Varahamihira

INTRODUCTION
Varahamihira was an ancient Indian astronomer, thematician, and
astrologer who lived
during the 6th century CE. He was born in the city of Ujjain,
which was known for its rich
cultural and intellectual heritage in ancient India. Varahamihira is
considered one of the most
influential figures in the field of Indian astronomy and astrology.
Varahamihira's contributions to astronomy were significant. He
composed several important
works on the subject, including the "Pancha Siddhantika," which
is a compilation of five
astronomical schools of thought prevalent during his time. This
text discusses various aspects
of astronomy, such as planetary motions, eclipses, and celestial
phenomena.
One of Varahamihira's notable achievements was his accurate
calculations of astronomical
events. He accurately determined the length of a year as 365.258
days, which is remarkably
close to the modern value of 365.2425 days. He also calculated
the circumference of the
Earth and the distances between celestial bodies with impressive
precision.
In addition to astronomy, Varahamihira was also a renowned
astrologer. He wrote the "Brihat
 Samhita," a comprehensive treatise on various subjects, including
astrology, meteorology,
architecture, and agriculture. This work covers a wide range of
topics, providing valuable
insights into the ancient Indian society's beliefs and practices.
Varahamihira's contributions extended beyond scientific and
astrological texts. He also had
an interest in literature and wrote poetry. His poetic
compositions, such as the "Brihat Jataka,"
reflect his deep understanding of astrology and its application in
predicting future events.
Varahamihira's works had a lasting impact on Indian astronomy
and astrology. His meticulous
observations, precise calculations, and systematic approach laid
the foundation for further
developments in these fields. His works were studied and
referenced by later scholars,
contributing to the advancement of Indian knowledge systems.
Today, Varahamihira is remembered as one of India's great
ancient scholars, whose
contributions to astronomy and astrology continue to inspire and
intrigue researchers and
enthusiasts alike. His insights into the cosmos and his
understanding of celestial phenomena
showcase the rich scientific heritage of ancient India.

ACHIVEMENTS
 The discovery of the trigonometric formulas was one of Varahamihira's
mathematical accomplishments. He improved the precision of Aryabhata's sine
tables. He defined the algebraic properties of zero and negative numbers, as
well as the properties of positive and negative numbers. He was also one of the
first mathematicians to discover a variant of the Pascal's triangle. He used it to
figure out how to measure binomial coefficient.

CONTRIBUTION
Varahamihira made significant contributions to the fields of astronomy,
mathematics, and
astrology. His works were highly influential and helped advance knowledge in
these areas.
Here are some of his notable contributions:
1. Astronomy: Varahamihira's most significant contribution was his
compilation of the
"Pancha Siddhantika," which incorporated the five prevailing schools of
astronomy
during his time. This work discussed various aspects of astronomy, including
planetary motions, eclipses, and celestial phenomena. Varahamihira's accurate
calculations of astronomical events, such as the length of a year and the
distances
between celestial bodies, demonstrated his advanced understanding of celestial
mechanics.
2. Astrology: Varahamihira's treatise on astrology, the "Brihat Samhita," is a
comprehensive work that covers a wide range of subjects related to astrology,
including horoscopy, omens, gemology, and the effects of planetary
movements on
human life. This work provided a systematic and detailed exploration of
astrological
principles and their applications.
 3. Mathematics: Varahamihira's contributions to mathematics are evident in his
work on
astronomical calculations. His accurate determination of the length of a year as
365.258 days, close to the modern value, showcased his mathematical prowess.
He
also calculated the circumference of the Earth with impressive precision. These
calculations demonstrate his mathematical acumen and analytical skills.
4. Literature: In addition to his scientific works, Varahamihira was also known
for his
literary contributions. His poetic compositions, such as the "Brihat Jataka,"
blended
his knowledge of astrology with artistic expression. These poetic verses not
only
showcased his expertise in astrology but also added a creative and aesthetic
dimension
to his contributions.

OTHER SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTIONS

Varahamihira also made some important observations in ecology, hydrology,
and geology. His
assertion that plants and termites can detect underground water is now gaining
traction in
the scientific community. He was a prolific writer as well. He was able to
express himself in a
unique style, thanks to his mastery of Sanskrit grammar and poetic metre. His
encyclopedic
knowledge and lively presentation of even the most dry topics, such as
astronomy, made him
a famous figure. His treatises such as Pancha Siddhantika (Five Principles),
Brihatsamhita
 (Master Collection), and Brahjataka (Astrological work) have elevated him to
the same level
of Astrology as Kautilya, Manu and Panini in Political Philosophy, Law, and
Grammar.
Surya sidantha
Before 1000 BC, people in India had begun to use astronomical instruments.
During this
time, the ‘Suryasidhanta', a well-known book for astronomical calculations,
was written.
The word ‘Suryasidhanta' means ‘sun theory,' and it refers to the measurements
of star and
planet positions. Some Indian mathematicians later developed their own
instruments and
methods to help in the understanding of the ‘Suryasidhanta' theory. One such
invaluable
contribution is the introduction of zero in mathematics and the decimal method
of
calculation. Varahamihira compared Surya Siddhanta with his four other
panchsiddhantika
treatises, namely Paitamaha Siddhantas, Paulisha Siddhantas, Romaka
Siddhantas, and
Vasishta Siddhantas. The Surya Siddhanta is also mentioned in Aryabhata's
writings.

CONCLUSION
Varahamihira's works were widely studied and referenced by subsequent
scholars, both in
India and beyond. His meticulous observations, precise calculations, and
systematic approach
set the stage for further advancements in astronomy, mathematics, and
astrology. His
contributions have had a lasting impact, shaping the scientific and astrological
traditions of
ancient India and leaving a valuable legacy for future generations