Page 152 - NITI - Navigating Indian Traditions in Industry

2. Chhanda (Meter)
Chhanda, also known as Chandas, is the Vedanga dedicated to the meter and
rhythm of Vedic hymns. It ensures the proper recitation and preservation of the Vedas
by establishing specific rhythmic patterns and syllabic structures for each verse.
Vedic meters are based on two main principles: the number of syllables per verse
(pada) and the syllable weight (gana). The different types of meters include Gayatri,
Jagrati, Tristubh, Anustubh, Brhati, Usnih, and Pañkti, each with its unique structure
and significance.

3. Vyakarana (Grammar)
Vyakarana, or grammar, is the Vedanga that explains the structure and rules of
the Sanskrit language. The philosophy of language developed by the schools of
Vyakarana and Mimamsa stems from suggestions found in the Vedas. The divine
nature of speech, the creative and illuminative power of the word, and the different
levels of speech are central doctrines in Bharatiya (Indian) shastras.
Vyakarana, along with Shiksha and Nirukta, is directly connected with the Vedas.
The major contributors to the study of Vyakarana have developed numerous theories
about language understanding. Vyakarana deals not only with linguistic analysis
to establish the exact form of words but also with the correct use of language in
expressing ideas.

4. Nirukta (Etymology)
Nirukta, one of the six ancient Vedangas, is the study of etymology and the correct
interpretation of Sanskrit words in the Vedas. Nirukta involves the systematic creation of
a glossary and the understanding of archaic, uncommon words. The most celebrated
scholar of this field is Yaska, who wrote the Nighantu, the first text on Nirukta.
Nirukta is closely related to Vyakarana but focuses on linguistic analysis to help
establish the proper meaning of words, given the context in which they are used. The
study of Nirukta was essential for interpreting the Vedic texts, which often contained
words that appeared only once.

5. Jyotisha (Astronomy/Astrology)
Jyotisha is the Vedanga that explores topics related to celestial bodies and their
movements. It was originally developed to determine suitable times for performing
various Vedic rituals. The text Vedanga Jyotisha by Lagadha provides essential
astronomical knowledge for the day-to-day life of the people of ancient Bharat.

Although Jyotisha is often associated with astrology in modern times, in the context
of the Vedangas, it is primarily concerned with astronomy, including mathematics.

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