Significance of Summer solstice
The concept of Summer solstice is interpreted differently across various disciplines. According to Arthashastra, it marks the longest day of the year linked to uttarayana. Purana associates it with significant worship at Badarikashrama. In Kavya, it is mistakenly identified with winter solstice. In Shaivism, Summer solstice, occurring around June 21, is significant for wearing Rudraksha beads, while Indian history connects it to mahavrata and vishuvat, emphasizing the solstices' importance.
Synonyms: Midsummer, Longest day
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Hindu concept of 'Summer solstice'
In Hinduism, the Summer solstice signifies a time for important worship at Badarikashrama, the peak of the sun's position in the sky, and connection to uttarayana, while sometimes misattributed to winter solstice by scholars.
From: Kautilya Arthashastra
(1) The period marking the longest day of the year, associated with uttarayana.[1]
From: Kathasaritsagara (the Ocean of Story)
(1) A term mistakenly used by some scholars when referring to the winter solstice instead.[2]
The concept of Summer solstice in local and regional sources
The Summer solstice marks the middle of the year, known as vishuvat, and is linked to the mahavrata, highlighting its significance in marking celestial events and cultural observances during this peak solar period.
From: History of Science in South Asia
(1) This is the time when the mahavrata is connected with the middle day of the year, vishuvat clearly denote the solstices.[3]