By Benedetto 
The Marathi calendar follows a unique system deeply rooted in Indian traditions, culture, and astrology. Unlike the Gregorian calendar, which most of the world follows, the Marathi calendar aligns with the Hindu lunar system, influencing religious festivals, agricultural activities, and daily life. Understanding the months in Marathi helps in appreciating the historical and cultural significance of this traditional calendar.
Chaitra: The First Month of the Marathi Calendar
Chaitra marks the beginning of the Marathi New Year, typically falling in March or April according to the Gregorian calendar. The most significant festival in this month is Gudi Padwa, which signifies the start of the Hindu New Year in Maharashtra. Farmers consider this period crucial for harvesting crops, and many devotees observe fasts and rituals dedicated to deities during this month.
Vaishakh: The Month of Spiritual Significance
Vaishakh, the second month, corresponds to April-May and is associated with several important religious observances. This is a period when Hindus believe that performing charity and taking holy dips in sacred rivers can bring spiritual merit. Many religious texts highlight the importance of this month for engaging in virtuous activities and seeking blessings from the gods.
Jyeshtha: The Warmest Month of the Year
Jyeshtha falls in May-June and is known for its extreme summer heat. People perform religious ceremonies to seek relief from harsh weather conditions, including prayers dedicated to water sources and rain gods. The famous Vat Purnima festival, where married women fast and tie threads around banyan trees for their husbands’ well-being, is observed in this month.
Ashadh: The Beginning of Monsoon Season
Ashadh, occurring in June-July, welcomes the monsoon season, an essential time for Indian agriculture. Farmers eagerly anticipate the arrival of rain, as it determines the fate of their crops. The sacred Ashadhi Ekadashi, one of the most revered days for Lord Vitthal devotees, is celebrated with processions in Maharashtra, particularly in Pandharpur.
Shravan: The Holiest Month in Hinduism
Shravan, corresponding to July-August, holds immense religious importance. Many Hindus observe fasting, worship Lord Shiva, and perform rituals during this time. The Mondays of this month, known as Shravan Somvar, are particularly significant for Shiva devotees. The festivals of Raksha Bandhan and Narali Purnima also fall within Shravan, marking celebrations of sibling bonds and the sea’s importance for fishermen.
Bhadrapada: The Month of Lord Ganesha
Bhadrapada, which falls in August-September, is famous for the grand celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi, Maharashtra’s most awaited festival. Devotees bring idols of Lord Ganesha into their homes and temples, worship them for several days, and immerse them in water bodies as part of the visarjan ritual. This month also includes the Pitru Paksha period, when people perform rituals for their ancestors.
Ashwin: The Festive Month of Joy
Ashwin, occurring in September-October, is a festive period filled with major Hindu celebrations. Navratri, dedicated to Goddess Durga, is widely celebrated, followed by Dussehra, which marks the victory of good over evil. The full moon of this month, known as Sharad Purnima, is considered highly auspicious for moonlit night offerings and prayers.
Kartik: The Month of Lights and Devotion
Kartik, falling in October-November, is known for the festival of Diwali, the most widely celebrated festival in India. People light lamps, burst firecrackers, and worship Goddess Lakshmi for prosperity. This month also includes rituals such as Tulsi Vivah, marking the ceremonial marriage of the holy basil plant, which signifies the start of the wedding season in Hindu culture.
Margashirsha: The Month of Devotional Practices
Margashirsha, corresponding to November-December, is considered highly sacred for religious worship and meditation. Many devotees dedicate this month to reciting scriptures and engaging in prayerful activities. The full moon night of this month holds special importance, and people observe fasts to seek spiritual enlightenment and divine blessings.
Pausha: The Coldest Month of the Year
Pausha falls in December-January and is marked by winter’s peak. Although it is not a major festival month, people engage in spiritual discourses and rituals that focus on inner peace and knowledge. Farmers begin preparing for the next agricultural season, while households celebrate small-scale rituals for well-being and prosperity.
Magha: The Month of Harvest Festivals
Magha, occurring in January-February, is a crucial month for farmers as they celebrate Makar Sankranti, marking the end of the winter solstice and the beginning of longer days. This festival is observed with kite flying, sesame sweets, and prayers for good harvests. Devotees also take holy dips in rivers, believing it purifies their souls and brings prosperity.
Phalguna: The Month of Colorful Celebrations
Phalguna, the last month of the Marathi calendar, corresponds to February-March and is famous for the festival of Holi, which signifies the arrival of spring and the triumph of good over evil. People celebrate with colors, music, and festive gatherings. This month also includes Shivratri, a significant day for Lord Shiva worshippers.
Conclusion
The months in the Marathi calendar hold deep cultural, religious, and agricultural significance. Each month aligns with various traditions, rituals, and festivals that shape the lives of people in Maharashtra. Understanding this traditional system helps preserve and appreciate the rich heritage of the Marathi culture. Whether it is the joyous celebrations of Ganesh Chaturthi, the devotion of Shravan, or the spiritual practices of Margashirsha, each month has its own charm and importance in the lives of Marathi-speaking communities.
FAQs
How is the Marathi calendar different from the Gregorian calendar?
The Marathi calendar follows the Hindu lunar system, while the Gregorian calendar is based on the solar system. The Marathi calendar also includes religious and cultural observances that differ from the standard Western calendar.
Why is Shravan considered the holiest month?
Shravan is dedicated to Lord Shiva, and many devotees observe fasts and perform rituals. It is believed that worshipping Lord Shiva during this month brings immense blessings and spiritual growth.
What is the significance of Ashadhi Ekadashi?
Ashadhi Ekadashi is a sacred day for Lord Vitthal devotees, especially in Maharashtra. Pilgrims travel to Pandharpur to pay their respects, marking it as one of the biggest religious events in the region.
Why do people celebrate Makar Sankranti in Magha?
Makar Sankranti marks the transition of the sun into Capricorn and signifies the end of winter. It is celebrated with kite flying, sesame sweets, and prayers for a prosperous harvest.
How does the Marathi calendar impact daily life?
The Marathi calendar influences religious festivals, agricultural cycles, and traditional customs, playing an essential role in planning events, rituals, and social gatherings in Maharashtra.