Dr Raj Nehru
It was a profound honour to speak at the one-day seminar on “Yoga Philosophy: An Interplay of Mind, Body, and Spirit,” organized by the Department of Philosophy at Abdul Ahad Azad Memorial Degree College, Bemina, Srinagar, on 10th August 2024. During my session, I emphasized the unique legacy the audience inherits, as they belong to a land that has not only been a spiritual epicentre but also a hub of scientific inquiry through its profound Yoga and Tantra philosophies.
Kashmir’s contributions extend beyond spirituality. This region encompasses a scientific approach that delved into the intricacies of consciousness, energy, and the cosmos. These methodologies have been practiced for centuries and were integral to the daily lives of Kashmiris. For instance, until recently, it was common for Kashmiri families, regardless of their religious background, to create Zatuk and Nechipater (personalized horoscopes based on astrological signs). These practices were deeply rooted in the region’s scientific and spiritual traditions, blending cosmic calculations with individual destinies. Even many Muslim families in Kashmir participated in these traditions, highlighting their widespread cultural significance.Similarly, the Janthari, an annual calendar based on astrological and astronomical observations, is meticulously prepared and followed by the community. These practices illustrate how Kashmiris have historically integrated scientific knowledge with spiritual beliefs, creating a unique blend that guided their lives.
Unfortunately, much of Kashmir’s rich knowledge and heritage has been neglected, distorted or overshadowed due to historical invasions, colonization, and religious persecution. However, initiatives like these seminars, events, and discourses organised in the valley, are vital steps towards reviving our age-old culture. They offer a platform for people to reconnect with their profound legacy, instilling a sense of pride in the rich scientific and spiritual traditions of Kashmir. As we work to revive and recognize these traditions, we not only honour the wisdom passed down through generations but also ensure that it continues to inspire and guide future generations, bridging the gap between ancient insights and modern practices.
In fact, the philosophies of Yoga and Tantra that emerged from Kashmir have had a profound impact on global spiritual practices as well. The integration of these ideas into mainstream yoga practices worldwide has changed the way people understand concepts such as consciousness, energy, and the self. Kashmir’s contribution to these philosophies has been pivotal in shaping a more holistic and integrated view of spirituality that continues to influence contemporary thought across the globe.
To illustrate my point, I shared a personal experience with the participants. Several years ago, while I was working at IBM, I had the opportunity to attend a GALLUP conference in Washington. During one of the informal discussions with some people, I brought up the Saptarishi Samvat, an ancient calendrical system developed by Kashmiri scholars over 5,080 years ago. I explained that this calendar is based on the precise positions and movements of celestial bodies, showcasing the profound astronomical knowledge that these sages possessed millennia ago. However, one of the persons who was from United States, attending the conference was sceptical. He questioned how Kashmiri scholars could have calculated planetary positions with such accuracy without the advanced scientific tools that organizations like NASA have developed only in the past few decades.
The scepticism is understandable when viewed through the lens of contemporary science, which heavily relies on technological advancements such as telescopes, satellites, and computer models to observe and predict celestial events. However, what this individual failed to grasp is that the Kashmiri sages employed a completely different methodology, one that was rooted in a deep understanding of the cosmos as well as intense yogic, meditative and spiritual practices.
Historically, these sages and learned scholars would gather at place in Kashmir and engage in intense spiritual and meditative practices which enabled them to attain heightened states of consciousness. These elevated states of mind allowed them to make precise and accurate calculations for the Panchang (almanac), a vital tool for determining auspicious times for religious rituals and daily activities. This place in Kashmir still exists and is known as Vichar Nag. Vichar Nag is a significant and ancient site in the Srinagar region of Kashmir, revered for its historical and spiritual importance. The name “Vichar Nag” itself signifies a place of deliberation or contemplation, hinting at its role as a centre of intellectual and spiritual activity. This sacred site has long been associated with Kashmiri Pandits and Rishis who were deeply immersed in the study and practice of astrological sciences, spirituality, and the Vedic traditions.
One of the most notable contributions of Vichar Nag to the broader Indian cultural and religious landscape is the Saptarishi Samvat. The Saptarishi Samvat is an ancient calendrical system that is said to have originated in Kashmir. It is based on the position of the seven great sages (Saptarishis) in the sky, which was believed to influence various aspects of life on Earth. The Kashmiri scholars at Vichar Nag played a crucial role in refining this system, using their deep understanding of the cosmos and their spiritual insights to create a calendar that was not only accurate but also instilled with spiritual significance.
The Saptarishi Samvat framework, developed by these Kashmiri sages, was more than just a method of timekeeping, it was a reflection of the interconnectedness of the cosmic and the human realms. This system emphasized the belief that human life is deeply influenced by celestial movements, and by understanding these movements, one could align themselves with the divine order of the universe.
The method employed by the Kashmiri sages was fundamentally different from the empirical approaches of modern science. Instead of relying solely on external observation and tools, these scholars combined their profound spiritual experiences with careful study and logical reasoning. They developed sophisticated mathematical models and astronomical calculations based on their deep understanding of cosmic rhythms, which were passed down through generations of scholars.
The Kashmiri scholars and sages, through practices like Dharana (concentration), Dhyana (meditative focus) and Samadhi (spiritual absorption), were believed to have achieved states of consciousness that transcended the limitations of ordinary perception. Dharana, Dhyana, and Samadhi are three progressive stages in the practice of yoga, leading the practitioner from focused concentration to deep meditation and ultimately to a state of spiritual union. Dharana involves concentrated effort to fix the mind on a single point, whether it’s an object, a sound, or a thought. As this concentration deepens and becomes effortless, it transitions into Dhyana, where the meditator becomes absorbed in the object of focus, experiencing a state of continuous, unbroken meditation. Finally, Samadhi is achieved when the distinction between the meditator and the object of meditation completely dissolves, resulting in an experience of profound unity with the universal consciousness.
A simple example of such practice is Tratak, a meditation technique that involves intensely focusing on a single point, often a candle flame, without blinking. This method improves concentration and mental clarity and is emphasized in various forms of yoga, including Hatha Yoga. In the context of Kashmir, ancient Rishis might have adopted such or similar techniques as part of their spiritual and scientific practices, particularly when developing astrological systems. These practices were not merely theoretical but were deeply understood and integrated into their way of life
The Kashmiri Rishis and scholars adopting such meditative practices, would have been able to access a profound level of understanding and intuition, allowing them to observe and interpret the movements of celestial bodies without relying on physical instruments. I am not saying that they saw planets and stars as we do today with modern telescopes, what I mean is that they would have rather perceived the cosmic order through heightened states of spiritual awareness. Consequent to this, with such spiritual and yogic techniques, without the aid of modern scientific tools, these Kashmiri scholars and sages were successful in calculating planetary movements with extraordinary precision and then developing highly accurate calendrical system, that dates back now almost 5080 years. Their methods, deeply rooted in meditation and spiritual perception, demonstrate a unique and holistic approach to knowledge, one that seamlessly integrates both scientific inquiry and spiritual wisdom. This legacy of integrating deep spiritual practices with empirical observations remains a testament to the rich intellectual heritage of Kashmir.
The scepticism expressed by the individual at the GALLUP conference highlights a common misunderstanding, the assumption that ancient knowledge must be inferior simply because it was developed without the tools and technologies that we now consider essential. However, the achievements of Kashmiri scholars in developing the Saptarishi Samvat and other astronomical systems demonstrate that there are multiple ways to acquire and apply knowledge, some of which may not fit neatly into the framework of modern science but are nonetheless valid and effective.Perhaps, it’s also a reminder that scientific knowledge is not solely the product of technology but can also arise from profound human insight and spiritual practices. This ancient approach, though different from contemporary methods, was no less effective in understanding and navigating the complexities of the cosmos.
Unfortunately, these philosophical, spiritual, and scientific advancements have been systematically erased from the collective consciousness of Kashmiri society. It is crucial for the people of Kashmir to actively work towards reviving and reestablishing their rich philosophical, spiritual, and scientific traditions, which have been overlooked or forgotten over time. The task of rejuvenating these traditions falls particularly on the shoulders of the youth, students, and scholars of Kashmir. They have an essential role to play in exploring and researching the ancient philosophical and scientific knowledge that remains, waiting to be rediscovered. By delving into this melting pot of wisdom, they can uncover and bring to light the significant advancements and insights of their ancestors, thereby contributing to a broader understanding and appreciation of this invaluable legacy.
Today, Vichar Nag remains a symbol of Kashmir’s rich intellectual and spiritual heritage. It stands as a testament to the region’s unique approach to knowledge, where science and spirituality were not seen as separate domains but as complementary paths to understanding the truth. The legacy of the Kashmiri scholars and their contributions to the Saptarishi Samvat and the Panchangs continue to be honoured and remembered, not only in Kashmir but across the broader cultural landscape.
Preserving Kashmir’s ancient institutions, philosophies, and scientific contributions is not only essential for revitalizing cultural identity and holistic education but also serves as an elixir for reviving the spirit of Kashmiriyat or Koshurut, that is the unique ethos of communal harmony, tolerance, and cultural pride. By reconnecting with these timeless traditions, Kashmiris can reclaim the unity and shared heritage that have historically defined the region. This cultural rejuvenation will inspire future generations, fostering a renewed sense of purpose and belonging, and helping to restore the societal bonds that have been strained by decades of conflict and division.
(The author is Vice-Chancellor Vishwakarma Skill University, Haryana)
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