Moon and Bharat(India)

In India, the moon has profound cultural, religious, and symbolic meaning that has influenced festivals, customs, and beliefs for many centuries. The moon is associated with India and Indian culture in significant ways.

Hindu Mythology & Symbolism

The moon is symbolized in Hinduism as Chandra, a goddess linked to beauty, peace, and timekeeping. It is frequently seen riding a chariot pulled by 10 white horses and is one of the nine heavenly influencers, or Navagrahas. Lord Shiva is often depicted with a crescent moon on his head, symbolizing the balance of time and the cyclical nature of life.

What is Lunar Calendar?

India mostly uses a lunisolar calendar, which means that while deciding on dates for festivals, religious holidays, and astrological events, it takes into consideration both the sun’s movements (solar year) and the moon’s cycles (lunar months).

Structure of the Indian Lunar Calendar

- A lunar month is based on the phases of the moon and lasts about 29.5 days.

- A lunar year has 12 months, totaling about 354 days, which is 11 days shorter than a solar year.

- To align with the solar year, an extra month (Adhik Maas) is added every 2.5 to 3 years.