Mathematics is the mystic language that gives life and order to our universe. Without the profound elegance of mathematical reasoning, the intricate structures of existence would crumble into chaos, and meaning would be lost. When we speak of the beauty within mathematics, mere words often fall short of capturing its boundless essence.

Mathematics remains elusive to many, not because of its complexity alone, but because it demands more than just knowledge—it calls for deep insight and an eager mind. Something that shapes the very logic of our cosmos cannot be grasped superficially; its intricacies are woven into the very fabric of existence, deserving reverence and keen understanding.

Among the illustrious minds who unraveled the mysteries of this ancient art was Bhaskaryacharya II, an Indian sage of the post-Vedic period. In this blog, we explore his remarkable contributions to the world of mathematics, a legacy hidden from the world that must now be echoed through the coming ages.

The Indian Sage Who Discovered Gravity

Yes, we know what you’re thinking: wasn’t it Sir Isaac Newton who discovered gravity? While his contributions indeed revolutionized modern science, the first spark of this profound idea was ignited nearly 500 years before Newton ever sat beneath that fabled apple tree. The seed of gravity was sown by none other than Bhaskaracharya II.

In his monumental work Siddhanta Shiromani, within the chapter Goladhyaya (Spherics), Bhaskaracharya II described gravity as an intrinsic property of Earth. He wrote of how our planet exerts a mysterious force that pulls celestial bodies towards it—a force so ordinary to us now, yet so extraordinary to perceive in a time when such knowledge was veiled in the mysteries of nature.

Imagine the depth of observation and insight required to grasp these forces, ever-present but easily overlooked in the flow of daily life. Bhaskaracharya II saw what most of us miss, giving words to the invisible threads that bind our world.

Lilavati

Bhaskaryacharya II’s book Lilavati (which is said to be the name of his daughter as well) also the first volume of Siddhanta Shiromani is a treasure trove of knowledge, spanning thirteen captivating chapters. It delves into the essence of definitions, the art of arithmetic, the intricacies of interest computation, and the wonders of arithmetical and geometrical progressions.

It explores the realms of plane and solid geometry, the enigmatic shadow of the gnomon, and the ingenious Kuttaka method for solving indeterminate equations. Within its pages, Bhaskara II reveals the value of pi as 22/7, yet hints at a more precise ratio of 3927/1250 for celestial calculations. It also presents the grand concept of the parardha, the largest number known, equating to one hundred thousand billion

Bijaganita

Bijaganita translates as "mathematics (ganita) with seeds (bija)." It represents one of the two key branches of medieval Indian mathematics, the other being Patiganita, or "mathematics with algorithms." The name Bijaganita is inspired by the idea that algebraic equations (samikarana) are like seeds (bija)—small yet powerful, holding the potential to grow into solutions for complex mathematical problems.

To grasp the vision and knowledge of quadratic equations, simple equations, equations involving indeterminate problems of the first degree, equations involving indeterminate problems of the second degree, and equations involving rectangles was a turning point in mathematics. Writing and solving such equations marked a revolution, taking mathematics to new levels of depth and complexity.

Grahaganita

The third book, Grahaganita, focuses on mathematical astronomy. Its concepts build upon the earlier works of Aryabhata. Bhaskara discusses the heliocentric model of the solar system and the elliptical paths of planets, drawing on Brahmagupta’s law of gravity.

Building upon the foundations laid by earlier luminaries like Aryabhata, Bhaskara delves into the heliocentric vision of the solar system—an understanding far ahead of its time. He describes the Sun as the anchor, around which the planets gracefully revolve in elliptical orbits, capturing a profound truth later echoed by Kepler. Bhaskara’s insights into planetary motion are not mere observations; they are infused with the wisdom of Brahmagupta’s law of gravity, which suggests that all objects are drawn towards the Earth by a force—a precursor to the universal law of gravitation.

The Grahaganita does more than explain the mechanics of the heavens. It elegantly blends mathematical equations with astronomical concepts, offering formulas to predict the positions of planets, the occurrence of eclipses, and the calculation of celestial timings. Bhaskara's detailed accounts of the shadows cast during eclipses, the phases of the moon, and the movement of stars reflect a deep reverence for the universe’s intricate design.

Takeaway

Bhaskaryacharya II’s legacy is a celestial beacon that calls upon us to awaken to the profound genius woven into the fabric of our heritage. Let us rekindle the flame of dignity and pride that has illuminated India's past, honoring those whose brilliance shaped our understanding of the universe. May the youth of today draw inspiration from Bhaskaryacharya's spirit—his fearless quest for truth, his boundless curiosity, and his devotion to knowledge. Let them rise as torchbearers of wisdom, breathing new life into our ancient traditions, and guiding India to a future where it stands, once again, as a radiant pillar of intellect and innovation for all the world to behold.