Hindu Calendar Months Explained: Names, Meanings & Their Importance
The Hindu Calendar is a traditional lunisolar system used across India to determine festivals, tithis, auspicious timings, and seasonal changes. One of its most distinctive features is its twelve lunar months, each carrying spiritual significance and cultural depth. Understanding these months helps interpret festival dates, religious observances, and the rhythm of the Vedic year.
Overview of the Hindu Calendar Month System
The Hindu Calendar follows the Moon’s cycle. Depending on the regional tradition, a lunar month begins either the day after Amavasya (New Moon) or the day after Purnima (Full Moon).
- Amanta system (New Moon → New Moon) — used in South India, Gujarat, and Maharashtra.
- Purnimanta system (Full Moon → Full Moon) — common in North India.
Each month is divided into two phases: Shukla Paksha (waxing phase) and Krishna Paksha (waning phase). Since the calendar depends on the Moon’s orbit, the length of a month varies around 29.5 days. These twelve months form the basis of both the Hindu Panchang and the Vikram Samvat calendar.
The 12 Months of the Hindu Calendar
1. Chaitra (March–April)
Chaitra marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year in many regions. It symbolizes renewal, purity, and the start of the traditional calendar cycle. Major festivals include Chaitra Navratri, Gudi Padwa, Ugadi, Ram Navami, and Hanuman Jayanti (regional variation).
2. Vaishakh (April–May)
Vaishakh is considered highly auspicious. Festivals such as Akshaya Tritiya, Parashuram Jayanti, and Buddha Purnima are observed during this period.
3. Jyeshtha (May–June)
Known for intense heat, Jyeshtha represents discipline and devotion. Ganga Dussehra, Nirjala Ekadashi, and Vat Savitri Vrat fall in this month.
4. Ashadha (June–July)
Ashadha marks the arrival of the monsoon season. It begins the period of Lord Vishnu’s Yog Nidra. Major festivals include the Jagannath Rath Yatra, Devshayani Ekadashi, and Guru Purnima.
5. Shravana (July–August)
Shravana is one of the most sacred months, especially dedicated to Lord Shiva. Important observances include Shravan Somvar, Nag Panchami, Raksha Bandhan, and Krishna Janmashtami.
6. Bhadrapada (August–September)
Bhadrapada is devoted to Lord Ganesha and Lord Krishna. Celebrations include Ganesh Chaturthi, Anant Chaturdashi, and Rishi Panchami.
7. Ashwin (September–October)
Ashwin ushers in autumn and includes major festivals like Sharad Navratri, Durga Puja, Dussehra, and Kojagiri Purnima.
8. Kartik (October–November)
Kartik is often called the holiest month. Major festivals include Diwali, Govardhan Puja, Bhai Dooj, and Kartik Purnima. Devotion, charity, and sacred baths are emphasized.
9. Margashirsha (November–December)
Margashirsha is associated with Lord Krishna. Festivals include Mokshada Ekadashi, Gita Jayanti, and Dattatreya Jayanti, highlighting spiritual growth.
10. Pausha (December–January)
Pausha is a month of inner calm, reflection, and devotion. Important observances include Pausha Purnima and Saphala Ekadashi.
11. Magha (January–February)
Magha is known for holy bathing rituals and devotion. Major observances include Magha Purnima, Basant Panchami, and Ratha Saptami.
12. Phalguna (February–March)
Phalguna marks spring’s arrival and celebrates joy and renewal. Festivals include Mahashivratri, Phalguna Purnima, and Holi.
Why Hindu Calendar Months Shift Each Year
Hindu lunar months shift annually because they follow the Moon’s phases rather than the solar cycle. To correct the difference, an additional month called Adhik Maas is added roughly every three years, ensuring festivals remain aligned with seasons.
Relationship Between Hindu Months and Vikram Samvat
The Vikram Samvat calendar uses the same twelve lunar months but follows a different year count—approximately 56–57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar. For example, Vikram Samvat 2083 corresponds to 2026–27.
Final Thoughts
The twelve months of the Hindu Calendar form the backbone of Vedic timekeeping. Each month carries unique cultural significance, rituals, and festivals. Understanding these months deepens spiritual awareness and improves interpretation of the Panchang.