The 'Bhojpuri Calendar' is not an independent calendar system but rather the regional adaptation and application of the traditional **Hindu lunisolar Vikrami Samvat** within the Bhojpuri-speaking belt. It serves as a cornerstone for cultural, religious, and agricultural practices in the region. HISTORY: The foundational Vikrami Samvat calendar is traditionally believed to have been established by Emperor Vikramaditya in 57 BCE. Over millennia, this system became deeply ingrained in the lives of communities across North India, including the Bhojpuri regions, evolving into what is colloquially referred to as the Bhojpuri calendar today. CULTURAL CONTEXT: This calendar is predominantly used by Hindu communities in the Bhojpuri-speaking areas, encompassing parts of eastern Uttar Pradesh, western Bihar, northern Jharkhand in India, and the Terai region of Nepal. It is central to the cultural identity, dictating the timing of festivals, life-cycle rituals (like weddings and naming ceremonies), and agricultural cycles. Its significance is reflected in local folk traditions, songs, and proverbs. PRACTICAL USAGE: The Bhojpuri calendar is a **lunisolar calendar**, meaning it accounts for both lunar phases and the solar year. It typically comprises 12 lunar months, with an **Adhik Maas** (intercalary month) added approximately every three years to synchronize with the solar cycle. The month names, largely consistent with the Vikrami Samvat, include: Chaitra, Vaishakh, Jyeshtha, Ashadha, Shravan, Bhadrapad, Ashwin, Kartik, Margashirsha (often called Agahan in Bhojpuri), Paush, Magh, and Phalgun. Each month is divided into two fortnights (pakshas): Shukla Paksha (waxing moon) and Krishna Paksha (waning moon), each consisting of 15 tithis (lunar days). Standard Hindu weekday names are utilized (Raviwar, Somwar, etc.). The **New Year (Nav Varsh)** officially commences on the first day of the Chaitra Shukla Paksha Pratipada (the first day of the waxing moon in the month of Chaitra), typically falling in March or April of the Gregorian calendar. This day is marked by significant cultural and religious celebrations, including Chaitra Navratri. A unique feature is its publication as a 'Panchang,' which provides detailed astrological and astronomical data crucial for daily life and auspicious timings. It intricately links to the region's agrarian rhythm, guiding sowing and harvesting. Major festivals like **Chhath Puja**, Holi, Diwali, Makar Sankranti, and Teej are all meticulously dated according to this calendar, showcasing its enduring practical and spiritual relevance in Bhojpuri culture.