Malayalam Calendar 2024
As we step into the year 2023, it’s time to gear up for the upcoming Malayalam New Year. Being a Malayali myself, I have always been fascinated by the Malayalam Calendar and its significance in our lives. In this article, I will be sharing my personal experience with Malayalam Calendar and take you through everything you need to know about Malayalam Calendar 2024.
What is Malayalam Calendar?
The Malayalam Calendar, also known as Kollavarsham, is a solar and sidereal Hindu calendar used in Kerala, India. It follows the solar cycle and is based on the astronomical observations of the sun’s movement, moon’s phases, and other celestial bodies. The Malayalam Calendar has a unique way of calculating time, which is different from the Gregorian calendar.
How is Malayalam Calendar calculated?
The Malayalam Calendar is calculated based on the position of the sun and moon. It follows a system of 12 months, each having 29 to 32 days. The first month of the Malayalam Calendar is Chingam, which falls in August or September according to the Gregorian calendar. The Malayalam year begins on the first day of Chingam and ends on the last day of Karkidakam, which falls in July or August.
The Malayalam Calendar also has a unique system of calculating time, which is based on the position of the sun. The day begins at sunrise and ends at the next day’s sunrise. The hours are divided into 60 Nazhigais, which is equivalent to 24 modern hours.
Events and Festivals in Malayalam Calendar 2024
The Malayalam Calendar is filled with numerous festivals and events throughout the year. Here is a list of some important festivals and events in Malayalam Calendar 2024:
- Vishu – April 15
- Onam – August 21 to September 2
- Navaratri – October 2 to October 10
- Diwali – October 28
- Mandala Kalam Begins – November 17
- Mandala Kalam Ends – December 26
Celebration of Festivals in Malayalam Calendar 2024
Vishu is one of the most important festivals in Kerala, which marks the beginning of the Malayalam New Year. It is celebrated on April 15 and is considered an auspicious day for Malayalis. The day begins with the Vishukkani, which is a set of auspicious items like rice, fruits, and flowers, arranged in a traditional manner. People light lamps and burst crackers to welcome the New Year.
Onam is another significant festival in Kerala, which celebrates the homecoming of King Mahabali. It is celebrated for ten days, starting from August 21 to September 2. People decorate their houses with Pookkalam, a floral design made with different flowers. The highlight of Onam is the Onam Sadya, a grand feast served on banana leaves, which consists of 26 different dishes.
Navaratri is a nine-day festival, which celebrates the victory of good over evil. It is celebrated in the month of October and is dedicated to Goddess Durga. People fast, perform puja, and offer prayers to the goddess during this period.
Diwali, also known as Deepavali, is a festival of lights, which is celebrated in October or November. People light lamps, burst crackers, and exchange sweets and gifts during this festival.
Mandala Kalam is a 41-day period of austerity and penance, which begins on November 17 and ends on December 26. It is considered an auspicious period for devotees of Lord Ayyappa, who undertake a pilgrimage to Sabarimala during this period.
Question and Answer
Q. What is the significance of Malayalam Calendar?
The Malayalam Calendar is significant in the lives of Malayalis as it marks the beginning of the New Year and is used to calculate auspicious dates for weddings, housewarming ceremonies, and other important events.
Q. How is Malayalam Calendar different from the Gregorian calendar?
The Malayalam Calendar follows a solar cycle and is based on the astronomical observations of the sun’s movement, moon’s phases, and other celestial bodies, while the Gregorian calendar is a solar calendar based on the earth’s rotation around the sun.
FAQs
Q. When does the Malayalam year begin?
The Malayalam year begins on the first day of Chingam, which falls in August or September according to the Gregorian calendar.
Q. How many months are there in the Malayalam Calendar?
The Malayalam Calendar has 12 months, each having 29 to 32 days.
Q. Which is the most important festival in the Malayalam Calendar?
Vishu is considered the most important festival in the Malayalam Calendar as it marks the beginning of the New Year.
With this article, I hope I was able to provide you with a comprehensive guide to Malayalam Calendar 2024. Celebrating festivals and events according to the Malayalam Calendar is a unique experience that every Malayali should cherish.