DECODING VEDIC KNOWLEDGE: THE ROLE OF MATHEMATICAL SCIENCES IN ANCIENT INDIAN THOUGHT

The ancient Indian Vedic period is famous for its deep philosophical thoughts and advanced scientific knowledge. Mathematics was a crucial part of this intellectual exploration. This study examines how mathematical ideas were incorporated into Vedic literature, influencing cosmology, rituals, and practical life. By analyzing primary texts like the Shulba Sutras and their commentaries, the research reveals a well-established mathematical system encompassing geometry, arithmetic, and combinatorics. The study also explores the connections between Vedic mathematics and other fields like astronomy and linguistics, demonstrating the integration of mathematical precision with spiritual and practical goals. It particularly focuses on the methods used, such as recursive algorithms and approximations, which foreshadow modern mathematical techniques.