In the Hindu calendar, also known as the Panchang, a tithi is a lunar day, calculated as the time it takes for the longitudinal angle between the sun and the moon to increase by 12°. Vedic Astrology defines a month as having 30 tithis. A tithi is a crucial component in determining auspicious timings for various activities in Hindu tradition.
The Hindu Panchang divides tithis into two fortnights: Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) and Krishna Paksha (waning moon), each containing 15 tithis. These tithis are not fixed in length, ranging from approximately 19 to 26 hours, and begin at different times of the day. This dynamic nature is what makes determining “today’s Hindu calendar date” a complex calculation, requiring specific date and location information.
Each tithi holds specific significance and is associated with a particular deity, influencing its auspiciousness for different activities. For instance, Prathama (the first tithi) is considered highly auspicious for any religious ceremony, while Dwitiya (the second tithi) is favorable for laying foundations. Certain tithis are ideal for specific actions: Tritiya for haircuts, Chaturthi for overcoming obstacles, Panchami for surgeries, and so forth. Each subsequent tithi, from Shashthi to Chaturdashi, carries its unique energy and recommended activities.
Understanding the current tithi is crucial for planning important events and religious observances. Auspicious tithis are sought for weddings, starting new ventures, and religious rituals, while inauspicious tithis are avoided for such activities. The full moon (Poornima) and new moon (Amavasya) hold special significance, associated with specific deities and rituals.
Image Representing the Concept of Panchang and Tithi Calculation
The 15 tithis in each paksha culminate in either Poornima or Amavasya. Poornima, ruled by the Moon, is ideal for celebrations and fire sacrifices, while Amavasya, governed by Pitru-divas, is dedicated to ancestral veneration. The continuous cycle of tithis, alongside other elements like nakshatras (lunar mansions) and yogas (auspicious combinations), forms the intricate framework of the Hindu calendar, guiding daily life and spiritual practices. Knowing “What Is Today Hindu Calendar” requires understanding the specific tithi prevailing on that day. Many Hindu festivals and rituals are linked to specific tithis, often falling on Amavasya or Poornima, making knowledge of the current tithi essential for participation in these cultural and religious events. All tithis occur twice in a lunar month, except for the unique occurrences of Amavasya and Poornima.
The calculation of the current tithi involves complex astronomical calculations based on the Moon’s movement relative to the Sun. While online resources and Panchangs provide this information, consulting with an expert in Vedic Astrology can offer personalized insights into the specific influences of the current tithi based on individual birth charts. This deeper understanding allows individuals to make informed decisions and align their actions with the auspicious timings of the Hindu calendar.
