Why Hindu Festivals Change Every Year – Scientific and Traditional Explanation

Hindu festivals such as Diwali, Holi, Janmashtami, and Navratri fall on different English dates every year because they follow the Hindu Calendar, a luni-solar system based on precise astronomical observations.

The Core Reason Festivals Change

The Gregorian calendar is purely solar, while the Hindu Calendar is based on lunar months. A lunar year is about 11 days shorter than a solar year, causing annual date shifts.

Role of Tithis in Festival Dates

Festivals are determined by tithis, or lunar days, which begin and end at varying times. Because tithis do not align with midnight, festival dates change every year.

Influence of the Moon and Nakshatras

The Moon’s 29.5-day cycle and its movement through Nakshatras influence festival timing, particularly for Janmashtami and Purnima-based festivals.

Solar Movement and Sankranti

Sankrantis mark the Sun’s entry into zodiac signs and maintain seasonal alignment. Some festivals like Makar Sankranti remain nearly fixed as they are solar-based.

Adhik Maas Prevents Seasonal Drift

Adhik Maas corrects the lunar-solar gap, ensuring festivals remain connected to their proper seasons across generations.

Final Thoughts

Hindu festivals change dates not due to inconsistency, but because they follow accurate cosmic timing. This system preserves both spiritual meaning and astronomical precision.