In the Hindu calendar system, a Samvatsara is a cyclic year with a span of approximately 365 days, similar to the solar year in the Gregorian calendar. However, unlike the Gregorian system, the Hindu calendar follows a 60-year cycle, with each year having a unique name and significance. This system is deeply embedded in Vedic astrology and plays a vital role in determining auspicious times for rituals, festivals, and personal events.

The 60-Year Cycle of Samvatsara

The concept of Samvatsara originates from ancient astronomical calculations and is based on the movement of Jupiter (Brihaspati) through the zodiac signs. Every 12 years, Jupiter completes one full cycle of the zodiac, and five such cycles make up the 60-year Samvatsara cycle.

Each year within this cycle is assigned a distinct name, which repeats after 60 years. The naming of Samvatsaras is found in the Vedic texts and is an essential aspect of Hindu timekeeping.

List of 60 Samvatsara Names

1. Prabhava
2. Vibhava
3. Shukla
4. Pramoda
5. Prajapati
6. Angira
7. Shrimukha
8. Bhava
9. Yuva
10. Dhata
11. Ishwara
12. Bahudhanya
13. Pramathi
14. Vikrama
15. Vrisha
16. Chitrabhanu
17. Subhanu
18. Tarana
19. Parthiva
20. Vyaya
21. Sarvajit
22. Sarvadhari
23. Virodhi
24. Vikriti
25. Khara
26. Nandana
27. Vijaya
28. Jaya
29. Manmatha
30. Durmukha
31. Hemalambi
32. Vilambi
33. Vikari
34. Sharvari
35. Plava
36. Shubhakrit
37. Shobhakrit
38. Krodhi
39. Vishvavasu
40. Parabhava
41. Plavanga
42. Kilaka
43. Saumya
44. Sadharana
45. Virodhakrit
46. Paridhavi
47. Pramadi
48. Aananda
49. Rakshasa
50. Nala
51. Pingala
52. Kalayukta
53. Siddharthi
54. Raudra
55. Durmati
56. Dundubhi
57. Rudhirodgari
58. Raktaksha
59. Krodhana
60. Kshaya

Significance of Samvatsara in Hindu Culture

Each Samvatsara is believed to influence human affairs, planetary movements, and natural occurrences. Hindu astrologers use these names to predict trends, and some years are considered more auspicious than others. The start of a new Samvatsara is marked by festivals like Ugadi in South India and Gudi Padwa in Maharashtra.

Conclusion

The Hindu concept of Samvatsara is an ancient and sophisticated timekeeping system that connects celestial movements with human life. Understanding the 60-year cycle helps in aligning personal and societal events with cosmic rhythms, fostering harmony and prosperity.