Understanding Hindu Panchang: The Five Limbs of Time

The astronomical science behind Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana, and Var.

By Indian Date Today Editorial · Updated August 2026

The word "Panchang" derives from Sanskrit "Pancha" (Five) and "Anga" (Limb). It provides precise daily astronomical positions of the Sun and Moon for spiritual timing and daily planning.

The 5 Fundamental Elements (Pancha Anga)

1. Tithi (Lunar Day): The time taken by the Moon to gain 12 degrees longitude on the Sun. 2. Vara (Weekday): The 7 solar days governed by the seven visible planets. 3. Nakshatra (Lunar Mansion): The 27 stellar constellations through which the Moon travels. 4. Yoga (Solar-Lunar Angle): The sum of solar and lunar longitudes divided into 27 equal parts of 13°20'. 5. Karana (Half-Tithi): Half of a Tithi duration; there are 11 Karanas in total.

Why Location Matters for Panchang

Unlike standard civil clocks that tick uniformly, Panchang parameters depend on local Sunrise time, Latitude, Longitude, and Timezone. A Tithi or Rahu Kalam in New Delhi will differ slightly from Mumbai or Chennai.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is Rahu Kalam?

Rahu Kalam is an inauspicious 90-minute window each day governed by Rahu during which major new financial or travel ventures are avoided.