The Saka Era, also known as Shalivahana Era or Sakabda, is used in Hindu calendars, the Indian National Calendar, and the Cambodian Buddhist calendar. It has been an important system for measuring years and religious dates in India for centuries.
Origin and History
The Saka Era began in 78 A.D., which is widely accepted by historians as the foundation year. The Saka Era was initiated by the Saka ruler Chastana, founder of a new dynasty known as the Bhadramukhas or Kardamaka dynasty. This dynasty was named after Kardhaman, the son of Raja Dhaj. While earlier sources often attributed the start of the era to the Satavahana king, evidence from coins and inscriptions shows that Chastana and his descendants used the Saka era, beginning with his accession, which is widely believed to have occurred in 78 CE. This makes Chastana the true founder of the Saka calendar, Satavahana victories over Sakas, occurring independently of its origin.
Introduction into Indian Civil Calendar
The Saka calendar came into official use in India on March 22, 1957 (Gregorian calendar), which corresponds to Chaitra 1, Saka Era 1879. This adoption was part of the Calendar Reform Committee's effort to harmonize various regional calendars in India.
The Saka calendar is used alongside the Gregorian calendar in official documents, gazettes, All India Radio broadcasts, and for planning religious and cultural events. It continues to serve as a civil calendar while also being important in Hindu religious observances.
Formation and Astronomical Significance
The Saka calendar is based on astronomical calculations, using the positions of the Sun and Moon. It became a reference for Sanskrit astronomical works after 500 AD. The calendar is designed to align with the vernal equinox and features months that reflect the solar transit.
Adoption as National Calendar of India
In 1957, the Calendar Reform Committee officially adopted the Saka calendar as India's National Calendar to standardize the 30 different regional calendars in use. This ensured consistency in civil, governmental, and religious applications.
Structure of the Saka Calendar
The Saka year normally has 365 days; leap years have 366 days.In leap years, an extra day is added to Chaitra month.
There are 12 months in the Saka calendar:
- Chaitra
- Vaisakha
- Jyestha
- Asadha
- Sravana
- Bhadrapada
- Asvina
- Kartika
- Margasirsa
- Pausa
- Magha
- Phalguna
Importance Today
The Saka calendar continues to be an essential part of Indian life. It is used in civil administration, news media, religious festivals, and daily household calendars, reflecting its enduring cultural and historical significance.
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