India uses multiple calendar eras simultaneously. The Vikram Samvat (VS) is 56-57 years ahead of Gregorian (2026 CE = VS 2083). It begins with Chaitra Shukla Pratipada (Hindu New Year). The Shaka Samvat, used by the Indian Government, is 78 years behind Gregorian (2026 CE = Shaka 1948). The Kali Yuga era counts from 3102 BCE, making 2026 CE = Kali 5128.

Each Hindu month spans one complete lunar cycle (~29.5 days). The months are named after the Nakshatra in which the Full Moon falls. Since lunar months are shorter than solar months, about every 32.5 months an extra month (Adhika Masa) is inserted to keep the calendar aligned with seasons.

The same months have two different starting points depending on region. Amanta (New Moon ending) starts the month after the New Moon – used in Gujarat, Maharashtra, South India, and by most panchang publishers. Purnimanta (Full Moon ending) starts the month after the Full Moon – used in North India (UP, MP, Bihar, Rajasthan). During Krishna Paksha (waning phase), the Purnimanta month name is one month ahead of Amanta.

The Hindu year divides into 6 seasons of two months each, linked to the Sun's position. These seasons determined agricultural cycles, festivals, and daily routines for millennia.

The solar year is divided into two halves called Ayanas. Uttarayana (northward journey) begins when the Sun enters Makara (Capricorn) – celebrated as Makar Sankranti. This 6-month period (roughly Jan-Jul) is considered auspicious for ceremonies. Dakshinayana (southward journey) begins when the Sun enters Karka (Cancer) – roughly Jul-Jan. While less favoured for rituals, Dakshinayana is considered the 'night of the gods' and is associated with tapasya (austerity).

A lunar year of 12 months totals ~354 days – about 11 days short of the solar year. Without correction, Hindu festivals would drift through seasons like Islamic holidays. The solution: when a lunar month passes without the Sun changing zodiac signs (Sankranti), that month is declared Adhika (extra). This happens roughly every 32.5 months. The Adhika Masa takes the name of the following month with the prefix 'Adhika'. Ceremonies and auspicious activities are generally avoided during Adhika Masa, though charitable acts are considered especially meritorious.

A daily panchang page shows five core elements (Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga, Karana, Vara), along with sunrise/sunset, Rahu Kaal, and lunar month information. The five elements change at different rates – Vara changes at sunrise, Tithi and Karana change roughly twice per day, while Nakshatra and Yoga change approximately once per day. Understanding these rhythms is key to reading the panchang effectively.