The Assam Government’s recent announcement to adopt the Bhaskarabda, a Luni-Solar Calendar, as an official calendar has sparked new interest in this ancient system of marking time. Previously, the Assam government utilized the Saka and Gregorian calendars, but now, the Bhaskarabda calendar will be added to the mix.
About the Bhaskarabda Calendar
Bhaskarabda refers to an era that commenced with the ascension of Bhaskar Varman, a 7th-century local ruler. The calendar is a harmonious blend of lunar and solar patterns. It launched when Bhaskaravarman became the ruler of the Kamrupa kingdom. This ancient ruler was known for his political alliance with Harshavardhana, the Northern Indian king, creating a gap of 593 years between the Bhaskarabda and the Gregorian calendar.
Understanding Different Types of Calendars
Calendars globally can be generally categorised into Solar, Lunar, and Luni-Solar types. Solar calendars, such as the Gregorian calendar, follow the Earth’s yearly revolution around the Sun (roughly 365 1/4 days). Lunar calendars are based on the Moon’s phases, while Luni-Solar calendars, like the Bhaskarabda, harmonise both lunar months with the solar year.
Bhaskarvarman and His Legacy
Bhaskarvarman, who ruled the Kamarupa Kingdom from 600-650, was a member of the Varman dynasty. Under his rule, Kamarupa emerged as one of India’s most advanced kingdoms and marked Assam’s first historical kingdom. The Chinese Buddhist pilgrim Xuanzang, who visited Kamarupa during Bhaskarvarman’s reign, recorded his name in the annals of history.
Overview of Calendars in India
India, with its rich and diverse history, has seen the use of various calendars. The Vikram Samvat is a Hindu lunar calendar dating back to 57 B.C, instituted by King Vikramaditya. The Saka Samvat is a Hindu solar calendar, marking the year zero as 78 A.D., celebrating the victory of Saka rulers over Kushanas. It has been the official calendar of the Indian Government since 1957.
The Hijri or Islamic lunar calendar, which started in 622 A.D, was first followed in Saudi Arabia and features 12 months and 354 days. Lastly, the Gregorian calendar, recognized globally as a civil calendar from 1582, was named after Pope Gregory XIII. This system replaced the Julian calendar to rectify a miscalculation regarding leap years.
The introduction of the Bhaskarabda calendar highlights the rich tapestry of cultural influences that continue to shape regional identity in India. Adopting this Luni-Solar system underscores the region’s commitment to its historical past while moving towards the future.