Months in Marathi: A Complete Guide to Marathi Calendar

Marathi is a beautiful and culturally rich language spoken predominantly in Maharashtra, India. Like many Indian languages, Marathi follows a traditional lunar calendar for religious and cultural events. If you’ve ever wondered how months are named and structured in Marathi, this guide will help you understand everything about the Marathi calendar months and their significance.

Understanding the Marathi Calendar

The Marathi calendar, also known as the Shalivahana Shaka or Hindu lunar calendar, is different from the Gregorian calendar that most of the world follows. It is primarily based on the moon’s cycles, making it a lunar-solar calendar.

12 Months in Marathi and Their Meanings

The Marathi calendar consists of 12 months, similar to the English calendar, but with different names. Each month corresponds to a lunar cycle, and its name is based on the position of the moon. Here is a breakdown of the months:

1. Chaitra (चैत्र)

Chaitra is the first month of the Marathi calendar and usually falls between March and April in the Gregorian calendar. It marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year and is celebrated with Gudi Padwa, an important festival in Maharashtra.

2. Vaishakh (वैशाख)

Vaishakh comes after Chaitra and falls between April and May. This month is considered very auspicious for religious activities. The famous Buddha Purnima, celebrating the birth of Gautama Buddha, is observed during this month.

3. Jyeshtha (ज्येष्ठ)

Jyeshtha is the hottest month in India, occurring between May and June. It is significant because it includes Nirjala Ekadashi, an important fasting day for Hindus. Many people also perform Ganga Snan (holy bath in the Ganges) during this month.

4. Ashadh (आषाढ)

Ashadh spans June to July and is the beginning of the monsoon season in India. This month is known for Guru Purnima, a day dedicated to honoring teachers and spiritual leaders. The Ashadhi Ekadashi festival is celebrated with great devotion, especially in Maharashtra.

5. Shravan (श्रावण)

Shravan, from July to August, is considered the holiest month in Hindu tradition. Devotees observe fasts and offer prayers to Lord Shiva. Popular festivals like Nag Panchami, Raksha Bandhan, and Janmashtami occur in this month.

6. Bhadrapada (भाद्रपद)

Bhadrapada, which falls between August and September, is known for Ganesh Chaturthi, the grand festival dedicated to Lord Ganesha. This festival is especially significant in Maharashtra, where massive celebrations take place.

7. Ashwin (आश्विन)

Ashwin occurs from September to October and marks the time for Navratri, a nine-day festival dedicated to Goddess Durga. It also includes Dussehra, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

8. Kartik (कार्तिक)

Kartik, from October to November, is another sacred month. It includes Diwali, the festival of lights, making it one of the most celebrated months in India. Devotees also perform special prayers and fasting during Kartik Purnima.

9. Margashirsha (मार्गशीर्ष)

Margashirsha spans November to December. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and many people observe fasts and recite Bhagavad Gita during this time. The Datta Jayanti festival, celebrating Lord Dattatreya’s birth, is also observed in this month.

10. Paush (पौष)

Paush occurs from December to January and is considered a cold yet spiritually significant month. It includes Makar Sankranti, a festival marking the sun’s transition into Capricorn.

11. Magh (माघ)

Magh, from January to February, is known for its religious significance. The Magh Mela and Vasant Panchami, which celebrates Goddess Saraswati, take place in this month.

12. Phalgun (फाल्गुन)

Phalgun, from February to March, is the last month of the Marathi calendar. It is famous for Holi, the festival of colors, celebrated with enthusiasm all over India.

Difference Between Marathi Calendar and English Calendar

The Marathi calendar differs from the English (Gregorian) calendar in several ways:

• It follows the lunar cycle, while the English calendar follows the solar cycle.
• New Year starts in March-April (Chaitra month), whereas the English calendar begins in January.
• Marathi months do not have fixed dates, as they depend on moon phases.

Importance of the Marathi Calendar

The Marathi calendar is deeply connected to Indian traditions, religious festivals, and agricultural cycles. It helps determine:

• Festival dates (like Gudi Padwa, Diwali, and Ganesh Chaturthi).
• Auspicious days for weddings, housewarming, and other ceremonies.
• Seasonal changes that influence farming and daily life.

Conclusion

The Marathi calendar months are an essential part of Maharashtrian culture and traditions. Understanding them helps us appreciate the festivals, seasons, and religious practices that shape life in India. Whether you are learning Marathi, planning a festival, or simply curious, knowing these months enriches your connection to this vibrant culture.

Common Questions

Why do Marathi months change every year?

Marathi months follow the lunar cycle, which shifts slightly every year compared to the fixed solar calendar.

Which Marathi month is considered the most auspicious?

Shravan is the most sacred month, dedicated to Lord Shiva, fasting, and religious activities.

What is the first month in the Marathi calendar?

The first month is Chaitra, which starts in March-April and marks the Marathi New Year.

Which Marathi month has Ganesh Chaturthi?

Ganesh Chaturthi falls in Bhadrapada, which is around August-September.

How many days are there in a Marathi month?

A Marathi month usually has 29 to 30 days, depending on the moon’s cycle.