Description

About The Book

The history of science and technology in ancient India represents one of the most significant intellectual traditions in world civilization. From the earliest Vedic period to the early medieval era, the Indian subcontinent witnessed remarkable developments in fields such as mathematics, astronomy, medicine, metallurgy, architecture, agriculture, and engineering. Ancient scholars systematically observed natural phenomena, formulated theoretical principles, and developed practical technologies that supported social organization, economic activities, and cultural expression.
This book explores the evolution of scientific thought and technological practices in ancient India through a historical and interdisciplinary perspective. It examines the philosophical foundations of knowledge found in early Sanskrit literature, including the Vedas, Vedāṅgas, and classical scientific treatises. Particular attention is given to the development of mathematical systems such as the decimal place-value notation and the concept of zero, which profoundly influenced global mathematical traditions. Astronomical studies carried out by scholars such as Aryabhata, Varāhamihira, and Brahmagupta demonstrate advanced methods of planetary calculation, eclipse prediction, and calendrical science.
In the domain of medicine, classical texts such as the Charaka Saṃhitā and SuśrutaSaṃhitā reveal sophisticated knowledge of anatomy, pharmacology, surgery, and preventive health care. Technological innovations in metallurgy, including the production of high-quality iron and steel, along with advances in construction technology and urban planning, highlight the practical applications of scientific knowledge in ancient society. Architectural principles documented in VāstuŚāstra texts illustrate the integration of geometry, engineering, and aesthetics.
The book also investigates systems of knowledge transmission, including the Gurukula tradition and ancient centers of learning such as Takshashila and Nalanda. By examining textual evidence, archaeological findings, and historical scholarship, this work provides a comprehensive overview of the scientific heritage of ancient India. The aim is to present a balanced and evidence-based understanding of how early Indian scholars contributed to the development of science and technology and how these contributions influenced intellectual traditions across Asia and beyond.

About The Author

Dr. Narendar Bhojak NET JRF, M.Phil., Ph.D. (Delhi), D.Sc. working as a Professor at Govt. Dungar College, Bikaner has published around 150 papers, 14 books, 22 patents, supervised 23 Ph.D. scholars and delivered around seventy Invited Lectures in International / National Conferences including visits at Washington DC (USA), Abudhabi, Austria and Nepal. He has organized around 30 National and International Symposium / workshops / conferences. His majors are Green chemical Technology and Food & Drug Analysis with a contribution towards innovation viz – Science Films, learning by doing project, e-magazine and a multi faculty research journal, Micellar technology for extraction and nanoparticle preparation, Development of low cost Green Microwave Biochemical Reactor (GMBR). In addition to this he is also working on Green Auditing, Green Travel – Tourism, NEP and Augmented and Virtual reality. He is the founder Director of BIRC (Bikaner Interdisciplinary Research Consortium). He is the Coordinator IQAC and IKS NEP 2020 center.
Prof. Chandra Shekhar Kachhawa M.A. (History), M.Phil., Ph.D., LLB. working as a Professor & Head at Govt. Dungar College, Bikaner has published around 84 research papers and 07 books. Thirteen students has completed Ph.D. under his supervision. He has delivered around thirty five Invited Lectures in International / National. He is also the Author for History of India, Rajasthan Board of Secondary Education, Rajasthan. Chief Editor: Global Researcher View, International Research Review Journal. National Coordinator: History of Education, Shiksha Sanskriti Utthan Nyas, New Delhi Member: National Education Policy 2020 Implementation Committee, Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Shekhawati University, Sikar, Rajasthan. Dean: Faculty of Social Sciences and the Member of the Board of Management: Maharaja Ganga Singh University, Bikaner