The Hindu lunar calendar, steeped in ancient traditions and customs, follows the cycles of the moon to determine the passing of time and mark important religious events. While most are familiar with the standard twelve lunar months, an intriguing occurrence takes place every few years - the appearance of an additional month known as Mala Maas. In this article, we explore the significance of Mala Maas, its astrological basis, and the religious practices associated with this unique lunar phenomenon.
The Astronomy Behind Mala Maas: Aligning Lunar and Solar Years
The Hindu lunar calendar comprises twelve months, each lasting approximately 29.53 days. However, a solar year, based on the Earth's orbit around the Sun, consists of roughly 365 days. The disparity between the lunar and solar years results in an annual difference of about 11 days.
To bridge this gap and ensure that the lunar calendar remains in sync with the solar calendar, an extra month is added approximately every 32 months. This additional month, known as Mala Maas, serves as a crucial adjustment, allowing religious festivals and ceremonies to retain their seasonal alignment.
Identifying Mala Maas: The Absence of Surya Sankranti
The occurrence of Mala Maas is determined by a particular astronomical event known as "Surya Sankranti." Surya Sankranti refers to the Sun's transition from one zodiac sign (rashi) to another. Ordinarily, each lunar month experiences one Surya Sankranti.
However, in Mala Maas, the Sun remains within the same zodiac sign without moving into another one, leading to the absence of this significant celestial event. This non-transition period between the end of Pitri Paksha (Sohra Shraddha or Mahalaya) and the commencement of Dashain (Durga Paksha) marks the presence of Mala Maas in the lunar calendar.
Understanding Mala Maas: The "Month of Waste" or "Purushottam Maas"
Mala Maas is associated with both inauspicious and sacred connotations, reflected in its diverse names. On one hand, it is referred to as the "Month of Waste" or "Impure Month" due to traditional beliefs that discourage conducting certain ceremonies and auspicious activities during this period. Celebrations such as weddings, bratabandhas, griha pravesh, and other special functions are typically avoided.
Conversely, Mala Maas also carries a holy title - "Purushottam Maas." According to legend, no deity agreed to preside over this month initially, leaving it without a divine ruler. However, Lord Vishnu, the preserver of the universe, took compassion on the month's plight and decided to associate himself with it, earning it the esteemed title of "Purushottam Maas."
Religious Significance and Observances during Purushottam Maas
During Purushottam Maas, devotees engage in various religious practices to seek blessings and spiritual growth. Special pujas, recitations of holy scriptures like Purusottam Mahatmya, and fasting (vrats) are observed throughout the month. A renowned fair, the Matsyanarayan Mela, is held in Machhegaun, Kathmandu, Nepal, where devotees bathe in the pond at the Matsyanarayan Temple to cleanse themselves of sins.
An interesting tradition during this sacred month involves the offering of a special dessert called "Malpuwa." Offering 33 Malpuwas on the last day of Purushottam Maas is believed to bestow immense virtues upon the devotee, akin to offering the entire world.
Embracing the Occurrence of Mala Maas
As Mala Maas graces the Hindu lunar calendar once every few years, it offers devotees a unique opportunity to connect with the divine, seek blessings, and engage in spiritual practices. Whether regarded as "Mala Maas" or "Purushottam Maas," this month holds deep cultural significance, reminding us of the rich tapestry of beliefs that shape the Hindu calendar and the lives of its followers. So, as Mala Maas makes its presence felt, devotees shall embrace this auspicious time with reverence and devotion.
