Astronomy In Ancient Indian Belief Systems (Book)

Prof. R.M. Vasagam

Former Space Scientist, Chancellor Dr MGR Educational and Research Institute Chennai

The book on “Astronomy in Ancient Indian Belief Systems” written by highly qualified and accomplished Electronics and Computer Professional Mr. Chandrashekar B U as a maiden attempt is a welcome addition to portraying the use of modern tools to connect the astronomical observations and patterns with the festivals and practices from time immemorial in India and elsewhere. It kindles curiosity of the readers and shows how ancient civilizations had followed astronomical observations for agriculture and celebrating festivals and onset of seasons in harmony with the movement of heavenly bodies. The concepts of ecliptic plane, equinox, motion of constellations of stars relative to sun, moon and planets, galactic equator and zodiac were mastered and became tools for astronomy and of course astrology. He guides the readers through how connecting the stars with imaginary lines familiar objects were visualized by early astronomers which has withstood the test of time.

In this book he attempts to go beyond and goes on to identify the Gods, Goddesses, celestial abodes, churning of ocean, Akasha Ganga coming down and Milky Way symbolizing the Ksheera Sāgara by imaginary lines connecting stars in novel manner. It is left to the readers to accept these conclusions as he himself is on exploratory mission. The concepts of Nataraja and his consort, Vishnu and Lakshmi, Brahma and Sarasvati and their mounts are presented on celestial sphere through stars connected through imaginary lines. Interestingly the God of death and Netherworld and Trishanku swarga give astronomical linkages to ancient belief still in vogue by the author.

In addition, the divine animals and some with strange but powerful combinations of parts of versatile animals have been identified with stars linked with imaginary lines. The divine weapons and attire too are identified. Identification of Ganēsha, Karthikeya and Kala/Rudra has also been done in fitting star pattern.

Having established the celestial event linkages various Hindu festivals, rites and rituals the author lucidly explains the basis and mode of performing them to bring prosperity, peace and family and community wellbeing.

The author has attempted to unearth possible astronomical, cultural and linguistic knowledge connections to show near identical developments in various continents may be due to maritime and land route trade and commerce. His extensive use of open-source digital repositories of relevant information and putting information technology tools to conduct research on this topic is highly laudable. It is noted that the author welcomes further enquiry and convincing and compelling conclusions to benefit the society at large.

Let this book have a wide circle of readership!

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