Understanding Panchang: The Hindu Almanac Explained

The Panchang (literally "five limbs") is the Hindu calendar and almanac that provides essential information for determining auspicious times, festivals, and daily spiritual activities.

The Five Elements (Panch-Ang):

1. Tithi (Lunar Day): 30 tithis in a lunar month — 15 in waxing (Shukla Paksha), 15 in waning (Krishna Paksha).

1. Nakshatra (Lunar Mansion): 27 nakshatras through which the Moon passes.

1. Yoga: 27 yogas formed by the combined motion of Sun and Moon.

1. Karana: Half of a tithi; there are 11 Karanas.

1. Var (Weekday): Each day ruled by a planet.

Important Daily Timings:

• Rahu Kaal: Inauspicious period (~1.5 hours daily)
• Brahma Muhurta: Most auspicious time, 1hr 36min before sunrise
• Abhijit Muhurat: Universally auspicious time around midday