What is a tithi and why does it matter for festivals?

A tithi is a lunar day, the time the Moon takes to gain 12 degrees on the Sun. There are 30 tithis in a lunar month, 15 in each paksha. Most festivals are tied to a specific tithi rather than a calendar date.

What is a shubh muhurat?

A muhurat is a window of time considered favourable for a ceremony, chosen from the panchang using the tithi, weekday, nakshatra and other factors. Shubh muhurat means an auspicious muhurat. Times differ by city because sunrise and sunset differ.

Why do festival dates differ between websites and calendars?

Festivals follow the lunar calendar, and a tithi can start and end at different times of day, span two civil dates, or fall differently by city. Calendars also follow different rules, such as the tithi at sunrise for some festivals and the tithi in the evening for others. Check a local panchang or your family priest.

Do festival dates depend on my city?

Sometimes. Sunrise and sunset differ across India, so the tithi at sunrise or in the evening can shift the date or the muhurat by a day or by several minutes. Use your city's panchang for exact timings.

What is the difference between Amanta and Purnimanta calendars?

In the Amanta system, followed largely in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, a lunar month ends on Amavasya. In the Purnimanta system, followed largely in North India, it ends on Purnima. The two name the Krishna Paksha months differently, so the same festival can carry different month names even though it falls on the same day.

How often are Ekadashi and Pradosh Vrat observed?

Twice every lunar month, once in each paksha. Ekadashi, the 11th tithi, is dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Pradosh Vrat, the 13th tithi, is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Do I have to fast on festival days?

No. Fasting is a personal or family practice, not compulsory for every festival. Choose a fast that suits your health and tradition, and skip or modify it if you are unwell, pregnant, elderly or on medication.

Can I perform a festival puja at home without a pandit?

Yes. Many festival pujas are done at home with a simple altar, a lamp, flowers, water and food offered with devotion. For larger rituals such as a havan, or a ceremony you are doing for the first time, a pandit is usually engaged. Follow your family's custom.