Encyclopaedia of Science Heritage of India

Science and technology in ancient and medieval India covered all the major branches of human knowledge and activities, including mathematicsastronomyphysics, chemistry, medical science and surgery, fine arts, mechanical and production technology, civil engineering and architecture, and shipbuilding and navigation. Ancient India was not only land of sages, saints and seers but those of scholars and scientists as well. Ancient India’s contribution to science and technology include: Mathematics – Vedic literature is replete with concept of zero, the techniques of algebra and algorithm, square root and cube root. Arguably, the origins ofCalculus lie in India 300 years before Leibnitz and Newton. Astronomy – Rig Veda (2000 BC) refers to astronomy. Physics – Concepts of atom and theory of relativity were explicitly stated by an Indian Philosopher around 600 BC. Chemistry – Principles chemistry did not remain abstract but also found expression in distillation of perfumes, aromatic liquids, manufacturing of dyesand pigments, and extraction of sugar.