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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 medicine, mathematics, astronomy, technology, architecture, chemistry, 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 [[Ayurveda (आयुर्वेदः)|medicine]], [[Ganita Shastra (गणितशास्त्रम्)|mathematics]], [[Vedanga Jyotisha (वेदाङ्गज्योतिषम्)|astronomy]], technology, architecture, [[Rasayana Shastra (रसायनशास्त्रम्)|chemistry]], [[Mineralogy (धातुशास्त्रम्)|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. | + | [[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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=== बोधायनः ॥ Bodhayana === | === 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 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. |
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" /> | 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" /> | ||
=== पिङ्गलाचार्यः ॥ Acharya Pingala === | === 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).<ref name=":0" /> | + | 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" /> |
=== आर्यभटः ॥ Aryabhata === | === 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. | + | 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. |
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" /> | 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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== भारतीयाः आयुर्वेदाचार्याः ॥ Indian Ayurveda Acharyas == | == 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.<ref name=":0" /> | + | 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" /> |
=== आचार्यः चरकः ॥ Acharya Charaka === | === 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.<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" /> | + | 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" /> |
| − | 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. | + | 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. |
| − | 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. | + | 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. |
Indeed, the foundation of today's Ayurvedic medical system was laid by Acharya Charaka.<ref name=":0" /> | Indeed, the foundation of today's Ayurvedic medical system was laid by Acharya Charaka.<ref name=":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. | 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. | ||
| − | 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. | + | 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. |
| − | 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.<ref name=":0" /> | + | 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" /> |
=== महर्षिः पतञ्जलिः ॥ Maharshi Patanjali === | === 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<ref name=":3" /> (called Patanjali Tantra).<ref name=":0" /> | 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" /> | ||
| − | 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.<ref name=":3" /><ref name=":0" /> | + | 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" /> |
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" /> | 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" /> | ||
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=== आर्यभटः ॥ Aryabhata === | === 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.<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" /> | + | 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" /> |
| − | 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<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. | + | 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. |
| − | 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.<ref name=":3" /> | + | 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" /> |
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" /> | 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" /> | ||
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=== भास्कराचार्यः ॥ Bhaskaracharya === | === 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 [[Surya (सूर्यः)|Sun]].<ref name=":0" /> | |
| − | = | + | 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" /> |
| − | |||
| − | + | === वराहमिहिरः ॥ Varahamihira === | |
| + | 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" /> | ||
| − | + | 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, | |
| − | + | # [[Surya Siddhanta (सूर्य सिद्धांता)|Surya Siddhanta]] | |
| + | # Vasishtha Siddhanta | ||
| + | # Paulisha Siddhanta | ||
| + | # Romaka Siddhanta | ||
| + | # 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.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":3" /> | |
| − | + | == अन्यशास्त्रेषु योगदानम् ॥ Contribution in Other Fields == | |
| + | 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" /> | ||
| − | + | === महर्षिः कणादः ॥ Maharshi Kanada === | |
| + | 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> | ||
| − | + | 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" /> | |
| − | |||
| − | + | 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 Darshana (साङ्ख्यदर्शनम्)|Samkhya]] prevalent in those times has features similar to that of Anu in the Vaisheshika Darshana.<ref name=":5" /><ref name=":0" /> | |
| − | |||
| − | He | + | === नागार्जुनः ॥ Nagarjuna === |
| + | 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. | ||
| − | + | 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" /> | |
| − | |||
| − | === | + | === वराहमिहिरः ॥ Varahamihira === |
| − | + | 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" /> | |
| + | |||
| + | 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> | ||
== References == | == References == | ||
<references /> | <references /> | ||
| + | [[Category:Darshanas]] | ||
| + | [[Category:Education Series]] | ||
| + | [[Category:Ganita]] | ||
| + | [[Category:Shastras]] | ||
| + | [[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,
- Surya Siddhanta
- Vasishtha Siddhanta
- Paulisha Siddhanta
- Romaka Siddhanta
- 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
- ↑ 1.00 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.
- ↑ Mathematics in India: From Vedic Period to Modern Times, NPTEL Course (Lectures 1-3), Accessed on 10/08/2022.
- ↑ 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).
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 A.K.Bag (1979), Mathematics in Ancient and Medieval India, Varanasi: Chaukhambha Orientalia.
- ↑ Mathematics in India: From Vedic Period to Modern Times, NPTEL Course (Lecture 11), Accessed on 03/10/2022.
- ↑ 6.0 6.1 Mathematics in India: From Vedic Period to Modern Times, NPTEL Course (Lecture no.20), Accessed on 30/09/2022.
- ↑ D. Arkasomayaji (1980), Siddhanta Siromani of Bhaskaracarya, Tirupati: Kendriya Sanskrit Vidyapeetha.
- ↑ Kunja Lal Bhishagratna (1907), An English Translation of The Sushruta Samhita, Calcutta.
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 Chandradhar Sharma (1962), Indian Philosophy: A Critical Survey, U.S.A.: Barnes & Noble, INC.
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 Roopa Narayan, Space, Time and Anu in Vaisheshika, Accessed on 13/10/2022.