Difference between revisions of "Ancient Indian Scientists (शास्त्रज्ञाः महर्षयः)"

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Ancient Indian Scientists (Samskrit: शास्त्रज्ञाः महर्षयः) enumerates the scientists of ancient India and elaborates on their contribution in various fields of scientific knowledge encompassing [[Ayurveda (आयुर्वेदः)|medicine]], [[Ganita Shastra (गणितशास्त्रम्)|mathematics]], [[Vedanga Jyotisha (वेदाङ्गज्योतिषम्)|astronomy]], technology, architecture, [[Rasayana Shastra (रसायनशास्त्रम्)|chemistry]], [[Mineralogy (धातुशास्त्रम्)|metallurgy]], etc.<ref name=":0" />
 
 
Ancient Indian Scientists (Samskrit: शास्त्रज्ञाः महर्षयः) enumerates the scientists of ancient India and elaborates on their contribution in various fields of scientific knowledge encompassing medicine, mathematics, astronomy, technology, architecture, chemistry, metallurgy, etc.<ref name=":0" />
 
  
 
== परिचयः ॥ Introduction ==
 
== परिचयः ॥ Introduction ==
Bharata is known for its long standing civilisational history with significant contributions to the fields of science, philosophy, literature, astronomy, architecture, etc.
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[[Bharatavarsha (भरतवर्षम्)|Bharata]] is known for its long standing civilisational history with significant contributions to the fields of science, [[Shad Darshanas (षड्दर्शनानि)|philosophy]], literature, astronomy, architecture, etc.
 
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• Zero (0) was discovered in Bharata.
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• Zero was discovered in Bharata.
  
 
• Maharshi Kanad gave the concept of Paramanus to the world.
 
• Maharshi Kanad gave the concept of Paramanus to the world.
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The Indian landscape is replete with examples of Indian architecture and monuments. It also reflects development of techniques in the field of chemistry. The iron statue near Qutab minar which is still rust fee is one of the finest examples of the same. And the most important point to be noted here is that the ancient architects were kown to have developed these techniques without any laboratory. It is thus, imperative to learn about the scientists of ancient India and their contribution scattered across the fields of mathematics, medicine, astronomy etc. in order to gain inspiration and guidance from their findings.<ref name=":0" />
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The Indian landscape is replete with examples of Indian architecture and monuments. It also reflects development of techniques in the field of chemistry. The iron statue near Qutab minar which is still rust free is one of the finest examples of the same. And the most important point to be noted here is that the ancient architects were kown to have developed these techniques without any laboratory. It is thus, imperative to learn about the scientists of ancient India and their contribution scattered across the fields of mathematics, medicine, astronomy etc. in order to gain inspiration and guidance from their findings.<ref name=":0" />
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== भारतीयाः गणितज्ञाः ॥ Indian Mathematicians ==
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Ancient Indian mathematicians had an edge in the field of mathematics. Some such luminaries and their contributions in the field of mathematics are as follows:<ref name=":0" />
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=== बोधायनः ॥ Bodhayana ===
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Bodhayana was a famous Indian mathematician around the 7th-8th century BCE. The ancient most [[Shulbasutras (शुल्बसूत्राणि)|shulbasutra]] text is known by his name viz. Baudhayana Shulbasutras. The shulbasutras are the oldest texts of geometry.
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Bodhayana is especially known for providing a very close approximation (3.0883) of the value of Pi (π) and a clear enunciation of the so-called Pythagorean theorem as Bhuja-Koti-Karna-Nyaya in his Baudhayana shulbasutras much before Pythagoras.<ref>Mathematics in India: From Vedic Period to Modern Times, NPTEL Course ([https://nptel.ac.in/courses/111101080 Lectures 1-3]), Accessed on 10/08/2022.</ref><ref name=":0" />
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=== पिङ्गलाचार्यः ॥ Acharya Pingala ===
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Acharya Pingala is an important name in the field of mathematics in ancient India. He lived between 2nd-3rd century BCE. [[Chandas (छन्दस्)|Chandas Sutra]] also known as the Pingala Sutra is his work through which he contributed to the development of binary number system. He is considered the propounder of binary digits. Acharya Pingala's use of 'laghu' and guru' words later became the basis for the discovery of zero. It is believed that Acharya Pingala used the word Shunya which meant zero (0).<ref name=":0" />
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=== आर्यभटः ॥ Aryabhata ===
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The decimal place value system with zero adopted internationally traces its origin to Ancient Bharata. The decimal place value mode recognised in the [[Samhita (संहिता)|Vedic Samhitas]] came to be clearly enunciated in mathematical-astronomical texts beginning with Aryabhata onwards.
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Aryabhata (born in 476 CE) was a great mathematician and astronomer of the 5th century. It is said that he wrote the text 'Aryabhatiya' at an early age of 23 years (in 499 CE). The Aryabhatiya is a book of mathematics and astronomy where Aryabhata mentions the use of decimals among many other things. It is interesting to note the importance of the decimal system and zero in the calculations of planetary distances.<ref name=":3">Dr. Binod Bihari Satpathy, [https://margheritacollege.in/admin_portal/all_mrgclg_files/department_studymat/History%20of%20science%20and%20technology%20in%20India9577.pdf History of Science and Technology in India] (accessed on 10/08/2022).</ref><ref name=":0" />
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=== ब्रह्मगुप्तः ॥ Brahmagupta ===
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Brahmagupta was one of the most prominent mathematicians belonging to the school of Ujjain.<ref name=":2">A.K.Bag (1979), [https://archive.org/details/mathematicsinancientandmedievalindiabaga.k.chowkambha_935_I/page/19/mode/2up?view=theater Mathematics in Ancient and Medieval India], Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia.</ref> He is reffered to as 'Ganakachakra Chudamani' (Jewel among the circle of Mathematicians) by Bhaskara-II. Born in 598 CE, he authored the famous book Brahmasphuta Siddhanta in 628 CE at the age of 30 years.<ref>Mathematics in India: From Vedic Period to Modern Times, NPTEL Course ([https://nptel.ac.in/courses/111101080 Lecture 11]), Accessed on 03/10/2022.</ref><ref name=":2" />
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It is said that he was the first one to use zero as a number. He also used many mathematical methods. One of which is the multiplication method and the use of place value in the same that is in vogue even today.
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The credits for spreading Indian Mathematical Knowledge to the world is accorded to Brahmgupta.<ref name=":0" /> His works which were translated into Arabic seem to have influenced Arabian astronomy and mathematics in the 8th century CE possibly before the Arabian scholars became acquainted with Ptolemy.<ref name=":2" />
  
== INDIAN SCIENTISTS IN THE FIELD OF MATHEMATICS ==
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=== भास्कराचार्यः ॥ Bhaskaracharya ===
After learning this lesson, you will be able to:
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Bhaskaracharya is one of the most well-known names amongst the ancient Indian astronomer-mathematicians of the 11th-12th century.<ref name=":0" /> He is also designated as Bhaskara-II to differentiate him from the earlier Bhaskara-I who lived in the 7th century CE.<ref name=":1">Mathematics in India: From Vedic Period to Modern Times, NPTEL Course ([https://nptel.ac.in/courses/111101080 Lecture no.20]), Accessed on 30/09/2022.</ref>
  
• Tell the contribution of Indian scientist in the field of mathematics
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The monumantal treatise Siddhanta Shiromani, comprising of the famous Lilavati (arithmatic), Bijaganita (algebra), Goladhayaya (Trigonometry) and Grahaganita (Planetary motion) is his contribution.<ref>D. Arkasomayaji (1980), [http://www.vpmthane.org/bhaskara900/books/Arkasomayaji-Siddhanta%20Shiromani-part-1.pdf Siddhanta Siromani of Bhaskaracarya], Tirupati: Kendriya Sanskrit Vidyapeetha.</ref>
  
• Describe the contribution of Indian physicians in the field of medicine
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According to the statement in Goladhyaya, Bhaskara-II was born in Shaka 1036 or 1114 CE and came from Vijjalavida near the Sahyadri mountain<ref name=":1" /> (which is taken as the modern day Bijapur in Karnataka). It is said that he learnt mathematics and astronomy from his father who was a teacher at observatories in Ujjain. Bhaskara-II was the first to use the Chakravala vidhi or compounded form. He lived until 1185 CE.
  
• Explain the contribution of Indian astronomers in the field of astronomy and
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The western countries came to know about the contribution of Bhaskara-II in 19th century. And an attempt to translate into English the first part of his work known as Lilavati was made by James Taylor.
  
• Describe the contribution of Indian scientists in the other fields of science
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In honour of this great Indian astronomer-mathematician, a satellite in his name Bhaskar II was launched on 20th November 1981 by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).<ref name=":0" />
  
Indian mathematicians had an edge in the field of mathematics.
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== भारतीयाः आयुर्वेदाचार्याः ॥ Indian Ayurveda Acharyas ==
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Did you know that [[Ayurveda (आयुर्वेदः)|Ayurveda]] is known as the oldest medicinal system of the world ? Ayurveda literally translates to 'the Science of Life' and is around 5000 years old. Ayurveda is indeed a gift from India to the world. Here is a brief description of the valuable contribution of famous Ayurveda Acharyas in the field of medicine.<ref name=":0" />
  
=== Aryabhatta ===
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=== आचार्यः चरकः ॥ Acharya Charaka ===
We are familiar with Aryabhatt's zero today. But do you know that '0' was discovered in India. Great mathematician Aryabhatt discovered zero for counting. Aryabhatt was a great mathematician and astronomer of 5th century. He wrote 'Aryabhati' at an age of less than 23 years. This book is a book of mathematics, he also wrote about the use of decimals in this book. He said that 0 is not a number but a sign. 0 is used to claculate the distance between earth and moon.
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Acharya Charaka is known as the founder of Ayurveda. He was the physician of King Kanishka. He studied diseases, their causes and treatment in detail. And collected all his views in the book [[Charaka Samhita (चरक संहिता)|Charaka Samhita]] which is one of the ancient and authentic books of Ayurveda.<ref name=":0" /> It is said that Agnivesha was the composer of the original text and Charaka was the redactor of the same text. However, even after further redaction to the Samhita by Drdhabala, the nomenclature did not change, it continued to be known as Charaka Samhita. This shows that Acharya Charaka not only redacted but also thoroughly revised the text, elaborating it according to the need and on the basis of prevailing authentic knowledge, giving it new shape as a treatise.<ref name=":3" />
  
=== Bodhyan ===
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The text compiles information on around 2000 medicines and explains diseases of many organs with their treatment. Acharya Charaka believed in removing the cause of diseases and stated that prevention is better than cure. He believed that a [[Vaidya (वैद्यः)|physician]] needs to have knowledge and understanding of diseases to treat the patient.
He was also a famous Indian mathematician. He lived around 7-8 century b.c. He first told the value of pie. He also wrote a book called Shalav Sutra before Pythagoras theorem was written.
 
  
=== Bhaskarcharya ===
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Acharya Charaka is also considered the first physician to talk about concepts like digestion, immunity power and excretion. He believed that there are three areas of [[Sharira (शरीरम्)|human body]] viz. cough (kapha), air (Vata) and bile (Pitta). And an imbalance in them leads a human to fall ill.  
He is a famous mathematician of 12th century. He is also known as bhaskar 2. He was born in bijapur, Karnataka in 1114 A.D. Sidhant Shiromani is a famous book by him. He used chakrvata vidhi or compounded form for the first time; the western countries came to know about his contribution in 19th century. James Taylor translated the first part of his novel, lilavati into English.
 
  
He learnt maths and astronomy by his father who was a teacher at observatories in Ujjain. He died in 1185. A satellite Bhaskar II was launched on 20 November 1981 on his name by Indian space research organization.
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Indeed, the foundation of today's Ayurvedic medical system was laid by Acharya Charaka.<ref name=":0" />
  
=== Acharya Pingal ===
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=== आचार्यः सुश्रुतः ॥ Acharya Sushruta ===
A chief name for maths in ancient India was Acharya Pingal. He lived between 2-3 century b.c.; his famous book is chand shastra, also known as pingal sutra. He contributed in binary number system. He is the propounder of binary digits. Acharya pingal used 'laghu' and guru' words which later became the basis for the discovery of zero. It is believed that pingal used the word shunya which meant 0.
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Acharya Sushruta is a great legendary in Ayurveda and has contributed to the field of surgery.<ref name=":3" /> A practical surgeon, he was the first to advocate the dissection of dead bodies as indispensable for a successful student of surgery.<ref>Kunja Lal Bhishagratna (1907), [https://archive.org/details/englishtranslati01susruoft/page/n35/mode/2up?view=theater An English Translation of The Sushruta Samhita], Calcutta.</ref> It is said that he himself studied the structure and anatomy of human body by dissecting dead human body.  
  
=== Brahmgupt ===
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He is the author of [[Sushruta Samhita (सुश्रुतसंहिता)|Sushruta Samhita]] and is known as the father of surgery. It is believed that the first surgery of the world was done by him.
He was a famous mathematician and astrologer in 7th century, his birth place is now in Rajasthan. He was also known as Milacharya. He was the first one to use zero as a number ge used many mathematical methods. One of them is the multiplication method and use of place value in the same what as it is used now. He has also written a famous book bhrahmsfut sidhantika. Brahmgupta is credited to spread Indian mathematical knowledge to the world. His first book went to the centre of education established by khalifa of Baghdad this the astrology and maths of India went to Arab and then Europe.
 
  
== ANCIENT PHYSICIANS OF INDIA ==
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Sushruta Samhita is a pool of knowledge. It enumerates about 1100 [[Roga (रोगः)|diseases]] and elaborates on the usage of about 760 plants and herbs. And most of these herbs are those used day to day in the kitchen. This text also documents about 191 tools used in surgery by Sushruta. And it is interesting to note that the procedure enunciated by Sushruta is similar to modern medical policy.<ref name=":0" />
Ayurveda is the gift from India to the world. Do you know that ayurveda is known as the oldest medicine system of the world. If we understand the literal meaning of ayurveda, it is the science of life. Our ayurveda is around 5000 years old. Earlier leaning was based on speaking but some of the famous physicians which are now valuable to us. Let us know about some of the great physicians of ayurveda.
 
  
=== Acharya Charak ===
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=== महर्षिः पतञ्जलिः ॥ Maharshi Patanjali ===
He is known as the founder of ayurveda. He was the physician of King Kanishka. He studied diseases, their causes and treatment in detail. He collected all his views in book charak sanhita which is one of the ancient and authentic book of ayurveda. Around 2000 medicines have been written by him and tells us about diseases of many organs and their treatment. Acharya Charak believed to remove the cause of diseases. He said prevention is better than cure. He believed that a physician needs to have knowledge and understanding of diseases to treat the patient.
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Maharshi Patanjali is known as the compiler of the Yoga sutras, an important collection of aphorisms on Yoga practice. He is also considered as the author of an unspecified work of medicine<ref name=":3" /> (called Patanjali Tantra).<ref name=":0" />
  
Charak is the first physician who talked on digestion, immunity power and excretion. He also believed that there are three areas of human body - cough, air and bile. If there is imbalance in it then human falls ill. The foundation of today's ayurvedic medical system was laid by Acharya Charak.
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The Yoga Sutras explain human nature and psychology while also being an intensely practical manual for spiritual advancement. Therefore, [[Yoga Darshana (योगदर्शनम्)|Yoga]] is both physical as well as mental. Physical yoga is called Hathayoga. Generally, it aims at removing a disease and restoring healthy condition to the body. While, Rajayoga is mental yoga. Its goal is self realisation and liberation from bondage by achieving physical, mental, emotional and spiritual balance.<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":0" />
  
=== Acharya Sushrat ===
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Thus, the science of Yoga, as developed in ancient India, aligned with the science of Ayurveda facilitated healing at the physical and mental level. And the credit of systematically presenting this great science goes to Maharshi Patanjali.<ref name=":3" /> The 106 Yoga sutras given by him form the base of Yoga Shastra. And therefore, Maharshi Patanjali known as the father of Yoga.<ref name=":0" />
He is also a famous Indian physician. His contribution is in the field of surgery. He studied a dead human body to see the body structure or anatomy of human body. His famous contribution is shustra sanhita. He is known was the father of surgery because it is believed that the first surgery of the world was done by him.
 
  
Sushrita sanhita is the pool of knowledge. It tells us about 1100 diseases. This book gives us knowledge about 760 plants and herbs usage. Most of these herbs are used by us in our kitchen. This book tells us about 191 tools used in surgery by sushrut. You will be surprised to know that the procedure told by shushrut is similar to modern medicine policy.
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== भारतीयाः ज्योतिःशास्त्रज्ञाः ॥ Indian Astronomers ==
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There is a deep connect between the fields of mathematics and astronomy. In fact, most astronomers in ancient India were also great mathematicians. They beautifully propounded the inter-relation between the two fields through their work in the field of astronomy. Some such contribution of ancient Indian astronomers in the field of astronomy are as follows:<ref name=":0" />
  
=== Maharshi Chawan ===
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=== आर्यभटः ॥ Aryabhata ===
Maharishi Chawan is a famous vedic time Indian saint, it is believed that that they made medicines for being healthy and increasing immunity power. He is said to have made chawanprash.
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Aryabhata has already been enumerated as one of the most celebrated mathematicians of ancient India. He was also an astronomer ie. one who studies [[Grahas (ग्रहाः)|planets]] and galaxies. It is said that he studied in famous observatories at Nalanda.<ref name=":0" /> In fact, a verse mentions that Aryabhata was the head of an institution at Kusumapura identified as Pataliputra (modern Patna). Since the University of Nalanda, equipped with an astronomical observatory, was in Pataliputra at that time, it is speculated that Aryabhata may have been the head of Nalanda University.<ref name=":3" />
  
=== Maharisi Patanjali ===
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Earlier, it was believed that the earth is fixed at one place. Aryabhata was the first person to correctly insist that the [[Prthvi (पृथ्वी)|earth]] constantly rotates about its axis<ref name=":0" /> daily and that the apparent movement of the stars is a relative motion caused by rotation of the earth, contrary to the then prevailing view that the sky rotated. This is indicated in the first chapter of his work, the Aryabhatiya, where he gives the number of rotations of the earth in a Yuga.
He is one of the reputed names of Indian medicine system. He is known as the father of yog knowledge. He has written yog suytra which s the base of yoga. There are 106 yog sutras in yog; maharishi patanjali learnt about yoga in basic Vedas. He made mental and physical health important for yoga there are six parts of it. Hath yog is important for physical health and raj yog for mental health. yog increases immunity power and eradicates diseases from bodies and emphasizes on good health.
 
  
He systematized the yos sutra which was in bits and pieces, he also wrote a book related to medicines called patanjali tantra. He has also written a book mahabhasya based on Panini's Asthyogi. Whatever yog we see today, it started because of Maharishi Patanjali.
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The [[Grahana (ग्रहणम्)|Solar and Lunar eclipses]] also were scientifically explained by Aryabhata. Instead of the prevailing cosmogony in which eclipses were caused by Rahu and Ketu (identified as pseudo-planetary lunar nodes), he explained eclipses in terms of shadows cast by and falling on earth. He even provided the computation and size of the eclipsed part during an eclipse.<ref name=":3" />
  
== ASTRONOMY ==
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The main objective of studying astronomy was to make correct calendar or panchang, identify the correct season for crops etc. that will help people in farming. Aryabhata contributed to this.<ref name=":0" /> The calendric calculations devised by Aryabhata and his followers have been in continuous use in India for the practical purposes of fixing the Panchanga (the Hindu calendar).<ref name=":3" />
There is a deep relation between maths and astronomy. This relation was propounded in the area of astronomy. Most of them have worked in the field of astronomy. Let us learn something about the famous astronomer and their contribution.
 
  
=== Aryabhatt ===
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It is in honour of this great astronomer-mathematician that India's first man made satellite is named Aryabhata.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":3" />
You have read about Aryabhatt before. Astronomer is the person who studies planets and galaxies. Aryabhatt was also an astronomer, earlier, it was believed that our earth is fixed at one place. Aryabhatt was the first person to tell that earth is round and constantly moves on its axis. He also contributed in eradicating superstitions. He said that solar and lunar eclipse does not happen because of devils named rahu (Saturn) and ketu (Neptune). He said that it happens due to scientific reason.
 
  
India's first man made satellite was named Aryabhatt at his name. he studied in famous observatories at Nalanda. The main objective of studying astronomy was to make correct calendar on panchang, identify the correct season for crops etc. this will help people in learning about farming.
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=== भास्कराचार्यः ॥ Bhaskaracharya ===
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Bhaskaracharya's contribution in the field of Mathematics has already been enumerated. He also gave many astronomical calculations. For eg. Bhaskarcharya calculated accurate time of a year, that is, the time taken by earth to complete a revolution of the [[Surya (सूर्यः)|Sun]].<ref name=":0" />
  
Aryabhatt contributed in this area.
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The Ganitadhyaya and Goladhyaya of his work Siddhanta Shiromani are devoted to astronomy.<ref name=":3" /> It deals with distance of planets, solar eclipse, lunar eclipse, phases of moon etc. and other essential knowledge of ancient Indian astronomy. He also writes about space, movement of planets, phases and its calculation etc in this book.<ref name=":0" /> In fact, his book Siddhanta Shiromani surpassed all the ancient books of astronomy in India.<ref name=":3" />
  
=== Bhaskarcharya ===
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=== वराहमिहिरः ॥ Varahamihira ===
You have already read about his contribution in the area of maths. He was influenced by the astronomical calculation of Brahmgupt. He also did many astrological calculations. Bhaskarcharya calculated accurate time of a year, that is, the time taken by earth to complete a revolution of sun. His book sidhant Shiromani had many points related to astronomy. The first part of this book deals with the distance of planets, solar eclipse, lunar eclipse, phases of moon etc. the other part of the book is related to astronomy. He has written about space, movement of planets, phases and its calculation etc in this book.
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Born in Avanti region (roughly corresponding to the modern-day Malwa), Varahamihira was a famous astronomer from ancient India<ref name=":0" /> who lived through 505-587 CE. He is considered to be one of the nine jewels (Navaratnas) of the court of legendary ruler Yashodharman Vikramaditya of Malwa.<ref name=":3" />
  
=== Varah Mihir ===
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Varahamihira belonged to Ujjain and is famous for two of his works namely, Pancha Siddhantika and the Brhat Samhita. The Pancha Siddhantika is a treatise on the five astronomical canons. A work on mathematical astronomy, in its five parts it summarises five earlier astronomical treatises namely,
He is also a famous astronomer from India. He lived around 5- 6 century. He was born in Avanti kingdom (now Madhya Pradesh). He studied in ujjain and started working here the two famous books written by h, are panch sidhantika and vrahat sanhita, these are five pats of panch sidhantika:
 
  
1. surya sidhant
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# [[Surya Siddhanta (सूर्य सिद्धांता)|Surya Siddhanta]]
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# Vasishtha Siddhanta
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# Paulisha Siddhanta
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# Romaka Siddhanta
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# Paitamaha Siddhanta
  
2. vashisha sidhant
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His other work, the Brhat Samhita is encyclopedic in nature and within astronomy also covers wide range of topics like speed of planets, eclipse, rain etc.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":3" />
  
3. pasalis sidhant
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== अन्यशास्त्रेषु योगदानम् ॥ Contribution in Other Fields ==
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Ancient Bharata saw progress in other fields of science like chemistry, physics, [[Krshi Vijnana (कृषिविज्ञानम्)|agriculture]], etc. as well. Brief description of some of the great scientists and their contribution in this regard is enumerated below.<ref name=":0" />
  
4. romama sidhant and
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=== महर्षिः कणादः ॥ Maharshi Kanada ===
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Maharshi Kanada is the founder of the [[Vaiseshika Darshana (वैशेषिकदर्शनम्)|Vaisheshika]] school of Indian philosophy<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":4">Chandradhar Sharma (1962), [https://ia800804.us.archive.org/25/items/IndianPhilosophyACriticalSurvey/Indian-Philosophy-A-Critical-Survey.pdf Indian Philosophy: A Critical Survey], U.S.A.: Barnes & Noble, INC.</ref> which incorporates within itself the ancient Indian tradition of physics.<ref name=":5">Roopa Narayan, [https://www.ece.lsu.edu/kak/roopa51.pdf Space, Time and Anu in Vaisheshika], Accessed on 13/10/2022.</ref>
  
5. pitamah sidhant
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It is said that Maharshi Kanada was thus named because, as an ascetic, he used to live on the grains picked up from the fields. Interestingly, 'Kana' also means a particle and therefore, Kanada suggests one who spoke about particles.<ref name=":4" />
  
The other book Vrahat sanhita is an encyclopedia. He has written about many subjects kike the speed of planets, eclipse, rain etc in this book.
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He authored the Vaisheshika Sutras also known as Kanada Sutras. He was the first person to talk about Anu ie. the most fundamental particle of matter. He believed that the smallest unit of physical world is not perceivable to the naked eyes. And cannot be divided or destroyed. However, it is capable of conjunction and hence, he states that the whole world is made up of these Anu-s. And such visible gross matter can be divided until it reaches the final indivisible entity ie. the Anu.
  
== contributions in other field of science ==
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This principle putforth by Maharshi Kanad seems far ahead of its times in comparison to the present principles of molecule or nucleus. But it is interesting to note that the idea of tanmatra which is viewd as a kind of potential out of which materiality emerges in the cosmology of [[Samkhya Darshana (साङ्ख्यदर्शनम्)|Samkhya]] prevalent in those times has features similar to that of Anu in the Vaisheshika Darshana.<ref name=":5" /><ref name=":0" />
There was much progress in the field of chemistry, physics and agriculture in earlier times. Let us learn about some of the great scientists who worked in this regard.
 
  
=== Kanad ===
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=== नागार्जुनः ॥ Nagarjuna ===
He is a famous scientist from 6th century. He is an important scientist of vauihekish sabha, a branch of Indian ancient philosophy. It is said that he was given name Kanad because he used to talk about kan or particles in his childhood. His sutra is known as Kanad sutra in vaishekh sutra, he was the first person to talk about molecule or anu. He believed that the smallest unit of physical world is nucleus of molecule which we cannot see from our naked wyes. Molecules cannot be divided or destroyed.
+
Nagarjuna was an alchemist and metallurgist of the 8th century CE<ref name=":3" /> born at Fort Daihak near the famous shrine of Somnath in Gujarat. He worked in the field of melting metals and making new metals. His efforts were concentrated on transforming base metals into gold. Although he couldn't succeed in transmuting base metals into gold, his techniques yeilded metals with gold-like lustre.<ref name=":0" /> Till date, this technology is used in making imitation jewellry.
  
He believed that the work is made up of these molecules. Therefore, they can be divided. But the smallest unit is nucleus which cannot be divided. This principle of maharishi kanad matches with the present principle of molecule or nucleus.
+
His work known as Rasaratnakara contains descriptions of alchemical processes and preparations of mercurial compounds. He also wrote about the methods for extraction of metals like gold, silver, tin and copper from their ores and their purification.<ref name=":0" /> His book, Rasaratnakara, is indeed a survey of metallurgy and alchemy as it existed in ancient Bharata.<ref name=":3" />
  
=== Nagarjun ===
+
=== वराहमिहिरः ॥ Varahamihira ===
He was a famous metal scientist of 10-11 century. He was born in Dahak, Gujrat. He worked in the field of melting metals and making new metals. He also tried to transform metals into gold. Although he was not successful but he was able to make metal having golden luster. He also wrote a book called Rasratnakar. He wrote about the purification of metals like gold, silver, tin, copper in his book.
+
Varahamihira's contribution in astronomy has already been mentioned. He also had astonishing knowledge of a variety of subjects like [[Jala Vijnana (जलविज्ञानम्)|hydrology]], meteorology, astrology, seismology, etc. His work in the fields of earth science, geology, environment, etc is reflected in his magnum opus Brhat Samhita.<ref name=":3" />
  
=== Varah Mihir ===
+
He was the first to tell that termites and underground plants reflect presence of life. He also writes about earthquakes and its cases. And tried to relate the effects of planets, of earthquake, movement beneath the ocean, underground [[Jala (जलम्)|water]] and behavior of animals.<ref name=":0">Vijnana - Level B ([https://nios.ac.in/media/documents/OBE_indian_knowledge_tradition/Level_B/Vijnana-B_English_OBE/Science-B_eng_Ch-10.pdf Chapter 10]), Open Basic Education Programme (Bharatiya Jnana Parampara), Noida: National Institute of Open Schooling.</ref>
Varah mihir's contribution is also found in astronomy. He has also worked in the fields of earth science, geology and environment. He was the first person to tell that termites and underground plants are the presence of life, he has also written about earthquakes and its cases. He has also tried to join the effects of planets, of earthquake, movement beneath the ocean, underground water and behavior of animals.<ref name=":0">Vijnana - Level B ([https://nios.ac.in/media/documents/OBE_indian_knowledge_tradition/Level_B/Vijnana-B_English_OBE/Science-B_eng_Ch-10.pdf Chapter 10]), Open Basic Education Programme (Bharatiya Jnana Parampara), Noida: National Institute of Open Schooling.</ref>
 
  
 
== References ==
 
== References ==
  
 
<references />
 
<references />
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[[Category:Darshanas]]
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[[Category:Education Series]]
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[[Category:Ganita]]
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[[Category:Shastras]]
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[[Category:Jyotisha]]

Latest revision as of 10:45, 16 January 2024

Ancient Indian Scientists (Samskrit: शास्त्रज्ञाः महर्षयः) enumerates the scientists of ancient India and elaborates on their contribution in various fields of scientific knowledge encompassing medicine, mathematics, astronomy, technology, architecture, chemistry, metallurgy, etc.[1]

परिचयः ॥ Introduction

Bharata is known for its long standing civilisational history with significant contributions to the fields of science, philosophy, literature, astronomy, architecture, etc.

Did you know ?

• Zero was discovered in Bharata.

• Maharshi Kanad gave the concept of Paramanus to the world.

• Ayurveda, a branch of medicine, was given by Bharata.

• The age of earth according to Bharatiya Vaidik Scriptures is about 3-4 billion years which is equal to the real age of earth.

The Indian landscape is replete with examples of Indian architecture and monuments. It also reflects development of techniques in the field of chemistry. The iron statue near Qutab minar which is still rust free is one of the finest examples of the same. And the most important point to be noted here is that the ancient architects were kown to have developed these techniques without any laboratory. It is thus, imperative to learn about the scientists of ancient India and their contribution scattered across the fields of mathematics, medicine, astronomy etc. in order to gain inspiration and guidance from their findings.[1]

भारतीयाः गणितज्ञाः ॥ Indian Mathematicians

Ancient Indian mathematicians had an edge in the field of mathematics. Some such luminaries and their contributions in the field of mathematics are as follows:[1]

बोधायनः ॥ Bodhayana

Bodhayana was a famous Indian mathematician around the 7th-8th century BCE. The ancient most shulbasutra text is known by his name viz. Baudhayana Shulbasutras. The shulbasutras are the oldest texts of geometry.

Bodhayana is especially known for providing a very close approximation (3.0883) of the value of Pi (π) and a clear enunciation of the so-called Pythagorean theorem as Bhuja-Koti-Karna-Nyaya in his Baudhayana shulbasutras much before Pythagoras.[2][1]

पिङ्गलाचार्यः ॥ Acharya Pingala

Acharya Pingala is an important name in the field of mathematics in ancient India. He lived between 2nd-3rd century BCE. Chandas Sutra also known as the Pingala Sutra is his work through which he contributed to the development of binary number system. He is considered the propounder of binary digits. Acharya Pingala's use of 'laghu' and guru' words later became the basis for the discovery of zero. It is believed that Acharya Pingala used the word Shunya which meant zero (0).[1]

आर्यभटः ॥ Aryabhata

The decimal place value system with zero adopted internationally traces its origin to Ancient Bharata. The decimal place value mode recognised in the Vedic Samhitas came to be clearly enunciated in mathematical-astronomical texts beginning with Aryabhata onwards.

Aryabhata (born in 476 CE) was a great mathematician and astronomer of the 5th century. It is said that he wrote the text 'Aryabhatiya' at an early age of 23 years (in 499 CE). The Aryabhatiya is a book of mathematics and astronomy where Aryabhata mentions the use of decimals among many other things. It is interesting to note the importance of the decimal system and zero in the calculations of planetary distances.[3][1]

ब्रह्मगुप्तः ॥ Brahmagupta

Brahmagupta was one of the most prominent mathematicians belonging to the school of Ujjain.[4] He is reffered to as 'Ganakachakra Chudamani' (Jewel among the circle of Mathematicians) by Bhaskara-II. Born in 598 CE, he authored the famous book Brahmasphuta Siddhanta in 628 CE at the age of 30 years.[5][4]

It is said that he was the first one to use zero as a number. He also used many mathematical methods. One of which is the multiplication method and the use of place value in the same that is in vogue even today.

The credits for spreading Indian Mathematical Knowledge to the world is accorded to Brahmgupta.[1] His works which were translated into Arabic seem to have influenced Arabian astronomy and mathematics in the 8th century CE possibly before the Arabian scholars became acquainted with Ptolemy.[4]

भास्कराचार्यः ॥ Bhaskaracharya

Bhaskaracharya is one of the most well-known names amongst the ancient Indian astronomer-mathematicians of the 11th-12th century.[1] He is also designated as Bhaskara-II to differentiate him from the earlier Bhaskara-I who lived in the 7th century CE.[6]

The monumantal treatise Siddhanta Shiromani, comprising of the famous Lilavati (arithmatic), Bijaganita (algebra), Goladhayaya (Trigonometry) and Grahaganita (Planetary motion) is his contribution.[7]

According to the statement in Goladhyaya, Bhaskara-II was born in Shaka 1036 or 1114 CE and came from Vijjalavida near the Sahyadri mountain[6] (which is taken as the modern day Bijapur in Karnataka). It is said that he learnt mathematics and astronomy from his father who was a teacher at observatories in Ujjain. Bhaskara-II was the first to use the Chakravala vidhi or compounded form. He lived until 1185 CE.

The western countries came to know about the contribution of Bhaskara-II in 19th century. And an attempt to translate into English the first part of his work known as Lilavati was made by James Taylor.

In honour of this great Indian astronomer-mathematician, a satellite in his name Bhaskar II was launched on 20th November 1981 by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO).[1]

भारतीयाः आयुर्वेदाचार्याः ॥ Indian Ayurveda Acharyas

Did you know that Ayurveda is known as the oldest medicinal system of the world ? Ayurveda literally translates to 'the Science of Life' and is around 5000 years old. Ayurveda is indeed a gift from India to the world. Here is a brief description of the valuable contribution of famous Ayurveda Acharyas in the field of medicine.[1]

आचार्यः चरकः ॥ Acharya Charaka

Acharya Charaka is known as the founder of Ayurveda. He was the physician of King Kanishka. He studied diseases, their causes and treatment in detail. And collected all his views in the book Charaka Samhita which is one of the ancient and authentic books of Ayurveda.[1] It is said that Agnivesha was the composer of the original text and Charaka was the redactor of the same text. However, even after further redaction to the Samhita by Drdhabala, the nomenclature did not change, it continued to be known as Charaka Samhita. This shows that Acharya Charaka not only redacted but also thoroughly revised the text, elaborating it according to the need and on the basis of prevailing authentic knowledge, giving it new shape as a treatise.[3]

The text compiles information on around 2000 medicines and explains diseases of many organs with their treatment. Acharya Charaka believed in removing the cause of diseases and stated that prevention is better than cure. He believed that a physician needs to have knowledge and understanding of diseases to treat the patient.

Acharya Charaka is also considered the first physician to talk about concepts like digestion, immunity power and excretion. He believed that there are three areas of human body viz. cough (kapha), air (Vata) and bile (Pitta). And an imbalance in them leads a human to fall ill.

Indeed, the foundation of today's Ayurvedic medical system was laid by Acharya Charaka.[1]

आचार्यः सुश्रुतः ॥ Acharya Sushruta

Acharya Sushruta is a great legendary in Ayurveda and has contributed to the field of surgery.[3] A practical surgeon, he was the first to advocate the dissection of dead bodies as indispensable for a successful student of surgery.[8] It is said that he himself studied the structure and anatomy of human body by dissecting dead human body.

He is the author of Sushruta Samhita and is known as the father of surgery. It is believed that the first surgery of the world was done by him.

Sushruta Samhita is a pool of knowledge. It enumerates about 1100 diseases and elaborates on the usage of about 760 plants and herbs. And most of these herbs are those used day to day in the kitchen. This text also documents about 191 tools used in surgery by Sushruta. And it is interesting to note that the procedure enunciated by Sushruta is similar to modern medical policy.[1]

महर्षिः पतञ्जलिः ॥ Maharshi Patanjali

Maharshi Patanjali is known as the compiler of the Yoga sutras, an important collection of aphorisms on Yoga practice. He is also considered as the author of an unspecified work of medicine[3] (called Patanjali Tantra).[1]

The Yoga Sutras explain human nature and psychology while also being an intensely practical manual for spiritual advancement. Therefore, Yoga is both physical as well as mental. Physical yoga is called Hathayoga. Generally, it aims at removing a disease and restoring healthy condition to the body. While, Rajayoga is mental yoga. Its goal is self realisation and liberation from bondage by achieving physical, mental, emotional and spiritual balance.[3][1]

Thus, the science of Yoga, as developed in ancient India, aligned with the science of Ayurveda facilitated healing at the physical and mental level. And the credit of systematically presenting this great science goes to Maharshi Patanjali.[3] The 106 Yoga sutras given by him form the base of Yoga Shastra. And therefore, Maharshi Patanjali known as the father of Yoga.[1]

भारतीयाः ज्योतिःशास्त्रज्ञाः ॥ Indian Astronomers

There is a deep connect between the fields of mathematics and astronomy. In fact, most astronomers in ancient India were also great mathematicians. They beautifully propounded the inter-relation between the two fields through their work in the field of astronomy. Some such contribution of ancient Indian astronomers in the field of astronomy are as follows:[1]

आर्यभटः ॥ Aryabhata

Aryabhata has already been enumerated as one of the most celebrated mathematicians of ancient India. He was also an astronomer ie. one who studies planets and galaxies. It is said that he studied in famous observatories at Nalanda.[1] In fact, a verse mentions that Aryabhata was the head of an institution at Kusumapura identified as Pataliputra (modern Patna). Since the University of Nalanda, equipped with an astronomical observatory, was in Pataliputra at that time, it is speculated that Aryabhata may have been the head of Nalanda University.[3]

Earlier, it was believed that the earth is fixed at one place. Aryabhata was the first person to correctly insist that the earth constantly rotates about its axis[1] daily and that the apparent movement of the stars is a relative motion caused by rotation of the earth, contrary to the then prevailing view that the sky rotated. This is indicated in the first chapter of his work, the Aryabhatiya, where he gives the number of rotations of the earth in a Yuga.

The Solar and Lunar eclipses also were scientifically explained by Aryabhata. Instead of the prevailing cosmogony in which eclipses were caused by Rahu and Ketu (identified as pseudo-planetary lunar nodes), he explained eclipses in terms of shadows cast by and falling on earth. He even provided the computation and size of the eclipsed part during an eclipse.[3]

The main objective of studying astronomy was to make correct calendar or panchang, identify the correct season for crops etc. that will help people in farming. Aryabhata contributed to this.[1] The calendric calculations devised by Aryabhata and his followers have been in continuous use in India for the practical purposes of fixing the Panchanga (the Hindu calendar).[3]

It is in honour of this great astronomer-mathematician that India's first man made satellite is named Aryabhata.[1][3]

भास्कराचार्यः ॥ Bhaskaracharya

Bhaskaracharya's contribution in the field of Mathematics has already been enumerated. He also gave many astronomical calculations. For eg. Bhaskarcharya calculated accurate time of a year, that is, the time taken by earth to complete a revolution of the Sun.[1]

The Ganitadhyaya and Goladhyaya of his work Siddhanta Shiromani are devoted to astronomy.[3] It deals with distance of planets, solar eclipse, lunar eclipse, phases of moon etc. and other essential knowledge of ancient Indian astronomy. He also writes about space, movement of planets, phases and its calculation etc in this book.[1] In fact, his book Siddhanta Shiromani surpassed all the ancient books of astronomy in India.[3]

वराहमिहिरः ॥ Varahamihira

Born in Avanti region (roughly corresponding to the modern-day Malwa), Varahamihira was a famous astronomer from ancient India[1] who lived through 505-587 CE. He is considered to be one of the nine jewels (Navaratnas) of the court of legendary ruler Yashodharman Vikramaditya of Malwa.[3]

Varahamihira belonged to Ujjain and is famous for two of his works namely, Pancha Siddhantika and the Brhat Samhita. The Pancha Siddhantika is a treatise on the five astronomical canons. A work on mathematical astronomy, in its five parts it summarises five earlier astronomical treatises namely,

  1. Surya Siddhanta
  2. Vasishtha Siddhanta
  3. Paulisha Siddhanta
  4. Romaka Siddhanta
  5. Paitamaha Siddhanta

His other work, the Brhat Samhita is encyclopedic in nature and within astronomy also covers wide range of topics like speed of planets, eclipse, rain etc.[1][3]

अन्यशास्त्रेषु योगदानम् ॥ Contribution in Other Fields

Ancient Bharata saw progress in other fields of science like chemistry, physics, agriculture, etc. as well. Brief description of some of the great scientists and their contribution in this regard is enumerated below.[1]

महर्षिः कणादः ॥ Maharshi Kanada

Maharshi Kanada is the founder of the Vaisheshika school of Indian philosophy[1][9] which incorporates within itself the ancient Indian tradition of physics.[10]

It is said that Maharshi Kanada was thus named because, as an ascetic, he used to live on the grains picked up from the fields. Interestingly, 'Kana' also means a particle and therefore, Kanada suggests one who spoke about particles.[9]

He authored the Vaisheshika Sutras also known as Kanada Sutras. He was the first person to talk about Anu ie. the most fundamental particle of matter. He believed that the smallest unit of physical world is not perceivable to the naked eyes. And cannot be divided or destroyed. However, it is capable of conjunction and hence, he states that the whole world is made up of these Anu-s. And such visible gross matter can be divided until it reaches the final indivisible entity ie. the Anu.

This principle putforth by Maharshi Kanad seems far ahead of its times in comparison to the present principles of molecule or nucleus. But it is interesting to note that the idea of tanmatra which is viewd as a kind of potential out of which materiality emerges in the cosmology of Samkhya prevalent in those times has features similar to that of Anu in the Vaisheshika Darshana.[10][1]

नागार्जुनः ॥ Nagarjuna

Nagarjuna was an alchemist and metallurgist of the 8th century CE[3] born at Fort Daihak near the famous shrine of Somnath in Gujarat. He worked in the field of melting metals and making new metals. His efforts were concentrated on transforming base metals into gold. Although he couldn't succeed in transmuting base metals into gold, his techniques yeilded metals with gold-like lustre.[1] Till date, this technology is used in making imitation jewellry.

His work known as Rasaratnakara contains descriptions of alchemical processes and preparations of mercurial compounds. He also wrote about the methods for extraction of metals like gold, silver, tin and copper from their ores and their purification.[1] His book, Rasaratnakara, is indeed a survey of metallurgy and alchemy as it existed in ancient Bharata.[3]

वराहमिहिरः ॥ Varahamihira

Varahamihira's contribution in astronomy has already been mentioned. He also had astonishing knowledge of a variety of subjects like hydrology, meteorology, astrology, seismology, etc. His work in the fields of earth science, geology, environment, etc is reflected in his magnum opus Brhat Samhita.[3]

He was the first to tell that termites and underground plants reflect presence of life. He also writes about earthquakes and its cases. And tried to relate the effects of planets, of earthquake, movement beneath the ocean, underground water and behavior of animals.[1]

References

  1. 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.17 1.18 1.19 1.20 1.21 1.22 1.23 1.24 1.25 1.26 1.27 1.28 1.29 1.30 Vijnana - Level B (Chapter 10), Open Basic Education Programme (Bharatiya Jnana Parampara), Noida: National Institute of Open Schooling.
  2. Mathematics in India: From Vedic Period to Modern Times, NPTEL Course (Lectures 1-3), Accessed on 10/08/2022.
  3. 3.00 3.01 3.02 3.03 3.04 3.05 3.06 3.07 3.08 3.09 3.10 3.11 3.12 3.13 3.14 3.15 3.16 Dr. Binod Bihari Satpathy, History of Science and Technology in India (accessed on 10/08/2022).
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 A.K.Bag (1979), Mathematics in Ancient and Medieval India, Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia.
  5. Mathematics in India: From Vedic Period to Modern Times, NPTEL Course (Lecture 11), Accessed on 03/10/2022.
  6. 6.0 6.1 Mathematics in India: From Vedic Period to Modern Times, NPTEL Course (Lecture no.20), Accessed on 30/09/2022.
  7. D. Arkasomayaji (1980), Siddhanta Siromani of Bhaskaracarya, Tirupati: Kendriya Sanskrit Vidyapeetha.
  8. Kunja Lal Bhishagratna (1907), An English Translation of The Sushruta Samhita, Calcutta.
  9. 9.0 9.1 Chandradhar Sharma (1962), Indian Philosophy: A Critical Survey, U.S.A.: Barnes & Noble, INC.
  10. 10.0 10.1 Roopa Narayan, Space, Time and Anu in Vaisheshika, Accessed on 13/10/2022.