Concept of Time in Indian Astronomy

  • G Rajarajeswari Research Scholar, Department of Sanskrit, University of Madras, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Keywords: Time, horology, pañcāṅga, Tithi, nakṣatra, yoga, karaṇa

Abstract

Time is an important tool for mankind. We follow it with clocks and calendars. It is very important to measure time, as it keeps track of the age of people, animals and anything around us. Measuring time is always relative and not absolute.The need for fixing proper time for performing rituals urged the astronomical quest in India..Astronomy is a science which plays a vital role in our day to day life.The Hindu Calendar is called Pañcāṅga. Pañcāṅga is a tool for knowing the movement and position of various celestial objects. It is used to calculate the auspicious timings of any day for performing the rituals.It is based on the positions of Sun and Moon.Calculation and measurement of time had been a need and an enigma for man from time immemorial. As time passed man used various methods and devices for its measurement. Man keeps improving upon his methods and devices.

Published
2020-04-01
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