An almanac in Indian
astrology (jyotisha) that records the positions of numerous celestial bodies
during a calendar year, including the days of the moon's monthly cycle, its
movement through the nakshatras, and the positions of the planets.
Because most Hindu religious festivals follow the lunar
calendar, a panchang is required to establish when they will occur.
A panchang is also useful for determining when it is
favourable and bad to do specific tasks.
Marriage timings are chosen with great care to prevent any
potential inauspiciousness that can influence the marriage, although in many
circumstances, a panchang will be consulted before beginning any important
activity.
