Ancient Astronomy
Chhath Pooja
Chhath Pooja is dedicated to the solar deity, Surya and therefore held in the month of Kārtika, associated with Surya, in October/November when the Sun is in Libra. This is a very ancient tradition. This was established to mark the Sun crossing Autumnal Equinox. It was celebrated in the days following the first new moon…
Deepavali, Lakshmi Pooja & the constellation Boötes
Deepavali – Lakshmi Pooja – In 2022 on – 24th Oct Deepavali or Diwali is celebrated on a new moon day. This year, 2022, is an exception since there is a solar eclipse, it is celebrated one day earlier. Diwali is also the start of Gujarati new year. On that day, the Sun & the Moon…
Astronomy of Airāvata
Airāvata In Indian mythologies, Airāvata is the divine Vāhana (vehicle) of Indra deva, the king of all the Devas. It is a white elephant who carries the deity Indra. Airāvata is also called abhra-Matanga, meaning elephant of the clouds, Naga-malla meaning “the fighting elephant“; and Arka-sodara, meaning brother of the sun. Airāvata has four tusks…
Astronomy in Gaṅgāvataraṇa
Introduction This article claims that the lore of the descent of the holy Indian river Gaṅgā is based on astronomical observations. It is a re-discovery based on a unique methodology involving the connection of Nakshatras ancient Indian lore to modern stars and zodiac. Rivers hold high reverence in India and considered to be holy. Among…