Description

The Tamil calendar, also known as the Tamil Panchangam, is a traditional calendar system used in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and by Tamil-speaking communities around the world. It follows the Tamil solar calendar, which is based on the position of the sun, and the Tamil lunar calendar, which is based on the cycles of the moon.

Key Features of the Tamil Calendar:

1. Months (Maasam):
   • The Tamil calendar comprises 12 months, each named after a celestial body or a star.
   • Examples include Chithirai, Vaikasi, Aani, Aadi, and so on.
2. Fortnight (Paksham):
   • The Tamil month is divided into two fortnights: the waxing moon phase (Shukla Paksha) and the waning moon phase (Krishna Paksha).
3. Days (Naal):
   • A week in the Tamil calendar consists of seven days.
   • Sunday (Nyaayiru), Monday (Thingal), Tuesday (Chevvai), Wednesday (Bhudhan), Thursday (Vyazhan), Friday (Sukran), and Saturday (Shanishcharan).
4. Nakshatras (Star):
   • The calendar includes 27 Nakshatras or stars, with each day associated with a specific Nakshatra.
5. Yogam and Karanam:
   • Each day is also characterized by a Yogam and a Karanam, adding astrological significance.
6. Festivals and Auspicious Days:
   • The Tamil calendar is rich in cultural and religious observances, including festivals, fasting days, and auspicious occasions.
7. Tamil New Year (Puthandu):
   • Puthandu, celebrated in mid-April, marks the Tamil New Year.
8. Seasonal Changes:
   • The calendar aligns with the changing seasons, influencing agricultural and cultural activities.
9. Tamil Zodiac Signs:
   • Tamil astrology has its own set of zodiac signs and planetary influences.
10. Tamil Almanac (Panchangam):
    • The Panchangam provides daily details such as Tithi, Nakshatra, Yogam, Karanam, Rahu Kalam, and Yama Gandam.

Understanding the Tamil calendar is essential for planning cultural and religious events, agricultural activities, and for following auspicious timings for various ceremonies and rituals in Tamil culture.