Q125
History of India
When did Sakabda commence?
- a.78 A.D.
- b.78 B.C.E.
- c.178 B.C.E.
- d.178 A.D.
Answer: (A) 78 A.D.
The Saka era (Sakabda) begins in 78 CE and is traditionally linked with the accession of the Kushana king Kanishka. It is the basis of India's National Calendar, adopted from 22 March 1957 (1 Chaitra 1879 Saka): Saka year = CE year minus 78. The Vikram Samvat begins in 57 BCE, the Gupta era in 319-20 CE, the Harsha era in 606 CE, the Hijri era in 622 CE, and the Bengali san is reckoned from 593-94 CE. Option (B), 78 B.C.E., plays on the BCE/CE confusion.