Hindu Astronomy (No- 18)

Email

Whatsapp

Facebook

Pinterest

Twitter

Copy link

Although many distinguish Orient lists have written on "Indian Astronomy" there is no general account of this subject now available in the English Language. The present attempt to supply a summary account of the astronomical material recorded in early and mediaeval Hindu works is therefore to some extent justified. In the matter of choice and treatment of topic the author of such a summary is always open to criticism. Many items of interest have to be omitted or touched upon very lightly, and the author's predilection may lead to undue emphasis on certain matters. In the present work such subjects as the Hindu calendar and Hindu chronology are not formally dealt with, since they are treated with some elaboration in various excellent books that are readily available; while the semi-religious and astrological aspects of astronomy have been dealt with more fully.

Although this summary account goes over old ground it is all based upon original texts. What has been accomplished is largely due to the encouragement of Sir John Marshall, Litt. D., C.I.E., etc the Director-General of Archaeology in India, under whose auspices the Memoir has the advantage of being published.

I take this opportunity of recording my indebtedness to the Superintendent of Government Printing for the care and trouble taken in the production of a work entailing so many printing difficulties.