The Brhatsamhita by Varahamihira, composed in the early sixth century, is a monumental encyclopaedic treatise showcasing the vast scientific knowledge
of ancient India. The latter part of the title
indicates that this work falls under the
Samhita category of Jyotisasastra
literature, covering an extraordinary
array of subjects. The title Brhatsamhita
literally translates to “The Great
Compilation” or “The Vast Treatise”.
True to its name, the work spanning over
100 chapters delves into diverse fields
such as astronomy, geology, architecture,
agriculture, eclipses, earthquakes,
famines, water divination, medicine,
omens, meteorology, and more. It would
be no exaggeration to say that this “great
compilation” offers an unparalleled
window into the multidisciplinary
expertise of its time.

The current edition has been prepared by
consulting a few newly discovered
manuscripts of Brhatsamhita and Vivrti
ensuring a more accurate and reliable
reading of the work.