Vikrami Samvat Year
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Vikrami Samvat Year in Indian Hindu Calendar
Vikrami Samvat (also spelled Vikram Samvat) is one of the oldest calendars in the world and is widely used in North India for religious and astrological purposes. It plays a significant role in the Indian Hindu calendar system and is commonly referenced in Panchangs and Vedic astrology.
Origin of Vikrami Samvat
The Vikram Samvat calendar was established by the legendary king Vikramaditya of Ujjain to commemorate his victory over the Sakas (Shakas) in 57 BCE. Therefore, the Vikrami Samvat calendar begins from 57 years before the Gregorian calendar.
For example, the Gregorian year 2025 corresponds to Vikram Samvat 2082 (depending on the lunar or solar cycle and month in consideration).
Structure of the Vikrami Calendar
- The Vikram Samvat is primarily a Lunar Calendar, but it incorporates solar adjustments to maintain seasonal accuracy.
- The year typically begins in the month of Chaitra (March–April), which is considered the first month in the Hindu lunar calendar.
- Each year consists of 12 lunar months like Chaitra, Vaishakha, Jyeshtha, Ashadha, etc.
- To align with the solar year, an extra month called Adhik Maas is added approximately every 3 years.
Importance in Hindu Religion and Astrology
Vikrami Samvat is not just a system of measuring time—it is embedded deeply in spiritual, religious, and astrological practices in India. Its significance includes:
- Muhurta Calculations: Auspicious timings for events like marriages, housewarming, and pujas are based on Vikrami dates.
- Panchang Reference: Daily Panchang (astrological almanac) follows the Vikrami calendar for Tithi, Nakshatra, Yoga, and Karana.
- Festivals and Rituals: Hindu festivals like Diwali, Holi, and Navratri are observed based on Vikram Samvat dates.
Difference Between Vikram Samvat and Other Calendars
- Vs. Gregorian Calendar: Vikrami Samvat is about 57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar.
- Vs. Shaka Samvat: The Shaka Samvat, used as the Indian national calendar, starts from 78 CE and is about 135 years behind the Vikram Samvat.
- Vs. Hijri Calendar: The Islamic calendar is purely lunar, whereas the Vikrami calendar is lunisolar, making it more aligned with seasons.
Modern Usage
Though the Gregorian calendar is widely used for official purposes, the Vikrami Samvat remains in active use for religious, cultural, and astrological activities across northern India, especially in states like Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of Nepal.
Conclusion
Vikrami Samvat is a timeless legacy of India’s rich cultural and astronomical traditions. Its continued use in astrology, festivals, and spiritual practices underlines its deep-rooted relevance in Hindu society. Astrologers and Panchang makers rely on this calendar to provide accurate predictions and auspicious timings for generations.