CHAPTER – 18

ADDITIONAL METALS, ALLOYS AND MATERIALS:

Special observations / remarks on Additional material, metals, covered above.

Ø      Metals, Alloys, Mirrors, Manis covered in the text under respective chapters are much less as compared to those covered under Yantraadhikaranam and vimanas.

Ø      Detailed processes of manufacture of metals and alloys include specific-to- type crucibles, furnaces and bellows, hinting at, the vastness of prevalent metallurgical sciences.

Ø      Melting temperatures are generally from 99° to 1000° ancient scale, the only exception being in Kundodhara metal that has melting temperature 2000°.

Ø      Temperatures specified such as 99°, 712°, 353 °, indicate that fine regulation of temperature control had been achieved and each alloy had a distinct melting temperature.

Ø      As a corollary, pyrometry, that too with high degree of accuracy and precesion seems to have existed.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER – 19

JATYADHI KARANAM: CLASSIFICATION OF VIMANAS

In this chapter on classification of vimanas as per different Yugas and Yugadharma, the text explains the types of vimanas and their names featuring in the yugas.  In Krita-yuga, people by their own powers acquired through righteous living could fly on their own volition from place to place without the aid of flying machine. 

In Threthayuga flying machines were of Mantrika category.  In Dwaparayuga flying machines under classification Tantrika were used.  In Kaliyuga, flying machines of Kritaka category were specified. 

Prominent works referred to in Yuga-wise classification are as follows:

Vimana Chandrika.

Vyomayaana Tantra.

Yantra Kalpa.

Kheta-yaana-pradeepika.

Vyomayaana-arkaprakashika.

Observations:

Yuga-wise classification needs deeper study.

Many texts seem to have existed covering vimanas; their authors however are not mentioned.

The next sootra deals with the names of vimanas as classified yuga-wise:

Tretha-yuga – Mantrika type – 25 varieties of flying machines starting from Pushpaka.

Dwapara-yuga – Tantrika type – 56 varieties starting from Bhyravi.

Kali-yuga – Kritaka type – 25 varieties starting from Shakuna.

Besides Maharshi Bharadwaja the other preceptors detailing the classification are Shounaka, Goutama, Manibhadra and Lallacharya. 

Observations:

The large number of vimanas hints at conception of application-specific varieties.

It is significant to note that ‘Tripura’ vimana covered in the text is distinctly missing from the Kritaka variety.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER – 20

KRITAKA VIMANAS

Four Types of Vimanas:

The last few sections of the work Vymanika shastra deal with four types of kritaka vimanas Shakuna vimana in the lead.

Twenty-five vimanas of this category of the current Yuga are stated as follows:

                                Shakuna                       Sundara                        Rukma

                        Mandala                       Vakratunda                  Bhadraka

               Ruchaka                        Virajaka                         Bhaskara

                        Gajaavarta                    powshkala                    Viranchika

                        Nandaka                      Kumada                       Mandara

                        Hamsa                          Shukaasya                    Sowmyaka

                        Krownchaka                Padmaka                      Symhika

                        Panchabana                  Owryaayana                 Pushkara

                                                            Kodanda

The text Manibhadrakarika, quoting sage Gowtama as also Shounaka sootra indicates the same number of vimanas in the same order.  This perhaps reflects that both the sages had the same origin of study.  Prescribing specific alloys for the structure of Kritaka variety, the text Kriyasara dictates use of Raja-loha.  This prescription is echoed by Vishwambhara also.  The process of manufacture of Raja-loha is discussed in brief.  Here all the three Ooshmaapa core-metals figure.  Soma, Soundala and Mourthweeka in proportion of 3:8:2 mixed with borax and melted 272 ° and churned form this alloy.

Observations: 

Ø      While Shakuna, Sundara and Rukma appear in the list, Tripura vimana discussed in the work is conspicuously missing.  In fact, Tripura does not feature among vimanas of Tretha and Dwapara categories as well.

Ø      The core metals of heat resistant variety discussed under the Lohadhikaranam form the alloying components of Raja-loha.  This indicates continuity from the said chapter and the current one. 

Ø      Lohadhikaranam dealt with core metals of specific thermal resistant variety.  Raja-loha among them is an exclusive alloy developed for very specific properties.

Shakuna Vimana:

This vimana contains twenty-eight parts.  They are Peetha or Floorboard; hollow mast; three wheeled keelakaas; four heaters; air suction-pipe; water jacket; oil tank; air heater; heater; steam boiler; viduyut yantra or electric generator; air propelling yantra; vaatapa yantra or air suction pipe; dikpradarshana dwaja; shakuna yantra; two-wings; tail portion; owshnyaka yantra or engine; kiranaakarshana mani.

Constructional aspects of the vimana are given too briefly and also without clarity.  However, from the English translation (literal and frequently sprinkled with modern terminology) we have made an effort to analyse.  Floorboard is a sheet-metal structure made of Raja-loha options have been offered to make the shape circular, rectangular or cradle shaped.  Weight of the Peeta or Base is one hundredth of the total weight of the plane.  Width of the peeta is half the height of the mast.  Hollow mast is to be erected by suitable joinery at the center of the peeta.

Lallacharya quoting yantra-kalpataru prescribing only Haatakasya metal for the mast or stambha specially describes hollow mast.  In this particular case a quadrangular base with two ends converging into triangular form has been opted.  Hollow mast or Naala stambha is a three tiered-construction inside and outside diameter reducing with each tier upwards.  Wheels provided on the length of the Hollowmast are not meant for movement of the vimana.  From the description available two outer fixed wheels and the central rotating wheels, some kind of a compressor / turbine arrangement seems to be under discussion to obtain higher pressure and velocity.

Window-Dome provided at the top of the vimana accommodates the sun crystals crowning the dome.  Sun crystal is big in size.  In the three vertical tiers of vimana, the first tier rests on the peetha.  They are separated by thick floorboard.  First floor houses four heat engines at the corners.  Supporting pillars in the ground floor accommodates passenger cabin.  Second floor or tier accommodates angayantras. 

Below the ground floor a cellar houses some yantras, four air compressors are provided and around the bottom of Hollow-mast.  Air compressors are supposed to be driven by steam power.

The arrangement described for the wing is interesting.  The wings are made of a number of feather-like structure stacked one over the other and move around a common pivot.  They can open out or close as seen in a feeler-gauge.  The wing will also flap along hinged joints to generate lift. 

A separate tail plane to facilitate elevation or take-off is provided.  As per the description the heat engine drives the propeller to produce usual aircrew action.  Controlling of wing feathers and tail units is through control cables originating from the cockpit.

Ignition of the oil (fuel) seems to be by electrical means.  For storing compressed air leather bellows have been suggested.

Observations:

Ø      Preparation of Hatakasya alloy has been covered earlier in this report.

Ø      Construction of the structure and a hollow mast hints at attempts to achieve streamlining.

Ø      Units of measurement like Vitista needs to be verified and established conclusively. 

Ø      Three sets of wheels along the length of the hallow mast, hint at their being power developing source.  Wheels for the movement of the vimana on ground are separate.

Ø      Use of sun crystal is obviously for solar energy extraction.

Ø      Use of steam power to drive air compressor seems to be strange since steam generation during flying is itself strange.

Ø      Possibly Shakuna is one of the early variants of Kritaka type, deriving its name from the basic definition of bird.  Hence the arrangement of flapping and spreading wing and tail construction feature. 

Ø      In essence Shakuna is a rudimentary type with aircrew arrangement.

Sundara vimana:

Eight constituent parts are:

                        Peetha or ground plate              Smoke chimney

                        Five gas engine                         Bhujya metal pipe

                        Wind blower                            Electricity generator

                        Four phased heater                   Outer cover

Peetha or ground plate of Raja-loha with options to have square or round shape.  In the centre of the peetha Dhoomaprasaran Naala or pipe is provided.  Hollow mast is a tall cylindrical member with provision to store gas energy at the bottom portion.  Water vessels, oil tanks are housed at the centre.  At its foot electricity is stored in a container.

Oil container will have three oils: Dhoomanjana oil, Shukatundalika oil (eggplant oil) and Kulaki or Red arsenic oil in the ratio of 12:20:19.  Ignition of the oil mixture is by electrical means.  Distribution of gaseous products seems to be through a special arrangement ensuring even spread of gases.  Dhoomodgama yantra is meant to eject gaseous mass with speed.  In constructing this only Dhooma garbha loha with composition of Himasamvardhaka, Soma and Soundala metals have been specified.  Control of high-energy gaseous products is through revolving wheels (possibly to operate valves).  Description indicates a hydraulic accumulator type of arrangement for storing gaseous product.  Ignition of oil is achieved by combined process of electrical energy and friction.

Actual thrust is obtained by passing the high-energy product through a number of Sundalas or Jet nozzles.  This obviously seems to be based on reaction principle.  Manufacturing process of Sundala (made out of special metal-impregnated fabric, flexible, heat-resistant) as given by Lallacharya is explained in brief.  These sundalas or naalas are kept rolled-up over revolving drum while not in use.  They are unrolled and kept taut while in use.  The gaseous products get discharged through a number of them in jets producing thrust.

Generation of electric power has also been briefly covered.  The text talks of 32 types of machines to produce electrical power.  Different methods broadly stated are friction, by thermal process, by waterfall, by combination of all these and also by solar rays.  This technology is ascribed to sage Agastya in his work Shaktitantra.  Electrical power production is described using four vessels located in four directions and a central vessel.  Several types of acids, dravas are used in each vessel.  Crystals or Manis such as Vidyutgama, Jyotirmukha play a key role. 

Extensively treated lion’s skin and deer’s skin (possibly for their high insulation properties) figure in the process.  Central vessel forms the accumulator of electricity generated.  Anshupa Mani or Solar rays absorbing crystals is the main medium that absorbs heat that gets converted to electricity through a process not clearly described.  The process of storing electricity by use of mercury has also been brought in. Stored electricity is conducted to all parts of the vimana through insulated cables for operating various services. 

Vataprasaran yantra is described as one to generate the main Udgama Shakti or lifting force.  This yantra comprises of twelve parts, including Naala-Stambha, valves regulating inlet / outlet for fresh, compressed air, exhaust, air guides, vanes.  The system includes an air compressor.  The description hints at using compressed air jet to obtain thrust.  Further description mentions that compressed air conducted through Naala sthambha and energy product by Dhoomodgama yantra through the inside of the main mast or Bruhad sthambha.  They confluence at the end and go out through sundalas with high velocity, effecting jet propulsion. 

As stated for Shakuna vimana, Raja-loha is used for structure and covering of this vimana also.  Chaturmukha or Oushnya yantra is the main heat engine.  Comprising of 18 parts this includes, Peetha, Smoke accumulator, Oven, Water container, Valve controls, smoke opening, Regulatory valve, heat indicator (temperature), Time clock, Speedometer, Sound-transmitting instrument, Anthardhanda Ghata, air bellows, Long sundala pipes, Copper pipes etc. Sundala used as jet nozzles to obtain thrust are also used for vertical and aft movements and directional control of the craft.  Computation of speed claimed to be achieved needs a relook.  The thrust from each contributing source seems to have been added up.  Retranslation of many verses in this chapter may help in better understanding.

Observations:

Ø      Use of specific types of oils suggests that high-energy potent fuel be under discussion. 

Ø      Some error is noticed in the direction of movement of the craft vis-à-vis jet stream from sundala nozzles.  Applying the principle of reaction the movement of the craft should be in the direction opposite to the thrust line.  Possibly this aspect is dealt by Swami Dayananda Saraswati in his Rigbhashya Bhoomika.  Incidentally this is quoted in the report of I.I.Sc Bangalore also. 

Ø      Very importantly solar energy employment for producing electricity is a unique feature.  Probably this technique was not heard of even by the middle of 20^th century.

Ø      Use of sundalas, as jet nozzles are again interesting.  Operating each sundala independently and varying mass-flow and velocity of jet separately, multiple degree of craft control should be available.

Rukma vimana:

The description of this vimana is too brief to comprehend the principles of working.  Rukma meaning gold, the vimana has been so named because of its appearance of golden colour.  Impregnating gold colour on Raja-loha precedes fabrication of structural part of vimana.  Yantra-Bindu and Varna Sarvaswa explain the colouring process.  From the manner described it is not a plating process. 

Peetha is stated to be tortoise shaped of length 1000 ft.  This however is too long and needs translational, interpretational verification as well as equating units of measurements of length.  The other parts are Ayaschakra pinda and Batimikaa sthambha.  Description of flying lacks clarity.  However, utilisation of electrical energy to operate Electro-Mechanical arrangement to enable vimana to lift off and accelerate is hinted.  A speed of 105 kroshas or 250 Mph. Per ghatika is stated.  Directional control as suggested by Lallacharya is through conventional rudder system provided at the base and articulated through crescent shaped plate by means of push pull rods.

Observations:

Ø      Pushpaka vimana of epic Ramayana is also described to be golden colour and delightful looking.  Aesthetic sense of the scientists to cater for the needs of the Royale manifest here.  Gold colour imparted to Raja-loha is before the alloy is used in structural part.  In fact it is built in the alloying process itself to make it an integral part of the metal. 

Ø      We note that the earlier two vimanas discussed did not mention of gold colouring.

Ø      Rukma is stated to reach speed up to 250 miles in 24 minutes, a speed of 725 miles per hour.

Tripura vimana:

Tripura is the last of the representative vimanas discussed in the text.  It has two unique features.  It is a three-in-one craft and also a solar powered vehicle.  Tripura means three storeys or tiers.  This concept is brought in the form of a three-tier construction.  The first tier is for operation on land, the second one for operation on water and inside water and the third for flying in air.  As an integral unit of three tiers the craft is stated to be a flying machine. Differential use of first and second tiers independently for movement on land and water is stated to be possible. 

In contrast with the other three vimanas this is to be made of mica (first floor) and Thrinetra loha (second and third floor).  The arrangement talks of wheels provided underneath peetha for locomotion on land through electric motor.  The wheels are retracted from the ground before vehicle moves into water in amphibian mode.  During movement on water boats provided on the deck possibly to act as buoys. 

Detailed manufacturing process of obtaining particular type of mica has been dealt at length.  Layout details of the first floor include provisions for aisle, cabins for crew and passengers and storage enclosure.  Covering of the first floor is by water / air proof fabric, easy to install and dismantle.

Second floor is proportionately smaller than the first.  Electric power is provided to second floor as well.  When the second floor gets into water the open hatches of the wheel will be covered by special milk-cloth having full water proof property.  Supply of air to the second floor is ensured through ducts made of milk cloth.  This air under pressure is meant for comfort of personnel in first and second floors. 

For protection, safety and comfort of crew and passengers three separate yantras are provided viz., one to protect against stormy winds, the second against solar-blaze and the third against rainstorm.  Construction of the third floor is similar except that it is proportionately smaller.  The special feature in the third floor is that it houses electric generator.  The cabin for this is to be made of Somaka-loha. 

The procedure for extracting electric power from solar rays has been mentioned.  Vessels and tubes made of Anshupa glass of a specified variety and some electricity generating crystals participate in the process.  Anshupa and Sanjeeraka crystals play the primary function.  Purpose and function of Ganapa yantra discussed in the text needs separate study with suitable interpretation. 

Observations: 

Ø      Three-in-one concept includes amphibian and under water modes of the vehicle as well.

Ø      Use of solar energy for powering an aircraft is a unique phenomenon, heard for the first time in the aviation technology.

Ø      To highlight the features of Thrinetra-loha, it is flame proof, unbreakable, waterproof and above all, weightless.  It has the Shane of peacock feather.

General Remarks on Vimanas diagrams and drawings:

·        Inclusion of diagrams and drawings was an add on activity by Sri. Shastriji from 1918 – 1923 AD.  This was done through a local draughtsman under the pandit’s guidance.  It is difficult to accept that this process also was under the divine influence.  It appears that in projecting the contents of the work through pictures and drawings their own interpretations seem to have influenced.  Possibly this has corrupted narration to some extent.  We are therefore not inclined to accept the drawings till further study.  It is learnt that attempts are under way to build a prototype of one of these vimanas by a researcher in Hyderabad. 

CONTENTS

CHAPTER – 21

VIEWS OF FOREIGN RESEARCHERS

It is interesting that Researchers abroad have perceived Vymanika Shastra in a positive and meaningful manner. Their Interpretation and Analyses reflect commitment and open mind.  Their focus seems to be on yantras, metals and materials and vimanas.  They are attracted by the contents of the text that specify use of mercury, Copper, Magnets, Electricity, Crystals, Gyros and Acids.   Mercury in particular is identified as a high energy-potent element.  They interpret that the text talks of Mercury Vortex Engine for propulsion system.  Coating Scientific Encyclopedia they point-out that mercury is known for its utility even by 500 BC.  Mercury Vapour Turbine Engines are reported to use Liquid Mercury, recycled in a closed circuit system, consumption therefore being negligible.  The other distinct properties are, it is a conductor of electricity, and amplifies sound waves.

Samarangana sootradhara of King Bhojaraja unveils the use of mercury in engines for aviation use very distinctly.  Briefly explaining the operation of this type of engine, western researchers, quoting this treatise, mention this as a heating device placed underneath to cause ignition, triggering the potent energy in mercury to drive the whirlwind in motion.  This produces highly intense impulse catapaulting the flying machine into air instantaneously. 

Use of liquid mercury in Gyroscopic applications makes it even more versatile.  The characteristic features of liquid mercury are; Heavy Protons found in mercury atom are highly stable, Gyroscopes of this kind do not need any warm-up, they are vibration and shock-proof.  These gyroscopes have no moving parts and can run forever.  In addition they offer compactness and weight reduction advantages so vital in aviation use.

Researchers abroad point out that Crystals, Manis and Mirrors stated in this work have potential not yet explored by modern science.  Crystals today, though sparingly used in technology still play a dominant role in Digital Technology.

Some western researchers strongly feel that ancient Indian aviation included propulsion system from Electromagnetic Lift and Repulsion principles and vertex propulsion.  Many experiments have been reported from these experimenters working on modeling vimanas with these principles inbuilt.  Such trials are predominantly after 1950s.  It appears from the results of these experiments that though the methods look unconventional as compared to established technology, they are not opposed to them from the point of basic principles of science.  Famous experiments on small flying crafts known as searls craft have added credence to applications of these theories in aviation. 

This topic on views of foreign researchers have been briefly introduced just to give a glimpse of happenings outside the country on principles of ancient aviation science.  There have been a number of books published by several authors in the recent years.  We believe that researches on ancient aviation sciences receive far higher impetus in the coming decades.

CONTENTS

CHAPTER – 22

ATYPICALS

Vymanika Shastra, known to be one of the forty chapters of the Yantra Sarvasva, is available with some study centres, while the mother work itself is mysteriously untraceable.  It could be a matter of conjecture that this Encyclopedia on machines might have accompanied Vedic Sciences into Western countries.

English translation of the work features six chapters while the preface talks only of three chapters.  This anomaly is to be reconciled.

The treatise narrates sophisticated features of flying machines.  Basic features of aeroplanes such as main planes, rudder, elevator, fuselage, cockpit layout, flight controls, landing gear and related systems find sporadic mention.

Ground systems to support aviation such as control tower, communication and navigation aids, runways or airstrips do not appear in the text.

Even though both Vymanika shastra and Samarangana sootradhara describe flying machines, strangely both the treatises make no reference to each other.

Out of four vimanas mentioned in the work, Tripura vimana does not find place in the list of Vimanas prescribed for the current Yuga.  Similarly, Soubha vimana referred to several times in Mahabharata does not appear in the list of 56 vimanas of Dwapara Yuga.   

The last few sections of the closing chapter dealing with four types of representative vimanas lack clarity.  It looks as though a need was felt by the author to short-close the work in a hurry.  Customary manner of conclusion and closing frills are conspicuous by their absence. 

CONTENTS

FINDINGS

Literary:

Ø      Vymanika Shastra is a work of ancient Indian origin, an offshoot of Vedic science. 

Ø      There is enough logic and supporting mythological evidence to indicate that the great seer Maharshi Bharadwaja authored this work.

Ø      Bodhananda’s commentary and Swami Dayananda Saraswathi’s references to textual content of this work indicate that the subject work featured in the earlier periods of known history.

Ø      The work manifested for the first time in manuscript form during the end of 19^th century and first two decades of 20^th century.  This was through revelations of Pandit Anekal Subbaraya Shastry and transcripted by Sri. G. Venkatachala Sharma.  The last occasion any textual material got into the transcript was not latter than 1923.

Ø      The transcript did not find recognition till the end of British rule in India. Follow up studies started only later.

Ø      Studies on literary aspect of the work by several researchers continue even now.

Ø      Foreign researchers did not show inclination till late seventies.  In fact they had shown disdain at the mention of the work.  Post–1985 period saw tremendous spurt in their interest.

Ø      Approach to the study of works of this nature should be altogether different.  It needs faith, open mind, genuine interest, decoding ability and interpretational skills.

Military, Aviation and weaponry:

Ø      ‘Flying’, as a craft, had been perceived by Ancient Indian Scientists. Other civilizations such as China, Greece, Egypt also had the knowledge of aviation technology.

Ø      Concept and development of aviation technology was quite advanced.  A variety of flying machines with application-specific on-board systems had been conceived and developed.  In fact, they stretched into full-fledged military applications more than mere mundane air transportation.

Ø      The concept of ‘pilot’ as a specialist was clear to ancient preceptors.  His role as a warrior in the sky reinforces the visualisation of a combat pilot.  Focus on his stringent training shows the right direction of thinking.  Specific dietary and clothing prescriptions further validate the scientific lines on which ancient aviation support was based.

Ø      Natural vegetation has been harnessed fully for food processing meant for military sector.

Ø      Besides sage Bharadwaja, other seers of name and fame in mythology such as Goutama, Shounaka, Vashista, Agastya, Atri, Narayana, Lallacharya and many others made in-depth contribution.

Ø      While some vimanas were role-specific, others were multipurpose

Ø      The Aviation Environment relating to support systems such as aerodromes, runways, communication and navigational aids, air traffic control etc., seem to be distinctly different from those of modern days.  The concept is seen to be on the lines of self-contained flying machines capable of flying independent off ground support aids.

Ø      Use of energy sources in the environment and on-board to achieve defensive and offensive modes are noticeable.

Ø      Use of explosives and their detection technology is unmistakably distinct.  This indicates the existence of a full-scale technology on explosives.

Ø      Biological warfare in aerial-combat features at several places.

Ø      Evasion tactics from enemy aeroplanes, avoidance-options and concealment from enemy-detection constituted special features of Air-Defence Techniques.

Ø      Offensive strike devices even to the extent of causing catacyclic effects have been discussed. 

Ø      Aerial displays of flying machines, Manoeouvres, Aesthetic and Dominating effects discussed in the text have striking resemblance with modern flight-displays.  The year 1918 AD is an interesting benchmark.  Coincidentally this year saw the exit of the First World War and it also heralded the completion of the work Vymanika Shastra in written form.  The levels of military aviation technologies between the contemporary technology and the textual substance of this work show that ancient Indian science was far ahead of times.

Ø      It is revealing to compare the levels of aviation technologies that existed at the time of completion of Vymanika Shastra and the First World War, November 1918.  Combat aeroplanes were used in sizeable number.  All the same, the maximum level of technology in combat aviation can be gauged from the prevailing art of war machinery.  Fighter planes with piston engines and propellers flying below 15,000 ft. having twin-gun firing capability were pressed into operation.  Speed of the aircraft was just over 150 Mph.  Aircraft with long range capability were used for photo-recci and deep strikes.  On the other side German aviation technology constituted Bi-Plane bombers of large size, 90 ft. wing span, twin engines of 200 H.P., Bomb loads of 2000 pounds and operating range of 200 miles constituted the front line up.

Technical:

Ø      Only after 1952 researches relating to the technical content commenced.  A number of groups working on this aspect increased appreciably after 1985.  Foreign researchers have focused on topics like mercury vapour propulsion, anti-gravity material development, and mercury as a source of energy and multipurpose application.

Ø       Knowledge on atmosphere was advanced.

Ø      Deep knowledge of geological science relating to formation of core metallic ores suitable for aviation application did exist.

Ø      Many materials and alloys discussed in the text were for exclusive applications.  It would be an interesting study to find out whether modern technology offers equivalents. 

Ø      Barring a couple of oblique references, physical and archeological evidence discovered so far, there is no direct evidence to throw light on the existence of vimanas in ancient civilisations the world over.  However science and technology discussed in this work amply hints that vimanas did exist.  Some of the features and concepts talked about in the text do not appear mere theoretical.  They could not have got generated purely by imaginary perceptions.

Ø      Extrapolating the contents in the work over the untraced mother work (Yantra Sarvasva – ascribed to be an encyclopedia on machines) one has to appreciate the enormity of Knowledge-Base.

Ø      Over forty scientific texts on various disciplines including aviation, metallurgy, atmosphere, yantras, manis feature in this work.  This qualifies the impression that broad-based scientific research in these fields both in pure and applied sciences must have preceded.  Successful development of many materials contained in this work  at science laboratories in India vindicates the textual substance

Ø      From the references made to Kriyasaara in this work, it is evident that this treatise dealt with Dynamics of Machinery.

Ø      Taking into account successful laboratory development of many materials as a means to validate the text, there seems to be enormous potential both for pure and applied sciences in the areas of physics [particularly optics], Chemistry [Organic, In Organic and Bio], Geology, Meteorology etc., to go deep in to the precepts and descriptions featuring in this book.

Ø      References to a variety of texts like Loha tantra, Loha kalpa etc., it is evident that a comprehensive knowledge on geology, mineralogy, mining and manufacturing processes of metals and alloys existed.  The researches conducted so far have been promising and in the right direction.  However laboratory experiment conducted till now indicate that only such material involving few ingredients in their composition have been attempted.  Other materials involving many ingredients are yet to be taken up.  Strange composition in the recipes such as urines of animal origin, snake’s slough, eagle’s eye-balls etc., needs deep research to establish relevance and their role in the manufacturing process.  Metals like Thrinetra Loha, Kundodhara Loha should be of great challenge to metallurgists of the day.

Ø      A grey area needing immediate attention and deep study is regarding units of measurements relating to Length, Temperature, Force, Weight and Volumes.  Their modern equivalents need to be established for correct understanding as aid to researchers. 

Some of the units are:

                                    Weight                         Linka, Mushti, Kankusta and

                                                                        Pala -(equal to four tolas)

                                    Volume                        Drona

                                    Electrical current           Linka

                                    Length                          Krosha, Danda, Vitasti, Yojana

                                    Temperature                 Kaksya Interpretational equivalence

                                                                        Varies from 2.5° C to 4° C

                                    Speed                          Prenkhana, Linka 

                                    Time                             Ghatika (24 minutes)

Ø      The drawings and diagrams of the vimana need careful study.  Possibilities of errors having crept in due to human imagination exist. 

Ø      Laboratory developments have been undertaken by units under CSIR, Birla Science Centre and IIT Mumbai.  R&D Laboratories under Ministry of Defence are yet to react.

CONTENTS

Recommendations

Ø      To explore their intrinsic scientific value, Vymanika Shastra and Anshubhodhini should be taken up for indepth study for the benefit of Defence, Industrial and Commercial applications.

Ø      Efforts are required to trace and locate texts and guides in this treatise.  Yantra Sarvasva, missing parts of Anshubodhini a series of guides on lohas, darpanas, crystals, dravas should be traced.

Ø      Contents of Metallurgical and Material Sciences of the work should be fully explored by Basic and Applied researches through specific project.  Successful development of materials at Science Laboratories should serve as pointers to undertake such activities.  Development of Lohas such as Thrinetra, Ghantarava, Thamogarbha, Kundodhara, may prove unique in nature.  Similarly study on crystals may open up fresh avenues in Digital Technology.  Fabrics, Glues and any other nonmetallic substances (Organic & Inorganic) may offer fresh options to modern technology. 

Ø      Prescribed Food varieties and Clothing should be taken as guide to undertake further research to develop requirements of aviation at research laboratories of defence R&D, CSIR.

Ø      In the light of our findings that conduct of researches done so far are sporadic and disjointed.  There is a need to set up an Integrated Centre to coordinate this effort.  The participation of Defence (R&D). CSIR. ISRO, DSP, Science Foundations, is vital to activate research under a common name.  The study team is willing to take up this task, if assigned.

Ø       A host of data related to Ayurveda revealed in this text should be sisted and assigned to scholars in this discipline.  Our findings indicate that most of such materials have been confirmed to be available and identifiable even now.

Ø       A Bank of Sanskrit translators and interpretors should be formed to provide the backbone support to research centers.

Ø      Free flow of information on Decoded Data, Development Status, Critical Findings should be arranged amongst such centers.

Ø      Principles of Levity, Anti gravity, Mercury Vapour Propulsion etc., need serious study to be translated in to Technologies

Ø      AR&DB, Ministry of Defence may respond to study team proposal of a second phase of the project on Vymanika Shastra. 

CONTENTS

Conclusions

Project study on “Vymanika Shastra” is a humble attempt to update the views on the work at the turn of the century and therefore called “Vymanika Shastra Rediscovered”.  We have taken into consideration various views expressed by Individuals and Group researchers, appreciative as well as adverse.  We have made honest effort to bring in reports of Literary and scientific studies, Interpretations, Laboratory tests together with our observations on the topics in the work.  We are thankful to all those who contributed into this effort.  Their reports form appendages to our main report. 

While no direct physical evidence exist today to establish that vimanas did exist in ancient times, literary works and epics aver that they did exist.  Nevertheless, there is enough evidence to say that technology of aviation and related sciences did exist.  It is not our claim that vimanas can be constructed from the contents of this work.  Aeronautics being a complex subject demands extensive base work before an aeroplane is developed even in rudimentary form.  What need to be focused upon are the perceptions, precepts, concepts and the supporting technology discussed in this text.  It is possible that interpretation of expressions may vary because of inherent nature of Sanskrit.  At least one of them has to be right.  An integrated effort among all research enthusiasts is vital in the process of deriving tangible benefit to the technological field.

Inspired by the thrill in this study, the Study Team has drawn Objectives for a Second Phase of study with a view to go more deeply into technical content and integrate various researches on a common platform.  For this exercise we need the support of the organisations interested in this kind of Research Exercise.  Takers may kindly approach us.

CONTENTS

References

1.      Vymanika Shastra - Pronouncements of Maharshi Bhradwaja conveyed through Sri. Anekal Subbaraya Shastry translated into English by Sri. G.R. josyer

2.      Sections of Amshu Bodhini by Maharshi Bharadwaja

3.      Articles from Issues of Bharatiya Boudhika Sampada.

4.      Report from Sri. N.G. Sheth, Bombay.

5.      ‘Yantras in Ancient India’ by Dr. V. Raghavan, Indian Institute of Culture 1956.

6.      Sections of ‘Samarangana Sootradhara’- Translations from king Bhojaraja’s work.

7.      Prasthanatraya – by Swami Madhusoodana Saraswati.

8.      Sections of Issues from Indian Journal on History of Science published by Indian National Science Academy.

9.      ‘Vimana In Ancient India’—by Professor D.K. Kanjilal.

10.  Research reports on Prakasha Stambhana Bhida Loha and Dwantapramapaka Yantra—National Metallurgical Laboratory, Jamshedpur, 1999.

11.  Views from GP. CAPT. M. Matheswaran. V.M., M. Phil.

12.  Report from Birla Science Centre, Hyderabad.

13.  Report from Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay.

14.  Report from Dr. K.H. Krishnamurthy.

15.  A news report from Deccan Herald -- an address by Italian scientist Dr. Roberto Pinotti 1988.

16.  ‘Critical review’ by Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 1974.

17.   “Tradition, Science and Society” by Dr. R. Balachandra Rao, Bangalore.

18.  ‘Vimana Aircraft Of Ancient India and Atlantis’ by Mr. David Childress.