CHAPTER 3

DETAILED STUDY OF

MAHARSHI BHARADWAJA‟S
VYMANIKA SHASTRA

41
 CHAPTER 3

3. DETAILED STUDY OF MAHARSHI BHARADWAJA‟S VYMANIKA

SHASTRA
3.1. Introduction
Vymanika Shastra is the book which completely describes the aircraft technology of the past.
Maharshi Bharadwaja is considered as the author of this work. It is said that Vymanika Shastra is
a part of Maharshi Bharadwaja‟s larger work called “Yantra Sarvasva”. As per the mystic
scholar Sri Subbaraya Shastri Vymanika Shastra was brought into manuscript form between
1903 and 1918. History of Sri Subbaraya Shastri is quite interesting. According to the
autobiography while Shastriji wandered in the forest for many years with deadly wounds and
diseases in his body, he accidentally found Sri.Guruji Maharaj with super human features in an
underground cave. Sri.Guruji cured Shastriji‟s wounds and diseases with a single healing touch
and gave him the divine enlightenment and taught him all the Bhautika Shastras or physical
sciences. Shastriji got access to Maharshi Bharadwaja‟s Vymanika Shastra mainly through this
divine power and further brought it to manuscript form with the mission of propagating the
knowledge to future generations as instructed by Sri.Guruji Maharaj. (wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao,
Chapter 02: AUTHORSHIP AND DATING —VYMANIKA SHASTRA 2001)

Like many other Sanskrit literary works, Vymanika Shastra also starts with the
“Mangalacharanam”. The author has bowed to the almighty who is at the peak of the vedas and
is the root of permanent happiness and stays at a place which can be reached only through
vimanas or airplanes. He has said that after studying all the ancient shastras, he has written
Vymanika Shastra which consists of eight chapters, 100 topics and 500 sutras and is the essence
of the vedas, source of happiness and would facilitate comfortable travel from world to world.

Bodhaananda who has written commentary for Vymanika Shastra has also started the work
by bowing to lord Mahadev, Saraswathi, Ganapathy and Maharshi Bharadwaja. Bodhaananda
has said that he has referred various works such as “Valmiki Ganita”, “Paribhaashaa Chandrika”
and “Naamaarthakalpaka” for simplifying the briefly worded text on Aeronautics written by
Maharshi Bharadwaja. As per Bodhaananda, Vimana constructed based on Vymanika Shastra
enables people to reach god and enjoy his divine home.

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 Vishwanaatha has listed out the venerable authors who have written the important works
which are said as referred by Maharshi Bharadwaaja himself while writing Vymanika Shastra.
They are Narayana who has authored Vimana Chandrika, Shownaka who has authored
Vyomayaana Tantra, Garga who has authored Yantra Kalpa, Vaachaspathi who has authored
Yaana Bindu, Chaakraayani who has authored Kheta Yaana Pradeepikaa and Dhundinaatha- who
has authored Vyomayaana-Arkaprakaasha.

If Bharadwaja had referred these works, it means there were books which had details
regarding Vimanas and aircraft technology even before the Bharadwaja wrote Vymanika Shastra.
But the surprising fact is that many of these books are nowhere described in any other ancient
texts and also not available for reference. This makes us think if these books really existed. Since
there are already many questions about the authorship of this work, this creates further questions
in the minds of researchers. But if we think from another point of view, there are many ancient
works which we know only by names. It is said that many valuable scientific works were hidden
in secret libraries just to make sure that they won‟t reach the wrong hands. But as the eras have
passed by we have lost all such great works either through natural calamities, war or many other
reasons. The same might be the case even with all the above mentioned books.

The first sootra in Vymanika Shastra describes Vimana as follows.

ॱ (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-

Shaastra: First Chapter 1973)

This means „Vimana‟ can be compared with birds in speed. Average horizontal speed of
Peregrine falcon is 65-90 km/h, Golden eagle is 45-51 km/h and Gyrfalcon is 80-110 km/h. The
bird „White throated needle tail‟ can fly with the maximum horizontal speed of up to 169
km/h.(Bourton)24 This makes us think of the speed of the ancient Vimana as something in the
range of 45 km/h to 169 km/h. This can nowhere be compared with the speed our current
passenger aircraft. The aircraft „Bombardier CRJ 1000‟ has a maximum cruising speed of 541
mph i.e. 870.65 km/h. The jumbo passenger jet Airbus A380 has the maximum cruising speed of
676 mph i.e. 1087.91 km/h. (Said 2013) This means while constructing Vimanas described in

24
“List of Birds by Flight Speed.” Wikipedia. N.p., n.d. Web.

43
Vymanika Shastra, our ancient scholars had given more prominence to design aircraft which
were capable of flying in the air than its speed.

3.2. The Pilot and the secret features of Vimana

Vymaanika Shastra defines Pilot as “ ”. (Shastry and Josyer, The
Vymaanika-Shaastra: First Chapter 1973) This means „Pilot‟ is the one who knows the secret of
Vimanas. Vymanika Shastra describes 32 secrets or features of Vimanas which the pilot should
learn by quoting „Rahasya Lahari‟ by Lallacharya. The report Vymanika Shastra Rediscovered
explains these from contemporary perspective as described below.(wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter
08: SPECIAL STUDY ON ROLE- SPECIFIC FEATURES OF VIMANAS 2001)

1. Maantrika – This is something which is difficult to believe. It is described that by invoking

mantras of deities like Chinnamasta, Bhairavee, Veginee and Siddhaamba our ancient
scholars could acquire powers through which they could construct aircraft which don‟t break,
cannot be cut, cannot be burnt and cannot be destroyed.
2. Taantrika – This is also something which is difficult to believe. It is described that some
Tantric powers are acquired to provide special powers to the plane.
3. Kritaka – Vishwakarma, Chaaya Purusha, Manu and Maya are popular architects of ancient
era. It is described that Kritaka vimanas with various patterns are constructed by studying the
architectures of these architects. The interesting aspect here is with the usage of the word
„Kritaka‟. The word „Kritaka‟ in this context can be analyzed as „not natural‟, we do not
know if that means no intervention of supernatural powers. In further chapters of Vymanika
Shastra applicability of Kritaka Vimanas are associated with „Kaliyuga‟. Hence this is
something which we can think about.
4. Antaraala - This is a feature which can be compared with our weather-warning radar. This
feature is used to warn the pilots about the cross section danger zones so that pilots can avoid
flying in such zones or carefully halt the planes.
5. Goodha - This is a feature used to conceal the vimana from enemy‟s vision. As described in
the text with reference to „Vayutatva prakarana‟ Vimanas can be hidden from enemy‟s vision
by harnessing the powers like Yaasa, Viyaasaa and Prayaasa to attract dark content of the
solar ray in the eighth atmospheric layer covering the earth. This can be compared with
camouflaging techniques which we use in our modern aircraft. But the interesting fact here is

44
 they are trying to create a camouflage by harnessing the dark content of the solar ray. It is
interesting to know that these camouflaging concepts were evolved in modern military
aviation only in the later part of the twentieth century. But the principles described in
Vymanika Shastra are beyond stealth features to bypass radar detection.
6. Drishya - This is an interesting diversionary technique where the reflection of the glow
created by the collision of electric power and wind power in the atmosphere is caught at the
mirror „Vishwakriya Darpana‟ in front of the Vimana. By manipulation of this reflection
„Maaya Vimana‟ or camouflaged vimana is produced. This feature is very useful for
performing strategic and tactic roles which mislead both ground and air attacks from the
enemy.
7. Adrishya – This is an interesting cocooning technique to achieve invisibility. It is described
that there are some powers like „Vymarthya Vikarana‟ and others at the center of solar mass
which attracts the force of etherial flow in the sky, which, when mingled with
„Balaahaavikarana Shakti in the aerial globe produces white cover which makes the vimana
invisible. This is a brilliant way of harnessing atmospheric energy sources for camouflaging
the aircraft for strategic and tactical applications in aerial warfare.
8. Paroksha – This feature reminds us of biological warfare. “Megotpatti Prakarana” is quoted
while describing this feature. „Megotpatti prakarana‟ means the science of birth of clouds.
This means our ancient scholars had the knowledge of the science of the birth of clouds and
science of the atmosphere. It is described that the power in the second layer of summer
clouds is attracted using a force attraction mirror called „Shaktyakarshana darpana‟ and
applied to a halo in the vimana to generate a paralyzing force which paralyzes the opposing
Vimanas. This feature is very useful in the event of multiple air attacks, strategic and tactic
roles of the mission.
9. Aparoksha – This is a feature where „Rohinee‟ beam of light is used to detect/view the
things in front of the vimana. This could either be used during darkness or also for
applications like radar. So Rohini beam need not be a conventional light source but also
could be a radar beam.
10. Sankocha or contraction – This is an interesting feature where the parts of the vimana get
contracted when the vimana is flying at high speed or there is a danger ahead. It is described
that the seventh switch of the vimana could be used to contract its parts. The section

45
 “Yantrangopasamhara‟ is quoted while describing this feature. This is a mechanical
contrivance provided as an on-board control feature.
11. Vistrita – This is the inverse feature of Sankocha. As per this feature, by turning a switch in
the eleventh section, while the Vimana is in either third or first regions of the sky, Vimana
suitably expands as described in the texts „Akaashatantra‟ and „Valmiki Ganita‟.
12. Viroopa karana – This also could be a concept of Biological warfare to psyche viewers. A
fierce and terrifying shape of Vimana is emerged when a 32nd type of smoke is charged with
light of heat waves and it is projected through a „Padma chakra‟ tube to „Byravee oil‟
smeared „Vyroopya darpana‟ at the top of the vimana and whirling it for 132nd type of speed.
This feature is used to scare away the enemy forces and is used in strategic and tactical air
warfare roles. This fierce shape produced could as well be used to convey the coded signals.
13. Roopantara – This is also a feature to produce various shapes like lion, tiger, rhinoceros,
mountain, river etc. mainly to divert the attention and to confuse the enemy forces. These
shapes are produced by preparing various kinds of oils such as „griddhrajihwaa, kumbhinee
and kaakajangha, then pouring/sprinkling them on the distorting mirror in the vimana and
charging with „kuntinee shakti‟ in the vimana. These shapes produced also could be used as
coded signals to convey particular status of operation to their own ground forces.
14. Suroopa – This concept is probably used to convey an aesthetic look to the viewers, most
probably not for enemy‟s consumption. This could be used to entertain own forces. It is
described that the shape of a beautiful women adorning flowers and jewels can be produced
by attracting the thirteenth kind of karaka force and applying snow surcharged air and
projecting it to the right side of the vimana focusing suragha beam.
15. Jyothirbhaava – This is a „time diversionary tactic‟ useful in night aerial battle to confuse
enemy ground forces and upset their operational movement plans. A book titled
“Amshubhodhini” written by the same author Maharshi Bharadwaja is quoted as a reference
for descriptions of energy harnessing through Solar rays. As per the text, twelfth to sixteenth
digit of solar glow is attracted and focused on the air force produced at the Mayookha section
in the fourth pathway in the sky and similarly force of the ethereal glow is attracted and
mingled with the glow of the air mass in the seventh layer and both the forces are projected
through the five tubes in the vimana on the top section of guhaa-garbha mirror to produce the
morning glow of the sun.

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16. Tamomaya – This is a feature used during daytime strategic attacks. This creates confusion
in enemy forces and hampers the movement of troops. It is described that as per „Darpana
Prakarana‟ the force of darkness is captured through the dark force mirror and passed through
Thamo Yantra on the northwest side of the vimana and by turning of a switch darkness of a
new moon night is produced during noon time.
17. Pralaya – This is an annihilation concept which can also be termed as a Biological weapon.
As per the book magic book of destruction five kinds of smoke are attracted towards the
contraction machine‟s tube in the front part of the vimana and merged with cloud smoke as
mentioned in „Shadgarbha Viveka‟. This is a more lethal strategic weapon discussed so far.
When electric force is passed through five limbed aerial tube everything is destroyed as in
catacyclism.
18. Vimukha – This is definitely a biological weapon where prescribed poisonous substances
when used in conjunction with Roudree mirror brings insensibility in enemy forces and leads
them to coma. It is described that when the forces of Kubera, Vimukha and Vyshwaanara
poison powder is passed through the third tube of roudree mirror produces wholesale
insensibility and coma by turning the switch of air mechanism. This confirms that our ancient
scholars had the knowledge of biological weaponry. Similar weapon called
“Sammohanaastra” is described in Ramayana and Mahabharata.
19. Taara – This feature is useful in both strategic and tactical roles where generation night sky
and deposition of stars could be used either to mislead the enemy forces on movements or
create aesthetic effects or convey coded signals to friendly troop. It is described that the
appearance of the night sky with stars is created when ten parts of ethereal force, seven parts
of water force and sixteen parts of solar glow are mixed with ethereal force and projected by
star faced mirror in front of the vimana.
20. Mahaashabda Vimohana – This could be a strategic application in biological warfare. It is
described that a crescendo of thunderous din is produced by switching the button after
concentrating the air force in the seven tubes of the vimana. This terrifies the people and
makes them insensible. This feature can be used in parallel with domination technique over
the enemy troops to make them insensible and out of action.
21. Langhana - It is described that vimana catches fire while crossing from one air stream to
another facing baadaba glow of sun. Langhana is an interesting feature where captive energy

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 is used to achieve safe flying in specified atmospheric zones. This can be prevented by
conjoining the electric force and air force in the life center of the vimana so that when the
switch is turned vimana leaps into safety. This feature shows that our ancient scholars had
knowledge of danger zones in atmosphere.
22. Sarpa-Gamana – Serpent like zig-zag motion of the vimana is produced when Dandavaktra
and seven other forces of air are combined with solar rays and passed through the zigzag
center of the vimana and by turning on the switch. This feature is useful for evading enemy
sighting on detection systems like Dishampati yantra. This could be an indirect tactic while
on strategic roles.
23. Chaapala – It is described that by switching the “force center” button in the central portion
of the aircraft, an atmospheric wave speed of 4087 revolutions per hour is created which will
shake up the enemy plane. This could be used in both strategic and tactic roles which are
very useful in crisis situations for close attack roles. This could partially be a biological
weapon as its shock waves create serious impacts on the opponent‟s air crew.
24. Sarvatomukha – This is a very useful on-board service. It is described that Vimana can be
made to revolve with agility and face all sides by turning a switch at its top when it is being
attacked by a formation of enemy planes. This feature is useful to achieve an Omni direction
view when being attacked from multiple sides.
25. Parashabda Graahaka – This is a very interesting feature where the sounds in enemy
planes flying in the sky can be heard by placing sound capturing yantra in the vimana. It is
described that in the book Amshubodhini, this feature is explained as „Soudaaminee Kala‟
which means „Science of electronics‟. This is a frequency interception technique which
explains the existence of devices which used electronic counter measure and the prevalence
of the knowledge of communication – interception frequencies during ancient era.
26. Roopakarshana – This is a very interesting feature through which television view of things
happening in the enemy vimana can be viewed by means of a photographic yantra. This
feature is very useful in surveillance role.
27. Kriyaagrahana – This is a technique through which activities going on in the ground can be
viewed from Vimana. It is described that Vimana has a key at the bottom through which
white cloth which can be used as a screen appears. When the three acids in the northeast part
of the vimana are electrified and subjected to seven kinds of solar rays and resultant force is

48
 passed to the tube of the Thrisheersha mirror making the cloth screen face the mirror and
switching the upper key of the vimana, ground activities will be projected on the screen. This
is a strategic air surveillance feature which can be used to warn the trailing aircraft about the
enemy forces on the ground so that if it is used in battle role attacks can be planned.
28. Dikpradarshana – The direction from which enemy aircraft is approaching can be tracked
using Dishaampati yantra by turning the key in front of the Vimana. This feature is similar to
early warning radar, but it can sense on the direction and not the range. It is interesting to
know that this concept which was introduced by modern military aviation for the first time
during the Second World War in 1935 was already described in our ancient texts.
29. Aakaashaakaara – This is a very interesting camouflaging technique described in
„Aakaasha tantra‟ where solutions of neem and boonaaga decoctions when smeared on the
outer parts of Vimana made of mica plates and exposed to solar rays, the plane becomes
indistinguishable by looking like the sky. This is a stealth technique which can be used as
detection avoidance system for the deception against enemy surveillance, but it will be useful
only while flying in clear skies.
30. Jalada Roopa – This feature is similar to „Aakaashaakaara‟ but the major difference is, there
it makes the Vimana indistinguishable, but here it makes the Vimana look like a cloud. It is
described that Vimana will have cloud like appearance by collecting smoke of the solution
which is prepared by mixing bilva or bael oil, copper, salt, pomegranate juice, mustard
powder, granthika or gugul liquid, kitchen smoke and fish scale decoctions and adding sea
shell and rock salt powder and spreading the smoke with Solar heat enveloping the cover.
This is a very useful feature in strategic roles, especially for hiding the visibility of Vimana
while flying through overcast skies.
31. Stabdhaka – This is an effective tool which can be used both in strategic and tactic roles.
This is a feature where Apasmaara poison is projected through the northern side tube of the
plane to paralyse the people in the enemy aircraft. Apasmaara is considered as one of the
deadliest poisons and Stabhdaka is clearly a biological weapon which can be used only in
aerial engagements.
32. Karshana – This is a feature which is very useful in setting fire to the enemy planes
attacking in multiple numbers. This could be used both in strategic and tactic roles in crisis
situations.

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3.3. The aerial routes described in Vymanika Shastra
The section “Maargaadhikaranam” of Vymaanika Shastra describes five atmospheric regions
of the sky as classified by Shownaka. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: First
Chapter 1973) They are Rekhapatha, Mandala, Kakshya, Shakti and Kendra.

The sutra “ ” mentions that knowledge of these five regions are mandatory for a pilot.
Even today we classify our atmosphere into five divisions(wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter 09 : THE
ATMOSPHERE (AERIAL ROUTES) - AAVARTAAS 2001). They are Troposphere, Stratosphere,
Mesosphere, Thermosphere and Van Allen belts. We can compare the five regions of atmosphere
described in Vymanika Shastra and our current classification of atmospheric layers.

 Troposphere along with the Tropopause matches with lower most Rekhaapatha
 Lower Van Allen belts match with the uppermost Kendra region
 Thermosphere matches with Shakti patha
 Mesosphere differs in its height with Kakshya patha
 Stratosphere differs in its height with Mandala patha.

The difference in heights of Kakshya patha and Mandala patha could be mainly due to
change undergone by the atmosphere itself over a period of time. According to “Vaalmeeki
Ganita” and Dundhinaatha each and every region of the atmosphere has lakhs and crores of air
routes as listed below. Rekha - 7,03,00,800, Mandala – 20,08,00,20, Kakshya – 2,09,00,300,
Shakti – 10,01,300 and Kendra – 30,08,20

“Vaalmeeki Ganita” also describes the region of atmosphere suitable for flight of vimanas of
every loka.

 Sections 1 – 4 of Rekhaapatha – Bhooloka Vimanas dwellers

 Sections 3-5 of Mandala – Bhuvarloka, Suvarloka and Maholoka Vimanas dwellers
 Sections 2-5 of Kakshya – Janaloka Vimanas dwellers
 Sections 1- 6 of Shakti – Tapoloka Vimana dwellers
 Sections 3-11 in Kendra – Brahmaloka Vimana dwellers.

Vymaanika Shastra describes innumerable aerial whirlpools called „aavartaas‟. It mainly

classifies five whirlpools like Shaktyaavarta in Rekhaapatha region, Vatavarta in Mandala

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region, Kiranavarta in Kakshya region, Shytyaavarta in Shakti region, Gharshanaavarta in
Kendra region. They are Whirlpool of energy, Whirlpool of winds, Whirlpool from solar rays,
Whirlpool of cold currents and Whirlpool by collision respectively .It is described that these
whirlpools are destructive and sources of danger and hence pilot should know how to safely steer
clear of them. Science and Technological expertise of our ancient scientists can be measured by
the knowledge of five eddy concepts described by Shounaka. Eddies are produced whenever two
currents meet each other. Eddies in Rekha path cause power loss, in mandala path they cause air
turbulence, on Kakshya path they cause radiation, on Shakti path they cause cold turbulences and
on kendra path they cause frictional turbulences. Brahma Granth which is currently not available
also confirms that there are five types of turbulences. The aeroplanes are called as Brahmaloka
Vimanas. Heavy turbulences in transit zones are mainly due to high and low temperatures which
can be erratic.

3.4. Parts of Vimanas as per Vymaanika Shaastra

Vymaanika Shaastra describes 31 parts of vimanas as a corollary of 32 secret features of
Vimana (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: First Chapter, Angaanyekatrimsat.
Sootra 5 1973) . They are as follows.

1) Vishwakriyaadarpana - This is a mirror which can be used by the pilot for outside
views. Even though many of the commercial planes which we see currently doesn‟t have
rear view mirrors, fighter aircraft have them to watch out for crashing aircraft25.
2) Shaktyaakarshana darpana– This is an energy attracting mirror. It is used for
generating a paralyzing force by attracting the power in the second of the summer cloud
layer with Shaktyaakarshana darpana. This force can be applied to the Vimana to put
opposing vimana out of action.
3) Parivesha mechanism – This is a halo on the top of the vimana where forces attracted by
various mirrors can be passed to generate a paralyzing action.
4) Angopasamhaara yantra – This is a folding up yantra at the 7th bindukeelaka. It is the
yantra which is used to achieve contraction of vimanas when there is a danger ahead
while flying at high speed.

25
"Periscopes for Aircraft" Popular Mechanics, June 1956, p. 142.

51
5) Vistritakriyaa yantra – This yantra is used to perform the inverse function of
contraction. It is used to expand the wings of the vimanas as a flight protection measure
while flying in certain atmospheric zones.
6) Vyroopya darpana – This is a mirror which is used to achieve fierce shapes of Vimanas.
7) Padmachakramukha – This is a tube at the crest of the plane through which a kind of
smoke is passed to Vyroopya darpana to achieve fierce shapes of vimanas.
8) The Kuntinee Shakti mechanism - It is a mechanism which is to be in the neck of the
vimana and used to achieve shapes of animals to amaze and confuse the observers.
9) Pushpinee and pinjulaa darpana –These mirrors are mainly used to attract thirteen
kinds of karaka force to create flower and jewel like appearances to the onlookers of the
vimanas.
10) Naalapanchaka – There are the five pipes located at the front of the left side of the
vimana which are used to achieve sunlight glow during the night.
11) Guhaagarbha darpana – This is yantra in the front part of the stomach of the plane,
which attracts the force of ethereal glow and mingles it with the glow on the seventh
layer of air mass and projecting these forces through naalapanchaka to achieve morning
the glow of the sun during the night.
12) Thamoyantra – This is a yantra at the north western side of vimana to achieve illusory
darkness during the brightest part of the day.
13) Pancha Vaataskandha naala – This is a five limbed aerial tube in the western center of
the vimana through which electrical force is pushed to destroy everything as in
catacyclism.
14) Rowdree mirror – Predefined poisonous materials are brought in conjunction with
Rowdree mirror for bringing in insensibility in enemy forces.
15) Vaataskandha keelaka – This is the switch at the bottom center of vimana and is mainly
used for creating star spangled sky like appearances.
16) Shaktisthaana – It is at the front and right sides of the vimana for concentrating the air
forces.
17) Shabda kendra mukha – This is used to generate thunder sound to scare the enemy
forces.

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 18) Vidyutdwaadashaka – This is the electric force produced on the northeast side of
vimana to provide a leaping force to Vimana to take it to the safe zone.
19) Praanakundala –This the switch found at the moola of the vimana which helps in taking
vimana to safe zone.
20) Shaktiudgama – This part is used to produce energy at the center of the vimana.
21) Vakraprasaarana – This is used to achieve zig-zag motion like a serpent.
22) Shakthipanjara – This is the switch in the central portion of vimana to achieve a wave
speed of 4087 revolutions per hour to shake up the enemy plane.
23) Shirahkeelaka – This is the switch at the head of the vimana which helps vimana to
revolve with agility and provides omnidirectional view to face enemy planes attacking
from multiple directions.
24) Shabdaakarshaka yantra – This is a device at the shoulder of vimana used to listen to
the internal crew conversations from enemy aircraft.
25) Pata prasaarana yantra – This is a photographic device at the bottom center of vimana
through which we can observe things happening inside the enemy plane.
26) Dishaampatiyantra – This is a device at the left front of the vimana which shows the
direction from which enemy plane is attacked.
27) Pattikaabhraka – This is found at the center of the plane.
28) Surya Shaktyakarshana Panjaram – This is the solar power absorber found at the top
of the aircraft.
29) Sandhi naala mukha – “Apasmaara” or “poison gas” is projected through the tube to
make the people in enemy planes unconscious.
30) Sthambhana yantra – Apasmaara poison fumes are discharged through Strambana
yantra at the bottom of the vimana to make the people in enemy planes unconscious.
31) Vyshwaanara naala – Enemy plane can be destroyed by setting the flame in
Vyshwaanara naala in the center of the plane.

Each of these thirty one parts of vimanas is used for achieving specific features. Even the
modern aircraft which we see today have features for achieving some of these roles. But the way
these features are implemented will be totally different. As per “Vymanika Shastra
Rediscovered” project study, all these parts don‟t directly have one to one co-relation with secret
features on which the pilot is trained on. Many complex systems described in Vymanika Shastra

53
are not listed out here. Conceptualization and development of function specific aviation systems
have provided multiple role capabilities for vimana.

3.5. Metals used in the Construction of aircraft

The chapter “Lohaadhikaranam” of Vymaanika Shastra describes metals suitable for
airplane. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: First Chapter - Lohaadhikaranam:
Metals 1973)As per Shounaka there are three kinds of root metals suitable for aircraft. They are:

By mixing these three metals, it is described that sixteen heat absorbing metals can be
produced. They are:

॰इ ॱ २४० ॱ (Shastry 1973 : २०)

These are nothing but the alloys of the three root metals which can be used for the
manufacturing of varieties of Vimanas. It is described that identified layers of the earth‟s crust
have the three root metals in ore form and there are around three thousand metal bearing layers
in the earth‟s crust. The two master texts on Metallurgy which are described are „Loha Tantra‟
and „ Loha Kalpa‟.

The texts “Maanibhadra Kaarika” or “Dictas of Manibhadra” quotes that

॰ ॱ

॰ ॱ (Shastry
and Josyer, Vymaanika Shaastra - Aeronautics by Maharshi Bharadwaaja 1973)

This means metals which are suitable for the production of airplanes should be of light
weight and they are sixteen heat absorbing metals listed by Shounaka in his sutra. Only these

54
sixteen metals/alloys are used in the production of Vimanas as per “Varishtaneeti Shastra” of
ancient scholars.

In Lohaadhikaranam of Vymaanika Shaastra it is mentioned that Saamba has described

the 16 alloys formed by mixing क, क and क which are non-heat conductors.
Saamba has further described that the metals of Soma series are found in the third mine of the
seventh layer of the earth which are of 38 types. Three „Ooshmalohas‟ or „heat resisting metals‟
can be extracted from them.

As per „Loha tantra‟ or „Science of metals‟, metals of Souma class called „Beeja lohaas‟
or „root-metals‟ with five special qualities are found in the third section of the seventh layer of
the earth. The very interesting aspect is, it is described that earth has 3000 metal bearing layers,
out of which 1300 layers have good quality metals and the text „Loha kalpa‟ describes the origin
of „Soma‟ class of metals. Metals of various grades and qualities are formed when gravitational
forces of the earth, sun, moon, solar flood, air forces etc. enters the different layers of the earth in
specified proportion aided by moisture.

It is described that, as per the text “Naamaarta Kalpa” sage Atri has named Soma class of
metals with their names indicating their distinct qualities.

:॰

इ ॰(Shastry 1973 : २१)

For example, “ ” consists of the sounds „ ‟, „औ‟, „ ‟ and „ ‟ where each sound is
indicative of forces like „oceanic force‟, „solar force‟ and other concerned forces. (Shastry and
Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: First Chapter - Lohaadhikaranam: Metals 1973).Vymaanika
Shastra describes a separate section called “Loohasuddhyaadhikaranam” for the purification of
metals. The interesting fact is that various types of naturally available materials and Ayurvedic
materials are used in the process.

The process of purification of Soma metal is described as follows.

॰ ॱ

55
 ॰ ॱ

॰ ॱ

ॱ३०५ॱ (Shastry 1973 : २३ - २४)

Here means „citron juice‟, क means „lime juice‟, means „castor‟, means

„tamarind‟ and means „rose apple juice‟.

Figure 3-1: Citron26, Rose apple27

The text „Samskaaradarpana‟ lists out the five oils, four acids and seven decoctions in
which Soma metal should be washed and boiled then filtered with Kaashaaya cloth. They are:

ॱ (Shastry 1973 :२४)

English translation of Vymanika Shastra describes equivalent English names of only a
few of the acids, salts and decoctions. Among the oils means „Wild liquorice oil‟,

means „castor oil‟ and क means „Indian beach oil‟. Among the acids means
„Ammonium chloride‟. Finally among the decoctions means „asafoetida‟,

means „spikenard‟, means „white gourd‟ and means „Hongone soppu‟.

26
“Citron.” Wikipedia. N.p., n.d. Web.
27
“Rose Apple.” Wikipedia. N.p., n.d. Web.

56
 Figure 3-2: Wild Liquorice, Karanja 28 29

Figure 3-3: Parpata, Jatamansi 30 31

Figure 3-4: White gourd, Matsyaakshee 32 33

28
“Astragalus Glycyphyllos - Wikipedia.” Web. 28 Aug. 2017.
29
“Karanja (Millettia Pinnata).” Feedipedia. N.p., n.d. Web.
30
“Fumitory Uses,Fumaria Indica,Parpata,.” N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Aug. 2017.
31
“Jatamansi, Spikenard (Nardostachys Jatamansi) - Properties, Benefits & Dosage.” N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Aug.
2017.
32
“Wax Gourd / White Gourd.” Wikipedia. N.p., n.d. Web.
Grubben, GJH. “Benincasa Hispida.” www.missouribotanicalgarden.org. N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Aug. 2017.
33
“Matsyaakshee – Hongone Soppu | VYASARAJEEYAM.” N.p., 2010. Web. 1 Feb. 2018.

57
 If we look at the materials used in the purification process, each one of them is plant
extracts with medicinal value. Citron is nothing but a type of lime called “Heerale Hannu” or
“Maadaala” in Kannada and is rich in Vitamin C. Castor seed oil contains Ricinoleic acid, Oleic
acid and Linoleic acid. Tamarind juice comprises of Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorous,
Potassium, sodium and Zinc. Rose apples34 (Morton) also consist of Calcium, Magnesium,
Phosphorous, Iron, Sodium, potassium, carotene, chlorine, copper, Thiamine, Riboflavin,
Niacin, sulphur and Ascorbic acid. White Liquorice has choline, trigonelline, abrin, precatorine,
abricin, abraline, gallic acids, abridin, abrectorin and several amino acids. Karanja oil is
commonly known as „Honge oil‟ or Pongamia seeds and oil is anthelmintic, styptic, and
depurative. Parpata plant consists of alkaloids, Tannins, fumaric acid and other non-alkaloid
constituents. The chemical components of Jatamansi oil or Spikenard oil are bornyl acetate,
valeranone, jonon, tetramenthyloxatricylodecanol, menthylthymyl-ether and 1,8-cineol35
(“Spikenard Oil (Nardostachys Jatamansi)- Information on the Origin, Source, Extraction
Method, Chemical Composition, Therapeutic Properties and Uses.”). The major constituents of
white gourd are Amino acids, mucins, mineral salts, vitamins B and C, fixed oil, 44%; starch,
32%; an alkaline, cucurbitine; an acid resin; the proteids, myosin and vitellin; and sugar, 4%.36
Matsyaakshee herb has ester, hydrocarbons, and various sterols. It also contains 24-
methylenecycloartanol and cycloeucalenol.37(“ALTERNANTHERA SESSILIS (L.) R. Br.”)

Considering the chemical constituents of the herb oils/extracts or decoctions used in the
purification of Soma metal it is very difficult to decide why these were used for the purification
process. But one fact which we can understand from this is our ancient scholars had deep
knowledge of the constituents of flora and fauna available to them and hence were able to use
them for purification of metals.

The process of purification of Soundaala metal is described as follows.

1. The steps 1 to 3 remains same as that of steps used for purification of Soma metal with regard to
boiling in the cauldron.

34
Morton, J. 1987. Rose Apple. p. 383–386. In: Fruits of warm climates. Julia F. Morton, Miami, FL.
35
“Spikenard Oil (Nardostachys Jatamansi).” N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Feb. 2018.
36
“Kondol /Benincasa Hispida / WHITE GOURD MELON.” N.p., n.d. Web.
37
“ALTERNANTHERA SESSILIS (L.) R. Br.” N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Feb. 2018.

58
 2. Then finally six acids, seven oils and five decoctions are used in the process of purification.
They are:
a. Seven oils as described in Samskaara Darpana are as described below.
इ ॰ (Shastry 1973 :२४)

Here means Ingudi, is a Reddish herb and means wine of red grapes.
b. Six Acids are Angola, sumushti, shanka, ballata, kaakola and viranjaka.
ॱ (Shastry 1973 :२४)
c. Five decoctions are as described below.
॰ (Shastry 1973 :२४)

Here क means horse gram, means mustard, क means wheat decoctions and
क क means gruels.

Figure 3-5: Ingudi38

It is described that purification process of Mourthweeka metal is also similar to

Soundaala but it should be boiled with , क or Kudupa acid and
leather decoction. By studying these metal purification processes described in Vymanika Shastra
we observe that only organic, naturally available plant extract oils, acids and decoctions are used
in the process of purification of metals. A detailed research is required by experts in the field of
Rasa Shastra and herbal extracts. Such research can bring out revolutionary findings in the
process of purification of metals using environment friendly organic materials.

38
“Ingudi: Sarcostigma Kleinii.” N.p., n.d. Web. 28 Aug. 2017.

59
3.6. Heat absorbing metals
The second chapter of Vymaanika Shastra describes heat absorbing metals. The sutra states
that “ ”. Heat absorbing metals are referred to as Ooshmapas. This means
Ooshmapa metals are made up of three metals. They are Souma, Soundaala and Mourthweeka. It
is described that the text “Loha Rathnakara” mentions about the various seed metals formed by
these three metals. Each of these three metals has small groups.

Souma Soundeera Mourthweeka

Souma Viranchi Anuka

Soumyaka Sooryapa Dvyanuka

Sundaasya Shanku Kanaka

Soma Ushna Tryanuka

Panchaanana Soorana Shveetaambara

Ooshmapa Shinjikaa Mridambara

Shaktigarbha Kanku Baalagarbha

Jaangaalika Ranjika Kuvarcha

Praananana Soundeera Kantaka

Shanka Mughda Kshvinka

Laaghava Ghundaaraka Laghavika

It is described that the text “Lohatantra” mentions about the production of various metals by
mixing the metals in the required proportion and melting them.

1. Ushnambhara Metal - It is formed by mixing the numbers 10, 5 and 8 of Soma, Soundala
and Mourthweeka group of metals respectively in the proportion 1:3:7 and mixing with one
third the quantity of thankana or borax and melting in crucible.
This can be explained as follows.

60
 Number 10 of Soma, Soundala and Mourthweeka group of metals are Shanka, Mughda
and Kshvinka.
 Number 5 of Soma, Soundala and Mourthweeka group of metals are Panchaanana,
Soorana and Shveetaambara.
 Number 8 of Soma, Soundala and Mourthweeka group of metals are Jaangaalika,
Ranjika and Kuvarcha.
 Number 10 metals should be taken in proportion 1, Number 5 metals should be taken in
the proportion 3 and Number 8 metals should be taken in the proportion 7 and all the
three groups should be mixed together with 1/3rd of Borax and melted in a crucible to
produce Ushnambhara metal.
Similarly, other heat absorbing metals listed below are produced by taking metal numbers
mentioned in the below table respectively in three groups and mixing them in the proportion
of mentioned in the table below and then mixing in thankana and melting in crucible.

Sl. No. Heat Absorbing Metal Metal Numbers Proportion

2 Ooshma Metal 3,5, and 7 4:1:8

3 Ooshmahana Metal 2,5 and 9 6:3:7

4 Raaja Metal 3,8 and 2 6:3:7

5 Aamlatrit 9,7 and 1 10:7:8

6 Veeraha 6,4 and 5 5:5:12

7 Panchaghna 8,6 and 4 20:18:26

8 Agnitrit 5,2 and 10 30:20:10

9 Bhaarahana 7,11 and 6 5:12:7

10 Sheetahana 10,9 and 3 22:08:10

11 Garalaghna 11,10 and 11 20:30:8

61
 12 Aamlahana 11,8 and 4 20:12:36

13 Vishambhara 19,8 and 10 20:12:6

14 Vishalyakrit 3,5 and 11 20:12:6

15 Dwijamitra 8,3 and 9 5:8:10

16 Vaatamitra 8,6 and 5 22:8:10

The process remains same but there is a change in the combination of metals and the
proportions in which they are mixed and melted.

3.7. Crucible best suited for melting metals used for preparation of the aircraft
Our ancient scholars have given importance to crucibles in which metals are melted. There is
a chapter called “Mooshaadhikaranam” in Vymaanika Shaastra which describes the specific type
of crucible required for melting metals required for the preparation of the aircraft.(Shastry and
Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Second Chapter - Mooshaadhikaranam: The Crucible 1973) It
is described that the text “Niranyaadhikaara” mentions 407 types of crucibles to melt superior,
medium and inferior metals.

It is described that second group of crucible suits the best to melt the root metals. It is
described that the text “Mooshakalpa” describes the art of making crucibles which are used to
melt the metals used in the production of vimanas.

The processes of preparation of these crucibles are described below.

Materials Required:

“Gingelly manure or black gram flour: 8 parts, Metal rust: 4 parts, Metal: 3 parts,
Laangalee or jussieuea repens or gloriosa superba: 3 parts, Gum Arabic: 6 parts, Ruruka:
2 parts, Salt-petre: 3 parts, Creepers: 5 parts, Charcoal:6 parts, Five kinds of grasses: 5
paarts, Paddy Husk ashes: 4 parts, Red arsenic:2 parts, Naagakesara:2 parts, Varolika
flower:5 papers, Borax:5 parts, Black Laamancha or scented grass or andropogon
muricatus: 2 parts, Sindoora or red ochre: 5 parts, Gunja seeds or wild liquorice:2 parts
and Sea foam:4 parts.” (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Second Chapter -
Mooshaadhikaranam: The Crucible 1973: 20-21)

62
Procedure:

The above listed items are to be powdered into fine flour and mixed with equal quantity of
gum and five parts of earth and dust. The mixture is then baked with Shivaaree oil for 9 hours.
Once the contents form a proper fluid it should be poured to the nozzle of crucible mould and
allowed to rest. This resultant crucible is known as “Antarmukha” which is used for melting
metals used in the preparation of Vimanas. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra:
Second Chapter - Mooshaadhikaranam: The Crucible 1973:21)

Analysis:

If we observe the materials, most of them are naturally available materials which our ancient
scholars could find around them. This shows that they knew the technique of building crucibles
using materials which were available to them.By studying this we understand that, various types
of crucibles were used to melt different type of metals and the materials used, the procedure of
preparations of each crucible was different. This shows that our ancient scholars had good
knowledge in all these areas.

3.8. The Fireplace - Vyaasatikaas

Vymaanika Shaastra dedicates a section called “Vyaasatikaadhikaranam” to describe the
fireplace used for melting vimana metals. It is described that specific type of furnace “fireplace
number 9 and class 7” suits the best for melting the seed metals for Vimanas and there are five
hundred and thirty two varieties of “Vyaasatikaas or fire places”. “Koorma Vyaasatika” or
“Tortoise shaped fire-place” suits the best for melting seed metals used for Vimana. (Shastry and
Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Second Chapter - Athha Vyaasatikaadhikaranam: The Fire-
Place 1973: 21) The process of constructing the fire-place as per the text “Kunda-nirnaya” is as
described below.

 A ten feet wide circular or quadrilateral furnace should be constructed on a prepared

ground and shaped like a tortoise.
 A tortoise shaped pedestal with five faces should be constructed to place the bellows.
 Arrangements for placing the crucible should be made in the furnace‟s central portion.
 Both the sides of the furnace should have an enclosure for stocking the charcoal and
contrivance for getting the molten metal.
63
 The “bellows” used in the fireplace are also described in the text. A small section called
“Bastrikaadhikaranam” describes the “Bellows” used in fireplaces. It is described that the text
“Bastrikaa Nibandhana” categorizes 532 kinds of furnace and hence 532 varieties of bellows.
Bellow number 16 in 8th class suits the best for tortoise shaped furnace. This concept of using
furnace and bellows is similar to that of blast furnace used by ancient Chinese for smelting iron
ore. (“Ancient China‟s Technology”)

Figure 3-6: A Chinese Blast Furnace39

3.9. Mirrors and Lenses used in aircraft

Vymaanika Shaastra dedicates a chapter “Dharpanadhikaranam” to describe the mirrors and
lenses used in aircraft. It is described that the text “Muruka-kalpa” mentions seven different
types of mirrors which are required to be installed in Vimanas. (Shastry and Josyer, The
Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:22) (“ - AERONAUTICS !!
PART-6 !!”) They are:

1. Vishwakriyaa Darpana:
It is a “Television mirror” which should be fitted on a revolving stand near the pilot so that
he can observe whatever is happening outside in all the directions. (Shastry and Josyer, The

39
“Ancient China‟s Technology.” East West Dialogue. N.p., n.d. Web. 4 Feb. 2018.

64
Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:23) It is described that the text “Kriyaasaara”
describes the manufacture of Vishwakriyaa darpana as follows.

Required Materials:

“Satva:2 parts, Eye pigment:3 parts, Pearl dust:8 parts, Snake‟s slough:8 parts,
Shundilaka:2 parts, Burning coal:1 part, Red lead:5 parts, Eagle bone:1 part, Mercury:5
parts, Maatrunna:6 parts, Foot-nails of Sinchoranee:2 parts, Mica:6 parts, Eyeballs of
Sowmyaka fish:18 parts, Granite sand:10 parts, Salts:8 parts, Lead:4 parts, Sea foam:2
parts, White throated eagle‟s skin:3 parts, Bamboo Salt:7 parts and Vyraajya or white keg
tree bark:5 parts”(Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:23)

Procedure:

All the ingredients should be purified and weighed. It should then be placed in a beaked
crucible and placed in Chandodara furnace subjected to 800 degree heat. Once liquefied, it
should be poured into the funnel of Khara-darpana yantra or hand-mirror mould. This will result
in an excellent mirror which reproduces all the minute details of all the outside phenomena.
(Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:23)

Analysis:

If we observe the materials required for the construction of Vishwakriyaa darpana, it really
surprises us. The questions which come to our mind are:

 What do we mean by Satva, Shundilaka, Sinchoranee, Maatrunna etc.?

 How could eagle‟s bone, Snake‟s slough, eagle‟s skin, eyeballs of Sowmyaka fish, eye
pigment etc. be used in the construction of television mirror? Even though we know the
hypersensitive optical properties of eagle, fish and pearls, how those materials could be used
for the manufacture of mirrors.
 Are these real materials or they are in coded form where we will have to decipher the actual
materials?
 Sometimes the materials look so stupid that we start thinking whether the author is trying to
fool us by mentioning that this text is written by Maharshi Bharadwaja.

65
 We even start thinking if our ancient scholars had technology beyond what we can
understand.

If research is carried out to decipher the actual meaning of the materials listed out it would be
a valuable contribution which might bring in astonishing results. But what we can summarize is a
Television aid to pilot is a very useful pre-flight and in flight information to the pilot based on
which he can decide his course of action. We will have to appreciate our ancient scholars for
their view on using this Vimana in reconnaissance and surveillance roles.

2. Shaktyakarshana Darpana

This is a power-capturing mirror which is capable of neutralizing and overcoming the effects
of three classes of destructive forces when the vimana flies through various regions of the sky. It
is described that ancient scholar Dundinaathaachaarya mentions that Shaktyaakarshana Darpana
absorbs and nullifies the evil forces produced by trivargas such as Wind, Solar rays and fire
which produces 122 evil effects on the plane‟s pilot. As per the scholar Paraankusha
Shaktyakarshana darpana safeguards the pilot against 366 malefic influences of wind, Solar heat
and fire in certain regions of the sky.

The process of preparation of this Darpana is as described below.

Materials Required:

“Haritaala or yellow orpiment:5 parts, Virinchi:5 parts, Salts:5 parts, Gingelly

husk:4 parts, Diamond:6 parts, Red mica:1 part, Burning coal:8 parts, Sand:3 parts,
Tortoise egg:2 parts, Bhaarani:3 parts, Kanda: 3 parts, Powshkala:5 parts, Coral:5,
Pearl:2, Seashell:6, Borax:8 parts, Bengal quince seed:3 parts and Shankha or conch:5”
(Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:23-24)

Procedure:

The above listed materials should be cleaned, powdered and filling in swan crucible.
Crucible should be placed in Mandooka furnace and boiled to 500 degrees. (Shastry and Josyer,
The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:24) This should then be poured into the Vistritaa-
mirror yantra, which will yield shaktyaakarshana mirror.

66
Analysis:

Shaktyaakarshana darpana is a power capturing mirror which nullifies all the destructive
forces in certain crucial regions of the sky. But the fact which we have to research here is how
the above listed materials which are used in the construction of this mirror brings in this
capability of nullifying malefic influences. We don‟t know the meanings of Virinchi, Bhaarani,
Kanda and Powshkala used in the manufacturing of these mirrors. But as mentioned in
“Vymanika Shastra Rediscovered” the main fact we understand here is this darpana was being
used as a flight safety device against harmful atmospheric effects. (wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter
15: MIRRORS--DARPANADHIKARANAM)

2. Vyroopya Darpana

Vyroopya darpana acts like a magical mirror which will change the appearance of the
Vimana into frightening shapes when enemy planes with men intent to attack our Vimana.
(Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:24) The fearful shape
produced frightens the enemies into retreat or renders them unconscious by displaying or
paralyzing them. It is described that Vyroopya Darpana can produce 27 different shapes.
Seventeen such shapes like scorpion, bear, lion, tiger, lightning, fumes, fire, water, wind, birds,
thunder and giant sized frightful birds are mentioned in the text “Sammohana Kriyaa Kaanda”.
The manufacturing process of this mirror is described as follows.

Materials Required:

“Bone salt:5 parts, Zinc:3 parts, Lac:3, Iron:8, Shasabola:8, Raajakurantika:2,

Charcoal ashes:8 parts, Borax:3, Nakhaa:8 parts, Sand:7, Matrunna:6, Sun-crystal: 2,
Poora or lime:3 parts, Mercury:25, Yellow orpiment:3, Silver:4 parts, Kravyaada:6,
Garada:8, Pishta:3, Arshoghna root:4 parts, Vaaraaha pittha:3 parts, Ammonium
chloride:3 and Liquorice oil:25.” (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third
Chapter 1973:24)

Procedure:

All these materials should be taken, purified seven times and filled in a crucible. Crucible
filled with these materials should be placed in a furnace and boiled to 800 degrees. The resultant

67
should be poured into the Darpanaasya yantra to yield an excellent Vyraajaka mirror. (Shastry
and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:24)

Analysis:

When we think of a mirror projecting the appearance of Vimana into frightening shapes it
seems like a fantasy. But Vymanika Shastra doesn‟t seem to be a mere literary fiction text, but
rather supposed to be an ancient shastra which describes the technology of the past. Many of the
materials required for the manufacturing of this Vimana are unknown to us. As described in
“Vymanika Shastra Rediscovered” the important point which we understand here is that our
ancient scholars had their own techniques to create illusory shapes to produce scary images or
animations to confuse the attacking enemy pilots.(wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter 15: MIRRORS--
DARPANADHIKARANAM)

3. Kuntinee Darpana

It is described that by glaring at the rays of Kuntinee mirror peoples mind gets deranged. As
per the ancient scholar Paraankusha, “seven streams of poisonous whirl- winds derange the
minds of pilot in the region of solar electric heat waves of the sky”. It is described that Kuntinee
mirror acts as a protection against the evil effect. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra:
Third Chapter 1973:24- 25) The evil forces described in the text “Sammohana-kriyaa- kaanda”
are fat, blood, flesh, marrow, bone and skin. It is described that evil wind currents known as
Galinee, Kuntinee, Kaalee, Pinjulaa, Ulbanaa, Maraa in the electric heat wave region of the sky
adversely affects the intelligence of pilots. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third
Chapter 1973:24- 25) As per the text “Darpana Prakarana” the manufacturing process of this
mirror is explained as follows.

Materials Required:

“Sowraashtra earth:5 parts, Sea-shells:3,Suranghrikaa:7 parts, Snake‟s slough:7

parts, Salts:8, Gingelly oil:5, Elephant and camel salts:4, Shanmukha seeds:5, Yellow
Orpiment:3 parts, Rhinoceros nail:3 parts, Zinc:8 parts, Matrunna:6 parts, Mercury:8,
Sand:7, Conch:4, Sea-foam:3, Pearl shells:8 and Camphor:4 parts” (Shastry and Josyer,
The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:25)

68
Procedure:

 All the materials are purified and filled in Shinjikaa crucible.

 A crucible is placed in Shinjeera furnace and boiled to 700 degrees
 The fluid is poured into the Darpanaasya yantra to form a morning sun like Kuntinee mirror.

Analysis:

The important fact we understand here is this mirror being used as a safety gadget to counter
evil atmospheric effects which derange the minds of the pilots. Since we do not understand the
significance of the above listed materials used in the manufacture of Kuntinee mirror in bringing
in abilities to counter evil atmospheric effects on the minds of the pilot we are unable to
appreciate the technicalities behind this.

4. Pinjulaa Darpana

Pinjulaa is defined as the conflicting interaction of the solar rays which has a deleterious
effect on black eye balls of the pilots. Pinjulaa mirror protects the pilot‟s eye balls from being
blinded by evil rays. It is described that the text “Amshubhodini” which is a work on solar rays
mentions eight directions. The solar force on each direction has its own intensity, fire-force and
seasonal forces. The effect of the resulting tension from five winds combined with liquid forces
of clouds gives rise to four evil forces Andha, Andhakaara, pinjoosha and taarapaa whose glows
known as rakta, jaathara, taaraagra and prabha strigking the eyeballs creates the blindness of both
the eyes. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:25)

The process of manufacture of Pinjulaa Darpana is described as follows.

Materials Required:

“Goat‟s milk:6 parts, Red lead:5 parts, Salts:8 parts, Sand:7 parts, Tree gum:5
parts, Borax:8 parts, Dambholi essence:2 parts, Mercury:2 parts, Copper:2 parts, Lead:2,
Surolika essence:4 parts, Twak:8 parts, Vaardhyushika:3 parts, Kanda:3, Pishta or
gingelly husk:4 parts, Orpiment:3 parts, Tinnevelli Senna:7 parts and Vrikodaree seeds:4
parts.” (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:25)

Procedure:

69
 All the above materials should be purified, powdered and filled in crucible. Crucible
should be placed in the furnace and boiled upto 700 degrees. This mixture when poured in
Darpana yantra yields excellent pinjulaa mirror. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra:
Third Chapter 1973:25)

Analysis:

It is important for pilots who always travel in the sky to protect themselves, especially their
eyes from the adverse solar rays. Pinjulaa mirror acts as an essential protective device for the
pilots.

5. Guhaagarbha Darpana

Guhaagarbha darpana attracts the harmful forces generated by the conflict between the
electricity in the clouds, winds and rays and projects them by electric force against enemy planes
which renders people inside the enemy plane physically disabled and incapable of
fighting.(Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:26) As per the
ancient text Prapanchasaara, various harmful forces like bubbles are produced when cloud force,
wind force and solar force interplay by mutual action. As per the ancient scholar Lallacharya,
when cloud power, wind power and solar power meet with force and collide it produces
poisonous effects dangerous to mankind. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third
Chapter 1973:26) As per the scholar Vashishta, like how egg comes out of tortoise poisonous
flow naturally results when alien forces cross one another. As per the text “Sammohana Kriyaa
kaanda”, 305105 poisonous waves known as Guha is produced by the conflict of the cloud force,
wind force and the solar forces. Important ones are grishnee, godhaa, kunjaa, roudree and
guhaa.The process of manufacture of Guhaa garbha darpana is described as follows.

Materials Required:

“Couries:7 parts, Manjulaa or Madder root:3 parts, Sea-foam:6 parts, Ranjaka or

Phosporous:8 parts, Mandoora or rust:6 parts, Mercury:8 parts, Orpiment:3 parts,
Brahmika:7 parts, Lead ; 2 parts, Eye pigment:8 parts, Kishoraa:6 parts, Muchukundaa:5,
Gingelly oil:2 parts, Lohikaa:25, Mridaani garbha essence:5 parts, Sowraasthtra earth:8,
Spathika:5 parts, Bones:3, Indusatva:15 and Dambholi taakaa dwaya satva:5.” (Shastry
and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:26)

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Procedure:

All the above materials should be purified, powdered and filled in crucible. Crucible
should be placed in the furnace and boiled upto 700 degrees. This mixture is then cooled in
yantra to produce guhaa garbha darpana. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third
Chapter 1973:27)

Analysis:

Guhaa garbha darpana seems to be a biological weapon which uses harmful energies
available from the environment as a weapon against enemy forces.(wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter
15: MIRRORS--DARPANADHIKARANAM) It is interesting to understand that our natural forces
like wind and solar forces have the power to even create physical disability when projected
against enemy planes.

6. Rowdree Darpana

It is described that Roudree mirror has the power of liquefying everything that it flashes
against. As per the scholar Paraankusha, when two forces Roudraanyosharaa and Abhralinga
collide with each other a fierce Rowdree force is produced which when mingled with solar rays
melts everything. As per the text “Sammohana kriyaa kaanda” an evil force called Maarikaa is
generated by mixing of roudree and solar rays, when this force is impelled by solar electricity, it
destroys the enemy planes. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter
1973:27) The process of manufacture of Rowdree mirror is described below.

Materials Required:

“Lead:8 parts, Shaalmali:3 parts, Durvaara:7, Kudupinjara:8 parts, Droonee:21

parts, Sun-crystal:8 parts, Rudraanee-graavoshara:27 parts, Betel leaves:6 parts,
Kowtila:8 parts, Veeraabhra linga:30, Salts:8 parts, Sand:7, Matrunna:6 parts,
Dimbhika:3, Zinc:8, Ant-hill earth:13, Gum:6, Kumbhinee:3, Sweet oil:3, Tinnevelly
senna:27, Godhaamla:6, Silk cotton:8, Virinchi satva:8 parts, Kanda:5 parts, Yellow
orpiment:3 parts and Kaarmukha or brown barked acacia:7 parts.” (Shastry and Josyer,
The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Third Chapter 1973:27)

Procedure:

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 All the above materials should be purified, powdered and filled in crucible. Crucible
should be placed in the furnace and boiled upto 800 degrees. This mixture is then cooled in
darpana yantra to produce fine roudree darpana. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra:
Third Chapter 1973:27)

Analysis:

The interesting fact here is the power of melting everything which it is projected upon.
Detailed study is required to understand the materials used in these mirrors. When we try to
understand the materials used in the manufacturing of all these mirrors, some of the materials are
common in all types of mirrors. What we can try to understand is that the materials which re
different in each mirror might be giving specific quality to that mirror. Research with deep
understanding of Ayurveda, ancient chemistry and metallurgy is required decipher the materials
used and manufacture the mirrors as per the text.

3.10. Power sources of Ancient Vimanas

Vymanika Shastra dedicates a chapter called “Shaktyadhikaranam” to describe the power
sources of aircraft. It describes seven operating forces.

॰ ॱ

॰ इ ॱ
(Shastry 1973: ३८)

As per the text Yantrasarvasva it is described that motors which produces these forces should
be installed at predefined locations with necessary fixtures. The seven motors with the power
produced by them are described as follows.

॰ ॱ

॰ ॱ

॰ ॱ

ॱ (Shastry 1973: ३८ - ३९)

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 The seven sources and kinds of power as per the text Shounaka Sutra are:

ॱ (Shastry 1973: ३९)

As per “Soudaaminee-kalaa” the seven vimanic forces and their power are described as
below.

॰ ॱ

॰ ॱ

ॱ(Shastry 1973: ३९)

Here Ma is udgamaa, La is panjaraa, Ya is solar heat absorber, Ra is the solar dozen, Sa is

alien force absorber, Va is kuntinee and Na is primary force. (Shastry and Josyer, The
Vymaanika-Shaastra: Fourth Chapter 1973: 29)

As per “Kriyaa-saara” the actions of the above forces are described as below.

1. Udgamaa shakti – Ascent of the Vimana

2. Panjaraa-shakti – Descent of the Vimana
3. Shaktyapakarshinee - Solar heat absorbing
4. Parashakty snatcher – Restraining the Alien force
5. Vidyud-dwaadashaka-shakti - Spectacular motion of the Vimana

As per the text “Soudaaminee-kalaa” there are twelve kinds of Spectacular motions of
Vimana with twelve motive forces. They are anti-clockwise motion, circling, circumambulating,
descending, mounting, proceeding, receding, remaining, shuddering, speeding, sidewise motion,
motionless and performing miscellaneous motions.

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 Maharshi Bharadwaja describes that as per Narayana, there are only five forces but not
twelve. As per Shakti Sarvasva these five sources provide five types of motions. They are
chaalana, gaalana, Panjaraprerana, Vakraapasarpana and spectacular maneuvering.

Vimanas can perform Spectacular maneuvers mainly because of chitrinee shakti. Panjaraa
Shakti is the most important shakti produced by sadyojaata mechanism and it emanates the
chaalana and other four mechanisms. Some even hold that each of the seven shaktis are capable
of producing the 32 motions. Shaktyaadhikarana concludes that seven forces are the true causes
of 32 kinds of activities of Vimanas. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Fourth
Chapter 1973: 30)

If we think about the power sources of modern aircraft batteries play a very important role.
787 Dreamliner has two primary rechargeable batteries, the main and the auxiliary power units.
(“Boeing - Batteries and Advanced Airplanes | Plane Spotters India” 2013)Aircraft systems are
powered up by the main batteries before the start of the engine. Generators provide the electrical
energy to run the systems once the engine is started. Main battery also provides backup for
critical systems in the aircraft in case of power failures. APU batteries provides the power to start
the Auxiliary power unit which is used to start the aircraft engines.(“Batteries and Advanced
Airplanes - Boeing 787 Updates”)

74
 Figure 3-7: Batteries used in 787 Dreamliner 40

Solar powered aircraft Solr Impulse 2 is very popular since past few years. It has
travelled around the world for about 40000 kms without fuel from Abu Dhabi (departure and
arrival Host City), to India, Myanmar, China, Japan, U.S.A and back to Europe and Abu Dhabi.
(“Solar Impulse - Around the World to Promote Clean Technologies”) But it still sounds as an
unrealistic option for mass transit of passengers as its solar panels and wide wing span is
currently capable of carrying only the aircraft and the pilot for any significant distance. (Wilson
2015)

40
“Batteries and Advanced Airplanes - Boeing 787 Updates.” N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Feb. 2018.

75
 Figure 3-8: Solar Impulse 241

An aircraft which uses mechanical power generated by aircraft engines for onboard
propulsions is called Powered aircraft. The earliest design used manpower to control dirigible
balloons. Heavier than air man powered aircraft succeeded only in the year 1977. Steam powered
aircraft were being thought of since 1852 but there were failures in integrating lightweight steam
engines to fixed wing airframe. Wright brothers introduced the first controlled powered fixed
wing aircraft which used propellers turned by internal combustion piston engine. Spinning blades
of Rotorcraft provide lift for helicopters. Hot air balloon requires a gas burner as a power source
for lift and hence is considered as powered aircraft. We the have jet propulsion and rocket
powered aircraft. We even have nuclear powered aircraft which is intended to be powered by
nuclear energy.

41
“Solar Impulse 2 Completes Pacific Ocean Crossing - Energy Matters.” N.p., n.d. Web. 1 Feb. 2018.

76
 Figure 3-9: NB-36H - The US aircraft carrying a nuclear reactor42

3.11. Various Yantras and its parts as described in Vymanika Shastra

The fifth chapter of Vymaanika Shastra “Yantraadhikaranam” describes various Mechanical
contrivances required for the aircraft.(Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Fifth
Chapter) The project study “Vymaanika Shaastra Rediscovered” clearly summarizes the yantras
described in Vymaanika Shastra.

1. Vishwa Kriyaa Darshana Darpana

It is described that „true to life‟ pictures of ground environment can be produced by using the
Vishwa kriya darshana darpana. Here the author tries to describe a photo device with telescopic
arrangement which can be used to take the pictures of activities on the ground from the Vimana
so that the pilot can take either defensive action or to assume attack mode.

Cameras were used in the aircraft for the first time during the First and Second World War.
During our visit to „Australian National Aviation Museum, Moorabbin in January 2018, we saw
the different types of Cameras used in old aircrafts. We can conceptually compare those cameras
with Vishwa Kriyaa Darshana Darpana.

42
“Nuclear-Powered Aircraft.” N.p., n.d. Web.

77
 Figure 3-10: F.24 Universal Camera used in RAF Bristol Blenheim bomber aircraft 43

As mentioned in the note in front of the above F.24 camera at Australian National Aviation
Museum, Moorabbin, this F.24 Universal Camera was first developed for Royal Airforce in the
year 1925. It was a Standard Camera for day and night photography during the early years of
Second World War. In the above photograph the crew member of RAF Bristol Blenheim bomber
demonstrates the use of hand-held F.24 Camera in the year 1940. This camera could be fitted
with a variety of lenses from 5inch to 20 inch and used film magazines of 125 or 250 exposures
to produce 5 inch by 5 inch images. As the war progressed F.24 was superseded by more
powerful cameras though it was continued to be used for lower level “tactical” reconnaissance
well into the 1950s. (“Australian National Aviation Museum, Moorabbin”)

44
Figure 3-11: P-14 Cameras used in aircrafts during 1923

43
The photograph of F.24 Universal Camera is taken by Shruthi.K.R. at Australian National Aviation Museum,
Moorabbin on 5th Jan 2018.

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As mentioned in the note in front of the above P-14 camera at Australian National Aviation
Museum, Moorabbin, towards the end of First World War it was decided to give all cameras that
used glass plate negatives the prefix „P‟, all film cameras the prefix „F‟ and gun cameras the
prefix „G‟. In 1917 the all metal P-14 Camera replaced the wooden A type for taking hand held
oblique photographs. It was fitted with 10 inch lens and could be fairly easily held steady against
the force of 65mph slipstream. The museum‟s example was manufactured by the Houghton-
Butcher Mfg Co Ltd of London in 1923. The printed photograph in the above figure
demonstrates the value of photo reconnaissance in uncovering the enemy‟s activities. The
photograph shows a German airfield in World War II that was a base of ME262 jet fighters. The
sooty deposits left on the runways by the jet engines of the ME262 clearly show the track of this
twin engine aircraft and that would ensure its inclusion on bomber command‟s target list.
(“Australian National Aviation Museum, Moorabbin”)

Figure 3-12: Gun Camera45

44
The photograph of P-14 Camera is taken by Shruthi.K.R. at Australian National Aviation Museum, Moorabbin on
5th Jan 2018.
45
The photograph of Gun Camera is taken by Shruthi.K.R. at Australian National Aviation Museum, Moorabbin on
5th Jan 2018.

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As mentioned in the note in front of the above Gun camera at Australian National Aviation
Museum, Moorabbin, when used on the operational sorties gun cameras were able to provide
valuable information on events that may have occurred too fleetingly for the details to be
otherwise assessed. As these cameras were usually mounted in the leading edge of the wing, the
film clarity tended to suffer from the smoke and vibration due to the proximity of the guns. The
images captured were nevertheless an uncompromising illustration of the realities of the war in
the air. (“Australian National Aviation Museum, Moorabbin”)

2. Shaktyaakarshana yantra

In Vymanika Shastra it is described that, as per the text "Yantra sarvasva", Shaktyakarshana
darpana is used to subdue the evil forces which tend to destroy the Vimana and render them
harmless. The text describes in detail about the process of power generation using six
crystals/manis which when mingled with the force in each crystal forms five forces. The texts
further describe various processes to be followed and finally the united force when directed
against the malefic wind force in the air-route will tame the evil forces by neutralizing the
destructive forces in the sky and protect the Vimana so that they will be allowed to fly smoothly
in the sky.(Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Fifth Chapter - Yantraadhikaranam:
Yantras: Machinery 1973 : 35) Wg.Cdr. M.P.Rao in his study “Vymaanika Shastra
Rediscovered” describes that this is one of the onboard feature which is meant to neutralize and
dissipate the effects of radiations in upper atmospheric regions which generate dangerous
forces.(wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter 17: YANTRADHI KARANAM 2001)

3. Angopasamhara Yantra

Wg. Cdr. M.P. Rao‟s study describes this as an in-flight mechanical contrivance used for
protecting vulnerable parts of Vimana with intense heat because of seasonal conditions. It
suggests the possibilities of prevention of exposure of fully extended wings of the aircraft to
intense heat by using “sancocha” feature provided to the pilot. Here the provision of variable
geometry construction is being discussed. Pilot will be alerted about the overheating of the
vimanas because of the rise in temperature so that he can select and deploy the protective cover
shielding the Vimana. This means pilot should have a temperature measuring device which will

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detect the outside temperature and display it in his cabin.(wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter 17:
YANTRADHI KARANAM 2001)

4. Guhagarbha Yantra

Wg. Cdr. M.P. Rao‟s study describes this as an on-board feature useful in war vimanas. This
Yantra is located on the bottom front of the fuselage of Vimana mainly to detect the mines and
explosives hidden by enemy forces underground and transmit their pictures to the pilots display
so that he can know the location and shape of the destructive material. (wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao,
Chapter 17: YANTRADHI KARANAM 2001) The main objective is to detect the exact location so
that explosives can be defused. Constructional details describe the use of multiple mirrors in
different geometric shapes and specified arrangements. Images captured through reflecting
mirrors are developed through a chemical process by using chumbakamani. Images are amplified
and shared with the pilot on specifically prepared screens.

The main aspect which we can understand here is, concealed mines and explosives were
used even in the ancient battles. This means they had the knowledge of explosive materials. Our
ancient scholars had remote sensing gadgets to detect these explosives and also knew the
techniques for defusing them. They even used photographic and projection techniques.

The most important fact is materials stated in this yantra have been developed by many
scientific laboratories in the country. Chumbakamani is prepared by IIT, Bombay.
PanchadharaLoha, Paragranthika Drava is prepared by the Birla science center at Hyderabad and
Mumbai. (wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter 17: YANTRADHI KARANAM 2001) Crystals are widely
used in digital technology in modern times, it is interesting to know that our ancient scholars had
used them in more wider

5. Tamogarbha Yantra
Tamogarbha yantra is a darkness capturing device meant to protect aircraft from poisonous
fumes of Rouhinee or Kraakachaarimani rays projected by the enemy. This is achieved by
creating darkness around the Vimana making it invisible to the ground forces as well as enemy
aircraft. (Shastry and Josyer, The Vymaanika-Shaastra: Fifth Chapter - Yantraadhikaranam:
Yantras: Machinery 1973: 57) Tamogarbha loha plays a very important role in this contraption.
Tamogarbha Yantra hints highly advanced concealing techniques similar to stealth concepts. The

81
technique resembles the technique used for creation of darkness (tama) using solar rays as
described in Dhwanta pramapaka yantra described in Anshubodhinee of Maharshi
Bharadwaja.(wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter 17: YANTRADHI KARANAM 2001)
6. Shabdhakarshaka yantra
This is a warning device through which pilot gets In-flight information on the presence of
birds, quadrupeds and soldiers so that he can take a deviation to safer routes.(wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao,
Chapter 17: YANTRADHI KARANAM 2001) Wg. Cdr. M.P Rao in his study “Vymanika Shastra
Rediscovered” describes this as an audio sensor which can sense audio signals within 12 kroshas
or 27 miles and works around the VHF range. Here, since they have described about warning by
sensing sounds of birds, we can understand that they had visualized even this concept of flight
safety. What we can note here is birds form a major safety hazard for flights even today. Even if
we consider these birds as flying machines, warning about the location and count of vimanas will
still be valid.(wg. Cdr. M.P.Rao, Chapter 17: YANTRADHI KARANAM 2001)

3.12. Conclusion and introduction to next chapter

Vymanika Shastra is an excellent text which entirely deals with interesting features and
various aspects of construction of Vimanas. The author also mentions that it has the essence of
the Vedas. But the major drawback of this work is its questions about the authorship and
authenticity of this work. This is mainly because of Pandit Subbaraya Shastri‟s background. We
accept and appreciate the Kalidasa‟s works. He also was an illiterate who started writing
wonderful literary works after he received blessings from goddess Kali. But Vymanika Shastra is
a complete technical document and hence it is really difficult to believe that one could write this
through divine power. But if that is the fact we have to respect it. The other important reason
why the authenticity of the book is questioned is mainly because of the description of type of
materials used in purification of metals, creation of mirrors and lenses and the process of
construction of various yantras. It is natural that people with a little knowledge of technology,
which is prevalent today suspect the authenticity of this text. Mainly because the materials listed
are like that. It is unbelievable that materials like eye pigments, eyeballs of Sowmyaka fish,
bones, white throated eagle‟s skin, and foot-nails of Sinchoranee etc. can be used in the
preparation of Vishwakriya darpana. All the materials used in the purification of various metals
are natural, organic and environment friendly. The interesting fact is the process of preparation
of various metals and alloys required for the construction of Vimanas.

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 Some other important features are:
 Mechanism to expand the wings for flight protection while flying in certain atmospheric
region.
 Mechanism to achieve a sunlight glow during the night.
 Mechanism to achieve illusory darkness during the brightest part of the day.
 Mechanism to bring insensibility on enemy forces.
 Mechanism to intercept intra crew communication in the enemy aircraft.
 Mechanism to view the things happening in the enemy plane.
 A device to show the direction from which the enemy plane will attack.
 A mechanism to make the people of enemy plane unconscious.
Coming to the metals used in the construction of aircraft, it is described that 16 alloys are
produced by mixing three root metals in different proportions. Metals are purified using the
juices of some citrus fruits, various herbal oils, natural acids and various decoctions. Most of the
plant extracts listed are the ones used in herbal/ayurvedic products and having high medicinal
values.
Coming to the heat absorption metals formed by mixing various metals (in the group of each
of the three root metals) in predefined ratio and proportion, the major challenge is most of the
metals listed in each group are unknown. Researchers with the in-depth knowledge of ancient
Indian metallurgy has to carry out the dedicated research to check if it is possible to prepare all
the heat absorption metals as described in the text. Another challenge is, the information
provided in the text is not detailed or complete to research upon them. Further, it is interesting to
note that special type of crucibles are required to melt the metals required for the preparation of
aircraft. The text even describes the materials used in the preparation of these crucibles and
process of preparing them, it even details the specific shape of the furnace required for melting
seed metals for construction of Vimanas and also the type of the bellows required for the
furnace.
After describing secret features of aircraft which the pilot will be trained on, materials used
for the construction of Aircraft, various yantras used in aircraft Maharshi Bharadwaja describes
Vimanas based on Yuga Dharmas. The chapter „Jatyaadhikaranam‟ classifies Vimanas based on
Yuga dharma. The next chapter of this thesis describes Vimanas in “Krita Yuga”, “Threta
Yuga”, “Dwapara Yuga” and “Kali Yuga” as described in Vymanika Shastra. Vymanika Shastra

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explicitly describes design and construction of four types of Kritaka Vimanas like “Shakuna
Vimana”, “Sundara Vimana”, “Rukma Vimana” and “Tripura Vimana”. A lot of research is
being done on these Vimanas once the Hindi and English translations of Vymanika Shastra are
published. The next chapter of this thesis deals with them in detail.

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