Who started the Saka Era and when?
(A) Kadphises in 58 BC
(B) Rudradaman I in AD 78
(C) Vikramaditya in 58 BC
(D) Kanishka in AD 78
Answer: (D) Most of what is known about Kanishka derives from Chinese sources, particularly Buddhist writings. When Kanishka came to the throne is uncertain. His accession has been estimated as occurring between his reign is believed to have lasted 23 years. The year 78 marks the beginning of the Saka era, a system of dating that Kanishka might have initiated.
