas
• 60 karanas in a lunar month (30 tithis × 2 = 60 karanas)
• 7 karanas are “movable” (चर - Chara) and repeat 8 times each = 56 karanas
• 4 karanas are “fixed” (स्थिर - Sthira) and occur once each = 4 karanas
• Total: 56 + 4 = 60 karanas per month

The 7 Movable (Chara) Karanas (repeat 8 times):

The 4 Fixed (Sthira) Karanas (occur once):

Special Note on Vishti/Bhadra (விஷ்டி/பத்ரா):

• Also called Bhadra (பத்ரா) - the inauspicious period
• Occurs 8 times in a lunar month (every 7.5 days approximately)
• Considered highly inauspicious for new beginnings
• Avoided for: Marriages, house warming, starting journeys, business launches
• In Tamil: Vishti Kaalam (விஷ்டி காலம்) = inauspicious time

Usage:

• Critical for muhurta calculations
• Avoiding Vishti karana for important events
• The 4 fixed karanas (Shakuni, Chatushpada, Naga, Kinstughna) are generally avoided

Panchang Summary

For any given moment, all 5 elements work together:

Example Panchang Entry:

1
Date: January 15, 2026
2
Tithi: Krishna Dashami (10th waning lunar day)
3
Vara: Thursday (Guruvara - வியாழன்)
4
Nakshatra: Hasta (அஸ்தம்)
5
Yoga: Siddhi (ஸித்தி - Very Auspicious)
6
Karana: Bava (பவ - 1st half), Balava (பாலவ - 2nd half)

This combination determines the overall auspiciousness and suitability for various activities.

Eclipses: The Shadow Planets Rahu and Ketu

Understanding Eclipses in Hindu Astronomy

In Hindu astronomy and astrology, eclipses (கிரகணம் - Grahanam in Tamil) are caused by the shadow planets Rahu (ராகு) and Ketu (கேது), which represent the ascending and descending lunar nodes.

The Mythology of Rahu and Ketu

The Samudra Manthan (Churning of the Ocean) Story:

During the churning of the cosmic ocean, when Amrita (अमृत - nectar of immortality) emerged, Lord Vishnu distributed it to the Devas (gods). A demon named Svarbhanu (स्वर्भानु) disguised himself among the gods to drink the nectar.

The Sun (Surya) and Moon (Chandra) noticed the deception and alerted Vishnu, who immediately severed Svarbhanu’s head with his Sudarshana Chakra.

However, since Svarbhanu had already consumed some nectar, he became immortal:

• His head became Rahu (राहु - ராகு) - the ascending lunar node
• His body became Ketu (केतु - கேது) - the descending lunar node

The Eternal Revenge:

Rahu and Ketu hold an eternal grudge against the Sun and Moon for exposing them. Periodically, they “swallow” the Sun and Moon, causing eclipses. However, since Rahu is only a head (no body), the Sun/Moon eventually escapes, ending the eclipse.

Solar Eclipse (सूर्य ग्रहण - Surya Grahanam)

What is a Solar Eclipse?

A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Earth and Sun, blocking the Sun’s light.

Hindu Astronomical Understanding:

• Caused by: Rahu (ராகு) swallowing the Sun
• Tithi: Occurs only on Amavasya (அமாவாசை - New Moon)
• Condition: Sun, Moon, and Earth are aligned (syzygy)
• Nodes: The Moon must be near one of Rahu-Ketu’s nodes

Types of Solar Eclipses:

Spiritual Significance:

• Considered highly inauspicious time (Sutak काल - சூதக காலம்)
• No eating, drinking, or religious ceremonies during eclipse
• Pregnant women advised to stay indoors
• Temples close during eclipse
• After eclipse: Ritual bath (स्नान), charity (दान), mantra chanting

Sutak Period (சூதக காலம்):

• Start: 12 hours before solar eclipse (some traditions: 9 hours)
• During Eclipse: Complete fast, no cooking
• After Eclipse: Bath, fresh cooking, donations

Lunar Eclipse (चन्द्र ग्रहण - Chandra Grahanam)

What is a Lunar Eclipse?

A lunar eclipse occurs when the Earth passes between the Sun and Moon, casting Earth’s shadow on the Moon.

Hindu Astronomical Understanding:

• Caused by: Rahu (ராகு) swallowing the Moon
• Tithi: Occurs only on Purnima (பௌர்ணமி - Full Moon)
• Condition: Sun, Earth, and Moon are aligned
• Nodes: The Moon must be near one of Rahu-Ketu’s nodes

Types of Lunar Eclipses:

Spiritual Significance:

• Less severe than solar eclipse, but still inauspicious
• Fasting recommended during eclipse
• Chanting mantras, especially for Chandra (Moon)
• Ritual bath after eclipse
• Donations and charity

Sutak Period (சூதக காலம்):

• Start: 9 hours before lunar eclipse (some traditions: 3 hours)
• During Eclipse: Fasting preferred, minimal activities
• After Eclipse: Bath, prayers

Rahu and Ketu: The Shadow Planets

Rahu (राहु - ராகு) - The North Node (Ascending)

Characteristics:

• Symbol: Dragon’s head (serpent’s head)
• Nature: Malefic, shadowy, illusory
• Element: Air
• Color: Smoky, dark blue
• Gemstone: Hessonite garnet (गोमेद - கோமேதகம்)
• Day: Saturday (shares rulership with Saturn)
• Deity: Durga, Saraswati

Astrological Effects:

• Represents material desires, illusions, foreign influences
• Causes confusion, obsession, unexpected events
• Associated with: Technology, foreign travel, unconventional paths
• In mythology: The head that thinks and desires

Rahu Kalam (ராகு காலம்) - Inauspicious Period:

Each day has a 90-minute period ruled by Rahu, considered inauspicious for new beginnings:

Note: Times vary by location and sunrise/sunset. Consult local panchang.

Other Daily Inauspicious Periods

Like Rahu Kalam, there are other daily periods considered inauspicious or auspicious in Tamil astrology:

Yama Gandam (எமகண்டம்) - Lord Yama’s Period

Yama Gandam is another inauspicious period, ruled by Saturn (Shani) and associated with Yama (God of Death).

Significance:

• Avoided for new ventures, travel, important decisions
• Considered slightly less severe than Rahu Kalam
• Not auspicious for weddings, house warming, business openings

Gulika Kalam (குளிகை காலம்) - Son of Saturn’s Period

Gulika (also called Mandi or मांडि) is the upagraha (sub-planet) and son of Saturn (Shani).

Mythology - The Birth of Gulika:

According to ancient texts, when all the nine planets (Navagrahas) assembled at one place, Saturn (Shani) became extremely powerful. From his intense energy and shadow, a dark entity was born - Gulika (also known as Mandi).

• Father: Saturn (Shani - சனி)
• Nature: Shadow planet, represents obstacles and delays
• Symbolism: The dark, restricting influence of Saturn
• Appearance: Dark, smoke-colored entity

Gulika Kalam Timings:

Unique Characteristic:

Unlike Rahu Kalam and Yama Gandam which are avoided for starting new activities, Gulika Kalam has a special property:

When to Use Gulika Kalam:

Recommended for:

• ✅ House warming (you want to stay there long)
• ✅ Buying property (permanent investment)
• ✅ Establishing daily puja routines (want continuity)
• ✅ Starting medication for chronic conditions (needs continuation)
• ✅ Long-term business partnerships

Avoid for:

• ❌ Temporary travel
• ❌ Short-term projects
• ❌ One-time events
• ❌ Activities you may want to stop later

Kari Naal (கரி நாள்) - Inauspicious Days Based on Solar Calendar

Kari Naal (கரி = black/dark, நாள் = day) refers to specific inauspicious days in the Tamil solar calendar system.

Important Clarification:

Definition:

• Kari Naal is based on the solar (Saura) calendar system (சௌரமான கணக்கு)
• Calculated according to the Sun’s transit through each zodiac sign (Rasi)
• These are unchanging dates that occur every year on the same Tamil calendar date
• Total of 33 Kari Naal days in a Tamil year

Why Called “Black Day”?

• Represents periods of negative planetary influences during solar transits
• Named after the dark, malefic influences that dominate on these specific dates
• Codified in traditional Tamil astrological texts
• Considered highly unfavorable for new beginnings and auspicious activities

The 33 Fixed Kari Naal Dates (மாதவாரி கரி நாட்கள்)

Based on Varushaadhi Nool and traditional Tamil Panchangam:

Visual Distribution:

gantt
    title Kari Naal Distribution Across Tamil Months
    dateFormat X
    axisFormat %s
    
    section Chithirai
    2 days: 0, 2
    section Vaikasi
    3 days: 0, 3
    section Aani
    2 days: 0, 2
    section Aadi
    3 days: 0, 3
    section Aavani
    3 days: 0, 3
    section Purattasi
    2 days: 0, 2
    section Aippasi
    2 days: 0, 2
    section Karthigai
    3 days: 0, 3
    section Margazhi
    3 days: 0, 3
    section Thai
    5 days: 0, 5
    section Masi
    3 days: 0, 3
    section Panguni
    3 days: 0, 3

Notable Patterns:

• Thai month has the most Kari Naal days (5 days: 1, 2, 3, 11, 17)
• Thai 1, 2, 3 are consecutive Kari Naal days (3 days in a row)
• Some months have only 2 Kari Naal days (Chithirai, Aani, Purattasi, Aippasi)
• Most months have 3 Kari Naal days

What to AVOID on Kari Naal:

• ❌ Weddings and engagements (திருமணம், நிச்சயதார்த்தம்)
• ❌ House warming ceremonies (கிருஹ பிரவேசம்)
• ❌ Starting new business or ventures (புதிய தொழில் தொடக்கம்)
• ❌ Buying vehicles or property (வாகனம், சொத்து வாங்குதல்)
• ❌ Important travel or journeys (முக்கிய பயணம்)
• ❌ Medical surgeries (if elective) (அறுவை சிகிச்சை)
• ❌ Signing important contracts (முக்கிய ஒப்பந்தங்கள்)
• ❌ Starting education or new courses (கல்வி தொடக்கம்)
• ❌ Purchasing gold or jewelry (நகை வாங்குதல்)
• ❌ Performing upanayanam (sacred thread ceremony) (உபநயனம்)
• ❌ Inaugurations and foundation ceremonies (திறப்பு விழா, அஸ்திவாரம்)

What CAN and SHOULD Be Done on Kari Naal:

Highly Auspicious Activities:

• ✅ Paying off debts (கடன் அடைத்தல்) - MOST IMPORTANT
  • Kari Naal is considered the best day to clear long-standing debts
  • Traditional belief: “கரி நாளில் கடன் அடைத்தால், மீண்டும் கடன் வாங்கும் சூழல் உருவாகாது”
  • Translation: “If you pay off debts on Kari Naal, you will not fall into debt again”
  • This is the primary positive use of Kari Naal

Other Acceptable Activities:

• ✅ Routine daily activities (வழக்கமான நாள்நடவடிக்கைகள்)
• ✅ Spiritual practices and prayers (ஆன்மீக பயிற்சிகள், பூஜை)
• ✅ Fasting and penance (உபவாசம், தவம்)
• ✅ Visiting temples (கோயில் தரிசனம்)
• ✅ Charitable activities and donations (தானம், தர்மம்)
• ✅ Meditation and yoga (தியானம், யோகா)
• ✅ Reading scriptures (வேத பாராயணம்)
• ✅ Clearing financial obligations (நிதிக் கடமைகளை நிறைவேற்றுதல்)

How Kari Naal Works in Practice:

Example 1: Thai Month

• Thai 1, 2, 3 are consecutive Kari Naal days
• Since Thai 1 (Thai Pongal - Jan 14/15) is a major festival, it will still be celebrated
• But avoid starting new ventures or marriages on these dates
• Good time to pay off year-end debts

Example 2: Planning Ahead

• Check Tamil Panchangam for your wedding/business opening date
• If it falls on: Chithirai 6, 15 or Vaikasi 7, 16, 17, etc. → Choose another date
• These 33 dates are consistent every year

How to Identify Kari Naal:

• Tamil Panchangams mark these 33 dates with கரி notation
• Daily calendars highlight Kari Naal in black or with a black dot
• Since dates are fixed, you can memorize or reference the table above
• Modern Tamil Panchangam apps will alert you

Source and Authority:

• Based on Varushaadhi Nool (வருஷாதி நூல்) - ancient Tamil astrological text
• Follows Saura Mana (சௌர மான) - solar calendar calculation
• Recognized in traditional Tamil astrology and Panchangam systems
• These 33 dates remain constant across years

Nalla Neram (நல்ல நேரம்) - Good/Auspicious Time

Nalla Neram represents the auspicious periods of the day when positive activities can be undertaken.

Significance:

• Suitable for starting new work, travel, meetings
• Good for routine activities and daily tasks
• Periods when negative influences are minimal

Gauri Nalla Neram (கவுரி நல்ல நேரம்) - Goddess Gauri’s Auspicious Time

Gauri Nalla Neram is especially auspicious for women’s activities, pujas, and household matters.

Significance:

• Highly auspicious for women
• Ideal for: Goddess worship, women’s ceremonies, buying jewelry
• Starting household activities, cooking special meals
• Particularly good for Lakshmi and Parvati worship

Summary of Daily Periods:

flowchart LR
    A[Daily 12-Hour Period] --> B[Divided into 8 segments
Each ~1.5 hours]
    B --> C[Inauspicious Periods]
    B --> D[Auspicious Periods]
    
    C --> E[Rahu Kalam
ராகு காலம்
Most Avoided]
    C --> F[Yama Gandam
எமகண்டம்
Moderately Avoided]
    C --> G[Gulika Kalam
குளிகை
Avoided for New Work]
    
    D --> H[Nalla Neram
நல்ல நேரம்
Good for All]
    D --> I[Gauri Nalla Neram
கவுரி நல்ல நேரம்
Good for Women]
    
    style E fill:#ffe1e1,stroke:#f44336
    style F fill:#ffe1e1,stroke:#ff9800
    style G fill:#ffe1e1,stroke:#ff9800
    style H fill:#e8f5e9,stroke:#4caf50
    style I fill:#f3e5f5,stroke:#9c27b0

Ketu (केतु - கேது) - The South Node (Descending)

Characteristics:

• Symbol: Dragon’s tail (serpent’s tail)
• Nature: Malefic but spiritual
• Element: Fire
• Color: Smoky, grey
• Gemstone: Cat’s eye (वैडूर्य - வைடூரியம்)
• Day: Tuesday (shares rulership with Mars)
• Deity: Ganesha, Matsya (Fish avatar of Vishnu)

Astrological Effects:

• Represents spirituality, detachment, moksha (liberation)
• Causes sudden losses, separation, spiritual awakening
• Associated with: Occult, mysticism, intuition, past life karma
• In mythology: The body that acts on instinct without thinking

Ketu Kalam (கேது காலம்):

Similar to Rahu Kalam, some traditions observe Ketu Kalam, though it’s less commonly followed.

Eclipse Rituals and Practices

Before Eclipse:

• Complete all cooking before Sutak begins
• Purify the house
• Place Tulsi (holy basil) or Kusha grass in food/water to prevent “contamination”
• Pregnant women: Stay indoors, avoid using sharp objects

During Eclipse:

• Fasting: Complete abstinence from food/water (or light fruits)
• Mantra Chanting:
  • Solar Eclipse: Surya mantras (ॐ सूर्याय नमः - Om Suryaya Namaha)
  • Lunar Eclipse: Chandra mantras (ॐ चन्द्राय नमः - Om Chandraya Namaha)
  • Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra for protection
• No Religious Activities: No puja, no temple visits
• Meditation: Considered powerful time for spiritual practices
• Avoid: Eating, sleeping, drinking, traveling

After Eclipse:

• Ritual Bath (स्नान): Purification bath with water + sesame seeds
• Discard Old Food: Food prepared before eclipse is considered impure
• Fresh Cooking: Prepare fresh meals
• Donations (दान): Give to the needy (food, clothes, money)
• Temple Visit: After bath, visit temple for darshan
• Mantra Completion: Complete 108 repetitions of mantras

Scientific vs Spiritual Understanding

Modern Science:

• Eclipses are predictable astronomical events
• Caused by the alignment of Sun, Moon, and Earth
• Safe to observe with proper eye protection (solar eclipse)
• No inherent danger to pregnant women or food

Hindu Spiritual Tradition:

• Eclipses mark periods of cosmic imbalance
• Time when negative energies are amplified
• Rahu-Ketu’s influence creates spiritual opportunities
• Fasting and mantras purify the mind and body
• Rituals connect to ancient wisdom and cultural continuity

Balanced Approach:

Many modern Hindus balance both perspectives:

• Understanding the science while respecting tradition
• Using eclipse time for meditation and introspection
• Observing some rituals as cultural practice
• Maintaining personal spiritual practices without superstition

flowchart TD
    A[Eclipse Formation] --> B{Type?}
    
    B -->|Sun-Moon-Earth| C[Solar Eclipse
சூரிய கிரகணம்
Amavasya Only]
    B -->|Sun-Earth-Moon| D[Lunar Eclipse
சந்திர கிரகணம்
Purnima Only]
    
    C --> E[Rahu Swallows Sun
ராகு சூரியனை விழுங்குகிறது]
    D --> F[Rahu Swallows Moon
ராகு சந்திரனை விழுங்குகிறது]
    
    E --> G[Sutak Period
12 hours before
Fast, No Cooking]
    F --> H[Sutak Period
9 hours before
Fast, Prayers]
    
    G --> I[After Eclipse:
Bath, Charity, Fresh Food
Mantra Chanting]
    H --> I
    
    style C fill:#fff4e1,stroke:#ff9800
    style D fill:#e1f5ff,stroke:#2196f3
    style E fill:#ffe1e1,stroke:#f44336
    style F fill:#ffe1e1,stroke:#f44336
    style I fill:#e8f5e9,stroke:#4caf50

Special Tamil Calendar Concepts

Special Yogas in Tamil Calendar

Tamil panchangams list certain special yogas formed by specific combinations of tithi, vara, and nakshatra. These are highly significant for determining auspiciousness:

Siddha Yoga (சித்த யோகம்) - Perfection Yoga

Definition: A highly auspicious combination formed when specific tithis, weekdays, and nakshatras align.

Characteristics:

• Considered one of the best yogas for all activities
• Success assured in new ventures
• Particularly good for: Marriages, business openings, buying property, starting education

Formation: Created by favorable combinations like:

• Sunday + Hasta, Uttara Phalguni, Uttara Ashadha, Uttara Bhadrapada nakshatras
• Monday + Rohini, Mrigashira, Punarvasu, Chitra, Shravana nakshatras
• And other specific combinations listed in panchangam

Tamil Significance: Called “சித்த யோகம்” - the yoga of accomplishment and perfection.

Amrita Yoga (அமிர்த யோகம்) - Nectar Yoga

Definition: An extremely auspicious yoga, named after the divine nectar of immortality.

Characteristics:

• Second only to Siddha Yoga in auspiciousness
• Brings blessings and prosperity
• Ideal for: Religious ceremonies, temple visits, charity, starting spiritual practices

Formation: Specific combinations of vara and nakshatra:

• Sunday + Pushya, Hasta, Abhijit nakshatras
• Monday + Ashwini, Shravana nakshatras
• Thursday + Anuradha, Revati nakshatras
• And other combinations

Tamil Significance: Called “அமிர்த யோகம்” - the yoga that bestows divine blessings like nectar.

Marana Yoga (மரண யோகம்) - Death/Inauspicious Yoga

Definition: An extremely inauspicious yoga to be strictly avoided for all new beginnings.

Characteristics:

• Most unfavorable combination
• Brings obstacles, failures, and misfortune
• Strictly avoided for: Weddings, housewarming, starting business, travel, medical procedures

Formation: Unfortunate combinations of vara and nakshatra:

• Sunday + Bharani nakshatra
• Monday + Magha nakshatra
• Tuesday + Purva Phalguni, Purva Ashadha, Purva Bhadrapada nakshatras
• Saturday + any nakshatra during certain tithis
• And other inauspicious combinations

Tamil Significance: Called “மரண யோகம்” - literally “death yoga”, indicating extreme inauspiciousness.

Comparison Table:

Nakshatra-Based Day Classification

In Tamil astrology and Panchangam, days are classified based on which Nakshatra (star constellation) is prevailing. This classification is used to determine auspiciousness for various activities.

Mel Nokku Naal (மேல் நோக்கு நாள்) - Upward Looking Day

Definition: Days when one of the 9 specific “upward-looking” nakshatras is prevailing.

The 9 Mel Nokku Nakshatras:

Characteristics:

• Highly Auspicious for: Growth-oriented activities, upward progression
• Best for:
  • Starting construction (especially multi-story buildings)
  • Planting trees and crops
  • Career advancement activities
  • Education and learning new skills
  • Buying property or vehicles
  • Beginning upward journeys (air travel)
• Symbolism: These nakshatras are believed to “look upward,” bestowing growth and elevation

How to Determine: Check your daily Tamil Panchangam to see if today’s nakshatra is one of the 9 listed above. If yes, it’s Mel Nokku Naal.

Keezh Nokku Naal (கீழ் நோக்கு நாள்) - Downward Looking Day

Definition: Days when one of the 9 specific “downward-looking” nakshatras is prevailing.

The 9 Keezh Nokku Nakshatras:

Characteristics:

• Less auspicious for: New beginnings and upward ventures
• Suitable for:
  • Digging wells and borewells
  • Underground construction (basements, foundations)
  • Mining activities
  • Planting root vegetables
  • Downward journeys
  • Demolition work
  • Ancestor worship and rituals
• Avoid:
  • Starting new businesses
  • Important purchases
  • Weddings and celebrations
  • Career-related activities
• Symbolism: These nakshatras “look downward,” suitable for underground/earthly activities

Sama Nokku Naal (சம நோக்கு நாள்) - Equal Looking Day

Definition: Days when one of the 9 “neutral” or “equal-looking” nakshatras is prevailing.

The 9 Sama Nokku Nakshatras:

Characteristics:

• Neutral nature: Neither particularly good nor bad
• Suitable for:
  • Routine daily activities
  • Regular work and business
  • Maintenance activities
  • Balanced, moderate endeavors
  • Activities requiring stability
• Symbolism: These nakshatras “look equally” in all directions, providing balance

Summary Table:

Total: 27 nakshatras (9 + 9 + 9 = 27)

Shulam (சூலம்) - Directional Inauspicious Pointer

Shulam (சூலம்) literally means “spear” or “pointed weapon” and indicates an inauspicious direction for each day.

Definition: Each day of the week has a specific direction that is considered unlucky for travel or starting journeys.

Daily Shulam Directions:

Usage:

• Travel: Avoid traveling in the Shulam direction on that day
• New Ventures: Avoid starting businesses or construction in that direction
• Flexibility: If travel is essential, perform remedial prayers or start at an auspicious time

Example:

• On Monday (திங்கள்), Shulam is North (வடக்கு)
• Avoid traveling north on Mondays if possible
• If unavoidable, start journey during an auspicious muhurta

Chandrashtama (சந்திராஷ்டமம்) - Lunar Eighth

Chandrashtama (சந்திராஷ்டமம்) is an inauspicious period based on the Moon’s position relative to your birth moon sign (Janma Rashi).

Definition: The period when the transiting Moon is in the 8th house (8th sign) from your birth Moon sign.

Calculation:

• Find your birth moon sign (Janma Rashi / ஜன்ம ராசி)
• Count 8 signs forward from your birth moon
• When the current Moon transits that sign = Chandrashtama

Example:

• If your birth moon is in Aries (மேஷம் - Mesham)
• Count 8 signs: Aries → Taurus → Gemini → Cancer → Leo → Virgo → Libra → Scorpio
• When Moon transits Scorpio (விருச்சிகம் - Viruchikam) = Your Chandrashtama

Duration:

• Occurs once every month
• Lasts approximately 2.25 days (the time Moon spends in one sign)

Characteristics:

• Mental stress: Anxiety, restlessness, emotional turmoil
• Obstacles: Difficulties in ongoing work
• Health: Minor ailments, fatigue
• Avoid: Starting new important work, major decisions, travel (if possible)

Impact Varies:

• Mild for routine days
• Significant when combined with other inauspicious factors

The 12 Zodiac Signs (Rashi):

Chandrashtama Table (8th from each Rashi):

Remedies:

• Chant Moon mantras (Om Chandraya Namaha - ॐ चन्द्राय नमः)
• Wear pearl or moonstone (if astrologically suitable)
• Avoid major decisions during this period
• Worship Lord Shiva
• Donate white items (rice, milk) on Mondays

How to Find Tithis: Using a Panchang

What is a Panchang?

Panchang (பஞ்சாங்கம் in Tamil) literally means “five limbs” - a Hindu almanac that provides:

The Five Elements (Panchangam):

1. Tithi (திதி): Lunar day
2. Vara (வாரம்): Weekday
3. Nakshatra (நட்சத்திரம்): Constellation
4. Yoga (யோகம்): Astronomical combination
5. Karana (கரணம்): Half-tithi

Modern Tools

Traditional:

• Printed almanacs (பஞ்சாங்கம் books)
• Temple calendars

Digital:

• Drik Panchang app/website
• ISKCON calendar
• Tamil Panchangam apps
• Google Calendar (Hindu holidays)

Summary: Festival Calculation Quick Reference

flowchart TD
    A[Want to find a Hindu Festival date?] --> B{What type?}
    
    B -->|Tithi-based| C[Check Panchang for:
Month + Paksha + Tithi]
    B -->|Solar-based| D[Check Solar Transit:
Sun's zodiac entry]
    B -->|Nakshatra-based| E[Check Star constellation:
Nakshatra alignment]
    
    C --> C1[Examples:
Diwali = Kartik Krishna Amavasya
Navaratri = Ashwin Shukla 1-9
Shivaratri = Masi Krishna 14]
    
    D --> D1[Examples:
Pongal = Sun enters Capricorn
Vishu = Sun enters Aries
Makar Sankranti = Jan 14-15]
    
    E --> E1[Examples:
Karthigai Deepam = Krittika + Purnima
Thiruvathira = Ardra Nakshatra]
    
    style A fill:#e6f3ff
    style C fill:#fff9e1
    style D fill:#ffe6f0
    style E fill:#f0e6ff

Key Takeaways

The 60-Year Tamil Cycle (அறுபது ஆண்டுகள்)

The 60-year cycle, also called Samvatsara Chakra (संवत्सर चक्र), is a unique Hindu-Tamil calendar system where years are named instead of numbered.

Origin and Significance

Astronomical Basis:

• Based on Jupiter’s (Guru/Brihaspati) orbital period
• Jupiter takes approximately 12 years to complete one orbit around the Sun
• 12 years × 5 cycles = 60-year cycle
• The cycle completed by the conjunction of Jupiter and Saturn

Why 60 Years?

• 12 Rasis (zodiac signs) × 5 elements (Pancha Bhuta) = 60
• LCM of Jupiter’s 12-year cycle and Saturn’s 30-year cycle = 60
• Represents completion and cosmic renewal

The 60 Year Names (அறுபது வருட பெயர்கள்)

Each year has a unique Sanskrit name with Tamil pronunciation. Here are all 60 years in order:

Years 1-10:

Years 11-20:

Years 21-30:

Years 31-40:

Years 41-50:

Years 51-60:

Current Year and Cycle

How to Find Current Tamil Year:

• Tamil panchangams list the current year name
• The cycle repeats every 60 years
• 2024 CE = Krodhi (குரோதி) - Year #38
• 2025 CE = Vishvavasu (விஶ்வாவசு) - Year #39
• After Kshaya (#60), the cycle restarts with Prabhava (#1)

Last Complete Cycle:

• Previous cycle: 1987-2046 (current cycle)
• Next cycle: 2047-2106

Cultural Significance

60th Birthday Celebration (Shashtiabdapoorthi / அறுபதாம் கல்யாணம்):

• Completing 60 years means you’ve lived through one complete cosmic cycle
• Called “Shastiabdapoorthi” (षष्ट्यब्दपूर्ति) in Sanskrit
• Tamil: “Sashtiyabdapurthi” or 60th birthday (அறுபது வயது)
• Celebrated as a second wedding ceremony
• Highly auspicious - signifies rebirth and renewal
• Family gathers to honor the elder

Astrological Importance:

• Each year has its own characteristics and predictions
• Astrologers use year names in horoscope calculations
• Certain years considered more auspicious than others

Religious Usage:

• Year name mentioned in temple rituals and sankalpa (vows)
• Used in determining festival dates and muhurtas
• Part of the Panchanga (five limbs of time)

Visual: 60-Year Cycle Structure

flowchart TD
    A[60-Year Cycle] --> B[Jupiter's 12-year orbit × 5]
    A --> C[5 Groups of 12 years each]
    
    C --> D[Years 1-12: Prabhava to Bahudhanya]
    C --> E[Years 13-24: Pramathi to Vikruti]
    C --> F[Years 25-36: Khara to Shubhakrut]
    C --> G[Years 37-48: Shobhana to Ananda]
    C --> H[Years 49-60: Rakshasa to Kshaya]
    
    H --> I[Cycle Restarts]
    I --> D
    
    style A fill:#ffeb3b,stroke:#f57c00,stroke-width:3px
    style I fill:#4caf50,stroke:#2e7d32,stroke-width:2px

Conclusion: Living by the Lunar Rhythm

The Hindu lunar calendar, with its intricate system of tithis, pakshas, nakshatras, and the 60-year cycle, offers a sophisticated framework for spiritual observance. Understanding these concepts helps us appreciate:

✅ Why festivals fall on “different dates” each year (they don’t—they follow lunar consistency)
✅ How ancient astronomers created precise timekeeping without modern technology
✅ When to observe specific rituals and fasts
✅ The connection between celestial movements and spiritual practices

From the waxing moon of Shukla Paksha (வளர்பிறை) to the waning moon of Krishna Paksha (தேய்பிறை), from the sacred twilight of Pradosham (பிரதோஷம்) to the darkest night of Shivaratri (சிவராத்திரி), the lunar calendar weaves a tapestry of time that has guided spiritual practice for millennia.

Whether you’re observing Ekadashi fasts (ஏகாதசி விரதம்), celebrating Diwali lights (தீபாவளி), dancing during Navaratri (நவராத்திரி), lighting lamps for Karthigai Deepam (கார்த்திகை தீபம்), or harvesting during Pongal (பொங்கல்), you’re participating in a timeless rhythm that connects the cosmos, culture, and consciousness.

References:

• Traditional Tamil Panchangam
• Surya Siddhanta (Ancient Indian astronomy text)
• Vedanga Jyotisha
• Regional Hindu calendars (North & South India)
• Drik Panchang and other astronomical calculators