Grishma Ritu, or the summer season, is of utmost importance as it is the hottest time of the year in most parts of the country. (Image: shutterstock)
In the Hindu calendar, the summer season, known as grishma, extends over two months, Jayeshtha and Ashadha. In the Gregorian calendar, it corresponds to the period between mid-April and mid-June.
Summer 2023: Grishma Ritu, also known as the summer season in India, marks the arrival of scorching heat and longer days. It is a time when people seek respite from the hot temperatures and look for ways to stay cool. In the Hindu calendar, the summer season, known as grishma, extends over two months, Jayeshtha and Ashadha. In the Gregorian calendar, it corresponds to the period between mid-April and mid-June. The word ‘Grisma’ is derived from the Sanskrit word grishmarutu, which means heat. During the summer season, the scorching heat of the sun leads to exhaustion, lethargy and dehydration.
Summer 2023: Summer
In 2023, the summer season is expected to follow its normal pattern. According to Drik Panchang, this year Garima Ritu will start from 20 April and end on 21 June.
- Summer begins – 20 April, Saturday at 1.42 pm
- Grishma season ends – June 21, Wednesday at 8:26 pm
- Tropical Zodiac – Vrishabha (Taurus) & Mithuna (Gemini)
Grishma Ritu 2023: Significance
Grishma Ritu, or the summer season, is of utmost importance as it is the hottest time of the year in most parts of the country. The season culminates with the summer solstice, an astronomical event that occurs when the Sun reaches its highest point in the sky. The summer solstice marks the longest day of the year and can be observed from either the South or North Poles.
During Grishma Ritu, the temperature can rise to extreme levels, especially in the northern plains and central regions of India. Scorching heat can often be accompanied by dry winds, making it necessary for people to take precautions to stay cool and hydrated. It is recommended to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during peak hours, wear light and breathable clothing, and drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
The summer season gradually turns into the monsoon season, which brings respite from the heat with showers of rain. Generally, the southwest monsoon arrives over Kerala in late May and moves northwards, reaching the rest of the country in the following weeks. The arrival of monsoon rains marks the end of the summer season.