India's first epigraphical reference to Halley's comet found in Vijaynagara's 15th-century copper plate; key details inside
Credit: X
The discovery of a June 28, 1456 CE, inscription at the Mallikarjuna Swamy Temple in Srisailam, now in Andhra Pradesh, has revealed India's first known mention of Halley's comet on a 15th-century Vijayanagara copper plate inscription.
This fascinating discovery has offered a glimpse into the rich astronomical knowledge of Indians even back then.
The plate documents a land grant made by the Vijayanagara king Mallikarjuna to a scholar of the Vedas. The interesting part here is that the inscription contains a reference to a brilliant celestial object that is visible in the sky now identified by historians and astronomers as Halley's comet, which was indeed visible at that time.
Astronomical alignment with Halley's comet
The inscription date in the Indian calendar is śaka 1378, dhātr̥ āṣāḍha ba. 11, which reads exactly to Monday, June 28, 1456 CE. According to astronomical data, Halley's comet was seen visibly and spectacularly during the summer of 1456. It was one of its historically significant apparitions, recorded in various parts of the world, including Europe and Asia.
The 1456 sighting of a comet was especially dramatic, and in some places, it was considered a sign.
by Taboola
by Taboola
Sponsored Links
Sponsored Links
Promoted Links
Promoted Links
You May Like
Erftstadt: GEERS sucht 700 Testhörer für Hörgeräte ohne Zuzahlung
GEERS
Undo
This is in line with the timing and the unusual celestial reference within the copper plate, making the connection.
Context and significance
This inscription is now considered the earliest attested epigraphic reference to Halley's comet in India, since previous references to comets in early Indian texts, e.g., in the ṛigveda, atharvaveda, and bṛhat saṃhitā, are generic and metaphorical and do not point to actual astronomical occurrences.
The inscription is written in the classical Telugu language script, with an inscription in Sanskrit, in the traditional copper plate grant form, which was quite prevalent back then.
Mention of the astronomical phenomenon is made along with details of the grant of land, indicating that the phenomena were deemed important enough to be noted within formal, legal, and religious documents.
This find is a cornerstone achievement in India's scientific and historical record-keeping.
The 1456 copper plate of the Vijaynagar empire is not only the first known epigraphic mention of Halley's comet in India but also presents a window of insight into the cosmos, the history of India, and the social and political life of the era.
Apart from suggesting the rich knowledge Indians had, it also suggests that medieval scholars likely tracked cometary cycles more closely than we ever would, hinting at an advanced system of record keeping. Back in those days, observation-based understanding of astronomy in the Vijayanagara era of India is also visible.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
AI in business, data analytics, wetland conservation debut as UG courses
Kolkata: Colleges and universities have introduced innovative courses and unique combinations for students to enhance their skills across various fields. With industry demands evolving rapidly, several institutions are embracing future-ready programs in data analytics, artificial intelligence in business, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and business intelligence. In recent years, traditional core subjects like mathematics, chemistry, and physics saw declining enrolment numbers. However, new interdisciplinary combinations incorporating these fundamental sciences are gaining traction among undergraduate students, offering more practical and career-oriented pathways. St. Xavier's College introduced data analytics, artificial intelligence in business, enterprise resource planning (ERP), and business intelligence. P by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo rincipal Dominic Savio said, "Our program encourages students to explore and integrate knowledge across various domains. A strong focus is placed on creativity, critical thinking, communication skills, and ethical values. Students have the flexibility to design their academic paths by choosing from a diverse basket of courses, which include core courses, elective courses, and skill enhancement courses. We actively promote blended learning approaches and effective use of digital tools to support student engagement and learning outcomes." St. Xavier's College expanded its curriculum to include multidisciplinary courses spanning both arts and science streams, from wetlands conservation to sports management. The college emphasises holistic development through skill enhancement courses, value-added courses, and ability enhancement courses (AEC). St Xavier's University also introduced BSc in data analytics and statistics, which includes statistics, mathematics, and data science. Ramakrishna Mission Residential College (Narendrapur) introduced a comprehensive life science program that includes microbiology, zoology, biotechnology, botany, and physiology, reflecting the growing demand for specialised, industry-relevant education. Principal Swami Ekachittananda said, "This year we introduced life science for the first time, for which 10 seats have been allocated. Earlier, we didn't have a bio-science stream, but for the last few years, we received numerous feedback prompting us to introduce these subjects which have market demand at present. " The college has around 180-190 seats for undergraduate courses, which will be increased to accommodate new courses. Ramakrishna Mission Vivekananda Centenary College, Rahara, is offering data science as a minor subject for students. Principal Swami Kamalasthananda said, "This is an age where students need to be well-equipped and have clear knowledge of numerous contemporary subjects. In these cases, I observed several students taking advantage of online courses because they have limited time to get an overall idea of the subject. " Asutosh College in Kolkata introduced 25 contemporary certificate courses that include wildlife conservation and ecotourism, data management for social sciences, AI for office work, electronic product design, and analysis of pollutants in the environment for both in-house students and others. Principal Manas Kabi highlighted that these certificate courses have been introduced for students who are eager to enhance their skills in various fields. Graphic— St Xavier's College | Data analytics, artificial intelligence in business, enterprise resource planning (ERP) and business intelligence St Xavier's University | BSc in data analytics and statistics Ramakrishna Mission Residential College (Narendrapur) introduced life science that includes microbiology, zoology, biotechnology, botany, and physiology
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
Walk your way to a sharper mind: How 40 minutes of walking boosts brain size
An exercise as simple as walking increases the size of your brain. Shocking! Isn't it? Walking, specifically, can significantly increase the volume of the hippocampus, a key part of the brain that is responsible for memory, and improve cognitive ability in older people, says a pioneering study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). The research opens the door to a simple, cheap method to stop age-related cognitive decline. During the course of a year, the research followed a cohort of seniors aged between 55 and 80. Participants were split into two groups: the control group undertook stretching and toning exercises, while the other group did regular cardiovascular activity (in this instance, 40 minutes of walking three times per week). MRI scans at the end of the trial showed that the size of the hippocampus in the walking group, which is typically expected to shrink with age, grew by an average of 2%. Why is this finding so significant? An important part of memory creation and recall is the hippocampus. It is also one of the first regions to be affected by Alzheimer's disease. This research discredits the popular opinion that memory loss is a part of the natural ageing process. It proves that throughout elderly life, the brain remains capable of changing and being improved with mild exercise. In addition, walking improves intellectual function as well as brain expansion. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 2025 Top Trending local enterprise accounting software [Click Here] Esseps Learn More Undo Control participants who walked regularly demonstrated superior memory function and increased processing rates. Walking, as the researchers say, increases blood flow to the brain, stimulates growth hormone production, and promotes the growth of new synapses—all supporting a healthier, stronger brain. Brisk walking (and not a leisure walk) is one of the easiest and most effective ways to improve your immune health. Walking is low-impact, accessible, and cost-free, compared to more intense exercise. Neither gym membership nor specialised equipment is required. Walking provides a pathway to enhanced brain health for everyone, including older individuals who may have diminished stamina or mobility. Walking is good for the mind and the body, and more study is needed to establish the optimal intensity and duration of walking for cognitive gain. The next time you slip on your shoes and take a walk, remember that you're investing in your brain as well as getting some fresh air. It may only require 40 minutes a couple of times a week to maintain a young brain, enhance cognitive function, and preserve your memory. It's never too early, or too late, to begin the journey towards mental acuity. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Time of India
International conference at JNU discusses integration and promotion of Indian knowledge systems
New Delhi: A three-day international conference on Indian knowledge systems will be held at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) from July 10 to 12. Experts from different fields will present their views on the legacy and challenges of Indian knowledge systems. The conference will explore ways to integrate Indian knowledge systems into modern education, industry, govt, and civil society while fostering collaboration with Himalayan nations. "The conference is also being seen as a response to the dominance of European cultural paradigms in shaping scientific discourse worldwide. This mega academic gathering aims to project Indian knowledge systems as an alternative and complementary framework in global academia," said an official. It will provide an international platform for research presentations and discussions aimed at building a collective scientific community. The event will also aim to establish a global network to promote Indian knowledge systems within the global academic and research communities. The official added, "Through this platform, efforts will be made to connect Indian knowledge traditions with contemporary global scientific paradigms and challenges". The conference will highlight fields such as engineering sciences and natural sciences, demonstrating how Indian knowledge systems provide unique insights into humanity, nature, and the pursuit of knowledge.
