Published On : April 11, 2022  |  Author : Astrologer Umesh
Vikram Samvatsara Or Hindu New Year

Vikram Samvatsara or Hindu New Year

Vikram Samvatsara/ Samvat is an ancient Hindu calendar that has a widespread application throughout the country. The Vikram Samvat calendar which has been in mainstream practice in India depicts lunar months and solar sidereal years. It is believed that the genesis of the Vikram Samvat calendar sources from the era of a renowned king, Vikramaditya. This is because of the fact that in the Hindu religion, the Indian New Year/era begins at the dawn of Pratipada of Chaitra Shukla Paksha, which was brought to practice by king Vikramaditya. A famous astronomer by the name of Varāhamihira helped Vikramaditya in the expansion of Vikram Samvatsara.

Historical Background Of Vikram Samvat

Vikram Samvat finds its mention in various historical and medieval inscriptions, though king Vikramaditya of Ujjain is axiomatically said to be the main source behind the origin of Vikram Samvatsara. The king brought Samvatsara into existence in 57 BC, which is believed to be a token of his victory over the Saka that he expelled in 56 B.C from his kingdom. Surya Puja that gives you the power of happiness and wealth in your life.

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The Legend Of Vikramaditya

The mighty king of Ujjain, Gandharvasena kidnapped a nun by the name of Saraswati, the sister of a monk. The upset monk sought help from king Sahi, the ruler of Saka. In spite of the adverse situations he was pressed upon, Saka eventually defeated Gandharvasena and repatriated Saraswati. However, her captor Gandharvasena was forgiven, who then sought his retirement to a forest where a wild beast killed him. Vikramaditya, the son of deceased Gandharvasena, was born and raised in the forest. Eventually, he conquered Ujjain and expelled Sakas from there. He initiated a new era to honor his victory called the “Vikrama era”.

Status Of Vikram Samvat

The Vikram Samvat has its widespread application among the Hindus and Sikhs. There are 12 synodic months and 365 solar days in it. Chaitra Sukhladi, according to Vikram Samvat, is the dawn of the lunar year during the new moon of the month of Chaitra.

Conclusion

Vikram Samvat is a famous and historical Hindu calendar. It is believed to have come in practice since the era of Vikramaditya, the king of Ujjain after he had defeated Saka from the kingdom. The application of Vikram Samvat among Hindus and Sikhs throughout the Indian subcontinent is quite widespread. To a certain extent, it can be said that the existence of Vikram Samvat originates from Vikramaditya, thus making it quite ancient, aside from the fact that it is very popular.

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