Marathi, a vibrant and rich language spoken by millions in Maharashtra, India, holds a treasure trove of cultural nuances and linguistic wonders. One such fascinating aspect is the naming of the months in Marathi. Each month carries its own unique identity, steeped in history and tradition.
From the scorching heat of Jyeshtha to the festive fervor of Kartik, these names not only reflect the distinct seasons and celestial events but also offer a glimpse into the deep-rooted customs and beliefs embraced by Marathi-speaking communities. Join us on an enchanting journey as we unravel the meanings behind each months name in Marathi, delving into their historical significance and uncovering some lesser-known stories associated with them.
- List of 12 Months name in marathi
- 1. चैत्र – Chaitra (April to May):
- 2. वैशाख – Vaishakh (May to June):
- 3. ज्येष्ठ – Jeshta (June to July):
- 4. आषाढ – Ashad (July to August):
- 5. श्रावण – Shravan (August to September):
- 6. भाद्रपद – Bhadrapad (September to October):
- 7. आश्विन – Ashwin (October to November):
- 8. कार्तिक – Kartik (November to December):
- 9. मार्गशिर्ष – Margashirsha (December to January):
- 10. पौष – Pausha (January to February):
- 11. माघ – Magha (February to March):
- 12. फाल्गुण – Phalguna (March to April):
- Pronunciation guide for each month’s name
List of 12 Months name in marathi
Months name in Marathi calendar are associated with specific time periods, connecting cultural traditions and the passing of seasons in the Marathi-speaking regions. Here is the list of 12 months name in Marathi along with their English names, corresponding time periods, and detailed explanation:
1. चैत्र – Chaitra (April to May):
Chaitra is the first month of the Marathi calendar, typically spanning from mid-April to mid-May. It marks the beginning of the spring season in India. The name “Chaitra” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Chaitanya,” which means vitality or energy. This month holds special significance as it hosts several Hindu festivals, including Gudi Padwa (Marathi New Year) and Ram Navami, the birthday of Lord Rama.
2. वैशाख – Vaishakh (May to June):
Vaishakh falls in the months of late April to early June. It follows Chaitra and is a crucial month for Hindus, particularly for celebrating the harvest season and various agricultural festivals. One of the most significant festivals during Vaishakh is Akshaya Tritiya, a day believed to bring prosperity and good fortune. Farmers often begin sowing their crops during this month.
3. ज्येष्ठ – Jeshta (June to July):
Jeshta extends from late May to late June. This month usually corresponds to the summer season in India. The name “Jeshta” means “the eldest” or “the first,” highlighting its position as the third month in the calendar. However, despite its name, it is not the first month of the year. In this month, the festival of Vat Purnima is celebrated by married women for the well-being and longevity of their husbands.
4. आषाढ – Ashad (July to August):
Ashad falls in the months of late June to late July. It marks the beginning of the monsoon season in India and is a crucial time for agricultural activities. The month is associated with the growth of crops and the replenishment of water bodies. Devotees also celebrate the festival of Ashadhi Ekadashi during this month, particularly in the state of Maharashtra, in honor of Lord Vithoba.
5. श्रावण – Shravan (August to September):
Shravan corresponds to the months of late July to late August. This month holds special religious significance for Hindus, as it is considered auspicious for worship and devotion. The Mondays of Shravan, known as “Shravan Somvar,” are dedicated to Lord Shiva, and many people observe fasting and offer prayers during this time. The festival of Raksha Bandhan, symbolizing the bond between siblings, is also celebrated during Shravan.
6. भाद्रपद – Bhadrapad (September to October):
Bhadrapad spans from late August to late September. This month signifies the transition from the monsoon season to autumn. It holds a variety of festivals, including Ganesh Chaturthi, a grand celebration of Lord Ganesha’s birthday. The immersion of Ganesh idols in water bodies marks the conclusion of this festive occasion. Bhadrapad is also associated with Pitru Paksha, a period dedicated to paying homage to ancestors.
7. आश्विन – Ashwin (October to November):
Ashwin falls in the months of late September to late October. It marks the transition from the rainy season to the post-monsoon period. This month is significant for various Hindu festivals, including Navaratri and Durga Puja, which celebrate the goddess Durga and her triumph over evil. Additionally, the festival of Diwali, known as the Festival of Lights, usually falls within the month of Ashwin.
8. कार्तिक – Kartik (November to December):
From late October to late November, Kartik is the month that corresponds. This particular time frame is considered sacred for religious observances and acts of benevolence. Devotees of Lord Vishnu and Lord Shiva attach great importance to this period, engaging in specific prayers and rituals. The festival of Kartik Purnima, celebrated on the full moon day of Kartik, plays a vital role in various spiritual practices.
9. मार्गशिर्ष – Margashirsha (December to January):
Late November to late December marks the duration of Margashirsha. This particular month is closely associated with acts of devotion and spiritual engagement. It is widely acknowledged as a favorable time for paying homage to Lord Krishna. Devotees frequently adhere to the custom of reading or listening to the Bhagavad Gita during this period. A variety of religious ceremonies and festivals, including Vratas (fasts) and prayers, are observed throughout Margashirsha.
10. पौष – Pausha (January to February):
As winter envelops India from late December to late January, Pausha takes center stage. This month embodies a time of deep contemplation and spirituality for individuals across the country. Devotees fervently engage in rituals and prayers during this period, seeking divine blessings and guidance for the upcoming year. Furthermore, in select regions of India, Pausha witnesses the exuberant celebration of Makar Sankranti – a joyous harvest festival that signifies the sun’s entry into Capricorn’s zodiac realm.
11. माघ – Magha (February to March):
Magha corresponds to the months of late January to late February. This month holds cultural and religious significance, particularly in relation to honoring ancestors. The festival of Magha Purnima is celebrated during this time when people take ritual baths in rivers and engage in acts of charity. Magha also marks the beginning of the Holi festival season, which usually takes place in the following month.
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12. फाल्गुण – Phalguna (March to April):
Phalguna spans from late February to late March. This is the last month of the Marathi calendar and typically aligns with the arrival of spring. One of the most vibrant and widely celebrated festivals, Holi, falls during Phalguna. Holi is known as the Festival of Colors and is characterized by people coming together to play with colored powders, dance, and celebrate the victory of good over evil.
Pronunciation guide for each month’s name
Pronouncing the Marathi month names can be a daunting task for someone unfamiliar with the language. Each months name in Marathi carries its own unique sound and rhythm, adding richness to the language. So here’s a pronunciation guide for each months name in Marathi:
- चैत्र – Chaitra: Ch-ai-tra
- वैशाख – Vaishakh: Vai-shaakh
- ज्येष्ठ – Jeshta: Jye-shtha
- आषाढ – Ashad: Aa-shaad
- श्रावण – Shravan: Shraa-vaan
- भाद्रपद – Bhadrapad: Bhaad-raa-pad
- आश्विन – Ashwin: Aa-shwin
- कार्तिक – Kartik: Kaar-tik
- मार्गशिर्ष – Margashirsha: Maar-ga-sheer-sha
- पौष – Pausha: Paa-u-sha
- माघ – Magha: Maag-ha
- फाल्गुण – Phalguna: Phal-gu-na
Common phrases or sayings related to the months
Certainly, here are some common phrases and sayings related to the months name in Marathi along with their translations:
चैत्र गौरी, आषाढ आषाढी (Chaitra Gauri, Ashad Ashadhi): Chaitra brings Gauri (goddess) and Ashad brings the Ashadhi festival.
ज्येष्ठातला एका शिवाया (Jyeshthala Eka Shivaya): In Jyeshtha (month), only Lord Shiva prevails. (Signifying the devotion to Lord Shiva during this month)
आषाढी एकादशी, देवा विठ्ठला पंढरी (Ashadhi Ekadashi, Deva Vithhala Pandhari): On Ashadhi Ekadashi, Lord Vithhala resides in Pandharpur. (Referring to the pilgrimage to Pandharpur on this day)
श्रावण सोमवारी, गणपती चतुर्थी (Shravan Somvari, Ganpati Chaturthi): Mondays in Shravan, and Ganpati Chaturthi. (Highlighting the significance of both Mondays and Ganesh Chaturthi during Shravan)
भाद्रपदी अंधार काल, आश्विनी सवारी (Bhadrapadi Andhar Kaal, Ashwini Sawari): Bhadrapad brings darkness, and Ashwin brings dawn. (Referring to the transition from the dark monsoon season to the beginning of light with Ashwin)
कार्तिकीची सन्नाई, देवाच्या दरबारी (Kartiki Chi Sannai, Devachya Darbari): Kartik brings auspiciousness and the court of the gods. (Indicating the significance of Kartik month)
माघातल्या पान्डरीच्या गोंधळ्याला महत्त्व नाही (Maghatlya Pandrichya Gondhalyala Mahatva Nahi): There is no significance to the chaos during Magha. (Suggesting a time of relative calm after the festive season)
Influence of Marathi months on daily life
The months name in Marathi have a significant influence on various aspects of daily life in the Marathi-speaking regions of India. These influences are often rooted in cultural, agricultural, and religious practices. Here are some ways in which Marathi months impact daily life:
Agricultural Activities: The months in Marathi calendar play a crucial role in agricultural practices. Farmers schedule their planting, sowing, and harvesting activities based on the specific characteristics of each month. For instance, Ashad is associated with the monsoon and planting, while Vaishakh is linked to harvesting.
Festivals and Celebrations: Different months are associated with various festivals and celebrations. People prepare for and engage in religious festivals, processions, and gatherings that are unique to each month. For example, Gudi Padwa is celebrated during Chaitra, Ganesh Chaturthi during Bhadrapad, and Diwali during Ashwin.
Spiritual and Religious Practices: Many people follow specific spiritual practices and observances based on the months. For instance, devotees of Lord Shiva might offer special prayers during Shravan, while followers of Lord Vithhala might undertake a pilgrimage to Pandharpur during Ashadhi Ekadashi.
Culinary Traditions: Seasonal availability of fruits and vegetables often influences culinary practices. Some dishes and sweets are traditionally prepared during certain months to celebrate specific festivals. For instance, during Makar Sankranti in Pausha, dishes made from sesame and jaggery are popular.
Weather and Clothing: The transition between months often corresponds to changes in weather conditions. As a result, people adapt their clothing choices and daily routines to suit the prevailing climate. For example, as the weather becomes cooler, people may opt for warmer clothing and adjust their daily routines accordingly.
Astrological and Auspicious Days: Many people consult astrological calendars to find auspicious days for events such as weddings, ceremonies, and important activities. The choice of these dates can be influenced by the alignment of the planets and stars during specific months.
Lifestyle and Leisure Activities: Marathi months also influence leisure activities. During festive months, markets and shops may be busier due to increased shopping for special occasions. Additionally, outdoor activities and social gatherings may be more common during certain months due to favorable weather.
Cultural Traditions: Marathi months are deeply intertwined with cultural traditions and practices. The significance of each month is often passed down through generations, and these traditions play a role in shaping daily life, whether through rituals, songs, or customs.
Final Thoughts
To sum up, the Marathi language showcases an exceptional and captivating approach to naming months. Each month is designated after a distinct natural occurrence or celebration, offering a glimpse into the cultural and religious customs of Maharashtra. While certain names have transformed over time, others have endured for centuries.
Grasping these month names in Marathi not only enriches our understanding of Marathi culture but also enables us to acknowledge the profound interconnection between nature, spirituality, and everyday life in Maharashtra. Hence, when you encounter the Marathi month names next time, take a moment to explore their meanings and unravel the intricate tapestry of traditions they embody.
FAQs
Which Marathi month is in February?
The Marathi month that corresponds to February is “माघ” (Magha).
How many seasons are there in Marathi?
There are six seasons in the traditional Marathi calendar:
- वसंत (Vasant) – Spring
- ग्रीष्म (Grishma) – Summer
- वर्षा (Varsha) – Monsoon
- शरद (Sharad) – Autumn
- हेमंत (Hemant) – Pre-winter
- शिशिर (Shishir) – Winter
Which is the first month in Marathi calendar?
The first month in the Marathi calendar is “चैत्र” (Chaitra). It usually falls in April to May and marks the beginning of the year in the Marathi calendar.
Are there any pilgrimage or travel activities associated with Marathi months?
Yes, certain Marathi months are associated with pilgrimage and travel. For instance, Ashadhi Ekadashi sees a significant pilgrimage to Pandharpur to worship Lord Vithhala.