Question 1

What is Panchang and how do I read it?

Accepted Answer

Panchang is the traditional Hindu calendar and almanac. It consists of five (panch) elements (ang): Tithi (lunar day), Nakshatra (lunar mansion/constellation), Yoga (luni-solar combination), Karana (half of a Tithi), and Vara (weekday). Each element influences the auspiciousness of a given time period for various activities.

Question 2

What is Tithi in Hindu calendar?

Accepted Answer

Tithi is a lunar day in the Hindu calendar, determined by the angular distance between the sun and moon. There are 30 tithis in a lunar month — 15 in the waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) and 15 in the waning phase (Krishna Paksha). Key tithis include Purnima (full moon), Amavasya (new moon), and Ekadashi (11th day).

Question 3

What is Nakshatra and why is it important?

Accepted Answer

Nakshatra refers to the 27 lunar mansions or star constellations that the moon passes through during its monthly orbit. Each nakshatra spans 13°20' of the zodiac and has specific qualities that influence activities. For example, Pushya nakshatra is considered highly auspicious for all activities, while Ashlesha is better for strategic matters.

Question 4

What is Rahu Kaal and why should I avoid it?

Accepted Answer

Rahu Kaal is an inauspicious time period that occurs daily, lasting approximately 1.5 hours. It is governed by Rahu, a shadow planet in Vedic astrology associated with obstacles and confusion. Hindus avoid starting new ventures, signing important documents, or beginning travel during Rahu Kaal. The timing varies by day of the week and location.

Question 5

What is the difference between Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha?

Accepted Answer

Shukla Paksha is the waxing (bright) fortnight when the moon grows from new moon to full moon, considered generally auspicious for new beginnings. Krishna Paksha is the waning (dark) fortnight when the moon decreases from full moon to new moon, traditionally considered better for spiritual practices, meditation, and ancestor worship.

Question 6

How are auspicious times (Muhurat) calculated?

Accepted Answer

Muhurat is calculated by analyzing multiple Panchang factors — Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana, and weekday — along with planetary positions. A good Muhurat avoids Rahu Kaal, Gulika Kaal, and Yamaganda while aligning positive tithis and nakshatras. Special muhurats like Abhijit Muhurat (midday) and Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn) are universally auspicious.

Hindu Panchang Calendar

October 2026

Calendar Legend

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