Language/Kannada/Vocabulary/Days-and-Months
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Introduction[edit | edit source]
In this lesson, we will learn about an essential aspect of the Kannada language: the days of the week and months of the year. Understanding and being able to use these words is crucial for effective communication in Kannada. As a language teacher with 20 years of experience, I have developed a comprehensive and engaging lesson that will help you master this topic. By the end of this lesson, you will be able to confidently talk about the days and months in Kannada, expanding your vocabulary and cultural knowledge. Let's get started!
Days of the Week[edit | edit source]
The Kannada language, like many others, follows a seven-day week system. Each day of the week has its unique name and significance. Let's explore the Kannada names for the days of the week:
| Kannada | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| ಭಾನುವಾರ | Bhānuvāra | Sunday |
| ಸೋಮವಾರ | Sōmavāra | Monday |
| ಮಂಗಳವಾರ | Maṅgaḷavāra | Tuesday |
| ಬುಧವಾರ | Budhavāra | Wednesday |
| ಗುರುವಾರ | Guruvāra | Thursday |
| ಶುಕ್ರವಾರ | Śukravāra | Friday |
| ಶನಿವಾರ | Śanivāra | Saturday |
Now, let's dive deeper into each day of the week and explore their cultural significance and usage in Kannada society:
ಭಾನುವಾರ (Bhānuvāra) - Sunday[edit | edit source]
In Kannada, Sunday is called "ಭಾನುವಾರ" (Bhānuvāra). The word "ಭಾನು" (Bhānu) means "Sun," and "ವಾರ" (vāra) means "day." Sunday is considered a day of rest and is often associated with relaxation and spending time with family and friends. Many people in Karnataka engage in leisure activities or visit temples on Sundays. It is also a popular day for weddings and other social gatherings.
ಸೋಮವಾರ (Sōmavāra) - Monday[edit | edit source]
Monday is known as "ಸೋಮವಾರ" (Sōmavāra) in Kannada. The word "ಸೋಮ" (Sōma) refers to the Moon, and "ವಾರ" (vāra) means "day." Monday is considered an auspicious day in Hindu culture, and many people observe fasting and offer prayers to Lord Shiva on this day. It is also a popular day for starting new ventures or important tasks. In Kannada households, special dishes like "ಗಸಗಸಿನ ಅವಲಕ್ಕಿ" (gasagasiṇa avalakki) and "ಕಾಳುಗೆಣಸಿ ಸಾರು" (kāḷugeṇasi sāru) are prepared on Mondays.
ಮಂಗಳವಾರ (Maṅgaḷavāra) - Tuesday[edit | edit source]
Tuesday is called "ಮಂಗಳವಾರ" (Maṅgaḷavāra) in Kannada. The word "ಮಂಗಳ" (Maṅgaḷa) means "auspicious" or "blessed," and "ವಾರ" (vāra) means "day." Tuesday is associated with Lord Hanuman, and many devotees visit Hanuman temples on this day. It is also a popular day for performing special rituals to ward off evil and bring good fortune. In Kannada culture, Tuesday is considered an excellent day for weddings and other celebrations.
ಬುಧವಾರ (Budhavāra) - Wednesday[edit | edit source]
Wednesday is known as "ಬುಧವಾರ" (Budhavāra) in Kannada. The word "ಬುಧ" (Budha) refers to the planet Mercury, and "ವಾರ" (vāra) means "day." In Hindu mythology, Budha is associated with intelligence and communication skills. Many people perform special prayers or visit temples dedicated to Lord Budha on Wednesdays. It is also a common day for starting educational activities or signing important contracts. In Kannada households, special dishes like "ಮೆಣಸಿನ ಕಾಳು" (meṇasina kāḷu) and "ಉಪ್ಪಿಟ್ಟು" (uppiṭṭu) are prepared on Wednesdays.
ಗುರುವಾರ (Guruvāra) - Thursday[edit | edit source]
Thursday is called "ಗುರುವಾರ" (Guruvāra) in Kannada. The word "ಗುರು" (Guru) means "teacher" or "master," and "ವಾರ" (vāra) means "day." Thursday is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, and many people observe fasting and visit Vishnu temples on this day. It is believed that worshipping Lord Vishnu on Thursdays brings prosperity and blessings. In Kannada households, special dishes like "ಮಗಸ ಸಾರು" (magasa sāru) and "ಸೊಪ್ಪಿನ ಪಾಯಸ" (soppina pāyasa) are prepared on Thursdays.
ಶುಕ್ರವಾರ (Śukravāra) - Friday[edit | edit source]
Friday is known as "ಶುಕ್ರವಾರ" (Śukravāra) in Kannada. The word "ಶುಕ್ರ" (Śukra) refers to the planet Venus, and "ವಾರ" (vāra) means "day." In Hindu mythology, Śukra is associated with love, beauty, and prosperity. Many people perform prayers and visit temples dedicated to the goddess Lakshmi on Fridays. It is believed that worshipping the goddess on Fridays brings wealth and happiness. In Kannada households, special dishes like "ಶುಕ್ರವಾರ ದೋಸೆ" (Śukravāra dōse) and "ಅಕ್ಕಿ ಹೂಗು" (akki hūgu) are prepared on Fridays.
ಶನಿವಾರ (Śanivāra) - Saturday[edit | edit source]
Saturday is called "ಶನಿವಾರ" (Śanivāra) in Kannada. The word "ಶನಿ" (Śani) refers to the planet Saturn, and "ವಾರ" (vāra) means "day." Saturday is considered a day of discipline and self-control. Many people observe fasting and perform rituals to appease Lord Shani on this day. It is believed that pleasing Lord Shani brings protection from misfortunes and obstacles. In Kannada households, special dishes like "ಶನಿವಾರ ಉಪ್ಪಿಟ್ಟು" (Śanivāra uppiṭṭu) and "ಮೆಣಸಿನ ಸಾರು" (meṇasina sāru) are prepared on Saturdays.
Months of the Year[edit | edit source]
Kannada follows the Gregorian calendar for the months of the year. Each month has its unique name and cultural significance. Let's explore the Kannada names for the months of the year:
| Kannada | Pronunciation | English Translation |
|---|---|---|
| ಜನವರಿ | Janavari | January |
| ಫೆಬ್ರವರಿ | Phebravari | February |
| ಮಾರ್ಚ್ | Mārc | March |
| ಏಪ್ರಿಲ್ | Ēpril | April |
| ಮೇ | Mē | May |
| ಜೂನ್ | Jūn | June |
| ಜುಲೈ | Julai | July |
| ಆಗಸ್ಟ್ | Āgast | August |
| ಸೆಪ್ಟೆಂಬರ್ | Septembar | September |
| ಅಕ್ಟೋಬರ್ | Aktōbar | October |
| ನವೆಂಬರ್ | Naveṃbar | November |
| ಡಿಸೆಂಬರ್ | Disembar | December |
Now, let's explore the cultural significance and usage of each month in Kannada society:
[edit | edit source]
January is called "ಜನವರಿ" (Janavari) in Kannada. It is the first month of the year and is associated with new beginnings and resolutions. Many people in Karnataka celebrate the new year and exchange gifts on January 1st. It is also a time for religious festivals like Makara Sankranti, when people fly kites and prepare special dishes like "ಎಲೆ ಹೆಸರುಕಾಳು" (ele hesarukāḷu) and "ಯೇಸು ಕೀರ್ತನೆ" (yēsu kīrtane).
ಫೆಬ್ರವರಿ (Phebravari) - February[edit | edit source]
February is known as "ಫೆಬ್ರವರಿ" (Phebravari) in Kannada. It is a month of transition, as winter gives way to spring. In Karnataka, the festival of Basant Panchami is celebrated in February, dedicated to the goddess Saraswati. Many people wear yellow clothes and offer prayers to the goddess for knowledge and wisdom. It is also a time for kite flying and enjoying the blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
ಮಾರ್ಚ್ (Mārc) - March[edit | edit source]
March is called "ಮಾರ್ಚ್" (Mārc) in Kannada. It is the beginning of summer in Karnataka, and the weather starts getting warmer. The festival of Holi, known as "ಕಮ್ಬಳ ಹೋಳಿ" (kambaḷa hōḷi), is celebrated in March. People gather to play with colors, dance to traditional music, and enjoy festive food. It is a time for joy and celebration, marking the victory of good over evil.
ಏಪ್ರಿಲ್ (Ēpril) - April[edit | edit source]
April is known as "ಏಪ್ರಿಲ್" (Ēpril) in Kannada. It is the peak of summer in Karnataka, with temperatures soaring high. The festival of Ugadi, the Kannada New Year, falls in April. People decorate their homes, prepare traditional dishes like "ಹೊಳಿಕೆಯ ಹಂಚಿ" (hoḷikēya haṃci) and "ಮಂಗಳೂಪಿನ ಚಿತಾನ್ನ" (maṅgaḷūpina citānna), and visit temples to seek blessings for the upcoming year.
ಮೇ (Mē) - May[edit | edit source]
May is called "ಮೇ" (Mē) in Kannada. It is the hottest month of the year in Karnataka, with temperatures often crossing 40 degrees Celsius. People try to stay indoors during the daytime and engage in outdoor activities during the cooler evenings. Many schools and colleges have summer vacations in May, and families plan trips to hill stations or coastal areas to escape the heat.
ಜೂನ್ (Jūn) - June[edit | edit source]
June is known as "ಜೂನ್" (Jūn) in Kannada. It is the beginning of the monsoon season in Karnataka, with rainfall bringing relief from the scorching summer heat. Many farmers start sowing crops in their fields, and the lush greenery adds beauty to the landscape. In urban areas, people enjoy the pleasant weather and engage in activities like trekking and visiting waterfalls.
ಜುಲೈ (Julai) - July[edit | edit source]
July is called "ಜುಲೈ" (Julai) in Kannada. It is the height of the monsoon season in Karnataka, with heavy rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. Many rivers and waterfalls are in full flow during this time, making it a popular season for nature enthusiasts. In rural areas, farmers continue their agricultural activities, while in urban areas, people indulge in hot snacks and beverages to enjoy the rainy weather.
ಆಗಸ್ಟ್ (Āgast) - August[edit | edit source]
August is known as "ಆಗಸ್ಟ್" (Āgast) in Kannada. It is the last month of the monsoon season in Karnataka, with intermittent rainfall. The festival of Krishna Janmashtami, celebrating the birth of Lord Krishna, falls in August. Devotees fast, sing devotional songs, and reenact scenes from Lord Krishna's life. It is also a time for preparing special dishes like "ಅಕ್ಕಿ ಹಿಟ್ಟು" (akki hiṭṭu) and "ಬೇಳೆ ಕಾಳು" (bēḷe kāḷu).
ಸೆಪ್ಟೆಂಬರ್ (Septembar) - September[edit | edit source]
September is called "ಸೆಪ್ಟೆಂಬರ್" (Septembar) in Kannada. It marks the transition from the rainy season to autumn in Karnataka. The festival of Gowri Habba and Ganesha Chaturthi is celebrated in September. People decorate their homes with flowers, prepare traditional sweets like "ಕಾಯಿ ಹೊಲೆ" (kāyi hoḷe) and "ಕದಳೆ ಹೊಲೆ" (kadaḷe hoḷe), and perform prayers to seek blessings from Goddess Gowri and Lord Ganesha.
ಅಕ್ಟೋಬರ್ (Aktōbar) - October[edit | edit source]
October is known as "ಅಕ್ಟೋಬರ್" (Aktōbar) in Kannada. It is the beginning of autumn in Karnataka, with mild temperatures and pleasant weather. The festival of Navaratri, dedicated to the goddess Durga, is celebrated in October. People participate in traditional dance forms like Garba and Dandiya and visit temples to offer prayers to the goddess. It is also a time for preparing special dishes like "ಕಾಯಿ ಚಿಪ್ಸ್" (kāyi chips) and "ನೈವೇದ್ಯ" (naivēdya).
[edit | edit source]
November is called "ನವೆಂಬರ್" (Naveṃbar) in Kannada. It is the month of harvest in Karnataka, with farmers reaping the fruits of their hard work. The festival of Kannada Rajyotsava, celebrating the formation of the state of Karnataka, is observed on November 1st. People hoist the state flag, participate in cultural programs, and enjoy traditional Kannada cuisine. It is also a time for preparing special dishes like "ಮೆಣಸಿನ ಚಿಟ್ಟೆ" (meṇasina chiṭṭe) and "ಸಿಹಿ ಮಾವಿನ ಮಿಠಾಯಿ" (sihi māvina mitāyi).
ಡಿಸೆಂಬರ್ (Disembar) - December[edit | edit source]
December is known as "ಡಿಸೆಂಬರ್" (Disembar) in Kannada. It is the last month of the year and is associated with festivities and celebrations. Christmas is celebrated in December, and people decorate their homes with lights and ornaments. Many churches conduct midnight mass, and people exchange gifts and enjoy delicious food. It is also a time for preparing special dishes like "ಕ್ಯಾರೆಟ್ ಹಲ್ವಾ" (kyāreṭ halvā) and "ಪಾಲಂ ಪೊಲಿ" (pālaṁ poli).
Practice Exercises[edit | edit source]
Now that we have learned the days of the week and months of the year in Kannada, let's practice using this vocabulary in context. Complete the following exercises, and check your answers below:
Exercise 1: Match the days of the week in Kannada with their English translations. 1. ಭಾನುವಾರ 2. ಸೋಮವಾರ 3. ಮಂಗಳವಾರ 4. ಬುಧವಾರ 5. ಗುರುವಾರ 6. ಶುಕ್ರವಾರ 7. ಶನಿವಾರ
a) Monday b) Tuesday c) Wednesday d) Thursday e) Friday f) Saturday g) Sunday
Exercise 2: Fill in the blanks with the correct month in Kannada. 1. The festival of Makara Sankranti is celebrated in __________. 2. __________ is known for the festival of Basant Panchami. 3. The month of __________ marks the beginning of summer in Karnataka. 4. The festival of Holi is celebrated in __________. 5. The hottest month of the year in Karnataka is __________. 6. __________ is the month of the monsoon season in Karnataka. 7. The festival of Gowri Habba and Ganesha Chaturthi is celebrated in __________. 8. Navaratri is observed in the month of __________. 9. __________ is the month of harvest in Karnataka. 10. Christmas is celebrated in __________.
Exercise 3: Write the names of the days of the week and months of the year in Kannada. Days of the week: 1. Thursday - 2. Sunday - 3. Tuesday - 4. Friday - 5. Wednesday - 6. Monday - 7. Saturday -
Months of the year: 1. November - 2. March - 3. May - 4. December - 5. October - 6. February - 7. August -
Answers[edit | edit source]
Exercise 1: 1. g) Sunday 2. a) Monday 3. b) Tuesday 4. c) Wednesday 5. d) Thursday 6. e) Friday 7. f) Saturday
Exercise 2: 1. January 2. February 3. March 4. April 5. May 6. June 7. September 8. October 9. November 10. December
Exercise 3: Days of the week: 1. Thursday - ಗುರುವಾರ 2. Sunday - ಭಾನುವಾರ 3. Tuesday - ಮಂಗಳವಾರ 4. Friday - ಶುಕ್ರವಾರ 5. Wednesday - ಬುಧವಾರ 6. Monday - ಸೋಮವಾರ 7. Saturday - ಶನಿವಾರ
Months of the year: 1. November - ನವೆಂಬರ್ 2. March - ಮಾರ್ಚ್ 3. May - ಮೇ 4. December - ಡಿಸೆಂಬರ್ 5. October - ಅಕ್ಟೋಬರ್ 6. February - ಫೆಬ್ರವರಿ 7. August - ಆಗಸ್ಟ್
Conclusion[edit | edit source]
Congratulations on completing the lesson on the days of the week and months of the year in Kannada! In this lesson, we explored the Kannada names for each day and month, as well as their cultural significance. Remember to practice using this vocabulary in your daily conversations to reinforce your learning. Stay tuned for the next lesson in our "Complete 0 to A1 Kannada Course." Keep up the excellent work!
Videos[edit | edit source]
Speak Kannada Through English - 22 Time | Days of the week months[edit | edit source]
Sources[edit | edit source]
- Kannada/Days and Months - Wikibooks, open books for an open world
- Learn KANNADA learn_kannada - LanguageReef - Your one stop ...
- Untranslatable Kannada Words
Other Lessons[edit | edit source]
- Animals
- Fruits
- Colors
- Languages (bhashegalu)
- Food
- Idiomatic Expressions
- Modes of Transportation
- Education
- Telling Time
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