Shukla Paksha vs Krishna Paksha: Waxing and Waning Lunar Fortnights
Understand Shukla Paksha and Krishna Paksha, how they divide the lunar month, and why paksha matters for tithi and festivals.
Paksha divides the lunar month into two halves: the waxing phase from Amavasya to Purnima and the waning phase from Purnima to Amavasya.
Quick Comparison
Shukla Paksha
The bright fortnight, when the Moon waxes from new moon toward full moon.
Krishna Paksha
The dark fortnight, when the Moon wanes from full moon toward new moon.
Why it matters
The same tithi name can occur in both pakshas, so paksha clarifies the exact lunar context.
Why It Matters
Panchang timing is not just a date label. It depends on astronomical positions, local sunrise and sunset, timezone, and observance rules. That is why Tithi provides both explainers and location-aware panchang pages.
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