Nepal Sambat: The identity of the country
Summary
Nepal Sambat, a unique era named after the country itself, symbolizes Nepal's cultural identity and has been recognized nationally after prolonged promotion by the Newar community. Its origin story involves merchant Shankhadhar and marks the transition from ancient to medieval Nepalese history.
Key Points
- Nepal Sambat is the only era named after Nepal and has national recognition as a historical calendar system.
- The era is believed to have been initiated by merchant Shankhadhar, who used gold acquired under auspicious circumstances to pay off the people's debts.
- Historians consider Nepal Sambat as marking the end of the ancient period and the beginning of the medieval period in Nepal's history.
- Despite early neglect by the state, the Newar community upheld Nepal Sambat and successfully agitated for its national recognition in republican Nepal.
