Vedic Calendar Pancha
Vedic Calendar Pancha
Vedic Calendar Pancha
Calendar
THE KADAVUL
HINDU PANCHANGAM
Satguru Sivaya
Subramuniyaswami
Published by
Himalayan Academy
Kapaa, Hawaii
Third Edition
Copyright 1997
by Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami
This book may be used to share the Hindu Dharma with others on the
path, but only with the prior written consent of the publisher. Vedic
Calendar is edited, designed and produced by the monks of the Saiva
Siddhanta Yoga Order & published by Himalayan Academy, 107 Kaholalele Road, Kapaa, Hawaii 96746-9304 USA.
Published by
Himalayan Academy
107 Kaholalele Road
Kapaa, Hawaii 96746-9304 USA
Phone: (808) 8223152
Fax:
(808) 8224351
WWW: http//:www.Hinduism
Today.kauai.hi.us/
E-mail: letters@hinduismtoday.kauai.hi.us
ISBN: 0-945497-12-1
THE SAIVITE SERIES
CONTENTS
Introduction .................................................................................................................................1
Chapter One: Divisions of Time ..............................................................................................4
Announcing Time/Space Coordinatesthe Samkalpa.............................................4
The YearSamvatsara ...................................................................................................5
The Half-YearAyana ...................................................................................................6
The Six SeasonsRtau ...................................................................................................6
The MonthMaseSolar and Lunar..........................................................................7
Light and Dark FortnightPaksha ..............................................................................8
The Moon Sign or Rasi ...................................................................................................8
The DaySolar and Lunar ............................................................................................9
Retreat Days...................................................................................................................10
The Half-DayKarana.................................................................................................11
The Constellation of the DayNakshatra.................................................................11
Ending Times .................................................................................................................12
Chapter Two: Other Indicators...............................................................................................13
Eight Daytime Periodsthe Kalas .............................................................................13
The Yogas........................................................................................................................13
MooleamneaMathematical Code of the Siva Era System ....................................14
The Color of the Day........................................................................................14
Deity Clothing Colors .....................................................................................14
The Gem Of the Day ........................................................................................15
Festivals and Other Special Days................................................................................15
Pradosha Vrata Days ........................................................................................16
Ardra and Siva Abhishekams.........................................................................16
Family Home Evening.....................................................................................16
Ashram Sadhana Days ....................................................................................17
General AuspiciousnessBhuloka Days, Devaloka Days, etc................................18
Chapter Three: The Science of Good TimingMuhurtha ...............................................20
Marriage, Home-Blessing and New Ventures...........................................................20
Nakshatra Consideration .............................................................................................21
Best Times for Travel.....................................................................................................23
Yoga Consideration .......................................................................................................23
Wisdom, Not Superstition; Karma and Dharma ......................................................23
Hints for Learning to Use the Calendar ....................................................................24
The TithisA Diagram............................................................................................................28
Glossary ........................................................................................................................................v
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AUM GANESHA!
INTRODUCTION
elcome to the Vedic Calendar: The Kadavul Hindu Panchangam. If this is your
first introduction to a Hindu calendar, you have a great adventure ahead of you
which we know will give you a new appreciation of time.
Vedic Calendar is a sophisticated tool for planning, not unlike a western
farmers almanac. It provides vital information about astrological factors, planets
and starsaspects of our subtle environment which are unseen but strongly felt.
With this esoteric knowledge at our disposal, we come to understand the characteristics of the planets and the stars and how they relate to the human psyche.
These effects are real and dramatic. We experience the effects of the changes and
movements of celestial bodies, just as the tides are influenced by the gravitational
attraction of the moon and the sun. We sense seasonal changes. We respond to the
influence of the massive planet Jupiter as it passes through its 12-year cycle,
though we may not be aware of it. Over a dozen factors, each of which moves in
cycles through the year, month or day, are designated in Vedic Calendar. Many are
easy for the novice to understand and immediately incorporate as planning factors, just as one considers the weather before selecting a wardrobe for the day.
Others require a bit more study and experience.
Vedic Calendar is no ordinary calendar or almanac. It is far more complex
than the simple Gregorian calendar normally used in the West and far more useful. It is patterned after the traditional panchangams used throughout Sri Lanka
and South India which employ the Nirayana (sidereal) zodiacal system. Panchanga, a Sanskrit word, means five limbs, which refers to the fact that every
panchangam includes the five basic elements of tithi (lunar day), nakshatra (the
constellation the moon is aligned with), karana (half-day), yoga (a particular angle
of the sun and moon) and vara or vasara (solar weekday). Panchangams furnish
other astronomical information which is extensively used by astrologers, as well
as the times of all forthcoming religious events. Most modern panchangams, such
as Vedic Calendar, also include Gregorian (Western) calendar information, which
has been adopted as the unified world standard.
The basic principles of both eastern and western calendars were originally
conceived thousands of years ago by great masters in Hindu astronomy, a field of
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mining the best activities on a given day and planning important events.
In addition, for easy reference, at the end of chapter three you will find a
chart briefly indicating the meaning of each entry used in the calendar. Most of
the non-English entries are in Sanskrit. Definitions to most Sanskrit, Tamil and
technical terms are given in the glossary at the back of the book.
From tithi the stages of growth and decay, from varas the longer
life, from nakshatra the seizure of bad actions, from yoga the cure
of ill-health, from karana the result of the work, with all these the
calendar or panchanga gives the required results.
Skanda Narayanan
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Invaluable assistance was received in the creation of Vedic Calendar
through the years from expert Hindu astrologers and from Sivachariyas (temple
priests) from South India, for whom a panchangam is an essential tool. We are
very grateful for their assistance in answering the many questions that arose as
the calendar was being developed and programmed into the computer so that the
calculations could be made automatically year after year, far into the future.
We would like to convey a special thanks to the following: B. Shanmugam
Gurukkal of Pondicherry, south India; Pundit K.N. Navaratnam, an eminent astrologer from Jaffna, Sri Lanka, who now resides in Australia; Pandit Ravichandran, Sahitya Siromani and Priest, Livermore, California, for helping with the
translation of certain words for the glossary. A special thanks to Devendra L.
Trivedi of Fremont, California, publisher of the Palani Panchang, for his contribution of the sunrise calculations and yoga formula, and for his timely advice and
checking of our work; and to Devendras father, Laxmishankar G. Trivedi. Thanks
to Sri Kumaraswamy Gurukkal of Madras for his explanation of how the Indian
pathasalas (priest schools) function according to the phase calendar, his instruction in Sanskrit to the monks and assistance in translation of Sanskrit and Tamil.
Last but not least, we thank Apple Computer for inventing the Apple II and Power
Macintosh and ACIUS for its 4th Dimension used to program and print the calendar.
CHAPTER ONE
DIVISIONS OF TIME
elling time has been refined to a science in the Hindu culture. And nowhere is
time given greater prominence than in the Hindu temple. If you are accustomed
to Western time concepts, the following overview of time from the Hindu perspective will be illuminating.
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of Waialeale, along the Wailua River on the parcel of land where heaven meets the
earth!
These greater delineations are followed by further diminishing designations of time, all of which are found on your calendar in the paragraph at the top
of each days designations. This includes the name of the year, the half-year, the
season, month, fortnight, day, nakshatra, yoga and tithi. Each of these important
elements of the calendar is explained below.
THE YEARSAMVATSARA
In India there are numerous era systems in use. The Kali Era, Vikrama Era,
Saka Era and the Kollam Era are several of the era systems being followed today.
Vedic Calendar incorporates three different types of era systems. First, the Gregorian or Christian Era system is used for modern day convenience. Second, we use
the Kali Era, which is followed in various Hindu traditions including the Tamil. It
began around February 17, 3102 BCE. The exact date varies according to the
method of calculation. The third system used in Vedic Calendar is the Siva Era
which began February 16, 1973, the first day of the lunar month in which the Siva
Nataraja Deity was installed in the Kadavul Hindu Temple.
The current year is listed on each day of Vedic Calendar in these three era
forms. To the third line of the last column is the name and number of the Kali Era,
e.g. Pramodha 5092. In the fourth line are the Gregorian years of the Kali Era year.
In the fifth line is the circle (year) and cycle (3-year period) of the Siva Era system.
The Hindu year for the Kali Era system begins when the Sun enters the
sign of Mesha (Aries). In the Gregorian, of course, it begins January 1. And in the
Siva Era system the beginning of the year varies year to year. The new years day
marked on the calendar for celebration is that of the Kali era. It is a day of great
importance, and a time of celebration, marking the dawn of a new year cycle.
ba, Vilamba, Vikarin, Sarvari, Plava, Subhakrit, Sobhana, Krodhin, Visvavasu, Parabhava, Palavanga, Kilaka, Saumaya, Sadharana, Virodhakrit,
Paridhavin, Pramadin, Ananda, Rakshasa, Anala (or Nala), Pingala,
Kalayukta, Siddharthin, Raudra, Durmati, Dundubhi, Rudhirodgarin,
Raktaksha, Krodhana and Kshaya (or Akshaya).
Each name suggests the general feeling of the year it denotes. The year
5086 (1984) was known as Raktakshi, she with red eyes. The year 5087 (1985)
was Krodhana, the year of anger. The year 5088 (1986), the last in Jupiters cycle,
was Kshayadecay, destruction or end. The year 5089 (1987), Prabhava, the first
year in the new cycle, means arise, spring forth; source, origin. The year 5090
(1988) was Vibhava, light, luster, splendor, beauty. The following year, 5091
(1989), was Sukla, bright, pure, unsullied. And 5092 (1990) is Pramoda, excessive joy, delight or gladness. The year 5093 (1991) is Prajapati, Lord (pati) of
creature, or Father of creation.
THE JOVIAN YEAR OR BARHASPATYA VARSA SYSTEM
For the information of those with a background in astrology, a word of explanation about the Jupiter cycle as a basis for naming the years may be helpful.
Actually it stems from another year system known as Barhaspatya Varsa or Jovian
(Jupiter) year system in which the year is measured by the time period of Jupiter's
motion through one Zodiac sign. Traveling through 12 rasis (zodiac signs), Jupiter
makes a complete sidereal revolution, comprising 12 Jovian years. Five revolutions around the sun forms the 60-year cycle of Jupiter.
THE HALF-YEARAYANA
Each year is divided into two halves, known as ayana. The fourth word in
the sankalpam indicates the ayana, the current six month periodeither Uttarayana or Dakshinayana. Uttarayana begins on the day of the winter solstice,
normally December 21, when the sun begins its apparent northward journey.
Dakshinayana begins on the first day of the summer solstice, normally June 21,
marking the suns southward movement. The two days commencing the two
ayanas are considered sacred and known as punya kala, times of great merit. The
current ayana is the second item in the sankalpam in Vedic Calendar.
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duration.
1)
The new year begins with Vasanta Rtau, the season when the trees
and plants are blossoming, which begins on the first day of Mesha
Mase (mid-April).
2) Grishma Rtau, commencing at the start of Maithuna Mase (in midJune), is the hot summer.
3) The rainy season, Varsha Rtau, begins in Simha Mase (mid-August).
4) Sara Rtau, the season of fruits, begin in Thula Mase (mid-October).
5) Hemantha Rtau, the cold season, begins in mid-December.
6) Sisir Rtau, the last season of the year, begins in Kumbha Mase (midFebruary), when trees and plants begin sprouting new leaves.
In Vedic Calendar the season is the third notation in the sankalpam. At
Kauais Hindu Monastery we follow three seasons as outlined in the Saiva Dharma
Shastras. Each season a different textbook is studied. They are as follows:
1) Nartana Ritau, the season of Dancing With Siva, begins on Hindu
New Year. This is the period of creation, the warm season, from midApril through mid-August.
2) During Jivana Ritau, the rainy season, from mid-August to mid-December, Living with Siva: Hinduisms Contemporary Culture is the primary text.
3) The third period of the year, Moksha Ritau, the cool season, is from
mid-December to mid-April. Merging With Siva: Hinduisms Contemporary Metaphysics is the focus of study and intense investigation.
SOLAR MONTHS
The Hindu astronomical text, Surya-Siddhanta, defines the solar month as
the time it takes the sun to traverse one rasi (Zodiac sign), measured from the
time of entry into one rasi (this point is known as a samkranti) and the next.
The point when the sun enters Mesha (Aries) rasi is widely accepted as the
beginning of the year. Thus the first solar month is called Mesha in Sanskrit.
The Sanskrit names of the solar months are listed in Vedic Calendar. Each is
named after the sign of the zodiac that the sun is in. Their names are Mesha
(Aries), Vrshabha (Taurus), Mithuna (Gemini), Kataka (Cancer), Simha (Leo),
Kanya (Virgo), Thula (Libra), Vrschika (Scorpio), Dhanus (Sagittarius), Makara
(Capricorn), Kumbha (Aquarius) and Meena (Pisces). The Sanskrit name of the
current solar month is found at the top of each days notations, in the middle preceded by the word mase.
LUNAR MONTHS
The lunar month is measured either by the period covered from one newmoon to the next, known as the amanta or mukhya mana system, or from one fullmoon to the next one, known as the purnimanta or gauna mana system. Vedic Calendar uses the purnimanta lunar month system. Each lunar month is simply
named Moon 1, Moon 2, Moon 3, etc. This notation is found at the very top of each
calendar page.
In India and other parts of the world those who follow a panchangam
strictly, such as Vedic schools, known as gurukulams or pathasalas, live their
life by the lunar month, moon, or masa.
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gardening activity dates. The rasi is listed in the first column for each day. The
moon takes a little over two and one-half days to traverse one zodiac sign. The
rasis are Mesha (Aries), Vrshabha (Taurus), Mithuna (Gemini), Kataka (Cancer),
Simha (Leo), Kanya (Virgo), Thula (Libra), Vrschika (Scorpio), Dhanus (Sagittarius), Makara (Capricorn), Kumbha (Aquarius) and Meena (Pisces).
English
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Thursday
Friday
Saturday
Ruling Planet
Sun
Moon
Mars
Mercury
Jupiter
Venus
Saturn
RETREAT DAYS
Certain tithis are not conducive for study or beginning new efforts. In gurukulams (schools) and aadheenams (monasteries) these are times of retreat. As
they occur in pairs four times per moon, they are roughly parallel to the modern
weekend, though, of course, they do not necessarily fall on Saturday and Sunday.
The retreat tithis are Ashtami, Navami, Amavasya, Prathama and Purnima. Each has its own special nature. Purnima (full-moon day) is especially good
for worship. Amavasya (new moon day) is conducive to meditation. For many devout Hindus, Amavasya and Purnima are times of vrata, observing religious vows.
Prathama, the tithi following both Purnima and Amavasya, is generally a good
day for seminars and philosophical discussions.
Ashtami and Navami are ideally reserved for rest and relaxation. Ashtami
is traditionally a day for fasting and not a good day for learning. (In western astrology, Ashtami would be recognized as a square aspect between the sun and the
moon, a configuration which can make for a difficult day.) Ashtami is considered
inauspicious for beginning new activities because of the inharmonious energies
existing due to the relationship between the sun and moon.
In Vedic Calendar, retreat days are noted in the upper left corner of the
days designations. Retreats are labeled Retreat Star, with the exception of those
occurring at full-moon time. These retreat days have special names. Purnima is
the Copper Star Retreat, Prathama is the Silver Star Retreat. In addition, approximately every other moon the Dvitiya tithi following the full moon is taken as a re-
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Vedic Calendar
THE HALF-DAYKARANA
A karana is half of a tithi or lunar day. There are sixty karanas in one lunar
month, but only eleven distinct names are used. The current karana is the third
item in the second column of each days designations. The first karana ends at the
middle of the tithi and the second karana ends with the ending of that tithi. Like
the yoga, the karana is a factor used by astrologers for determining the auspiciousness of the day for a given activity. The names of the karanas are: Bava, Balava,
Kaulava, Taitila, Gara, Vanij, Visti, Sakuni, Chatuspada, Naga and Kimtughna.
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archana, the priest asks, What is your nakshatra (or birth star)? He is asking for
the name of the constellation (nakshatra) the moon was aligned with at the time
you were born at the place you were born. In other words, a line going out from
you at your time of birth and passing through the moon would point to a constellation. That is your nakshatra. The priest then repeats your nakshatra during the
worship liturgy, along with your name and family lineage. This is your bio-data
for the information of the inner-plane helpers. It is helpful to know when ones
nakshatra comes into alignment with the moon each month, as this day is often
experienced as emotionally intense. By knowing this beforehand, extra care can
be taken to not over-react to difficult karmic experiences that may manifest.
In Vedic Calendar, the current nakshatra is the fourth item in the fourth column of each days designations, e.g., Visakha Nakshatra. The twenty-seven
nakshatras are:
Asvini, Bharani, Krittika, Rohini, Mrigasira, Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya,
Aslesha, Magha, Purvaphalguni, Uttaraphalguni, Hasta, Chitra, Svati,
Visakha, Anuradha, Jyeshtha, Mula, Purvashadha, Uttarashadha, Sravana,
Dhanishtha, Satabhishaj, Purvaprostapada, Uttaraprostapada and Revati.
ENDING TIMES
The ending time for each tithi, nakshatra and yoga is listed in column four
after each item, respectively. Usually the tithi ending time is the same as the
karana ending time. If this is the case, the ending time for the evening karana is
listed, and you can assume that the morning karana ends on the tithi ending time.
If an ending time is after midnight, the time is listed with a three-letter abbreviated name for the next day. All times are given for Standard Time. Therefore, if a
Daylight Savings Time is in effect in your area, you will need to adjust the times
given in Vedic Calendar by adding one hour.
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Vedic Calendar
CHAPTER TWO
OTHER INDICATORS
ou should find this chapter very interesting. It contains explanations for the many
esoteric and mystical notations found on the calendar, including the kalas, yogas,
gem of the day, color of the day, festivals and other special days.
THE YOGAS
THE TWENTY-SEVEN YOGAS
A yoga is a planetary configuration, union or relationship. In Vedic Calendar, two types of yogas are listed. The first yoga is listed in the sankalpam (the two
lines at the top of each days entries). It is the second item in the second line. This
particular yoga, like the tithi, is an angle of the sun and the moon (the earth being
the point of the angle). Yogas are another factor in determining the auspiciousness
of the day. Just as there are twenty-seven nakshatras, there are twenty-seven
yogas, known as the Yoga Taras of Nakshatras. They are:
Vishakambha, Priti, Ayushman, Saubhagya, Sobhana, Atiganda, Sukarma,
Dhriti, Sula, Ganda, Vriddhi, Dhruva, Vyaghat, Harshana, Vajra, Siddhi,
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auspicious undertakings.
MARANA YOGAROUTINE WORK: Should be avoided for new undertakings and beginning travel. Routine work only.
PRABALARSHTA YOGAROUTINE WORK: Should be absolutely avoided
for new undertakings and beginning travel. Routine work only.
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ages of Lord Siva, Lord Muruga and Lord Ganesha in temples and home shrines.
The colors of Lord Siva and Lord Ganesha generally change about every three
days, while Lord Murugas color changes about once a month.
15
gins the previous day (Tuesday) as the 13th tithi will actually begin sometime
Tuesday evening.
PRADOSHA FASTING
If you wish to fast once each month, observe the vrata on the Krishna Paksha Pradosham. If you wish to fast twice each month, then you may observe this
fast on both pradosha daysone during each paksha. The most orthodox devotees
will fast on water all day and only take light temple prasadam or fruits and milk
in the evening. No cooked food is taken until the following day. A less strict observance is to fast during the day on just water, herb teas or fruits and milk and
then take ones normal food in the evening after the temple pujas and your meditations are finished. The strictness of ones fasting will depend entirely on ones
inner goals, health and daily activities.
For those interested in integrating their yoga sadhana with the panchangam, the pradosha days of both pakshas are considered very auspicious for
intensification of meditation. After fasting all day and observing the auspicious
worship of God Siva at sunset, a vigil is kept in the evening, at which time one
performs Raja Yoga, meditating on inner light and Lord Siva. The pradosha day of
the Sukla Paksha is especially conducive to good meditation. The pradosha day of
the Krishna Paksha is considered the last day of the Krishna Paksha when the
moon will help you in your yoga. It is advisable to do a vigil then to absorb the
last of the moons power.
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ness and dearth of communication often leads to estrangement. With no forum for
discussing problems, situations go unresolved which should be faced promptly.
Ultimately, as distances magnify, families break apart, husband and wife divorce
and children are disillusioned. Recognizing the seriousness of this trend, Satguru
Sivaya Subramuniyaswami created family home evening. Devotees now faithfully observe this custom in their homes every Monday (the day held sacred to
Lord Siva in North India.) First, they gather for a fine dinnerno guests, no telephone calls, no television, no radio, just themselves. They sit down together and
after a prayer, enjoy a meal together amidst friendly conversation. After dinner,
they retire to another room for puja and discussion of inner things. One member
reads the daily lesson from the Master Course (Himalayan Academys home-study
text). Questions come up and are discussed. After the lesson, conversation turns
to family matters, to family welfare, and each member speaks of the positive qualities he or she sees in the others. Concerns of the family are brought up and
looked at through the wisdom of Saivism. This is Family Home Evening, a precious time, a looked-forward-to-time, a time of closeness with Siva and with one
another. This special day falls on Monday of each week and is denoted in bold
type along with the festivals and other special days.
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GENERAL AUSPICIOUSNESS
SIVALOKA, DEVALOKA AND BHULOKA DAYS
The overall auspiciousness of a particular day is determined by the ease of
communication between the First World (Bhuloka), Second World (Devaloka) and
the Third World (Sivaloka). Through the years we have found this esoteric indicator to be a tremendous aid by keeping us alert to the periods when the working
together of the three worlds is the easiest. You will find the designation of auspiciousness located at the bottom of the second column for each day, just opposite
the Sakti color. Five notations are usedBhuloka Day, Devaloka Day, Sivaloka
Day, Subha Sivaloka Day or Subha Subha Sivaloka Day. This determination is
made according to the mooleamnea of the day, indicated as the fourth item in the
third column for each day.
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ond World to see the First World and thus better assist us in our religious life.
DEVALOKA DAYS
Fortunately, we find that we have two telephone lines up and working between the Bhuloka and the Devaloka on the majority of the days of most years.
(Remember that we are using the analogy of telephone lines for the sake of explanation only, and in actuality what is happening is something quite different.) It is
said that when two lines are open, the Devaloka abides with you. On Devaloka
days the devas can read the mind of the devotee.
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CHAPTER THREE
THE SCIENCE OF
GOOD TIMINGMUHURTHA
n this section a vast area of Hindu astrology known as Muhurtha, the choosing of
auspicious times, is touched upon briefly. First is a simple summary of auspicious
times for new ventures, followed by a description of the nature of the 27 nakshatras.
One should avoid the 1st, 6, 9, 14 and the full moon. Tithis not suitable dur-
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ing Krishna Paksha are 8, 11, 12, 13, 14 and the new moon (Amavasya).
SUITABLE RASIS FOR MARRIAGE: Mithuna, Kanya and Thula. OK are Vrishabha, Kataka, Simha, Dhanus and Kumbha. The rest are inauspicious.
hishak, Uttaraprostapada
BEST RASIS: Mesha, Mithuna, Simha, Thula, Makara, Meena
BEST TITHIS: Panchami, Saptami, Dasami, Ekadasi, Trayodasi
NAKSHATRA CONSIDERATION
In this section, the nature of the nakshatras are described. One must keep
in mind, of course, that nakshatra is only one of the factors involved in determining the nature of a given day. Certainly, it is one of the most important elements.
but for a complete picture, other influences must be considered as well.
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ed at this time may have good and lasting results. Uttaraphalguni and Uttaraprostapada are especially good for starting a new business.
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like without considering others opinions. Bharani can cause the mind to become
entangled in the material world. It can hide or eclipse insight, causing struggle.
Purvaprostapada (also called Purvabhadrapada) may cause the mind to be passionate, unstable and impetuous. It is a good time for penance.
YOGA CONSIDERATION
Inauspicious yogas for beginning new things are: Vyaghat, Parigha, Vajra,
Vyathipatha, Dhriti, Ganda, Athiganda, Shula, Vishakabha. These yogas are
marked with an asterisk.
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true devotee, all days are good days because he lives in a high state of consciousness. From the mountaintop perspective the forces of karma take on new meaning
as opportunities for advancement rather than stumbling blocks to personal comfort. This reference point is maintained in a life of dharma, of right living. Then
karma is naturally regulated. Fertile conditions are created for the emergence of
positive karmas, while certain negative karmas (caused by harmful actions of the
past) are atoned for, ameliorated or burnt up without even sprouting through
good deeds, penance and austerity. In a life such as this karma is faced in the right
spirit, accepted with the trust that all that happens is Sivas Will, and with the
knowledge that we grow spiritually through loving acceptance of all that comes to
us. What astrology provides in tools such as Vedic Calendar and ones personal
horoscope is the knowledge of what each individual can expect to face as the days,
years and decades go by and karma is played out in the events of life.
There was once a maharaja who was so perplexed by astrological indications that he became caught in the middle of a staircase, not knowing whether to
go up or down. Finally, he died there. Then there are those who will not get out of
bed on certain days because their astrology indicates an accident might occur. As
Sage Yogaswami recognized, the forces of the stars are real, but they are not the
be-all and end-all of existence. Astrology can provide many useful keys to understanding the forces at work in ones life, lending a greater appreciation of the cosmic scheme of things so we can maintain the mountaintop perspective. Our advice is to use astrology, like any tool or body of knowledge, with wisdom and
care. Its primary purpose is to enable you to begin ventures in good timing,
when the forces are working with you rather than against you, and to provide you
the knowledge of when the forces are congested so you can relax and not push
too hard or become upset when this congestion manifests in daily activities.
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NAKSHATRA
Observe how you feel and behave during different nakshatras. Keep a
record on those days so youll know what to expect from your nature. Your nature
will incline you to behave in a pattern. If you are aware of it, you can catch yourself and be able to monitor your behavior. By doing this you allow your soul nature to come forth. Panchangam helps us to look for those times when we need to
work harder. What does that mean? We are aware of our outer nature, and we conciously make an effort to overcome it. We practice the qualities of the soul nature.
YOGAS
Amrtha yoga: These days can be very productive. Use them to push projects ahead to completion or to start them. Watch for those rare periods when amrita yoga falls over a period of several days.
Siddha yoga: These days are also good for moving ahead with projects.
There may not be the zing present of the amrita yoga days.
Prabhalarishta yoga: Never begin new projects on these days without a lot
of prayer and puja. Perform very routine work. Better yet is to take the day off and
go to the temple. The inauspicious effects of the working yogas can be softened
through prayer, archanas and specific pujas.
25
We set ourselves up at the beginning of the day according to the panchangam. Just as we put on outer clothing according to the weather, we prepare
ourselves to work with our own individual nature and its concomitant effect on
those we live and work with during the day. This requires studying the glossary
and being familiar with the meaning of the Sanskrit words.
PERSONAL ASTROLOGY
It is also very helpful to become familiar with your own birth chart. The
day is just one small but significant part of your own life pattern. Knowing your
birth chart, just the simple and basic three thingslagna (rising sign), moon and
sun signshelps you to monitor your emotions, your reactions and habit patterns.
KALAS
Rahu kala: Rahu is most important to be aware of. Windows are closed.
Doors are closedinwardly, that is. Be careful of confrontation, encounters, negotiations, deals, contracts and agreements during this time. For example, it may not
be a good idea to have lunch with a client on Wednesday. Rahu Kala starts at
noon. This is a time when karmas are intensified, whether good or bad, and the
focus is on the karmas instead of the project at hand. A general formula to determine rahu kala when you dont have a calendar handy is to memorize the following jingle:Mother saw father wearing the turban suddenly.
Mother
saw
father
wearing
the
turban
suddenly
Monday
Saturday
Friday
Wednesday
Thursday
Tuesday
Sunday
7:309:00AM
9:0010:30AM
10:3012:00AM
12:001:30PM
1:303:00PM
3:004:30PM
4:306:00PM
SADHANA
Check the panchangam in the morning during puja. Note down what you
think the day will be like. For example, Prabhalarishta yogawatch out! Bhuloka
daybut a Devaloka time. Need to work with my emotions more diligently. Mula
26
Vedic Calendar
nakshatratendency here to be cross. Purple daymy good day for money matters. Rahu kala: 10:45 to 12:15. Be careful, lunch with my new client. Pray that all
obstacles will be removed.
At the end of the day, review the days actual events. See if there were any
rough spots which could use improving upon and note the various factors involved for future reference.
We wish you well with your use of Vedic Calendar. May it help you to always be in tune with God Sivas Cosmic Energy. We welcome your suggestions
and comments on ways to improve the calendar next year and the next. (And
dont forget to order your calendar for the coming year well in advance, as they
are made up individually for your particular time zone.)
AUM NAMASIVAYA, AUM NAMASIVAYA, AUM NAMASIVAYA, AUM.
27
The Tithis
Sukla Paksha
Prathama
Dvitiya
Tritiya
Chaturthi
Panchami
Shasthi
Saptami
Ashtami
Navami
Dasami
Ekadasi
Dvadasi
Trayodasi
Chaturdasi
Purnima
Krishna Paksha
Prathama
Dvitiya
Tritiya
Chaturthi
Panchami
Shasthi
Saptami
Ashtami
Navami
Dasami
Ekadasi
Dvadasi
Trayodasi
Chaturdasi
Amavasya
GLOSSARY
aadheenam: A Hindu monastery/temple complex in the South Indian Saivite tradition. Also referred to by the general terms: madam, mutt, math
and peedam.
Adi: The Tamil name of the fourth month of the
Hindu year (in which the new year begins in midApril). Adi extends from mid-July to mid-August on
the Gregorian calendar.
Aipasi: The Tamil name of the seventh month of
the Hindu year (in which the new year begins in
mid-April). Puratasi extends from mid-October to
mid-November on the Gregorian calendar.
almanac: A yearly calendar which includes astronomical data, weather forecasts, etc.
Amavasya: One. The day of the half moon, the
fifteenth tithi of the dark fortnight. Amavasya is also
numbered as the thirtieth tithi.
Ani: The Tamil name of the third month of the
Hindu year (in which the new year begins in midApril). Ani extends from mid-June to mid-July on
the Gregorian calendar.
Anuradha nakshatra: The star of calling to success. From anu: to cry or to sound; radha: prosperity, success. Astronomical constellation: Delta
Scorpio. It conveys ideas pertaining to: a co-worker,
help-mate, founder; calling to activity, vigilance,
united by friendship. Anuradha confers a handsome
appearance, spiritual striving, kindness, love of family life, leadership abilities, social awkwardness, involvement in groups or societies and residing away
from ones place of birth. It names the 17th nakshatra division in the zodiac.
archana: A special, abbreviated puja done in the
name of an individual devotee or family to invoke
guidance and blessings. Archana specifically refers
to chanting the names of the Deity during the puja.
Ardra nakshatra: Teardrop star. Astronomical
constellation: Betelguese 7. This star cluster conveys
ideas pertaining to: tenderness, abundant feelings,
flowing, dripping, melting, to be overwhelmed
Glossary
Bharani nakshatra: Star of restraint. Astronomical constellation: 41 Arietis. This star cluster
conveys ideas pertaining to: discipline, self-control;
fidelity, firmness, endurance; maintaining, nourishing, bearing in the womb. Bharani confers resistance
to disease, steadfastness, perseverance, resourcefulness and adherence to duty. It names the 2nd
nakshatra division.
Bhuloka: Earth (bhur) world (loka). The physical world perceived through the five senses. Also
called the First World, as it is the first and least subtle of the three worlds which include the Devaloka
(Second World or astral plane) and the Sivaloka
(Third World or causal plane).
Budha vasara: Wednesday. Day of wisdom or
Day of Mercury.
Chaitra: The Tamil name of the first month of the
Hindu year (in which the new year begins in midApril). Chaitra extends from mid-April to mid-May
on the Gregorian calendar.
Chaturdasi: Ten (dasi) and four (chatur). The
name of the fourteenth tithi (lunar day) of each of
the two fortnights of the moons cycle.
Chaturthi: Fourth. The name of the fourth tithi
(lunar day) of each of the two fortnights of the
moons cycle.
Chidambaram: Hall (ambaram) of Consciousness (chid) or Hall of Pure Knowledge. An ancient and highly venerated Siva Nataraja temple in
South India.
Chitra nakshatra: The star of the beautiful. Astronomical constellation: Spica 16. It conveys ideas
pertaining to: variegated, speckled, manifold, forced
in the mind, tabulated, decorated, arranged in order.
Chitra confers artistic talents, attention to detail,
love of order and beauty, intuitiveness, attractive
eyes and handsome form. It names the 14th nakshatra division.
Dasami: Tenth. The name of the tenth tithi
(lunar day) of each of the two fortnights of the
moons cycle.
deva: Shining one. A Second World being living in the higher astral plane in a subtle body.
Devaloka: The world (loka) of light-beings
(deva). The astral plane, or Second World, usually
vi
Vedic Calendar
Glossary
vii
monthslunar and solar. A lunar month is the period of one complete orbit of the moon around the
earth (beginning either with the new moon or the
full moon). A solar month is the period of suns
movement through one rasi (zodiac sign). The solar
months are as follows:
Sanskrit
Tamil
Gregorian month
Mesha
Chaitra
April/May
Vrishabha
Vaikasi
May/June
Mithuna
Ani
June/July
Kataka
Adi
July/August
Simha
Avani
August/September
Kanya
Puratasi September/October
Thula
Aipasi
October/November
Vrischika
Kartikai November/December
Dhanus
Markali December/January
Makara
Thai
January/February
Kumbha
Masi
February/March
Meena
Panguni March/April
Meena: Fish; the Sanskrit name of the zodiac
sign known in Western terminology as Pisces.
Mesha: Ram, goat. The Sanskrit name of the
zodiac sign known in Western terminology as Aries.
Mithuna: The Sanskrit name of the zodiac sign
known in Western terminology as Gemini.
Mrigasira nakshatra: Star of searching, or
star of the deer. Astronomical constellation:
Lambda Orionis. This star cluster conveys the ideas
of: seeking, searching, striving, attaining, requesting, purification; to adorn; to guide or lead. Mrigasira confers an inquiring mind, fondness for research, industriousness, creativity, wit, eloquence,
love of poetry, timidity, uncertainty and talkativeness. It is the 5th nakshatra division.
Mula nakshatra: The root star. Astronomical
constellation: Lambda Scorpii (towards the Galactic
Center). It conveys ideas pertaining to: firmly fixed,
stable, lowest part or bottom, origin, non-intervention; root cause. Mula confers pride, strong opinions, cleverness, stability, searching after the origin
of life and fondness for luxury. It names the 19th
nakshatra division.
Nakshatra: Star cluster. The nakshatras are 27
star-clusters, or constellations, which lie along the
ecliptic, the path of the sun (or the moon or other
viii
planet) as it rises and crosses the sky. These are approximately equal distances apart, each embodying
particular ideas, powers or forces of nature. (Each
nakshatra division occupies 1/27 or 1320 of the
zodiac.) When a planet comes into alignment with
one of these star clusters (from the perspective of the
individual standing on the earth), the rays of the
stars combine with those of the planet to influence
the earth at the locale of the observer. All planets
pass through the ecliptic and align with the nakshatras one after another. However, the designation
nakshatra (or birthstar) commonly refers to the alignment of the moon, as its influence is most significant
to daily life on Earth. This means that the nakshatra
currently in effect is the one that the moon has conjoined. An individuals nakshatra is the constellation the moon was aligned with at the time he or she
was born. The twenty-seven nakshatras are: Asvi,
Bharani, Krittika, Rohini, Mrigasira, Ardra, Punarvasu, Pushya, Aslesha, Magha, Purvaphalguni, Uttaraphalguni, Hasta, Chaitra, Svati, Visakha, Anuradha, Jyeshtha, Mula, Purvashadha, Uttarashadha,
Sravana, Dhanishtha, Satabhishaj, Purvaprostapada,
Uttaraprostapada and Revati. (See individual nakshatra entries for word meanings.)
Naraka: Abode of darkness. Literally, pertaining
to man. The lower worlds. Equivalent to the Western term hell, a gross region of the Antarloka. Naraka is a congested, distressful area where demonic
beings and young souls may sojourn until they resolve the darksome karmas they have created.
Navami: Ninth. The name of the ninth tithi
(lunar day) of each of the two fortnights of the
moons cycle.
nirayana: Any system of astrology, also called
sidereal astrology, which acknowledges the precession of the equinoxes and adjusts the signs of the zodiac accordingly. Nirayana astrology prevails in
India, as opposed to western or tropical systems.
Panchami: Fifth. The name of the fifth tithi
(lunar day) of each of the two fortnights of the
moons cycle.
panchangam: Five limbs, or parts. The name of
the traditional Hindu calendar, as every panchangam includes the five basic elements of tithi,
Vedic Calendar
nakshatra, karana, yoga and vara or vasara. The panchangam is a sophisticated tool for planning, not unlike a western farmers almanac but much more
complex. It provides precise information about unseen astrological factors, planets and stars, which influence and alter the nature of the subtle environment. This esoteric information is calculated mathematically. Panchangams are used by priests, astrologers and lay persons to determine the optimum
times for various types of activities.
Panguni: The Tamil name of the twelfth month
of the Hindu year (in which the new year begins in
mid-April). Panguni extends from mid-March to
mid-April on the Gregorian calendar.
pathasala: Place of lessons. An ashram-like,
residential training school for temple priests as
found in various parts of India.
Pradosha: Pradosha is a daily 3-hour period 11/2
hours before sunset and 11/2 hours afterwards.
Among devout Saivites, Pradosha generally refers to
the observance of this period on the 13th tithi (Trayodasi) of each fortnight, which is a most auspicious
time for personal spiritual striving. Devotees fast all
day to prepare for this three-hour period, then commence meditation and worship of Lord Siva. This
discipline of fasting and worship is known as Pradosha vrata (vow). It is observed on the 13th tithi of
both the light and dark fortnights, with the latter favored as the most important.
Prathama: Same as Pratipada.
Pratipada: First. The name of the first tithi
(lunar day) of each of the two fortnights of the
moons cycle.
Punarvasu nakshatra: Star of renewal.
Astronomical constellation: Pollux 11. It carries the
ideas of: renewal of wealth, to enter life again, repetition, grow bright again, freedom. It denotes frequent change of residence, change of personality or
personal purification. Punarvasu confers self-control, happiness, friendliness and contentment. It
names the 7th nakshatra division.
punyakala: Time (kala) of merit (punyam).
Punyakala refers especially to two particular days
each year, the summer and winter solstices.
Puratasi: The Tamil name of the sixth month of
Glossary
ix
Vedic Calendar
Glossary
xi
xii
Vedic Calendar
Glossary
Visakha nakshatra: Star of purpose. Astronomical constellation: Alpha 2 Libra. Visakha connotes striving for a goal, accomplishment of an end
in view, demonstrated conclusion or truth, doctrine;
to worship. Visakha confers a bright appearance,
forcefulness, determination, discipline, the ability to
speak convincingly and the resolve to accomplish
ones work. It can confer covetousness and contention. Visakha names the 16th nakshatra division.
vrata: Vow. A religious oath. Vratas are personal promises to perform certain disciplines over a period of time, such as fasting, specific japa repetitions, worship or meditation. Vratas are taken to enhance ones spirituality, establish self-discipline, invoke divine blessings and often to atone for misdeeds. Certain vratas are long-term, such as the
brahmachariya vrata, the traditional promise to remain celibate until marriage or, in the case of the
sannyasin, for life. As one of the traditional niyamas
(practices) of ashtanga yoga, vrata means to fulfill religious vows, rules and observances faithfully.
Vrishabha: Strength, or a bull. The Sanskrit
name of the zodiac sign known in Western terminology as Taurus.
Vrishchika: Scorpion. The Sanskrit name of
the zodiac sign known in Western terminology as
Scorpio.
yoga (astrological): Union, conjunction, addition. In Hindu astrology, many types of yogas are
considered as important factors in determining the
auspiciousness of a given day. In panchangams, yoga
usually refers to a calculation of an angle of the sun
and the moon.
yuga: Period, age. A time span, from tens of
thousands to one million years, which is a single
cycle within a four-yuga greater cycle. The four
yugas are: Sat, Treta, Dwapara, Kali.
zodiac: Circle of animals. A circular belt in the
heavens extending for about eight degrees on either
side of the apparent path of the sun and including
the paths of the moon and the principle planets. The
zodiac is divided into twelve equal parts, or signs,
each named for a different constellation. Zodiac also
refers to a figure or diagram of the zodiac and its
signs used in astrology.
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