Q. Saka era commenced from
(a) 78 AD
(b) 120 AD
(c) 1000 AD
(d) 1953 AD
Ans: (a) 78 AD
Explanation: The correct answer is (a) 78 AD.
The Saka era, also known as the Shalivahana era, commenced from 78 AD. It is named after the Saka tribe, who were a group of Scythian people from Central Asia. The Saka era is widely used as a calendar system in India, particularly in the western and southern regions.
The commencement of the Saka era in 78 AD is associated with the victory of the Saka king, Nahapana, over the western Satraps, who were ruling parts of western India at that time. The Saka era is characterized by the use of a different calendar system, where the year begins around the vernal equinox.
It’s important to note that the Saka era (Shalivahana era) is not to be confused with the Sakas who invaded the northwestern region of India in the 2nd century BCE.
Therefore, the correct answer is (a) 78 AD.
