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Assam’s official astrologer

M. S. Prabhakara

Kalpurush Purnanga Panchika is the almanac traditionally consulted by most Assamese. It is annually published around Bohag Bihu (April 14-15), marking the beginning of the Assamese New Year. Kalpurush provides guidance in the conduct of the various rites of passage, as well as detailed astrological indications for every day of the year. It also includes a forecast for the year on the fortunes of the world, India and Assam.

The chief astrologer (gananakarak) and editor of the enterprise, Shri Pulinchandra Devasharma, is described on the opening page of the volume as ‘State astrologer (Raj Jyotishi) of the Government of Assam.

This was an important office in the courts of the Ahom monarchs who ruled the State in medieval times. An inquiry with the General Administration Department revealed that the office apparently does not now carry any remuneration (the title is impressive enough) and only indicates that the compiler and his work are consulted in determining the exact date of the festive days that are to be notified as government holidays.

With the first phase of the Lok Sabha polls in Assam (16 April) coinciding with the beginning of the Assamese New Year, this is what the current edition of Kalpurush already out in the market has to say on the political fortunes of the three major contestants (p. 98). “The BJP will increase its strength and popularity. On the other hand, the AGP may be further weakened by internal squabbles, divisions and challenges to the party leadership. The prospects for the Congress too are not propitious, though Tarun Gogoi will continue to enjoy the confidence of the party.”

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