Today Tithi in Panchang

What is Tithi in Panchang?

A Tithi is a lunar day in the Hindu Panchang, calculated based on the angular distance between the Moon and the Sun. Each time the Moon moves 12 degrees away from the Sun, a new Tithi begins. You can check today tithi and tomorrow tithi below:

Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha: Two Lunar Phases

Each month in a Hindu lunar calendar is divided into two equal parts called Pakshas. There are 30 tithis: 15 for the Shukla Paksha and 15 for the Krishna Paksha. Let us understand these two lunar phases in detail.

• Shukla Paksha: It is the ‘bright half of the month’ when the Moon is in the waxing phase (getting bigger). It starts from Amavasya (New Moon) and ends at Purnima (Full Moon). This phase is generally considered positive and ideal for growth.
• Krishna Paksha: Also known as Bahula Paksha, Krishna Paksha is the "dark half of the month" when the Moon is in its waning phase, gradually decreasing in size. It begins from Purnima and ends at Amavasya. Astrologically, this type of phase is ideal for reflection and letting go.

Why Today’s Tithi Matters in Hindu Astrology?

In Hindu astrology and the lunar calendar, the concept of Tithi (lunar days) is considered significant for many reasons. Let’s understand the significance of today Tithi in detail:

• Hindu Festivals & Fasting

Festivals such as Ekadashi, Amavasya, Purnima, Navami, and Akshaya Tritiya are based entirely on tithi, not Gregorian dates. Hence, people rely on today’s date according to Hindu calendar to observe rituals correctly.

• Shubh Muhurat Selection

Tithi is one of the important factors to determine the shubh muhurata for auspicious events such as housewarming, marriage, mundan ritual or a baby’s naamkaran ceremony.

For example, before starting any auspicious activity, people often wonder, ‘Today is which Tithi?’ to ensure the activity is done properly at the right time or during a shubh muhurta.

• Daily Panchang Predictions

Tithi is one of the five core elements (Panch-Anga)—alongside Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana, and Vara. Without it, an accurate daily online Panchang cannot exist. Every daily astrology prediction relies on the Tithi to forecast potential challenges or opportunities for specific zodiac signs.

• Better Decision Making

Each tithi carries a specific energy. Knowing today tithi details helps individuals plan important actions wisely and avoid unfavourable results.

Types of Tithis in Panchang

Several age-old texts, such as Surya Siddhanta ‘Mahabharata’, ‘Bhagavata Purana’ and ‘Vishnu Purana’, mention the basic five types of tithis for calculating today is which tithi.

1. Nanda Tithis

• Associated Element: Agni (Fire)
• Tithis Included: Pratipada (1), Shashti(6), Ekadashi(11)
• Meaning & Best Activities: "Giver of Joy." Best for construction and new starts

2. Bhadra Tithis

• Associated Element: Prithvi (Earth)
• Tithis Included: Dwitiya (2), Saptami(7), Dwadashi (12)
• Meaning & Best Activities: Best for health, buying vehicles, cattle, or grains.

3. Jaya Tithis

• Associated Element: Akash (Ether)
• Tithis Included: Tritiya(3), Ashtami(8), Triyodashi (13)
• Meaning & Best Activities: "Victory." Best for court cases, military, or weapons.

4. Rikhta Tithis

• Associated Element: Akash (Ether)
• Tithis Included: Chaturthi(4), Navami(9), Chaturdashi(14)
• Meaning & Best Activities: "Empty." Generally avoided for new/good work.

5. Poorna Tithis

• Associated Element: Jal (Water)
• Tithis Included: Panchami(5), Dashami(10), Purnima (15)
• Meaning & Best Activities: "Full." Perfect for weddings, engagements & Mundan.

Note: Apart from the above-mentioned Vikram Samvat today tithis, the rest are considered ‘Shunya Tithis’. Astrologers suggest avoiding auspicious events (weddings or celebrations).

The 30 Tithis of the Hindu Lunar Calendar

Below is the list of all tithis (for Shukla and Krishna Paksha), along with their significance and nature.

How is Today’s Tithi Calculated in Panchang?

To find what is todays tith, see the distance between the angular positions of the Sun and the Moon. Let us take a look at the simple steps to calculate the today tithi details manually:

• Step 1: Know the 12-degree rule
  According to this rule, if the Moon is between 0 degrees and 12 degrees, it will be counted as Pratipada. Similarly, the Moon, 12 degrees to 24 degrees ahead, will be calculated as Dwitiya. This continues up to 360 degrees, completing a cycle of 30 tithis in one lunar month.
• Step 2: Applying the Formula
  The formula to calculate today's date as per hindu calendar is: Moon’s longitude-Sun’s longitude/ 12 = Tithi number.
  So, if the Moon is at 120 degrees and the Sun is at 84 degrees, the angular distance between the Sun and the Moon will be 36. According to the formula mentioned earlier, today's tithi date is Tritiya.
• Step 3: Use the Online Tithi Calculator or the Daily Panchang
  For those who prefer an easier method, using an online Tithi calculator is the way to go. This tool simplifies the process, providing today's date according to Hindu calendar in a matter of seconds, saving you from the long and complex calculations.

Summary

Knowing today is which tithi helps you align with the Hindu lunar calendar, observe rituals correctly, and choose the right time for important decisions. Always check today’s date according to Hindu calendar and Vikram Samvat today for accurate planning.