Hindu priests unite to enhance understanding of festival dates and calendar systems

Hindu priests, temple officials and representatives of Hindu organisations engaged in discussions that were aimed at strengthening their collective understanding of Hindu festival dates, calendar systems and their religious significance.

The workshop, which took place last week Saturday, brought together affiliates from the South African Hindu Maha Sabha (SAHMS) and centred around the awareness of the Hindu calendar.

Pundit Lokesh Maharaj, chairperson of the Priest's Council, said the meeting was a resounding success, drawing widespread appreciation from participants for its informative content.

"Hindus often interpret the Hindu calendar through the familiar, solar‐based framework of the Gregorian system. In reality, however, the Hindu calendar is lunisolar — its months follow the phases of the Moon, while periodic solar adjustments keep it aligned with the seasons.

"Hindu festival dates are calculated according to the local time of sunrise, making them inherently geographic. This program was therefore created to clarify these distinctions for Hindu affiliates and to eliminate any confusion about when festivals actually fall," he said.

He highlighted that Pundit Rishi R Maharajh of Shree Sanathan Dharma Sabha of South Africa and Pundit Rahul Muthineni of the Andhra Maha Sabha of South Africa underscored the critical importance of understanding Hindu festival dates.

Pundit Amichand Maraj provided a comprehensive explanation of the North Hindu calendar system, detailing how festival dates were calculated.

"He emphasised that the Hindu calendar is lunisolar, incorporating both solar and lunar movements. He further highlighted that while months are determined by lunar phases (tithis), the sun's movement dictates the solar year.

"Pundit Maraj also noted that festival dates are precisely determined based on specific months, lunar days, seasons, or constellations, requiring local sunrise and longitude for accurate calculation, meaning dates can vary by geographical location," said Maharaj.

Maharaj said the SAHMS encourages all affiliates to adopt a communication code that includes a pledge to verify and consult with the committee before making calendar-related posts, critiques, or public comments.

"Affiliates of the Maha Sabha are urged to adhere to responsible social media conduct when engaging with or commenting on the Hindu calendar and festival observances.

"Public critique or speculation without proper consultation may create confusion within the community. The principle of sangha (community) is central to Hinduism, and in the South African context, where Hindus form a visible yet often scrutinised minority, internal unity is crucial," said Maharaj.

He said disagreements should be handled within established structures, with dignity, and with the understanding that unity is a source of strength and a responsibility to future generations.

SUNDAY TRIBUNE