The Motions of the Earth and the effect of Sidereal, Solar and Synodic Time Periods

There are 3 kinds of motion associated with the Earth namely which are:
- Rotation
- Revolution
- Precession

It is to be noted that the Earth rotates around it's own axis constantly along with also revolving around the Sun. There is also a third motion which happens very minutely that is known as procession. The Earth wobbles around it's axis which tilts it's relative position to the background stars by approximately 50 seconds a year. This effect of the wobble causes the earth to shift about 1 degree in a span of 72 years (1 degree = 3600 seconds divided by 50 seconds wobble). Applying some mathematics, we can infer that the Earth's axis gets shifted by 180 degrees in 12960 years (72 years for 1 degree multiplied by 180) and to return back to it's original position of 360 degrees takes roughly 25920 years (72 years for 1 degree multiplied by 360). 

This wobbling effect though very minor in nature since it is only barely 50 seconds for a year is not considered within the parlance of Tropical Zodiac and that is the whole reason why sun sign dates differs between the Indian and Western system. The Indian Vedic system adopts the Sidereal Zodiac that takes into account the Wobble effect whereas the Western system takes only the Tropical Zodiac not factoring the Wobbling impact of the Earth. The debate is however endless with respect to the time period in which the wobbling effect started to take place which gives rise to the phenomenon called 'Ayanamsa' which is defined as the angle by which the sidereal ecliptic of a celestial body is less than its tropical ecliptic longitude.

The consensus currently is that Earth has shifted around 24 degrees from its initial position and that is the reason why we see about 24 days difference between the two zodiacs. For instance, the common belief is that the Sun enters the sign of Sagittarius around 22nd of November but the month of Margazhi which is Sun's movement into the sign of Dhanus or Sagittarius occurs only around 16th December as per the almanacs published. The difference will only expand as time keeps travelling but the thing to be noted is that the dates of the Tropical Zodiac will remain more or less constant whereas it's only the dates in the Sidereal Zodiac that will undergo a change of roughly about a day once in every 72 years.

Another important point to keep track is the time taken by the Earth to revolve around the Sun. We know that one year constitutes of 365 days and a leap year is added once every 4 years to make the tally as 366 days. This is because the Earth takes about 365.2422 days to traverse 360 degrees around the Sun. This extra quarter of 0.25 over and above 365 days is added as an extra day once every 4 years (0.25*4 = 1 day) to bridge for this gap. For all practical purposes, a year cannot consist of days in decimals and hence a conventional year is accounted only as 365 days with a leap year of 366 days thrown in once every 4 years. Also it can be noted that Earth revolves about a degree a day around the Sun (365 days for 360 degrees) with the average mean motion of the Earth around the Sun being accounted for about 59 Min 8 seconds in a day.

Lets take a look at some important terminologies with respect to Earth's motion:

Sidereal Day: A Sidereal Day is the time taken by Earth to rotate around it's axis with respect to the stars. This takes about 23 hours 56 minutes and 4.09 seconds.
Sidereal Day = 23 Hours, 56 Minutes, 4.09 Seconds or 0.997270 Days

Solar Day or Tropical Day: A solar day is the time it takes for the Earth to rotate about its axis so that the Sun appears in the same position in the sky. We know a day consists of 24 hours with the time taken by Earth to rotate around it's axis being 23 hours, 56 minutes and 4 seconds. We also know that the Earth revolves around the Sun. To complete a solar day, Earth must rotate an additional portion equal to 1/365 of a full turn. The time required for this extra rotation is 1/365 of a day is approximately close to about 4 minutes. Thus a Solar Day is recorded as 24 hours.
Solar Day = 24 Hours or 1 Day

Synodic Day or Lunar Day: This basically equates to a 'Tithi' within an Indian parlance and denotes the angular distance formed between the Sun and Moon. The Earth revolves around the Sun and the Moon traverses across the Earth's orbit. Since the motions of the Sun and Moon are always varying in speed, the length of a tithi constantly changes and can alternate between 19 hours to 26 hours. However the mean length considered is 24 hours based on the solar time.
Synodic Day = 24 Hours or 1 Day

Sidereal Month: A Sidereal month is the time needed for the Moon to return to the same place against the background of the stars. The Moon revolves around the Earth and takes approximately a little over 27 days to return back to it's orbit. The average daily motion of the moon is said to be about 13 degrees 10 minutes and 35 seconds and to transgress 360 degrees around the Earth is said to take about 27.32 days (360 degrees divided by 13 degrees, 10 minutes and 35 seconds). In Vedic Astrology, the constellations are divided into 27 types of Stars or Nakshatras with each having a time span of 13 degrees 20 minutes. Thus it could be configured that on an average, a Nakshatra span lasts a little over one day considering the daily mean motion of Moon is 13°10'35'' whereas time duration associated with a Nakshatra happens to be 13° 20''.
Sidereal Month = 27 Days, 7 Hours, 43 Minutes, 11.5 Seconds or 27.321661 Days

Solar Month: A solar month is derived based on a Calendar year which consists of 365 days and a leap year added once every 4 years making it 366 days. We know there are 12 months in a year and dividing it by 365 or 366 results in about 30.5 days per month. However for practical purposes we do not normally round the days in a month and the standard days in a month is taken as 30. However some of the months do also have 31 days with February having the least with 28 in normal years and 29 during a leap year.
Solar Month = 30 Days

Synodic or Lunar Month: A Lunar month is considered to be the time period between one full moon to another full moon or one new moon to another new moon. This is based on the relative reference of the Sun and Moon with Earth being the binding factor. Taking the Sun and Moon to be in the exact same position, we already know that a Sidereal month takes approximate 27.32 days. By the time the Moon takes this time to make one path on the Earth's orbit, the Earth would have motioned around 27 degrees towards the Sun. (Since Earth's motion around the Sun is about a degree a day or more precisely 59 min 8 seconds per day). While the Moon is orbiting Earth, the Earth is progressing in its orbit around Sun. After completing a sidereal month, the Moon must move a little further to catch up with the new position having the same angular distance from the Sun. Therefore, a Lunar month takes about 2.2 days longer than a sidereal month making a Lunar Month approx 29 and a half days in length.
Synodic Month = 29 Days 12 Hours 44 Minutes 2.9 Seconds or 29.530589 Days

Sidereal Year: A Sidereal Year is the time that Earth takes to orbit the Sun and return to the same position in relation to the background of the stars. It takes into account the precession caused by the wobbling of the earth and hence it takes about 20 minutes longer than a Tropical year which does not factor into account the effect of precession.
Sidereal Year = 365 Days, 6 Hours, 9 Minutes, 9.5 Seconds or 365.256364 Days

Solar Year or Tropical Year: A Solar Year or Tropical Year which is also known as the Year of the Seasons is the time it takes the Earth to complete a full orbit around the Sun. However while deriving the measure of a Tropical year, the axial tilt of the earth caused due to it's wobbling nature is not considered into account making it slightly shorter in duration than a Sidereal Year.
Solar Year = 365 Days, 5 Hours, 48 Minutes, 46.43 Seconds or 365.242189 Days

Synodic or Lunar Year: A Synodic or Lunar Year is based on the monthly phases of the Moon's cycle which constitutes the relationship based upon the angular distance between Sun and Moon. We have seen that a Lunar month lasts about 29 and a half days and hence to cover 12 cycles will take on an average of about 10-11 days less than a calendar year of 365 days. The number of Lunar months in a Solar Year is said to be about 12.36827.
Synodic Year = 354 Days, 8 Hours, 48 Minutes, 34 Seconds or 354.367060 Days  

Based on the motions of the Earth, the following can also be summarized briefly:
Rotation of the Earth causes the Day and Night Phenomena
The Earth rotates from West to East and one side of the Earth faces the Sun causing day light and the other side gets obscured from the rays of the Sun causing darkness. The Rotation of the Earth also determines the Ascendant in a Horoscope which is the point on the eastern horizon when an individual takes birth. The Ascendant has a direct correlation with the Sun. The Sun rises in the East which dawns a new beginning. In the default Kalapurusha chart, the first sign Aries which also happens to be the exalted sign for Sun is said to denote the Eastern direction. Also the Sages have attributed Sun to be the significator for the first house of birth manifestation.

Revolution of the Earth causes Seasons
As the earth rotates on its axis producing day and night, it also moves about the sun in an elliptical orbit that requires about 365 1/4 days to complete. The earth's axis is tilted with respect to its orbital plane which is what causes the seasons. When the earth's axis points towards the sun, it is summer for that hemisphere. When the earth's axis points away, winter can be expected. Since the tilt of the axis is 23 1/2 degrees, the North Pole never points directly at the Sun, but on the summer solstice it points as close as it can, and on the winter solstice as far as it can. Midway between these two times, in spring and autumn, the spin axis of the earth points 90 degrees away from the sun. This means that during this period, day and night have more or less about the same length of 12 hours.
                           

-> Summer Solstice : Jun 20-22 - Sun reaches it's northern most point when North Pole tilts closest to the Sun - Northern Hemisphere experiences longer days & shorter nights - Southern Hemisphere experiences shorter days & longer nights

-> Winter Solstice : Dec 21-22 - Sun reaches it's southern most point when South Pole tilts closest to the Sun - Northern Hemisphere experiences shorter days & longer nights - Southern Hemisphere experiences longer days & shorter nights

-> Vernal or Spring Equinox : Mar 20-21 - Sun moves northward across the celestial equator with the North Pole starting to tilt towards the Sun indicating climate starting to get hotter in the Northern Hemisphere. Northern Hemisphere experiences Spring with days & nights being equal - Southern Hemisphere experiences Autumn with days & nights being equal.

-> Autumn Equinox : Sep 22-23 - Sun moves southward across the celestial equator with the South Pole starting to tilt towards the Sun indicating climate to start getting hotter in the Southern Hemisphere. Northern Hemisphere experiences Autumn with days & nights being equal - Southern Hemisphere experiences Spring with days & nights being equal.

Note: Autumn always comes after summer season and spring follows winter season. In autumn, the temperature gradually decreases and in spring the temperature starts increasing. The Autumnal Equinox is related to the autumn season and the term vernal equinox is related to the spring season

Additionally, it would also be a subject matter of interest to know about the concepts of Perihelion and Aphelion. Perihelion or Periapsis occurs when Earth moves closest to the Sun which takes place around 1st week of January every year whereas Aphelion or Apoapsis is when Earth moves furthest away from the Sun and this takes place around the first week of July every year.
                               

Precession of the Earth causes Ayanamsa or Precision of Equinoxes
As the Earth wobbles around it's axis, it leads to an axial tilt creating the effect of Ayanamsa which leads to the formation of Sidereal Zodiac based upon the backdrop of the stars as opposed to the Tropical Zodiac which causes seasons and does not factor the wobbling effect into it's equation.

The Planetary Cabinet - Nava Nayaka of Samvatsara

As per the Hindu calendar, a time cycle consists of 60 years (Samvatsara) and each of the Samvatsara's are associated with a specific name and the cycle keeps repeating every 60 years. The Samvatsara's by themselves are again divided into groups of 3 consisting of 20 Samvatsara's each with the trinity of Brahma (1 to 20), Vishnu (21 to 40) and Shiva (41 to 60) ruling a period of 20 years amidst these 60 years. The current time cycle beginning with Prabhava Samvatsara started in 1987-88 and will be completed with Akshaya Samvatsara in 2046-47 after which the cycle will once again reflect with Prabhava. The current operational year of 2023-24 happens to be the 37th and is titled 'Shobakrithu'.

The cycle of 60 is obtained from the relative positions of the two furthest planets in the sky as per Vedic Astrology namely Jupiter and Saturn which signify Dharma and Karma respectively. The orbital time taken by Jupiter to traverse the zodiac is approximately 12 years (1 year in each zodiac sign) and that of Saturn is 30 years (2.5 years in each zodiac sign). The least common multiple of 12 and 30 happens to be 60 and hence a time cycle consists of 60 years. It is also roughly the period in which both these planets will cross each other's part and hence the special significance with the number 60.

As per the Panchang, each year begins with the predictions of Sage 'Idaikadar' who delineates about what to expect in a particular year in the form of a verse. Some years from the Sanskrit names itself can be deduced to be good and certain years connote to be inauspicious for the world in general. For Sobhakritu year it is termed as a 'Mangalam' year that denotes prosperity and auspicious happenings taking place in general.

There is however some dissonance with respect to when exactly a year begins. As per the Lunar calendar which is largely adopted amongst Telugu and Kannada speaking population, it occurs during 'Yugadi' which takes place with the rise of Shukla Paksha Pratipada (Pratamai/Padyami) in Chaitra Masa. This normally takes place somewhere between the middle of March and April. However as per the Solar calendar which is mostly followed by Tamil and Malayalam speaking states, a year begins only with the ingress of Sun into the sign of Aries or Mesha Rasi known as 'Chithirai' ushering in the festival of Puthandu / Vishu which normally happens around 13/14/15th of April.

Speaking about the Panchang, there is an important concept called 'Nava Nayaka' which plays a vital role in determining various constituents and giving a breakdown on what to expect with respect to few important portfolios. Like how in politics we see different portfolios being occupied by ministerial candidates, in a similar vein we see different planets taking control of certain positions at the beginning of every Hindu year. The different portfolios which arise every year at the beginning of a Samvatsara happen to be:

- Raja : King (Overall Control)

- Mantri : Minister (Administration)

- Senadipati : Commander in Chief (Law and Order, Defence)

- Arghyadipati : Water (Water Levels, Prices of products, Finances)

- Meghadipati : Clouds (Rainfall, Kind of Weather)

- Sasyadipati : Agriculture (Agricultural Products, Underground Produce)

- Dhanyadipati : Grains (Food crops, Cereals)

- Rasadipati : Commodities (Essential Spices, Medicinal Drugs)

- Neerasadipati : Non Commodities (Metals, Gemstones) 

The Raja is the top most person in the cabinet and most sought after leading the reigns. The Mantri is the next most important and adviser to the King in matters of general public health and lifestyle. The Senadipati is the leader of the army and able folly to the King with regard to law and weapons. Arghyadipati deals largely with the state of water levels but also controls the finance side of things such as the pricing of Agricultural produce. Meghadipati takes the portfolio of ascertaining the weather and estimating the amount of rainfalls expected to be prevalent. Sasyadipati details the prediction of the growth of crops and Dhanyadipathi is all about the production of grains. Rasadipati tackles the essential commodities sector and Neerasadipati manages metal produce including jewellery and precious stones.

The Nava Nayaka calculation occurs largely based on the position of Sun but the rulers of the respective 9 positions can be any of the 7 planets sans the nodes Rahu & Ketu. It is generally believed that natural malefic planets getting majority of the portfolios indicates administration being tough and strict during that particular year whereas presence of more beneficial planets ruling the reigns can designate more well being. The Nava Nayaka for all the 9 portfolios are calculated as below:

Raja:
Basis - Day of Tithi (Relationship between Sun and Moon based on angular distance)
Specific - Day Lord of Shukla Paksha Pratipada in Chaitra month

Mantri:
Basis - Day of Sun's entry in zodiac sign
Specific - Day Lord of Sun's entry in Aries (Mesha Rasi)

Senadipati:
Basis - Day of Sun's entry in zodiac sign
Specific - Day Lord of Sun's entry in Leo (Simha Rasi)

Arghyadipati:
Basis - Day of Sun's entry in zodiac sign
Specific - Day Lord of Sun's entry in Gemini (Mithuna Rasi)

Meghadipati:
Basis - Day of Sun's entry in Nakshatra
Specific - Day Lord of Sun's entry in Arudra Nakshatra (Tiruvadirai)

Sasyadipati:
Basis - Day of Sun's entry in zodiac sign
Specific - Day Lord of Sun's entry in Cancer (Karka Rasi)

Dhanyadipati:
Basis - Day of Sun's entry in zodiac sign
Specific - Day Lord of Sun's entry in Sagittarius (Dhanus Rasi)

Rasadipati:
Basis - Day of Sun's entry in zodiac sign
Specific - Day Lord of Sun's entry in Libra (Thula Rasi)

Neerasadipati:
Basis - Day of Sun's entry in zodiac sign
Specific - Day Lord of Sun's entry in Capricorn (Makara Rasi)

Thus in 7 of the 9 cases, Nava Nayaka is determined based on the day of Sun's entry into different zodiacs namely Aries, Gemini, Cancer, Leo, Libra, Sagittarius and Capricorn. For determining the 'Raja' it is based on the first Tithi of the brighter half that takes place when Sun is placed in Pisces Rasi and for obtaining 'Meghadipathi', it is the day when Sun enters Arudra Nakshatra.

There is also a concept of Pashunayaka which arises based on the planet that takes the reigns of the Raja position. Pashunayaka is decoded based on the following:
If Raja is Sun or Mars - Pashunayaka will be Yama
If Raja is Moon, Jupiter or Venus - Pashunayaka will be Sri Krishna
If Raja is Mercury or Saturn - Pashunayaka will be Balarama

Let's go about computing the Nava Nakaya planets of all the 9 portfolios for the current Samvatsara in operation which happens to be Shobakritu.

Raja:
Calculation: Day Lord of Shukla Paksha Pratipada Tithi during Sunrise in Chaitra month
Outcome: The Sun and Moon conjunct in Meena Rasi (Pisces) forming Shukla Paksha Pratipada Tithi which takes place on 21st March 2023 at 22:54 hours. This happens to be on a Tuesday. However since sunrise is not prevalent, we need to consider the day this Tithi occurs when sunrise is present which happens to be Wednesday, 22nd March 2023. Hence the Raja for the year is 'Mercury'
Result: Raja = Mercury

Mantri:
Calculation: Day Lord of Sun's entry in Aries (Mesha Rasi)
Outcome: The Sun transits into Mesha Rasi on 14th April 2023 at 14:27 hours. This happens to be a Friday. Day Lord for Friday is Venus. Hence Mantri for the year is Venus
Result: Mantri = Venus

Senadipati:
Calculation: Day Lord of Sun's entry in Leo (Simha Rasi)
Outcome: The Sun transits into Simha Rasi on 17th August 2023 at 13:01 hours. This happens to be a Thursday. Day Lord for Thursday is Jupiter. Hence Senadipati for the year is Jupiter
Result: Senadipati = Jupiter

Arghyadipati:
Calculation: Day Lord of Sun's entry in Gemini (Mithuna Rasi)
Outcome: The Sun transits into Mithuna Rasi on 15th June 2023 at 17:44 hours. This happens to be a Thursday. Day Lord for Thursday is Jupiter. Hence Arghyadipati for the year is Jupiter
Result: Arghyadipati = Jupiter

Meghadipati:
Calculation: Day Lord of Sun's entry in Arudra Nakshatra (Tiruvadirai)
Outcome: The Sun transits into Arudra Nakshatra on 22nd June 2023 at 17:17 hours. This happens to be a Thursday. Day Lord for Thursday is Jupiter. Hence Meghadipati for the year is Jupiter
Result: Meghadipati = Jupiter

Sasyadipati:
Calculation: Day Lord of Sun's entry in Cancer (Kataka Rasi)
Outcome: The Sun transits into Kataka Rasi on 17th July 2023 at 04:35 hours. This happens to be a Monday as per English Day but Sunday as per the Vedic Calendar since a Hindu Day begins from sunrise and ends during the next day Sunrise. However since the day is almost over, only Monday is considered for this portfolio with sunrise being prevalent. Day Lord for Monday is Moon. Hence Sasyadipati for the year is Moon
Result: Sasyadipati = Moon

Dhanyadipati:
Calculation: Day Lord of Sun's entry in Sagittarius (Dhanus Rasi)
Outcome: The Sun transits into Dhanus Rasi on 16th December 2023 at 15:28 hours. This happens to be a Saturday. Day Lord for Saturday is Saturn. Hence Dhanyadipati for the year is Saturn
Result: Dhanyadipati = Saturn

Rasadipati:
Calculation: Day Lord of Sun's entry in Libra (Thula Rasi)
Outcome: The Sun transits into Thula Rasi on 18th October 2023 at 00:59 hours. This happens to be a Tuesday as per English Day but Wednesday as per the Vedic Calendar since a Hindu Day begins from sunrise and ends during the next day Sunrise. However since the day is almost over, only Wednesday is considered for this portfolio with sunrise being prevalent. Day Lord for Wednesday is Mercury. Hence Rasadipati for the year is Mercury
Result: Rasadipati = Mercury

Neerasadipati:
Calculation: Day Lord of Sun's entry in Capricorn (Makara Rasi)
Outcome: The Sun transits into Makara Rasi on Saturday, 15th January 2024 at 02:13 hours. This happens to be a Monday as per English Day but Sunday as per the Vedic Calendar since a Hindu Day begins from sunrise and ends during the next day Sunrise. However since the day is almost over, only Monday is considered for this portfolio with sunrise being prevalent. Day Lord for Monday is Moon. Hence Neerasadipati for the year is Moon
Result: Neerasadipati = Moon

Note:
It is important to note that a Vedic Day begins only from Sunrise as opposed to a standard English Calendar day which starts at 12AM. Generally the mean sunrise adopted is 6AM as that is considered to be the approximate standard time in which Sun rises within most places in India. Thus, it can be roughly assimilated that 6AM is Sunrise time and 6PM is Sunset time. While calculating Navanayaka, if any of the planetary transits takes place after 6PM, as per Surya Siddhantha only the next day is considered into the equation though as per Drik Siddhantha which deals with observable placement in the skies, it could have taken place in the previous day. This needs to be carefully looked at while determining Navanayaka portfolio.

Ayanamsa used for the calculation of Navanayaka is Lahiri Chitra Paksha and the place considered is Chennai, India. There could be a change in planetary portfolio based on the Ayanamsa adopted. Also for all cases of Navanayaka, since only the day lord is considered into the equation and since the shadow planets Rahu and Ketu do not rule any of the days, they do not hold ground to become the Navanayaka's for any of the 9 portfolios in operation.

Listed below is the current operational Samvatsara cycle that runs from 1987-88 to 2046-47.

Information and Results pertaining to different Tithis of Panchanga

Tithi - A Limb of Panchanga
A Tithi happens to be one of the core elements of the five limbed Panchanga. A Tithi occurs based on the angular distance that is created between the Sun & Moon as they revolve around the zodiac belt of 360°. Every 12 degrees of movement by the Moon away from the Sun gives rise to a Tithi and hence there are 30 Tithis (360°/12) in total with 15 being part of the brighter half or what is known as Shukla Paksha and the latter 15 being part of the darker half or Krishna Paksha. For counting purposes we normally consider it like there are 15 Tithis in total much like there are 7 Varas, 27 Nakshatras, 27 Yogas and 11 Karanas.

Tithi and Prosperity
It is said that Knowledge of Tithi brings prosperity. There is also the popular saying stating 'Tithiyai Pidicha Vidhiyai Vellalam' which translates as one who catches hold of their Tithi can even conquer their destiny. Hence Tithi has a very important hold with regard to a Horoscope and is much more than just being used for Muhurtha purposes or celebrating the auspicious events of deities such as Krishna Ashtami or Rama Navami etc.

Tithi and Destiny
It is also believed that Tithi is inherently connected to one's past life and the Tithi one is born with is correlated with the paava punyam or merits / sins from previous birth and accordingly the Tithi is the one that determines the destiny for an individual in this lifetime. Each of the Tithis barring the 15th Tithi of Pournima/Ammavasya are impacted by 2 or more Rasis being cursed leaning to the concept of Tithi Shoonya or Daghda Rasi which indicates certain dark spots in a particular area for an individual horoscope. However there is a saying that only one out of two rasis gets the tag of shoonya rasi (except Chaturdashi Tithi where 2 out of 4 get impacted) based on whether birth takes place in brighter half or darker half. The general understanding is that the first rasi becomes shoonya as per Kala Purusha order for a Shukla Paksha birth and the second rasi becomes shoonya as per Kala Purusha order for a Krishna Paksha birth. This holds good in most cases except for Tithis 3,4 and 7. Apart from Tithi Shoonya Rasis, there are also cases of Lagnas (Ascendant), Nakshatras (Asterism) and Masa (Lunar month) which become Shoonya when arising with certain Tithis which are dispensed below. These concepts are largely used for purpose of fixing Muhurthas.

Tithi Deities
Each of the Tithis also happen to be ruled by a particular deity apart from a Devi assigned to each of them yearning towards prosperity. It is believed that offering prayers to the Nitya Devi linked to the Tithi in which one attains birth helps in granting wealth and prosperity. There is also a type of Ganapathi or Lord Ganesh associated with each of the Tithis and worship of the said type of Ganapathi helps in removing obstacles.

Tithi and the Venus Connection
Tithi mainly connotes the Tamil words 'Selvam' and 'Magizhchi' which is all about happiness, pleasures, delights, earning wealth and desiring prosperity. Since all these undertakings generally come within the ambit of Venusian qualities, a Tithi broadly is said to be under the control of the planet Venus and ruled by the water element.

Tithi - Benefic and Malefic
In general parlance as per Sage Parashara, Moon is classified as Natural Benefic or Natural Malefic based on whether it is under waxing phase (Shukla Paksha) or waning phase (Krishna Paksha) respectively. There are some authorities however stating that Moon is beneficial after it crosses a specific Tithi in the second half of the brighter phase and continues to be favorable till around the mid of the darker phase where it again becomes malefic as it reaches towards Ammavasya and even beyond that into the first half of the brighter phase as Moon is still in rather close conjunction with the Sun. However when it comes to auspiciousness of Tithi, it is categorized into Auspicious, Mixed and Inauspicious based on its proximity with the Sun.

Tithi Groupings
Tithis are also categorised into 5 kind of groupings viz Nanda, Bhadra, Jaya, Rikta and Poorna as per the text 'Kalaprakasika'. The groupings resonate with a particular planet based on the meaning of the terms. This however should not be construed as if the Tithi is lorded by the particular planet but more in line with a group of Tithis relating to the characteristic of a particular planet.

Nanda - 1st, 6th and 11th Tithi. Ruler Venus. Denotes joyousness and happiness
Bhadra - 2nd, 7th and 12th Tithi. Ruler Mercury. Denotes fortune and health
Jaya - 3rd, 8th and 13th Tithi. Ruler Mars. Denotes victory and triumph
Rikta - 4th, 9th and 14th Tithi. Ruler Saturn. Denotes loss and emptiness
Poorna - 5th, 10th and 15th. Ruler Jupiter. Denotes fulfillment and completeness

The Rikta Tithis in general are said to be inauspicious for any important work to be carried out and is best said to be avoided whereas the Poorna Tithis are apt for performing any religious ceremonies. Nanda Tithis invoke sense of pleasure, Bhadra is said to be friendly and Jaya competitive. Hence Tithis for an activity can be used accordingly based on the grouping. It is also said that if a Tithi and it's grouping ruler lord happens to coincide on the particular weekday or Vara, it is said to be auspicious for instance Nanda Tithi & Friday, Bhadra Tithi & Wednesday, Jaya Tithi & Tuesday, Rikta Tithi & Saturday and Poorna Tithi & Thursday.

Tithi Specifics
Kalaprakasika also categorises Tithis based on its orientation with Sunrise as seen below:

Tithi Kshaya - If a Tithi originates after the occurence of Sunrise and finishes before the start of the sunrise in the next day, it is known as Tithi Kshaya. This means that on two consecutive days of sunrise, the Tithi isn't present and denotes a decrease. Such a Tithi is said to be inauspicious and is better if one avoids performing any tasks during such a period of time.

Tithi Adhi or Tithi Vridhi - If a Tithi originates before the occurence of Sunrise and finishes only after the start of the sunrise in the next day, it is known as Tithi Vridhi. Here the Tithi is present on two consecutive days of sunrise and said to connote an increase. This is also not suitable and it is said to avoid any favorable tasks during this period of time.

Tithi Gandanta - The one last Gatika of a Poorna Tithi and the first one Gatika of a Nanda Tithi is said to denote Tithi Gandanta. It is generally better to avoid any activity during this period.

Tithi Lordship
There aren't many texts that talk about the Lordship of each of the Tithis. There is a view of following Tithi Lordship based on the weekday order such as assigning the first Tithi to Sun, second Tithi to Moon and so on till the 7th Tithi to Saturn and then 8th to Rahu and then back again with Sun ruling the 9th Tithi and then the 15th Tithi of bright half provided to Saturn and 15th of darker half given to Rahu. This methodology however does not have any sage backing.

The only Ancient text which makes a reference to Lordship of Tithis happens to be the Kerala treatise on Horary Astrology titled 'Krishneeyam' by Shree Krishna Acharya. This book has clearly delineated the rulership planet for each of the Tithis which are dispensed below. There is no exact methodology of how exactly the Tithi Lord needs to be used in a horoscope but since Tithi in essence is all about significations such as Pleasures, Desires, Relationships, Passion, Happiness, Wealth etc it makes sense to see where the Tithi Lord is placed and the house(s) it owns to approximately come to a judgement on the interest towards these matters. It will also be preferable if the Tithi Lord itself doesn't end up getting placed in a Tithi Shoonya Rasi.

Tithi Information
Listed below are information of Tithis collated from various sources for all the 15 Tithis both in the waxing and waning half

1) Pratipada / Pratamai

- Tithi Group - Nanda
- Tithi Lord - Mars
- Tithi Deity - Agni
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Kameshwari
- Tithi Ganapathi - Bala Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Durgai - Pateeswaran (Shukla Paksha) / Kuberan - Thirukattupalli (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Neyi - Ghee
- Tithi Level - Inauspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Auspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Vriddhi - Increasing
- Tithi Favorable Day - Friday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Libra ruled by Venus (Shukla Paksha) / Capricorn ruled by Saturn (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - Libra, Capricorn
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Uthiradam / Uttara Ashada
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Bhadrapada
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Ugadi is celebrated on this Tithi occuring in Shukla Paksha of the Lunar month of Chaitra. This day marks the beginning of the Hindu New Year as per the Shalivahana Shaka calendar. 
- Tithi General Results -
  : Generally any deed performed on this Tithi has the potential to multiply. Hence caution must be exercised and only those activities that involve growth in favorable manner needs to be performed.
  : These natives have good clarity and they think deeply while performing any task.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 7th and 10th houses get affected by Shoonya. Usually if they have good family terms, work tends to get affected and vice versa. Ideally they should never involve their spouse in their work activities.  

2) Dwitiya

- Tithi Group - Bhadra 
- Tithi Lord - Venus
- Tithi Deity - Brahma
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Bhagamalini
- Tithi Ganapathi - Taruna Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Vishwadeva - Thiruvaikavur (Shukla Paksha) / Vayu - Kalahasti (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Chakrai - Sugar
- Tithi Level - Inauspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Auspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Mangala - Auspicious, Nanmai - Beneficial
- Tithi Favorable Day - Wednesday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Sagittarius ruled by Jupiter (Shukla Paksha) / Pisces ruled by Jupiter (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - None
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Anusham / Anuradha
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Shravana, Bhadrapada
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Phulera Dooj is conducted on Shukla Paksha Dwitiya in the lunar month of Phalguna which is quite popular in the Northern India region. It is associated with flowers with Holi being played with flowers as an instrument.
- Tithi General Results -
  : These natives are very virtuous by nature. They are usually family oriented and like to involve their members in various tasks. They also like to accumulate things out of their own efforts.
  : These people are very straight forward and believe in sticking to their words not liking to lie.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 9th and 12th houses get affected by Shoonya. Usually relationship with their dads are not great and it is better if they are not very close to their father or gurus as losses can be accumulated out of them. 

3) Tritiya

- Tithi Group - Jaya
- Tithi Lord - Mercury
- Tithi Deity - Gowri
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Nithyaklinna
- Tithi Ganapathi - Bhakti Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Chandran - Thingalur (Shukla Paksha) / Agni - Tiruvannamalai (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Pal - Milk
- Tithi Level - Inauspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Auspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Bala - Strong, Shakthi - Strength
- Tithi Favorable Day - Tuesday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Capricorn ruled by Saturn (Shukla Paksha) / Leo ruled by Sun (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - Capricorn, Leo
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Uthiram / Uttara Phalguni, Uthiradam / Uttara Ashada, Uttaratathi / Uttara Bhadrapada
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Shravana, Phalguna (only for Shukla Paksha)
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Akshaya Tritiya is held on Shukla Paksha Tritiya in the lunar month of Vaishakha. It is related with good luck and fortune and people are known to stock up gold and jewellery during this time.
- Tithi General Results -
  : These Tithi is said to be victorious and full of strength. Hence it is ideal for competition or when going headed for any battle
  : Any activity they take up, they ensure to put their full efforts and believe in completing it in the rightful manner. They are also usually god fearing and like visiting religious shrines.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 5th and 10th houses get affected by Shoonya. Any support by Fathers towards their children tend to not work in their favour.

4) Chaturthi

- Tithi Group - Riktha
- Tithi Lord - Moon
- Tithi Deity - Ganesh
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Bherunda
- Tithi Ganapathi - Veera Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Vinayaka - Pillayar Petti (Shukla Paksha) / Sukran - Kanchanur (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Pazham - Fruit
- Tithi Level - Inauspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Auspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Khala - Cruel, Thadaigal - Obstacle
- Tithi Favorable Day - Saturday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Aquarius ruled by Saturn (Shukla Paksha) / Taurus ruled by Venus (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - None
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - None
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Pushya, Phalguna (only for Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Sankashti Chaturthi also known as Sankatahara Chaturthi falls on the fourth day of Krishna Paksha in every Lunar month. This Tithi is dedicated to Lord Ganesha where devotees observe fast. If this Sankashti Chaturthi specifically happens to fall on a Tuesday, then it is known as Angaraki Sankashti Chaturthi which is considered to be specially auspicious. There is a belief that prayers offered and performing fast on this day will enable wishes to be fulfilled. Also Ganesh Chaturthi or Vinayak Chaturthi is celebrated on the Chaturthi Tithi occuring in the waxing phase during the lunar month of Bhadrapada.
- Tithi General Results -
  : The natives of this Tithi like to travel a lot and keep frequenting on journeys.
  : They like to be adored and enjoy keeping friendship with many people. They also have the tendency of doing multiple jobs at the same time.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 2nd and 11th houses get affected by Shoonya. They are generally not well respected and should ensure to safeguard themselves.

5) Panchami 

- Tithi Group - Poorna
- Tithi Lord - Sun
- Tithi Deity - Naga
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Vahinivasini
- Tithi Ganapathi - Shakthi Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Devendran - Penaadam (Shukla Paksha) / Guru - Alangudi (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Bakshanam - Snack
- Tithi Level - Inauspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Auspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Lakshmi - Prosperous, Selvam - Riches
- Tithi Favorable Day - Thursday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Gemini ruled by Mercury (Shukla Paksha) / Virgo ruled by Mercury (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - Gemini, Virgo
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Magam / Magha
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Karthik (only for Krishna Paksha), Pushya, Magha (only for Shukla Paksha)
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Naga Panchami takes place on Shukla Paksha Panchami in the lunar month of Shravan. It is mainly to do with worshipping and venerating snakes. Vasanta Panchami happens on Shukla Paksha Panchami in the lunar month of Magha which is associated with celebrating Goddess Saraswathi. Vivaha Panchami is on Shukla Paksha Panchami in the lunar month of Margashira which is a festival celebrating the union of Rama and Sita.
- Tithi General Results -
  : The natives of this Tithi like doing things correctly and appropriately.
  : They like getting involved in the kitchen and take a keen interest towards cooking. They are particular with matters involving relationship, lust and tend to overthink and feel on matters deeply. 
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 3rd and 6th houses get affected by Shoonya. They need to be careful when it comes with things relating to mother.

6) Shasti

- Tithi Group - Nanda
- Tithi Lord - Jupiter
- Tithi Deity - Karthikeya
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Vajreshwari
- Tithi Ganapathi - Dhwija Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Subramaniam - Tiruchendur (Shukla Paksha) / Chevvai - Vaitheeswaran (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Then - Honey
- Tithi Level - Mixed (Shukla Paksha) / Mixed (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Yaja - Glorious, Pugazh Serum - Popularity
- Tithi Favorable Day - Friday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Aries ruled by Mars (Shukla Paksha) / Leo ruled by Sun (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - None
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Rohini
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Ashada (only for Shukla Paksha), Magha (only for Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Shasti Viratham falls on the sixth day of Shukla Paksha in every lunar month. Sashti Viratham is dedicated to Lord Skanda, the younger son of Lord Shiva. Devotees perform fast and chant Sashti Viratham kavacham on this day. This Shasti Viratham is celebrated as a special six day event during the solar month of Aippasi (Mid Oct to Mid Nov). It starts on the Shukla Paksha Pratama Tithi and the festival concludes with the fulfillment of Shukla Paksha Shasti Tithi.
- Tithi General Results -
  : The natives of this Tithi are of a slim constituency. They are short tempered and tend to get angry very quickly.
  : They like attaining status and reputation in the society
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 1st and 5th houses get affected by Shoonya. Children related issues will be persisting and it is advised never to match a Shasti born male and female as bearing children can become complicated.

7) Sapthami

- Tithi Group - Bhadra
- Tithi Lord - Saturn
- Tithi Deity - Suriya
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Shivadutee
- Tithi Ganapathi - Siddhi Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Suriyan - Suriyanar (Shukla Paksha) / Munivar - Thirukatupalli (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Vellam - Jaggery
- Tithi Level - Mixed (Shukla Paksha) / Mixed (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Mitra - Friendly, Natpu Valarum - Growth of Friendship
- Tithi Favorable Day - Wednesday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Sagittarius ruled by Jupiter (Shukla Paksha) / Cancer ruled by Moon (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - Sagittarius, Cancer
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Hastham / Hastha, Moolam / Moola
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Ashada (only for Krishna Paksha), Margashira
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Ratha Sapthami takes place on Shukla Paksha Sapthami in the lunar month of Magha. This marks the birth of the Sun God or Lord Surya and is hence also known as Surya Jayanthi. This Ratha Sapthami also denoted change of season to spring and start of the harvesting season which is considered auspicious for farmers. 
- Tithi General Results -
  : The natives of this Tithi are very compassionate and show kindness.
  : They go about any task with courage and bravery. They are really competitive and are said to complete things even beyond their capability. Like to attain perfection in whatever they do.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 4th and 9th houses get affected by Shoonya. The natives usually get separated from their parents for some or other reason.

8) Ashtami

- Tithi Group - Jaya
- Tithi Lord - Rahu
- Tithi Deity - Shiva
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Twarita
- Tithi Ganapathi - Ucchistha Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Lakshmi Devi - Thevur (Shukla Paksha) / Adi Seshan - Srirangam (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Elaneer - Coconut
- Tithi Level - Mixed (Shukla Paksha) / Mixed (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Dwandwa - Conflict, Kulappam - Confusion
- Tithi Favorable Day - Tuesday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Gemini ruled by Mercury (Shukla Paksha) / Virgo ruled by Mercury (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - None
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Pooratathi / Poorva Bhadrapada
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Chaitra, Margashira
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Ashtami is largely known for Krishna Janmashtami and Radhashtami. Krishna Janmashtami takes place on Krishna Paksha Ashtami in the lunar month of Bhadrapada and Radhashtami is on Shukla Paksha Ashtami in the lunar month of Bhadrapada. They are also known as Krishna Jayanthi and Radha Jayanthi respectively. Also Bhairava Ashtami dedicated to Kal Bhairava, the fierce manifestation of Shiva is held on Krishna Paksha Ashtami in the lunar month of Margashira.
- Tithi General Results -
  : The natives of this Tithi are well disposed and have the blessings of God in attaining prosperity.
  : They are quite lust oriented.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 3rd and 6th houses get affected by Shoonya. They are usually knowledgeable of a different kind and tend to have knowledge of most subjects.

9) Navami

- Tithi Group - Rikta
- Tithi Lord - Mars
- Tithi Deity - Durga
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Kulasundari
- Tithi Ganapathi - Vighna Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Saraswathi - Koothanur (Shukla Paksha) / Yaman - Srivanchiyam (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Pori - Puffed bread
- Tithi Level - Mixed (Shukla Paksha) / Mixed (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Ugra - Fierce, Kurooram - Anger
- Tithi Favorable Day - Saturday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Leo ruled by Sun (Shukla Paksha) / Scorpio ruled by Mars (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - Cancer, Leo
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Krithika
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Chaitra
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Navami is largely known for Rama Navami which is a festival celebrating the birth of Lord Ram. Rama Navami takes place on Shukla Paksha Navami in the lunar month of Chaitra. On similar lines takes place Sita Navami which is to celebrate Goddess Sita which happens on Shukla Paksha Navami in the following lunar month of Vaisakha.
- Tithi General Results -
  : The natives of this Tithi are very correct in their endeavours
  : They however tend to believe and get attracted to other people more than their own kith and kin.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 5th and 8th houses get affected by Shoonya. They find it difficult to do their tasks and have issues in performing their Karma.

10) Dashami

- Tithi Group - Poorna
- Tithi Lord - Venus
- Tithi Deity - Yamaraja
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Nityadevi
- Tithi Ganapathi - Kshipra Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Veerabhadra - Kumbakonam (Shukla Paksha) / Guru - Thenkudi Thittai (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Rasam Annam - Spicy South Indian soup
- Tithi Level - Mixed (Shukla Paksha) / Mixed (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Saumya - Gentle, Menmai - Honorable
- Tithi Favorable Day - Thursday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Leo ruled by Sun (Shukla Paksha) / Scorpio ruled by Mars (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - None
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - None
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Ashwija
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Dashami is mainly known for Vijayadashami which occurs as part of Navaratri celebrations. Vijayadashami takes place on Shukla Paksha Dashami in the lunar month of Ashwin. This festival connotes the victory of good over evil. It is alternatively known as Dussehra.
- Tithi General Results -
  : The natives of this Tithi are virtuous and very focused on doing their duty in the rightful manner
  : They are very considerate by nature and maintain good relations with people
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 5th and 8th houses get affected by Shoonya. They find it difficult to do their tasks and have issues in performing their Karma.

11) Ekadashi

- Tithi Group - Nanda
- Tithi Lord - Mercury
- Tithi Deity - Viswadeva
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Nilapadhaka
- Tithi Ganapathi - Heramba Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Parvathi Devi - Madurai Meenakshi (Shukla Paksha) / Shani - Tirunallar (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Sathu Maavu - Flour
- Tithi Level - Auspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Inauspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Anandha - Blissful, Inbam - Pleasing
- Tithi Favorable Day - Friday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Sagittarius ruled by Jupiter (Shukla Paksha) / Pisces ruled by Jupiter (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - Sagittarius, Pisces
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Rohini
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Ashwija
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Ekadashi Vrat occurring during the Ekadashi Tithi in both Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha is dedicated to Lord Vishnu where devotees usually offer a day long fast during this period. Vaikunta Ekadashi is considered to be a special Ekadashi and occurs during the Ekadashi Tithi occurring in Shukla Paksha during the solar month of Dhanu (Mid Dec to Mid Jan). A day long fast is observed to attain Moksha and seek refuge in Lord Vishnu's holy abode of Vaikunta. Likewise Shayani Ekadashi occurs during Shukla Paksha in the Lunar Month of Ashada and Prabodhini Ekadashi occurs during Shukla Paksha in the Lunar Month of Karthik. It is believed that Lord Vishnu goes to sleep on the day of Shayani Ekadashi and wakes up during Prabodhini Ekadashi.
- Tithi General Results -
  : They are justice oriented and believe in being straight forward and fair.
  : Integrity is very important for them and believe in giving and taking respect.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 9th and 12th houses get affected by Shoonya. They will somehow finish any kind of work that is assigned to them but these natives are usually beneficial for others than their own. They need to be careful when it comes to matters of fathers and mentors.

12) Dwadashi

- Tithi Group - Bhadra
- Tithi Lord - Moon
- Tithi Deity - Vishnu
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Vijaya
- Tithi Ganapathi - Lakshmi Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Vishnu - Sarangapani (Shukla Paksha) / Sukran - Thiruvelliyingudi (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Payasam - Kheer
- Tithi Level - Auspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Inauspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Yaja - Glorious, Pugazh Nalla Gunam - Recognition and Good Behavior
- Tithi Favorable Day - Wednesday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Libra ruled by Venus (Shukla Paksha) / Capricorn ruled by Saturn (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - None
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Aayilyam / Ashlesha
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Vaishaka
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Parasuram Dwadashi dedicated to Lord Parasuram who is known as the sixth incarnation of Lord Vishnu takes place on Shukla Paksha Dwadashi in the lunar month of Vaisakha. Narasimha Dwadashi is celebrated on Shukla Paksha Dwadashi in the lunar month of Phalguna. Lord Narasimha happens to be the man lion manifestation of Lord Vishnu
- Tithi General Results -
  : They like to maintain good conduct with everyone.
  : Any new activity that they perform, they tend to do it flawlessly.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 7th and 10th houses get affected by Shoonya. Marriage and work related issues normally tend to get affected.

13) Triyodashi

- Tithi Group - Jaya
- Tithi Lord - Sun
- Tithi Deity - Kamadeva
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Sarvamangala
- Tithi Ganapathi - Maha Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Brahma - Thirukandiyur (Shukla Paksha) / Nandhi - Tirumalaipadi (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Aval - Flattened Rice
- Tithi Level - Auspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Inauspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Jaya - Victorious, Vetri - Win
- Tithi Favorable Day - Tuesday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi -  Taurus ruled by Venus (Shukla Paksha) / Leo ruled by Sun (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - Taurus, Pisces
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - Chithirai / Chitra, Swathi
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Jyeshta (only for Shukla Paksha)
- Tithi Events / Festivals - Pradosh Vrat is very prominent among Hindus for seeking Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvathi's blessings. Devotees offer fast and perform rituals during this day. Pradosh Vrat or Pradosham takes place every Trayodashi both on Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha of every lunar month.When Pradosh Vrat coincides on a Wednesday, it is known as Budh Pradosh Vrat and is deemed to be really auspicious. Also Dhanteras which is supposed to be the first day of Diwali celebrations occurs on Krishna Triyodashi in the lunar month of Ashwin.
- Tithi General Results -
  : These natives end up doing certain tasks without realizing the consequences.
  : They usually do not have lot of friends and not so close to family members.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 2nd and 5th houses get affected by Shoonya. Family and Kula Deivam (God Lineage) related issues normally tend to get affected.

14) Chaturdashi

- Tithi Group - Rikta
- Tithi Lord - Jupiter
- Tithi Deity - Shiva
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Jwalamalini
- Tithi Ganapathi - Vijaya Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Rudran - Sarabeshwarar Thirubuvanam (Shukla Paksha) / Maheshwaran - Gangaikondasola Puram (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Kadala - Chickpeas
- Tithi Level - Auspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Inauspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Ugra - Fierce, Kurooram - Anger
- Tithi Favorable Day - Saturday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - Gemini & Virgo ruled by Mercury (Shukla Paksha) / Sagittarius & Pisces ruled by Jupiter (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - None
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - None
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - Jyeshta (only for Krishna Paksha), Karthik (only for Shukla Paksha)
- Tithi Events / Festivals - The day before the actual Diwali is Naraka Chaturdashi which occurs on Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi in the lunar month of Ashwin. Also Maha Shivaratri or Maha Bahula Chatirdashi known as the great night of Lord Shiva takes place on Krishna Paksha Chaturdashi in the lunar month of Magha. Like how Maha Shivaratri is dedicated to Lord Shiva, there is also an Anant Chaturdashi paying homage to Lord Vishnu that occurs on Shukla Chaturdashi in the lunar month of Bhadrapada. This also marks the last day of the ten day Ganesh Chaturthi festival.
- Tithi General Results -
  : These natives are usually short tempered and like accumulating possessions. They get angry if they are not able to attain what they want.
  : They are often the butt of all jokes and end up being mocked.
  : As per Kalapurusha, the 3rd, 6th, 9th and 12th houses get affected by Shoonya. They need to be extra careful in a number of objects as 4 main pillars of a horoscope gets strained.

15) Poornima / Ammavasya

- Tithi Group - Poorna
- Tithi Lord - Saturn (Poornima) / Rahu (Ammavasya)
- Tithi Deity - Chandra (Poornima) / Pitris (Ammavasya)
- Tithi Nitya Devi - Chitra
- Tithi Ganapathi - Nirutha Ganapathi
- Tithi Temple - Varunan - Mahendrampalli (Shukla Paksha) / Sadasivam - Rameshwaram (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Neivedya - Thayir Sadham - Curd Rice
- Tithi Level - Auspicious (Shukla Paksha) / Inauspicious (Krishna Paksha)
- Tithi Nature - Saumya - Gentle (Poornima), Pitru - Ancestral (Ammavasya)
- Tithi Favorable Day - Thursday
- Tithi Shoonya Rasi - None
- Tithi Shoonya Lagna - None
- Tithi Shoonya Nakshatra - None
- Tithi Shoonya Maasa - None
- Tithi Events / Festivals - A number of events takes place during Poornima Tithi. Some of the well known ones happen to be Hanuman Jayanthi in the lunar month of Chaitra, Buddha Poornima in Vaishakha, Vat Poornima in Jyeshta, Guru Poornima in Ashada, Shravan Poornima in Shravana, Shraddha Poornima in Bhadrapada, Sharad Poornima in Ashwina, Karthik Poornima (Karthigai Deepam) in Karthik, Dattatreya Jayanthi in Margashira, Shakambari Poornima in Pausha.
Ammavasya Tithi in general is considered auspicious for worship of forefathers and ancestors. The Ammavasya on Ashwin month is known as Mahalaya Ammavasya and is especially sacred for offering oblations to ancestors. This period pertaining to the dark fortnight in the lunar month of Ashwina from Krishna Paksha Pratama till Ammavasya is termed as Pitru Paksha where offerings are made to departed souls with the Mahalaya Ammavasya being the most important day for performing obsequies and rites. In the South, Thai Ammavasya occurring in the solar month of Thai or Makara and Aadi Ammavasya taking place in the solar month of Aadi or Katagam is specially considered for oblation and signifies the first Ammavasya after Uttarayana (Northern course of Sun) and Dakshinayana (Southern course of Sun) respectively. If Ammavasya coincides on a Monday it has a special significance and fasting on this day is said to ensure desires being fulfilled. The day after Naraka Chaturdashi in the lunar month of Ashwija is when Diwali celebrations actually culminates. It is also the day when Lakshmi Pooja takes place with worship for Lakshmi, the Goddess for Wealth and Ganesh, the God for auspicious beginnings. 

- Tithi General Results -
  : These natives are very patient by nature and possess a lot of respect towards their parents. They are very intelligent and talented in performing any activity. Ensure to speak the truth always.
  : They undergo a lot of oscillation in life with regular ups and downs.
  : As per Kalapurusha, no house gets affected by Tithi Shoonya. However they need to be careful with respect to certain matters due to the proximity of the Moon being directly opposite (Poornima) and too close to the Sun (Ammavasya) respectively.

Note: Hindu festivals are largely decoded based on the Tithi in operation. The Christian festivals are more aligned to a specific day or date such as Christman always arising on December 25th, New Year's on Jan 1st etc. Muslim festivals on the other hand are largely based on Moon sighting and not observance of a particular Tithi as most Hindu festivals but they more or less have a correlation as Moon's phases originate as part of Tithi. It would be quite interesting to note that Ramadan always commences around Shukla Paksha Dwitiya Tithi based on the viewing of crescent moon and Eid on Shukla Paksha Dwitiya Tithi in the following lunar month. Muslims are known to fast and offer obeisance to God for Ramadan during the entire month and Eid marks the end of the Islamic holy month fasting of Ramadan. Another of their festival, Bakrid happens around Shukla Paksha Dashami in the lunar month of Ashada.

                                              

Hitherto Unusual Transit Methods in Horoscope Evaluation - Murthy Nirnaya and Shani Vahana

Whenever a yearly transiting planet such as Jupiter, Saturn, Rahu or Ketu is transiting from one sign to another, there is usually plenty of curiosity associated as to how it will play up for each Moon or Ascendant sign. While transits are not the be all and end all in evaluating a horoscope, it somehow inkles a dose of expectation that some turnaround is bound to take place. 

Jupiter's rounds of movement from one sign to another invokes hope that something auspicious will take place especially when it ends up going 2nd, 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th from Moon sign granting it the 'Guru Bala' title. Saturn's transits are usually perceived with a sense of fear especially when it tends to be Sade Sati which is 12th, 1st and 2nd from Moon sign and also Ashtama Shani which is 8th from Moon is usually dreaded. Rahu/Ketu's movement is looked at as stumbling blocks but in general it is preferred when it is transiting in to the Upachaya houses viz 3rd, 6th, 10th and 11th.

However apart from the well established means of witnessing transits, there are also other methods which are a tad different from usual. On that basis would like to highlight emphasis on the scope of Murthy Nirnaya transit as well as Shani Vahana transit. These two are not necessarily based on the sign the yearly planet is moving from the Lagna / Moon but in essence based on a particular energy which works more like a Prasna indicating what to look forward to from the perspective of these transits.

Murthy Nirnaya Transit:
This is a transit which works according to your natal Janma Rasi (Moon sign). This is common for all transits but the catch as per this method is it works based on where transiting Moon is stationed exactly at the time during the transit of the yearly planet. The computation works from Natal Moon to Transiting Moon with the anchor being the yearly transit planet and accordingly results are derived.

For the sake of easy understanding, let us take an illustration. Lets say Jupiter is transiting to Sagittarius on a particular date and time. During the time of Jupiter's transit we need to check where Moon is placed and let us say Moon is placed in Libra when Jupiter moved into Sagittarius. Now we need to compare the house Libra is placed from natal Moon position. If Natal Moon is in Aries, then we can say it is 7 signs since Aries to Libra equated to 7 signs. Now based on the signs moved, there is a bracketing of auspiciousness into 4 compartments as seen below:

1,6,11 - Very Good - Swarna (Gold)
2,5,9 - Good - Rajata (Silver)
3,7,10 - Average - Tamara (Copper)
4,8,12 - Bad - Lohita (Iron)

Based on the above example, for an Aries Moon born person, since 7 is Tamara (Copper), this transit would said to be average. The interesting feature is there is no relevance to the sign in which the main planet transit is happening which would be Jupiter and Sagittarius as seen from above case. Only the natal Moon and the placement of Moon at the time of the big ticket transit is considered which makes this method pretty unique. However the liability with this method happens to be on account of different Ayanamsa and Panchanga followed. As per one scheme of Panchanga, the planet Jupiter (say) may be transiting on a particular date whereas in another view it might be on a different date and we know Moon is ever revolving moving signs every 2 and quarter days. This can cast some issues with regard to the auspiciousness of the transit which can be an issue when using Murthi Nirnaya Transit.

Shani Vahana Transit:
This is a methodology of ascertaining transits exclusively for Saturn when it moves to a new sign or Nakshatra. Saturn is assigned a vehicle based on it's transit and accordingly results are ascertained. As per this method we need to know the Nakshatra in operation when Shani Dev changes signs in addition to our birth Moon Nakshatra. 

For instance lets say Saturn is transiting to Capricorn into the Nakshatra of Uttara Ashada. Also lets say natal Moon Nakshatra of a person is Poorva Phalguni. In this case we need to add 21 (number sequence of Uttara Ashada) and 11 (number sequence of Poorva Phalguni). The number sequence is the Nakshatras counted from Ashwini which is taken as #1 to Revathi which is #27. The total of 21 and 11 adds to 32. Now 32 needs to be divided by 9 which yields a reminder of 5. The reminder will decide the vehicle. In case it's perfectly divisible with no reminder then No.9 from the list needs to be taken. Listed below is the Numbers, Vehicles in the form of Animals and the Auspiciousness.

#1 - Donkey - Not favorable
#2 - Horse - Very favorable
#3 - Elephant - Not favorable
#4 - Buffalo - Mixed
#5 - Lion - Favorable
#6 - Jackal - Very Unfavorable
#7 - Crow - Not favorable
#8 - Peacock - Very favorable
#9 - Swan -  Very favorable

In general Swan vehicle is said to be most auspicious and Jackal vehicle is said to be most inopportune. Peacock is also said to be really favorable and Horse is considered highly auspicious. On the flip side, Crow is said to infuse plenty of tensions whereas Elephant is mentioned to give results against expectations and Donkey is indicative of lack of auspiciousness. A lion is considered good especially acting as a trigger in defeating enemies whereas Buffalo's results are said to be mixed and dependent on the work put in. Based on the above example, #5 happens to be Lion vehicle which is favorable. In this method, we can even view based on the Nakshatra within the sign Saturn is transiting and not just the zodiac sign. To explain, for a particular Natal Moon Nakshatra say Punarvasu, Saturn transiting into Uttara Ashada in Makara isn't good since 7+21 = 28 which means reminder 1 translating to Donkey that is unfavorable. However when Saturn moves into Shravana it would be better since 7+22 = 29 amounting to reminder 2 reflecting Horse which indicates very favorable. Hence this comes handy when ascertaining transits especially when Saturn transits each Nakshatra of the zodiac to understand how Saturn will pan out for each natal Moon Nakshatra.

Ghat Chakra and the Afflictions to Natal Moon Rasi

There is a concept called Ghat Chakra which is based on the theory of specific components getting afflicted based on the Moon (Janma) Rasi in which one takes birth. The sections that get affected are the elements of Panchang in addition to Ascendant, Moon and Lunar Month. All one needs to know is the Moon Rasi in which one takes birth as that happens to be the fundamental premise based on which Ghat Chakra is determined. 'Ghat' literally translates as danger or bruise or inimical. In essence it can be termed as something of an unpleasant nature or troublesome incident taking place during particular moments of day and time depending purely on the moon rasi in which one attains birth. Listing below 10 of the components that come under the radar of Ghat Chakra:

1) Ghat Tithi
2) Ghat Vara
3) Ghat Nakshatra
4) Ghat Yoga
5) Ghat Karana
6) Ghat Lagna Same Sex
7) Ghat Lagna Opposite Sex
8) Ghat Chandra Male
9) Ghat Chandra Female
10) Ghat Lunar Month

Listed below is a tabular list of all the affected constituents that come within the scanner of Ghat Chakra based on the Janma Rasi arising at birth.

Ghat Tithi:
There are basically 15 Tithis each of the brighter half and darker half of which these Tithis are further categorized into 5 groups comprising of 3 Tithis each listed as below
Nanda Tithi 1,6,11 - Pratipada, Sashti, Ekadashi
Bhadra Tithi 2,7,12 - Dwitiya, Sapthami, Dwadashi
Jaya Tithi 3,8,13 - Tritiya, Ashtami, Triyodashi
Rikhta Tithi 4,9,14 - Chaturthi, Navami, Chaturdashi
Poorna Tithi 5,10,15 - Panchami, Dasami, Pournima/Amma Vasya
The concept of Ghat Chakra on Tithi works in the following means. Let's say one is born in the Janma Rasi of Karka (Cancer). In this case the Ghat Tithi happens to be Bhadra which denotes the 2nd, 7th and 12th Tithi. Hence if any of Dwitiya, Sapthami or Dwadashi Tithi is operating it can indicate that a Karka Rasi born person can end up attaining danger on these times when the Tithi is functioning.

Ghat Vara:
These are basically the days of the week from Sunday to Saturday. Based on Janma Rasi at birth, a particular day is said to cause harm. For instance a Kanya Rasi born native may face some inopportune event taking place on a Saturday. Please however note a day or Vara runs from Sunrise up until next day Sunrise and it doesn't work on the modern definition of a day being defined from 12AM in the night till next day midnight 12AM.

Ghat Nakshatra:
This indicates the Nakshatra constellation of Moon that gets affected based on the Janma Rasi at birth. There are 27 Nakshatras and one particular Nakshatra for each Janma Rasi causes danger of some sort. As an illustration, if one were born in the Janma Rasi of Simha, then Moola Nakshatra becomes Ghat which can trigger some unfortunate incident when Moon is transiting in the Nakshatra of Moola.

Ghat Yoga:
Like Nakshatras, Yogas are also 27 in Number and a particular Yoga is said to causes trouble to each of the Janma Rasis. For example, if someone were born in Mesha Rasi, Vishkumba Yoga happens to be Ghat and when this Yoga is in operation it can cause affliction to a Mesha Rasi born native.

Ghat Karana:
Karanas are derived from Tithi and basically half a Tithi is said to constitute a Karana. There are totally 30 Tithis which means the number of Karanas should be 60 in number. However that is not the case as the Karanas are divided into 2 types viz Movable and Fixed Karana with 7 of the Karanas repeating itself 8 times and 4 of them being fixed in nature. Hence the total of 60 is divided into (7*8) plus (4*1) summing up to 11 in number. For each of the Janma Rasis, a particular Karana comes under the ambit of Ghat and causes issues. For a Dhanus Rasi born native, Taitula Karana is said to be Ghat and can indicate trouble.

Ghat Lagna Same Sex:
For each of the Janma Rasis, a particular Lagna or Ascendant is said to cause issues. This is as per the same sex. For instance let's say a male is born in the Janma Rasi of Meena or Pisces. For this male, another male having rising Lagna of Simha or Leo is said to cause problems and likewise for a female born in Makara Rasi, another female born in Kumbha Lagna can cause issues. It can also be inferred that during the rising Ghat Lagnas during a day which would be approximately 2 hours, a bad event can happen with another individual belonging to the same sex.

Ghat Lagna Opposite Sex:
For each of the Janma Rasis, a particular Lagna or Ascendant is said to cause issues. This is as per the opposite sex. For instance let's say a male is born in the Janma Rasi of Meena or Pisces. For this male, a female having rising Lagna of Kumbha or Aquarius can cause problems and likewise for a female born in Makara Rasi, a male born in Simha Lagna can pull up some issues. It can also be inferred that during the rising Ghat Lagnas during a day which would be approximately 2 hours, a bad event can happen with another individual belonging to the opposite sex.

Ghat Chandra Male:
For each of the Janma Rasis, a specific rasi of the Moon itself causes opposition. This is as per the Male version. As an illustration, it can be said that a native born in the Janma Rasi of Rishabha or Taurus irrespective of whether the person is male or female can face some issues from a male native born in Dhanus Rasi. It can also be inferred that during the rising Ghat Rasi which rises for about 2 and a quarter days, some problem can be faced from male natives during this time zone.

Ghat Chandra Female:
For each of the Janma Rasis, a specific rasi of the Moon itself causes opposition. This is as per the Female version. As an illustration, it can be said that a native born in the Janma Rasi of Mithuna or Gemini irrespective of whether the person is male or female can face some issues from a female native born in Kumbha Rasi. It can also be inferred that during the rising Ghat Rasi which rises for about 2 and a quarter days, some problem can be faced from female natives during this time zone.

Ghat Lunar Month:
Each of the Janma Rasis are associated with a Ghat Lunar month which approximately is in operation for about 30 days during a year. A Lunar month starts from Shukla Pratipada which is the first day of the brighter half and ends during Amma Vasya which is the last day of the darker half. When this Lunar month is effective, it can cause some worries to the native born in a Janma Rasi for which the Lunar month happens to be Ghat. As a case in point, for a Thula Rasi native, Magha Lunar month happens to be Ghat which usually runs for about 30 days between January to February.

Summarized Illustration:
Case 1 : Female Native born in Vrischika Rasi
Let's take the case of a female native born in Vrischika or Scorpio Rasi. The following will happen to be Ghat for this individual:
Ghat Tithi - Nanda Tithi is Ghat which means Pratipada, Sashti, Ekadashi Tithis operating both in Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha can be troublesome
Ghat Vara - Friday is Ghat and problems can take place during this day.
Ghat Nakshatra - Revathi Nakshatra is Ghat and hence could cause some issues
Ghat Yoga - Vyatipata Yoga is Ghat inferring some troubles during this Yoga formation
Ghat Karana - Garaja Karana is Ghat indicating some danger during this time
Ghat Lagna Same Sex - Vrischika Lagna happens to be Ghat which means problems can arise from another female born in Vrischika Lagna or during the time zone in which Vrishcika Lagna is rising
Ghat Lagna Opposite Sex - Rishaba Lagna happens to be Ghat which means problems can arise from a male born in Rishaba Lagna or during the time zone in which Rishaba Lagna is rising    
Ghat Chandra Male - Dhanus Rasi is Ghat which means these natives can face problems from males born in Dhanus Rasi or during the time frame in which Dhanus Rasi is in operation
Ghat Chandra Female - Rishabha Rasi is Ghat which means these natives can face problems from females born in Rishabha Rasi or during the time frame in which Rishabha Rasi is in operation
Ghat Lunar Month - Ashwija Maasa is Ghat which can be deduced that these natives could face troubles when Ashwija Lunar month is in operation

Case 2 : Male Native born in Dhanus Rasi
Now we shall take another example of a male native born in Dhanus or Sagittarius Rasi. We shall see the contacts this individual needs to avoid in order to escape from being inflicted from any kind of harm. This can also be used as a measure for marriage match check or alliance of a partnership.
Ghat Tithi - Jaya Tithi is Ghat. So this native should try to avoid contact with those born in Tritiya, Ashtami or Triyodashi Tithi's in both the waxing and waning moon phase.
Ghat Vara - Friday is Ghat. So native should reduce contact with those born on Fridays
Ghat Nakshatra - Bharani is Ghat. Thus native should refrain from any sort of partnership with another person born in Bharani Nakshatra
Ghat Yoga - Vajra is Ghat. Hence native should try not to maintain ties with Vajra Yoga born natives
Ghat Karana - Taitula is Karana. So the native should avoid being close to natives born in Taitula Karana
Ghat Lagna Same Sex - Dhanus is Ghat. It's good to evade contact with any male born in Dhanus Lagna
Ghat Lagna Opposite Sex - Mithuna is Ghat. It's good to evade contact with any female born in Mithuna Lagna
Ghat Chandra Male - Kanya is Ghat. So better to refrain relationships with any male born in Kanya Rasi.
Ghat Chandra Female - Meena is Ghat. So better to refrain relationships with any female born in Meena Rasi.
Ghat Lunar Month - Shravan is Ghat. Hence it is better to put off any important activities during Shravan month which runs approximately between July-August.

Conclusion:
This is about the notion behind the Ghat Chakra. As so many different components cause troubles of various sorts based on the Janma Rasi, it becomes little hard to keep a tab of them all. Studying the Panchanga can help in knowing the different elements that are in play during a period of time and this information can be useful to avoid important matters especially during the Ghat time framework.

The Most Awaited Eclipse Phenomena in Sagittarius/Gemini

Eclipses aren't an everyday phenomenon and neither is it a rare occurrence. A solar and lunar eclipse are likely to take place almost every 6 months. A solar eclipse is defined when the Moon passes between Earth and the Sun and likewise a Lunar Eclipse happens when the Moon passes directly behind Earth and into its shadow. Viewing from a horoscopic angle, there are 4 essential components required for an eclipse to take place which are the Sun, Moon, Rahu (North Node) and Ketu (South Node). For all practical purposes, the Earth isn't considered as that's the place we all are in and considered more as a reference point. One more factor to note is that a Solar Eclipse takes place only on Amma Vasya which is when Moon comes very close to join with the Sun and a Lunar Eclipse takes place only on Poornima which is when the Moon is straight opposite the sun at 180 degrees. These motions are also coined as the waxing and waning phases of the Moon.

Now coming back to the question as to why this Eclipse happens to be far more anticipated than the regular set of eclipses which occur on an annual basis. The only reason attributed could be because of the stellium or joining journey of a bushel of planets happening in the zone of the zodiac sign Sagittarius. This is said to intensify energies and Sagittarius being a fiery sign in general, there could be some sense of discomfort and extensive aggression. There are always two zodiac signs coming into the forefront during an eclipse and apart from Sagittarius, the other zodiac happens to be the natural 3rd sign of communication Gemini which is said to possess an airy characteristic. Hence this projection happens in the territory of Gemini & Sagittarius and those having prominent placement in their natal chart in these two zodiac signs come under the firing line. Also just for the record, this upcoming solar eclipse would be the last in this decade (2010-19) and the impending lunar eclipse will be the first in the next decade (2020-29).

Solar Eclipse (26th Dec 2019):
Sun will be in Sagittarius (Dhanus) and Moon will also be in Sagittarius (Dhanus) and hence they are conjunct with each other. Ketu is also posited in Sagittarius along with the Sun & Moon with Rahu being 180 degrees apart in Gemini (7 signs away) giving rise to a perfect Solar Eclipse.

Lunar Eclipse (10th Jan 2020):
Sun will be in Sagittarius (Dhanus) and Moon would have moved to Gemini (Mithuna) which is 180 degrees apart. Ketu is posited in Sagittarius with the Sun and Rahu is right now in Gemini along with the moon giving rise to a perfect Lunar Eclipse.

Just to get the drift, concentrate only on Sun, Moon, Rahu and Ketu. The Solar eclipse takes place in the signs of Sagittarius and Gemini (Sun, Moon & Ketu in Sagittarius and Rahu in Gemini) whereas the Lunar eclipse will also take place in the signs of Sagittarius and Gemini (Sun & Ketu in Sagittarius and Moon & Rahu in Gemini)

Astronomical Perspective:
The ecliptic is the path where the earth revolves around the Sun. The Moon has it's own orbital path around the earth which is slightly tilted and not in the same plane. The intersection points of the Moon's orbital path when crossing the ecliptic gives rise to the Nodes which in essence equates to the earth's orbit around the Sun called Rahu (North Node) and Moon's orbit around the Earth called Ketu (South Node).

The moon completes one full orbit of 360° around the earth in approx 27.3 days. In this process it also transits across the zodiac which is an imaginary band that follows the ecliptic around the earth. There are 12 signs of 30° and hence Moon takes approx 2 1/4 days (27.3 days/12 signs) transiting against the backdrop of a zodiac sign.

When the Moon transits the zone of Sagittarius ♐ (Dhanus Rasi) on 26th Dec 2019, it's orbital path entails it to move towards the intersecting point of Ketu which cuts across the ecliptic. The Moon also comes in close alignment with the Sun which is already perched here. The Moon bordering on the Nodal axis and in close proximity to the Sun blocks the sun light from falling on to the earth resulting in a Solar eclipse.

After about a fortnight, when the Moon sectors across the backdrop of Gemini ♊ (Mithuna Rasi) on 10th Jan 2020, it's orbital path entails it to move towards the intersecting point of Rahu which cuts across the other side of ecliptic. The Moon has now gone very far away from the Sun being oppositely aligned and passes behind the earth. Since the earth is now between the Sun and the Moon, it wouldn't be possible for the light of the sun to reach the Moon as the Earth obstructs it and this results in a Lunar eclipse.

Hence a solar eclipse can only take place on Amma Vasya when the Sun & Moon are in close conjunction and when Moon revolves near by the intersecting nodal point Ketu (in this case) enabling the Moon to cast a shadow on earth. Likewise a Lunar eclipse can only occur on Poornima when Sun & Moon are at the furthest from each other and Moon revolves towards the side of the other intersecting nodal point Rahu (in this case). Here since the moon is behind the earth, the earth instead casts a shadow on Moon.

Highlights and Pointers:
As highlighted, it's only these 4 attributes viz Sun, Moon, Rahu and Ketu which are responsible for casting an eclipse but the interesting point to observe is that apart from these 4 planets, Mercury, Jupiter and Saturn will also be holding hands in the domain of Sagittarius. Mercury is said to be characterizing Earthy element with Jupiter denoting Ether Tattva and Saturn is naturally said to be Airy by nature. The only two missing links Mars the fiery male and Venus the watery female are placed on either side in Scorpio and Capricorn respectively when the Solar Eclipse operates. During the time of Lunar eclipse however Venus will shift over to Aquarius with Mars staying put in it's battle field of Scorpio. Coming to those impacted, the one's having the following placements in their natal charts need to tread this eclipse phase with caution.

- Sun, Moon, Rahu, Ketu falling in the signs of Sagittarius or Gemini
These 4 components in effect are the reason eclipses even get formed and hence when someone at birth has these planets at birth in the two signs of Gemini and Sagittarius, the impact can said to trigger tribulations. Also Sun is said to denote the soul and the Moon depicts the mind with Rahu/Ketu both associated with past life karmas. Thus the one's having any of these 4 planets in their natal chart  in these signs need to treat this eclipse with care. Listing below the deities and incarnations with respect to these 4 planets whose worship can be some resolute at this point of time.
Sun - Lord Agni (Ram Incarnation)
Moon - Lord Varuna (Krishna Incarnation)
Rahu - Goddess Durga (Varaha Incarnation)
Ketu - Lord Ganesha (Matsya Incarnation)

- Ascendant being in the sign of Sagittarius or Gemini
The Ascendant is the zodiac which is rising in the eastern direction at the time of birth. If the Ascendant or Lagna falls in these two signs, it can bring some knee jerk reactions. The Ascendant is the basis or reference point of a horoscope and said to denote the physical characteristics of a person. The rising sign is considered to be the first house in a horoscope and the inter-relation of all planets are tied to it and hence it assumes paramount importance.
Dhanus/Sagittarius - Lord Dattatreya (Any form of Guru worship such as Dakshinamurthy) (Jyotirlinga - Kasi Viswanath)
Mithuna/Gemini - Lord Shriman Narayana (Any form of Vishnu worship such as Venkatesa Perumal) (Jyotirlinga - Nageshwara)

- Mercury, Jupiter or Saturn in the signs of Sagittarius or Gemini
This is just an additional consideration to be taken note of. It may not have as much of a say as the placement of Sun,Moon,Rahu,Ketu but these planets when moving along in transit in addendum to the eclipse effect crossing over their natal placements can cause a bit of an upside energy exchange. Mercury denotes the intelligence side, Jupiter portrays wisdom and Saturn on the discipline and hardships encountered by an individual. Worship to Lord Vishnu (Buddha Incarnation), Brahma (Vamana Incarnation) and Bairava (Koorma Incarnation) may be useful at this juncture.

- Amma Vasya or Poornima being the birth Tithi
These Tithis are like the bed rocks based on which eclipse formation takes place. During birth it may or may not have been a case of an eclipse but a tithi return in conjunction with an explosive eclipse taking place, it is perhaps best to invoke divine blessings at this point of time.
Amma Vasya - Lord Pitris (Ruled by Rahu, good to worship deity Sadashiva)
Poornima - Lord Chandra (Ruled by Saturn, good to worship deity Varuna)

- Chatushpada, Nagava, Vishti, Bava being the birth Karana
A Karana is basically half of a tithi and hence these will be the karanas operating as part of the solar eclipse and lunar eclipse respectively. Chatushpada and Naga form the 1st and 2nd karana of Amma Vasya Tithi with Vishti and Bava being the 1st and 2nd Karana of Poornima Tithi. Devotion to the Karana deities may be a dutiful consideration.
Chatushpada - Kala Bairavar (Symbolised by Dog)
Naga - Nagarajar, Sarpam (Symbolised by Snake)
Vishti - Karthikeya, Subramania Swamy (Symbolised by Cock)
Bava - Lakshmi Narasimhar (Symbolised by Lion)

- Nakshatras being Mrigashira, Arudra, Punarvasu, Moola, Poorva Ashada, Uthara Ashada
These are the Nakshatras that form part of the signs Gemini and Sagittarius and virtually any planet being placed in these constellations comes into the ambit of eclipse. It seems to be more profound for Moola and Arudra/Punarvasu as sensitive points since Moon will be transiting these constellations during the time of the eclipse but all of these stars come into the fray for being part of the zodiac signs of Sagittarius and Gemini. It may not be a bad idea to offer prayers to the Nakshatra deities as well.
Mrigashira - Deity: Soma, Related: Chandra, God: Chandra Sudeshwarar
Arudra - Deity: Rudra, Related:Shiva, God: Nataraja Shiva Peruman
Punarvasu - Deity: Aditi, Related: Devas, God: Shri Rama
Moola - Deity: Nirriti, Related: Asura, God: Anjaneya
Poorva Ashada - Deity: Apah, Related: Varuna, God: Jambukeshwarar
Uthara Ashada - Deity: Vishwadeva, Related: Ganesh, God: Vinayaka Peruman

- Other Miscellaneous Factors
3 limbs of the Panchang have been covered namely the Nakshatras, Tithi and Karanas. The remaining are Vara (solar day transiting from sunrise to next day sunrise) and the Yoga (sum of degrees of Sun and Moon). It is good to note that the solar eclipse occurs on a Thursday which is a day ruled by Jupiter and the Lunar eclipse operates on a Friday lorded by Venus. With respect to Yoga, Vriddhi Yoga lorded by Mercury will happen during the Solar Eclipse and Vyatipata Yoga lorded by Rahu will be running during the Lunar Eclipse. Hence those born on these days and yogas can also take a mild consideration of the effects of the eclipse.

Conclusion:
These are in essence about the interplay of eclipses. Eclipses are said to trigger momentary motions of uneasiness due to the movement of planets. It is always good to know about them for general understanding as well as information purpose. Thankfully it isn't a long standing effect and the best way to tackle is by invoking the divine and regulated fasting. By the time one blinks an eyelid, the eclipses would have already disappeared with life restored back to normalcy.

The Date of celebrating New Year in different South Indian States!

Have you ever wondered why different states in the South of India celebrate new year on different days? There is an astrological as well as a traditional mindset associated mostly with respect to the sunrise/sunset of the day. In all the Indian festivals the sidereal year is adopted but the basis may either be the solar calendar or lunar calendar. Let's take a look at the dates in which new year is being celebrated in these Southern states.

Telugu and Karnataka New Year (Ugadi/Yugadi):
This is based on the lunar calendar which involves the relationship of both Sun and Moon. Ugadi occurs once the moon passes the Sun placed in Pisces (Meena) Rasi signifying the beginning of a new lunar month Chaitra. In other words we can also say the 1st tithi which gets formed viz Pratipada (first day of the bright fortnight of a new Hindu month) that occurs after Ammavasya. In the year 2019, Pratipada Tithi occured in the afternoon of the 5th of April but since sunrise needs to be prevailing only the next day 6th of April was considered for celebration of the new year. However if Pratipada Tithi prevails on 2 days of sunrise, the first day is considered. One thing to note with regard to Ugadi is it can take place any day from the mid of March to the mid of April.

Tamil New Year (Puthandu or Varsha Pirappu):
This is based on the solar calendar and involves the presence of Sun exclusively. The moon's position does not have a bearing in the scheme of things. It takes place with the Sun's ingress in to the sign of Aries (Mesha) signifying the beginning of the first day of the tamil month of Chithirai. It is also termed as Mesha Sankranthi. Astrologically it can also be said that Sun's entry point into the first constellation of Ashwini marks the start of a new year. It is also said to be the first day of Thai indicating the marking of harvest season. In Tamil Nadu, if the event occurs before Sunset it is considered as occurring on the same day however if it happens after Sunset hours (roughly on the mark of 6pm and above), then it is only celebrated on the next day. Varsha Pirappu always takes place in and around the mid of April depending on the Panchang being employed.

Kerala New Year (Vishu):
This follows the same logic as the Tamil New year and occurs with the sun's entry into the zodiac sign of Mesha (Aries). However the only difference being the day of sunrise needs to be prevalent and hence it occurs a day later than the Tamil New Year. This year it took place on the 15th of Apr 2019 and the reason for that is as per Kerala Panchangam, Sun entered Aries in the afternoon of 14th April 2019. During sun rise time on the 14th Apr 2019 it was still in Pisces and so the first day of sunrise after Sun's entry into Aries marks the celebration of Vishu.

Hence to summarize the above information briefly;
Telugu/Karnataka New Year:
Calendar - Lunar Calendar
Month - Chaitra (start of Pratipada Tithi - first day of Shukla Paksha)
Sunrise/Sunset - Sunrise needs to be prevalent on day of Tithi formation, if not considered next day.

Tamil New Year:
Calendar - Solar Calendar
Month - Chithirai (entry point of Sun in Mesha - Aries)
Sunrise/Sunset - At least sunset needs to be present on the day of Sun entering Mesha, if not considered in the next day.

Kerala New Year:
Calendar - Solar Calendar
Month - Chitra (entry point of Sun in Mesha - Aries)
Sunrise/Sunset - Sunrise needs to be prevalent on the day of Sun entering Mesha, if not considered in the next day.