Ancient science of weather forecasting in India with special reference to rainfall prediction

Abstract

The monsoon on the Indian subcontinent remains a seasonal occurrence that all inhabitants of the subcontinent desire. Modern scientific knowledge of methods of rain forecasting has originated recently. However, traditional indigenous wisdom is peculiar to our country. In the past, India had a magnificent scientific and technical legacy. Even today, it is common that village astrologers (pandits) are right in a surprisingly high percentage of their rain predictions. Scientists and local traditional farmers have a long history of astronomical research and treatises that predict rainfall. They use different methods to forecast rainfall conditions based on numerous panchangs, almanac bio-indicators (Bhoum method), non-bio-indicators (Antariksh method), and predict the likely behavior of climate in the planting season. Rainfall forecasting also aids in the planning of operations by agriculturists, builders, water supply engineers, and others. All mortals from the subcontinent have looked at it from their own perspective, and it continues to be the subject of intense multi-dimensional engagement. The monsoon has provided a means of life for numerous civilizations while also shaping the drainages and palaeo-geography of the subcontinent. The objective of this article is to document some indigenous knowledge for forecasting climate and environmental dynamics towards community resilience.

Keywords

• Almanac
• Varahmihir
• Brihatsanhita
• bio-indicators
• Nakshatra
• Indigenous knowledge