Panchanga in Vedic Astrology: An Overview
In Vedic astrology, Panchanga is a crucial system used to determine the daily movements of the celestial bodies and their influence on life. The term “Panchanga” literally means “five limbs,” referring to the five key elements that make up the astrological calendar. These elements are Tithi (lunar day), Vara (weekday), Nakshatra (lunar constellation), Yoga (a specific relationship between the Sun and Moon), and Karana (half of a lunar day). Together, they provide a detailed guide for understanding the cosmic forces at play on any given day, which can influence personal and spiritual activities.
Each of these five components plays a significant role in determining auspicious and inauspicious times (known as Muhurta) for various activities like weddings, travel, rituals, and even business decisions. For instance, Tithi and Nakshatra are crucial for evaluating the energy of the day, while Vara connects to the ruling planet of the day (such as Sunday ruled by the Sun, Monday by the Moon, etc.). Yoga and Karana further refine the timing, offering insight into the specific qualities of the day. Panchanga is used to enhance the understanding of time cycles, providing a deeper connection with the rhythm of nature and the cosmos. By considering these factors, practitioners of Vedic astrology can align their actions with favorable cosmic energies, promoting well-being and success.
This is a loose translation:
Tithi – Fame and Wealth
Vara -Life (Ayush)
Nakshatra – Removes Sins
Yoga – Removes illhealth
Karana – accomplishment of work
The five elements rule the five limbs
Tattwa | Planets | Signs | Panchanga | Direction Kendra |
Akasa (Ether / Space / Atmosphere) | Jupiter | None (All Signs) | Yoga | 1 |
Vayu (Wind) Kama | Saturn, Rahu | Gemini, Libra, Aqua | Nakshatra | 7 |
Tejo (Fire) Dharma | Sun, Mars | Aries, Leo, Sagi | Vara | 10 |
Aapah (Water) Moksa | Moon, Venus | Cancer, Scor, Pisces | Tithi | 4 |
Prithvi (Earth) Artha | Mercury | Taurus, Virgo, Capr | Karana | 1 |
The most powerful is Akasa, while least powerful is Prithvi. As the Akasa is endless / not material – just the space, the actual power lies in the nakshatra.
Therefore, Nakshatras are the most powerful.
Karakatwas - Significations
Element of Panchanga | Karakatwas |
Akasa Yoga – Jupiter – Space | Karaka for everything. Has the power to influence everything. Unless there is space, nothing can exist. |
Vayu Nakshatra – Saturn – Wind | Wind (Nakshatras) is the strongest of all elements. As explained earlier, Space is not material, Vayu is the strongest. Nakshatra influences almost everything. |
Teja Vaara – Sun & Mars – Fire | Health, Digestive Capability, Reproductive Capability, Eagerness to start new things. |
Apas Tithi – Moon & Venus – Water | Relationships, being friendly to everyone, picking-up fights with everyone. |
Prithvi Karana – Mercury – Earth | Education, Profession, Occupation |
Enemies: 1) Fire – Water; 2) Earth – Wind
Friends: 1) Earth – Water; 2) Fire – Wind
Neutrals: 1) Fire – Earth; 2) Water-Wind
Vara - The Fire
The Vedic Weekday
Vedic Weekday
A day is counted from Sunrise to the next day’s Sunrise.
Panchanga details are provided by every software these days. This is an extract from Jagannatha Hora.
Planet that lords the vedic weekday is the Vara adhipati. For best results of physical strength, it shall not be in watery signs.
Vara planet placed in Kendras and Trikonas in Fire sign – helps the native with good physical strength.
Vara planet making connections with 10th lord – will make the native curious to learn new things.
Vara planet placed in dusthanas and water signs – will make the person very weak in physical strength and will be prone to ill-health / infections easily.