[Solved] Malaw Samvat: History of Krit and Vikram Samvat

The Malaw Samvat was also known as:

[MPPCS (Pre) 2021]

Detailed Solution & Historical Context

Concept

Ancient Indian calendars often bore multiple names depending on the community that used them or the legendary event they intended to commemorate.

Authentic Source Evidence

The Malaw Samvat was widely known as the Krit Samvat. It is identical to the Vikram Samvat (started in 57 BCE), initiated by the Malava people to celebrate their victory over the Sakas.

Analytical Breakdown

Logic 1: Early inscriptions found in Malwa (Central India) refer to this era as 'Krit' before the name 'Vikram' became the dominant universal term.

Logic 2: Saka Samvat (Option C): Starts in 78 CE and is the official Indian national calendar.

Logic 3: Gupta Samvat (Option D): Starts in 319-320 CE with the accession of Chandragupta I.

Conceptual Deep Dive & Logic

"When did the Malaw Samvat start?"

It started in 57 BCE.

Examiner's Mindset & Pro-Tip

"The use of 'Krit' suggests that the era was initially viewed as a 'deed' (Krit) of collective tribal victory before it was associated with the legendary personality of Vikramaditya."

Topic Clusters (click to see related topic questions)

Vikram Samvat 4