Calculating Tithis in the Hindu Calendar - Petrix108's Query

  • Thread starter petrix108
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In summary, the conversation discusses the Hindu Calendar and the concept of tithi, which is a lunar day determined by the angular speed of the Moon in relation to the Sun. The speaker asks for a mathematical relationship or formula to calculate the exact time within a day when a certain tithi starts and ends. A link is provided for further information on tithi calculations.
  • #1
petrix108
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Dear Physics/Astronomy Forum Folks:

I have been recently reading, studying about an interesting feature of the Hindu Calendar, called the tithi, which is basically a lunar day, or a difference of 12 degrees between the Sun and the Moon. Now the angular speed of the Moon in relation to the Sun, which determine the cycle of lunar phases, is not constant or even linear. My question is: does anyone know how to find the exact mathematical relationship (a trigonometric formula maybe?) using which one could calculate the exact time within a day, when a certain tithi starts and ends. I've read on some other forum that it's got to do with the difference between the hour angle or right ascension of the Moon and the Sun. So given, for instance the exact time and day of the New moon or the Full Moon, how does one calculate when the exact time is that 12 degrees have passed between Sun and Moon? What is the formula for calculating tithis?

Thank you for your help,
Ys, Petrix108
 
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  • #3
twofish-quant said:
Google is your friend...

For most purposes, I'm guessing an average would work almost as well: 23 hours, 37 minutes, 28.1 seconds.
 

Related to Calculating Tithis in the Hindu Calendar - Petrix108's Query

1. What is the Hindu calendar?

The Hindu calendar, also known as the Panchang or Panchanga, is a traditional calendar system used in India and other countries with significant Hindu populations. It is a lunar calendar, meaning it is based on the cycles of the moon.

2. What are tithis in the Hindu calendar?

Tithis are the lunar dates in the Hindu calendar. They are calculated based on the position of the moon in relation to the sun and are used to determine auspicious days for religious and cultural events. Each tithi has a unique name and is associated with specific rituals and traditions.

3. How are tithis calculated in the Hindu calendar?

Tithis are calculated using a complex formula that takes into account the lunar and solar movements. The basic calculation involves dividing the lunar month into 30 equal parts and assigning each part to a specific tithi. However, there are also adjustments made for the positions of other celestial bodies, resulting in a more accurate calculation.

4. Why is it important to calculate tithis in the Hindu calendar?

In Hinduism, tithis play a significant role in determining auspicious days for important events such as weddings, housewarming ceremonies, and religious festivals. It is believed that performing rituals and ceremonies on the correct tithi can bring good luck and blessings from the deities.

5. Can tithis be calculated using modern technology?

Yes, tithis can be calculated using modern technology such as computer software and online tools. However, traditional Hindu priests and scholars still rely on manual calculations and their knowledge of the Panchang to determine tithis and other important dates in the Hindu calendar.

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