The term "Vakya" translates to "sentence" or "verse." Unlike the more mathematically rigorous Drik (Thirukanitha) Panchangam, which relies on modern astronomical calculations and observation, the Vakya Panchangam is based on ancient memorized formulas (Vakyas) passed down by sages like Vararuchi and Kalyana Varma.
One of the most scrutinized aspects of any Panchangam is the eclipse prediction. According to the Tamil Vakya Panchangam for 1999:
Lunar Eclipse (Chandra Grahanam):
For weddings in 1999, Vakya Panchangam was the final authority in thousands of Tamil homes. Auspicious wedding months included Vaikasi (May), Aavani (August), and Karthigai (November). Notably, the Tula (Libra) and Vrischika (Scorpio) months of 1999 had very few vivaha muhurtams due to the Sun’s position and the presence of Jyeshta nakshatra.
The most sought-after wedding dates in 1999 according to Vakya: