You may have noticed different dates for the same planetary transit across media and websites. This is not a mistake — it results from two distinct Panchangam (almanac) systems used in Indian astrology.
🔭 Two Panchangam Systems
- Vakya Panchangam — A centuries-old system based on pre-computed approximations. Still used in some regions and by certain media outlets.
- Thirukkanitha (Drik) Panchangam — A modern, astronomy-based system using precise mathematical calculations. Aligned with NASA-grade ephemeris data.
⚖️ What's the Difference?
Vakya and Thirukkanitha Panchangams differ in their underlying calculation methods.
Because of this, the transit time or date may sometimes vary. This variation can be small in some cases; in other situations it may appear larger.
This difference is not about "who is right / who is wrong" — it is simply a difference in the calculation method and definition used.
Jathagam.ai consistently uses the Thirukkanitha (Drik) Panchangam standard, and all our calculations (transits, muhurtham, dasha, etc.) run on that same standard.
🌐 Which Standard Does Jathagam.ai Follow?
Jathagam.ai exclusively uses the Thirukkanitha (Drik) Panchangam.
🪐 Which Transits Does This Apply To?
This policy applies to all major planetary transits:
- Saturn (Sani) Transit — ~2.5 year cycle
- Jupiter (Guru) Transit — ~1 year cycle
- Rahu–Ketu Transit — ~1.5 year cycle
Learn more on our Planetary Transits page, or explore Astrology Facts.
📌 Summary
- Different dates in media = Vakya vs Thirukkanitha calculation method difference.
- Jathagam.ai follows Thirukkanitha (Drik) standard only.
- Both systems have cultural significance; the difference is only in calculation definition.
- This applies not just to Saturn, but also to Jupiter, Rahu, and Ketu transits.