There is no question that there is a relation between names of 12 Lunar months and 27 Nakshatras. But which follows from which? There is a little question in my mind.
In all probability, the 27 Nakshatras were identified first, as milestones along the Ecliptic, the path in the sky on which the Sun Moon and Planets move. They also must have been given names at that time.
Month names like Chaitra, Vaishakh appear clearly derived from Nakshatra names Chitraa and Vishakhaa. The Sanskrit grammar rules of Vruddhi are seen to be followed in forming the names. Do we then conclude that the names of months are derived from names of Nakshatras?
Out of twelve month names the question arises about Ashadh, Bhadrapad and Falgun. The corresponding Nakshatra names are Poorvaashadhaa-Uttaraashaadhaa, Poorva-UttaraaBhadrapada and Purvaa-UttaraFalguni. In all three cases, there are double Nakshatra Names involved. Also, the month names are ‘short’ and do not appear to be derived from Nakshatra name by Guna or Vruddhi rule. On the other hand, Nakshatra name Ashadhaa appears to be derived from month name Ashadh by extending last vowel. Same with other two, Bhadrapad and Falgun. In these three cases, it cannot be said with certainty that the month name is derived from Nakshatra name!
What is the relation between Month and Nakshatra name? There is no clear answer.
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