MODULE: 1
Sources of study Vedic literature, Vedanga literature, Ramayana,
Mahabharata Development in different branches of Science in Ancient
India: Astronomy, Mathematics, Engineering and Architecture ,Medicine,
Metallurgy Scientists of Ancient India: Baudhayan, Aryabhtatta,
Brahmgupta, Bhaskaracharya, Varahamihira, Nagarjuna ,Susruta,
Charak, & Patanjali.
I. SOURCES OF STUDY
1. Vedic Literature
Rigveda, Samaveda, Yajurveda, Atharvaveda: These are the four Vedas, forming
the core of Vedic knowledge.
Content:
oRigveda: Hymns and praises to natural forces.
oSamaveda: Melodic chants and musical recitations.
oYajurveda: Rituals and sacrificial formulas.
oAtharvaveda: Spells, charms, and healing practices.
Significance: Insights into early Indian religion, cosmology, society, and proto-
scientific knowledge.
2. Vedanga Literature
Six auxiliary disciplines developed to support Vedic studies:
oShiksha (Phonetics): Proper pronunciation.
oKalpa (Rituals): Procedures for ceremonies.
oVyakarana (Grammar): Panini’s Ashtadhyayi is a cornerstone.
oNirukta (Etymology): Interpretation of difficult words.
oChhanda (Meter): Poetic structure.
oJyotisha (Astronomy): Calendar, astrology, time measurement.
Significance: Foundations of linguistics, grammar, and astronomy in ancient India.
3. Ramayana
Attributed to: Sage Valmiki.
Content: Life story of Rama, his exile, war with Ravana.
Scientific Aspects:
oArchitecture (Rama Setu).
oAviation references (Pushpaka Vimana).
Cultural Significance: Moral and dharmic principles, ideal governance (Ram Rajya).
4. Mahabharata
