Saka Samvat vs. Vikram Samvat — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on November 28, 2023
Saka Samvat is a Hindu calendar based on the Shalivahana era, beginning in 78 AD. Vikram Samvat is another Hindu calendar, started in 57 BC, marking King Vikramaditya's victory over the Sakas.
Difference Between Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Both Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat are historically significant Hindu calendars. Saka Samvat, originating in 78 AD, marks the establishment of the Shalivahana era, named after the legendary emperor. On the other hand, Vikram Samvat, which began in 57 BC, celebrates King Vikramaditya's victory over the Sakas. Both these systems are lunisolar, meaning their dates are based on the positions of the moon and the sun. While Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat may have different starting points, they both represent the rich tapestry of Hindu chronology. These two calendars, although distinct, share certain festivals and observations, illustrating the cultural and historical interweaving of the Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat eras.
Comparison Chart
Origin Year
Started in 78 AD.
Began in 57 BC.
Historical Significance
Marks the beginning of the Shalivahana era.
Celebrates King Vikramaditya's victory over the Sakas.
Used By
Primarily used by the Indian government.
Predominantly observed in northern India.
Months
Begins with Chaitra as its first month.
Also starts with Chaitra as its first month.
ADVERTISEMENT
New Year Celebration
Celebrated as Ugadi or Gudi Padwa.
Celebrated as Nav Varsh in northern India.
Compare with Definitions
Saka Samvat
Saka Samvat's year starts with the month of Chaitra.
Gudi Padwa, celebrated in Maharashtra, marks the new year in the Saka Samvat calendar.
Vikram Samvat
This era celebrates the victory of King Vikramaditya over the Sakas.
The Vikram Samvat is widely used in northern parts of India.
Saka Samvat
Saka Samvat is a Hindu calendar based on the Shalivahana era.
Many official documents in India use the Saka Samvat date.
Vikram Samvat
The calendar system is lunisolar and starts with the month of Chaitra.
Nav Varsh, the New Year's Day in northern India, is celebrated according to the Vikram Samvat.
Saka Samvat
The era begins with the ascension of the legendary emperor Shalivahana.
Many South Indian states celebrate the new year as per the Saka Samvat.
Vikram Samvat
Vikram Samvat is a Hindu calendar system that began in 57 BC.
The Vikram Samvat is 57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar.
Saka Samvat
It is recognized as the official civil calendar by the Indian government.
The Indian Gazette uses Saka Samvat for its publications.
Vikram Samvat
It is predominantly used for religious and astrological purposes.
Panchangs in North India usually follow the Vikram Samvat calendar system.
Saka Samvat
Saka Samvat represents the lunisolar calendar originating in 78 AD.
The Saka Samvat is prominently used to mark the Indian national calendar.
Vikram Samvat
Vikram Samvat is named after the legendary King Vikramaditya.
The tales of King Vikramaditya are often associated with the origins of Vikram Samvat.
Common Curiosities
Which government uses Saka Samvat as its official calendar?
The Indian government recognizes the Saka Samvat as its official civil calendar.
How do Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat differ in terms of origin?
Saka Samvat marks the establishment of the Shalivahana era, while Vikram Samvat celebrates King Vikramaditya's victory over the Sakas.
What is the Saka Samvat?
Saka Samvat is a Hindu calendar based on the Shalivahana era, which started in 78 AD.
Is Vikram Samvat used universally across India?
No, Vikram Samvat is predominantly used in the northern regions of India.
Why is Saka Samvat named so?
It is named after the legendary emperor Shalivahana, marking his era.
Is Vikram Samvat ahead or behind the Gregorian calendar?
The Vikram Samvat is 57 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar.
How is the Saka Samvat used in modern times?
Saka Samvat is used for civil purposes, including by the Indian government in official documents.
Are both Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat lunisolar calendars?
Yes, both Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat are lunisolar calendars.
Is the month starting the same for both calendars?
Yes, both Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat begin with the month of Chaitra.
When did Vikram Samvat begin?
Vikram Samvat started in 57 BC, marking King Vikramaditya's victory over the Sakas.
Which month marks the beginning of the year in the Saka Samvat?
The Saka Samvat year starts with the month of Chaitra.
Which new year celebration is associated with Saka Samvat?
Ugadi or Gudi Padwa is celebrated as the new year as per Saka Samvat.
How is the new year in Vikram Samvat celebrated?
The new year in Vikram Samvat is celebrated as Nav Varsh in northern India.
Who is the legend behind the name Vikram Samvat?
Vikram Samvat is named after the legendary King Vikramaditya.
Are there other calendars in India besides Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat?
Yes, India has a diversity of regional calendars, but Saka Samvat and Vikram Samvat are among the most prominent.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Critical Point vs. Triple Point
Next Comparison
USB Mouse vs. Bluetooth MouseAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
