Vikram Samvat is an ancient system of timekeeping that has been in use for centuries. One of the most fascinating aspects of this calendar is the Samvatsar cycle, which consists of 60 years, each with its unique characteristics and predictions. In this blog post, we will delve into the history and significance of Samvatsar cycles, and explore how they differ from other calendars like Saka Samvat.
The Story Behind Samvatsar Cycles
According to Hindu mythology, the Samvatsar cycle was created by Narad Muni, a sage who was cursed by Lord Brahma to become a woman. Narad Muni, in his new form, married a sadhu and had 60 sons. The curse was lifted when Narad Muni’s sons were born, and they became immortal in the form of Samvatsar cycles. Each of these cycles represents a unique combination of planetary positions and energies, which are believed to influence various aspects of life, including agriculture, weather, and human affairs.
New Year Celebrations in India
The start of the new year varies across India, depending on the region and cultural traditions. In most parts of India, the new year is celebrated on Yugadi or Gudi Padwa, which falls in March-April. In Gujarat, the new year is traditionally celebrated after Deepawali, which falls in October-November.
The Cycle of Samvatsar
The Samvatsar cycle begins in April-May, as per the Vikram Samvat calendar. Each year has a unique name, which is believed to reflect the characteristics and predictions of that year. For example, the current year (2024-25) is known as Krodhi Samvatsar, which is associated with anger and conflict.
Differences from Saka Samvat
The Saka Samvat calendar, also known as the Shaka Era, is another widely used calendar in India. While both calendars are based on the solar year, they differ in their starting points and calculations. The Saka Samvat calendar begins on March 22, 78 CE, and is used by the Indian government and many institutions. In contrast, the Vikram Samvat calendar begins in 58 BCE and is widely used in Gujarat and other parts of India.
Why did the Government of India Adopt the Saka Calendar?
The Government of India adopted the Saka calendar in 1957, as part of a broader effort to standardize and simplify the country’s calendar systems. The Saka calendar was chosen because it was seen as a more neutral and inclusive system, which could be used by people of all faiths and backgrounds. Additionally, the Saka calendar was seen as a way to promote national unity and identity, by providing a common calendar system for the entire country.
Example of Samvatsar and their Characteristics
Below you can learn about the Samvatsar cycle for the next 6 years, from 2024-25 to 2029-30:
2024-25: Krodhi Samvatsar -Anger and conflict
2025-26 Plavanga Abundant water and prosperity
2026-27 Keelaka Bountiful harvest
2027-28 Soumya Work shall bring good results
2028-29 Sadarana Normal year
2029-30 Virodhikrutha Feeling of revolt in people
For further reading
“The Hindu Calendar” by S. K. Singh
“The Samvatsar Cycle” by B. R. Ambedkar
“The Saka Samvat Calendar” by the Indian Government
“The Gazette of India” (1957)
Author's Note
Pranaam,
This is my first post on Matrubharti, I had done quite a bit of reading on Samvatsars for my upcoming book Shatabdi The Next Hundred Years, I thought of sharing some of that information via this post, in case of any errors, I apologies, any correct information, I will be happy to acknowledge.
With regards, Amar Vyas
