Understanding Hindu Panchang: The Five Limbs of Time
The astronomical science behind Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana, and Var.
By Indian Date Today Editorial ·
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.