Chronological Systems Of Gujarat

This comprehensive book, "Chronological Systems of Gujarat," authored by Dr. Bharati K. Shelat and published by Pranav Shelat in 1987, delves into the intricate evolution of timekeeping and dating systems used in Gujarat from its earliest historical periods up to 1304 A.D. The work is a meticulous research effort, praised by scholars like Prof. K. D. Bajpai and Dr. H. G. Shastri for its thoroughness and contribution to the field of Indian history and culture.

Key aspects covered in the book include:

• Evolution of Chronology in Ancient India: The book begins by tracing the origins of chronology in India back to the Vedic period, highlighting the early understanding of days, lunar months, and luni-solar years, supported by references in Vedic literature. It discusses the development of astronomical terms and their application in chronological recording.
• Chronological Systems Across Different Periods: The core of the book systematically analyzes the various eras and dating methods prevalent in Gujarat during distinct historical periods:
  • Mauryan and Indo-Greek Periods: Examining the use of regnal years in Mauryan inscriptions and the lack of dated coins from the Indo-Greek period.
  • Western Kṣatrapa Period: Discussing the prominent use of the Saka Era and introducing the lesser-known Kathika Era.
  • Gupta Period: Analyzing the adoption of the Gupta Era and the presence of the Kalacuri Era in South Gujarat.
  • Maitraka Period: Detailing the extensive use of the Valabhi Era, which evolved from the Gupta Era, and also noting the continued use of the Kalacuri and Saka Eras.
  • Post-Maitraka Period: Examining the continued prevalence of the Valabhi and Gupta Eras, the re-introduction of the Saka Era, and the growing influence of the Vikrama Era.
  • Solanki Period: This is a significant focus, highlighting the widespread adoption and common use of the Vikrama Era, which became the dominant regional era. It also discusses the appearance of the Simha Era and the Hijri Era. The book meticulously analyzes numerous key-dates from various regions within Gujarat (Sarasvata Mandala, Aṣṭādaśasata Mandala, North and North-East Gujarat, Central Gujarat, South Gujarat, Saurashtra, and Kutch) to understand the prevailing systems of expired vs. current years, Kārttikādi vs. Caitrādi years, and Amānta vs. Pūrṇimānta months.
• Analysis of Sources: The author relies on a wide array of sources, including stone inscriptions, copper-plate grants, image inscriptions, earthenware inscriptions, coin legends, and literary works (Puspiḳās and Praśastis).
• Detailed Examination of Key-Dates: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to presenting and critically analyzing individual dated records. This includes verifying dates against astronomical tables and proposing corrections for apparent discrepancies, thereby shedding light on the nuances of each chronological system.
• Systematic Classification: The research is organized geographically and chronologically, making it easier for readers to understand the localized and temporal variations in dating practices.
• Concluding Survey: The book concludes with a general survey that synthesizes the findings, highlighting the shift from regnal years to continuous eras like the Saka, Gupta, Valabhi, Kalacuri, and ultimately the widespread adoption of the Vikrama Era. It also discusses the prevalence of expired years, Kārttikādi years, and Amānta months as characteristic features of Gujarat's chronological systems.

In essence, "Chronological Systems of Gujarat" is a foundational work for anyone interested in the historical and cultural development of Gujarat, offering a deep dive into the sophisticated ways time was recorded and understood in the region over many centuries. The book is a testament to the author's dedication to historical research and serves as an invaluable reference for scholars.