About Nepali Calendar
The Nepali calendar, also referred to as the Bikram Sambat, is a specific type of calendar employed in Nepal. Unlike the widely used Gregorian calendar, which is based on the solar system and follows the Earth’s orbit around the Sun, the Nepali calendar is a lunar calendar.
A lunar calendar, such as the Nepali calendar, is based on the cycles of the moon. This means that the months are determined by the phases of the moon, specifically its waxing and waning. Lunar calendars typically consist of 29 or 30 days in a month, with a year composed of 12 lunar months. This contrasts with the Gregorian calendar, which has 12 months but is primarily based on the solar year.
What makes the Nepali calendar noteworthy is its time discrepancy in relation to the Gregorian calendar. It is noted in the text that the Nepali calendar is approximately 56.7 years ahead of the Gregorian calendar. This discrepancy arises from the fact that lunar calendars, which track the moon’s orbit, and solar calendars, like the Gregorian calendar, which track the Earth’s orbit around the Sun, experience different rates of progression.
So, when it is mentioned that the Nepali calendar is ahead, it implies that events, seasons, and dates in the Nepali calendar would be calculated differently, leading to a noticeable time gap when compared to the Gregorian calendar. This distinction is important to consider when interacting with or interpreting dates in the context of Nepali culture or events, as they would be expressed according to the parameters of the Bikram Sambat, or Nepali calendar, which operates on lunar principles and has its unique temporal relationship with the widely used Gregorian calendar.
History
The Nepali calendar, also known as Bikram Sambat (B.S.), has a rich historical background deeply intertwined with the cultural and religious fabric of Nepal. It traces its origins to the Indian emperor Bikramaditya, also known as Vikramaditya, who is said to have established this calendar around 57 B.C. The name “Bikram Sambat” is derived from his name.
Bikram Sambat is a traditional Hindu lunar calendar, and its development reflects the influence of Hinduism in the region. The calendar is based on the phases of the moon, with each month beginning with the new moon. The lunar calendar system aligns with various Hindu festivals and religious ceremonies, making it an integral part of the cultural and religious practices in Nepal.
Over the centuries, the Bikram Sambat has evolved, incorporating cultural and regional variations. It became the official calendar of Nepal in 1768 during the reign of King Prithvi Narayan Shah, the founder of the Shah dynasty. The calendar’s adoption as the official calendar was a symbolic gesture, reinforcing the ties between the Hindu monarchy and the Hindu calendar.
Despite Nepal adopting the Gregorian calendar for official and administrative purposes, the Bikram Sambat continues to play a significant role in the daily lives of the Nepali people. It governs religious celebrations, agricultural practices, and various social events. The new year, celebrated as “Nepal Sambat,” marks the beginning of the Bikram Sambat calendar and is a festive occasion observed with cultural events and traditional rituals.
The Bikram Sambat calendar, with its roots in ancient history, not only serves as a timekeeping system but also stands as a symbol of Nepal’s cultural heritage and religious traditions. It embodies a connection to the country’s past and remains a living testament to the enduring influence of Hinduism on Nepali society.
Origins
The Nepali calendar is named after King Vikramaditya and is believed to have been in use for over 2000 years. It is a historical calendar system that reflects Nepal’s rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Structure of the Calendar
The Nepali calendar consists of 12 months, starting from Baisakh and ending with Chaitra. Each month can have either 29 or 32 days, depending on the lunar cycle. The calendar also accounts for leap years.
Festivals and the Nepali Calendar
The Nepali calendar plays a crucial role in the scheduling of Nepal’s numerous festivals, which are an integral part of Nepali culture. Some of the most significant festivals, such as Dashain and Tihar, are determined by the Nepali calendar.
The Nepali Calendar Today
Today, the Nepali calendar is not just a system of timekeeping. It is a symbol of Nepal’s national identity and cultural heritage. Despite the global dominance of the Gregorian calendar, the Nepali calendar continues to hold a place of importance in the lives of the Nepali people.
In conclusion, the Nepali calendar is a fascinating aspect of Nepal’s rich cultural tapestry. Its unique structure and significance in cultural practices make it a topic worth exploring for anyone interested in learning more about Nepal.