Phalguni (फाल्गुनी/பங்குனி)
Time of Fruits
Between the middle of March and April, the Sun (Surya) transits through Pisces. This one-month period is referred to as Phalguni or Phalguna, which translates to "the fruits of your action." The word "Phal" means fruit or result, while "Guni" or "Guna" signifies your action. When the Sun and Moon illuminate this area of the sky, it signifies that you are prepared to accept the consequences of your actions thus far (over the past 11 months). This could either prompt you to continue on your current path or to make a complete change. As the Sun enters Pisces, it aspects Uttara Phalguni nakshatra in Virgo. The full Moon (Purnima) of this month falls mostly on this nakshatra, thus the name. Uttara Phalguni signifies amiability, rapport, and bonding, reflecting cordial relationships, dedication towards work, service, marriage/relationship, among others. The luminary axis in Phalguni fosters bonding and friendly relationships while also breaking up relationships that have become a burden. It's a period to gain control over oneself and others.
Theme
This month's theme revolves around focused energy, precision, decision-making, critical thinking, judgement, nourishment, protection, love, meditation, energizing oneself, among others. It's typically a high-energy period to let go of the past, relax, and embark on long-term work and commitments. The Sun will be exalted in the 2nd house from Pisces, so it's a joyful time for the Sun, similar to the expression "the night before the weekend is more satisfying than the actual weekend."
End of the Year
The month of Phalguni marks the end of a Vedic solar year, and the start of a new year is signaled by the entry of the Sun into Aries. As such, this period provides a favorable opportunity to make new decisions for the upcoming year.
Panguni Uttiram
In addition to its astrological significance, Uttara Phalguni holds great religious importance as well. It is strongly associated with Lord Shiva, as its animal is Bull (Lord Nandi himself), and it is believed that Shiva and Parvati were married during the Uttara Phalguni nakshatra of this month. Similarly, Lord Kartikeya (Murugan) and Lord Balaji (Venkateshwara) were also married during this auspicious nakshatra. As the full Moon illuminates this nakshatra, it highlights its qualities of dedication towards commitments, making it an ideal time for such important ceremonies. This auspicious day is called Panguni Uttiram.
It is celebrated in Shiva temples by symbolically marrying Parvati to Shiva, while Lord Kartikeya and Venkateshwara temples celebrate by marrying the Gods with their respective spouses. As a result, it is considered an auspicious time for marriages and performing remedies related to marriage. Any pooja on this day will be fruitful, even performing a milk abhishekam on a lingam is highly auspicious.
As this day and month fall under the influence of Phalguni, it is considered auspicious for starting endeavors that one wishes to endure, such as marriage, signing contracts or business agreements, purchasing new items, resolving disputes, commencing employment, focusing on fitness and wellness, contributing to charities, undertaking projects, connecting with people, and chanting mantras.