Hindu Calendar Month «FULL × 2024»

The Hindu calendar month is a sacred unit of time that harmonizes the lunar cycle with the changing seasons, serving as the heartbeat of India's spiritual and agricultural life. Unlike the strictly solar Gregorian calendar, the Hindu system is , meaning its months are precisely defined by the moon's phases while incorporating periodic "leap months" to stay aligned with the sun. Structural Foundations

The period of the waxing moon, beginning after the new moon ( Amavasya ) and culminating in the full moon ( Purnima ). hindu calendar month

The period of the waning moon, starting after the full moon and ending with the new moon. The Hindu calendar month is a sacred unit

Regional traditions differ on when a month actually begins. In Northern India, the system is followed, where a month ends on the full moon. In Southern and Western India, the Amavasyanta system is preferred, with the month concluding on the new moon. The Twelve Months and Their Significance The period of the waning moon, starting after

A standard Hindu year consists of , beginning with Chaitra (March–April) and ending with Phalguna (February–March). Each month is divided into two distinct fortnights, known as Pakshas , which track the moon's journey across the night sky:

Each month is tied to specific deities, seasons, and festivals, acting as a guide for rituals and celebrations: