Some Dates in the Bhatika era and its connected problems
Summary
The author compiles and analyses inscriptions dated in the little‑understood Bhatika era. Existing dates—from Magha sudi 6, Bhatika 513 (V.S. 1494) to Magha sukla 5, Bhatika 993 (V.S. 1673)—are too late to reveal the era’s origin. Earlier scholars suggested links with the Hijra era or a ruler named Bhettika, but the article demonstrates that such identifications are untenable. Instead, it examines inscriptions from western India, particularly Jaisalmer, and reconstructs the genealogy of the Bhati (Bhatti) rulers who employed the era. By correlating Bhatika dates with Vikrama Samvat and narrative traditions, the author suggests that the era may have begun around the seventh century, possibly commemorating the Bhatis’ migration to Jaisalmer. The article provides chronological tables of rulers and cautions that further discoveries are needed before a definitive epoch can be established.
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Conclusion
By assembling epigraphic evidence and critiquing previous theories, the study narrows down the possible starting point of the Bhatika era. While the precise epoch remains uncertain, the era appears to have been a regional chronological system used by Bhati rulers of western India. The article provides a framework for interpreting Bhatika‑dated inscriptions and underlines the need for new discoveries to resolve this chronological puzzle.