Hindu Calendar (lunar calendar) month is divided into two "Pakshas", and 30 lunar days (Tithiyan). These lunar days are roughly equal to 29.5 solar (Roman Calendar) days. The first fortnight is called Shukla Paksha (Sudi) or the bright fortnight ... begins with the full moon. The dark fortnight or the Krishna Paksha (Badi) begins and ends with full moon.
Each Tithi or lunar day of the 15 phases of the moon has its special significance, and marks the appropriateness for a particular ceremony or observance.
As the 12 lunar months make up only 354 solar days, there is an additional month called "Adhika masa" after every 30 lunar months. This leap month is generally either Ashadha or Shravana, and is known as second (dvitiya) Ashadha or Shravana.
The Hindu Lunar Calendar begins with Chaitra (March-April).
(source: Pg 9, Fasts and Festivals of India, by Manish Verma, Diamond Pocket Books)
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