Question

Arrange the following Tithi groups in their correct cyclical sequence as specified in the Pañcāṅga:
A. Jayā
B. Nandā
C. Riktā
D. Bhadrā
E. Pūrṇā

• A. C, B, D, A, E
• B. B, D, A, C, E
• C. E, A, C, B, D
• D. D, C, A, B, E

Hint:

Remember the acronym "N-B-J-R-P". 1-2-3-4-5. Once you know the first group (Nanda-1), you can simply count forward!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The 15 Tithis (lunar days) of a fortnight are classified into five recurring groups of three Tithis each. This system is known as the 'Nandādi' classification. Each group has a unique name and is associated with one of the five primordial elements (Mahābhūtas). The sequence repeats three times within each lunar fortnight (Pakṣa).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The five groups and their constituent Tithis are:

1. Nandā (Prosperous): Tithis 1, 6, 11. These are associated with the Earth element and are generally good for construction and agricultural starts. (Labeled B).
2. Bhadrā (Lucky): Tithis 2, 7, 12. These are associated with the Water element and are good for journeys and artistic work. (Labeled D).
3. Jayā (Victorious): Tithis 3, 8, 13. These are associated with the Fire element and are excellent for competitions and administrative work. (Labeled A).
4. Riktā (Empty): Tithis 4, 9, 14. These are associated with the Air element. As the name suggests, they are "void" and generally avoided for major auspicious starts. (Labeled C).
5. Pūrṇā (Complete): Tithis 5, 10, 15 (and 30). These are associated with the Ether (Ākāśa) element and are good for completion ceremonies and spiritual practices. (Labeled E).

The standard cyclical sequence is Nandā \(\rightarrow\) Bhadrā \(\rightarrow\) Jayā \(\rightarrow\) Riktā \(\rightarrow\) Pūrṇā. Mapping the labels gives: B, D, A, C, E.
This sequence is used to determine the 'Tithi Bala' for any given task. For example, if a specific auspicious activity requires a Nandā Tithi, one can choose either the 1st, 6th, or 11th day of the fortnight.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct cyclical sequence of the Tithi groups is B, D, A, C, E.