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Achyuta PisharatiIndian Sanskrit grammarian, Vedic astrologer, astronomer and mathematician.
Country:
 India |
Content:
- Achyuta Pisharati: A Luminary in Sanskrit, Astrology, and Astronomy
- Contributions to Astronomy
- Guru to Narayana Bhattathiri
- The Miracle of "Narayaniyam"
- The Appearance of Lord Krishna
- Legacy and Celebration
Achyuta Pisharati: A Luminary in Sanskrit, Astrology, and Astronomy
Early Life and EducationAchyuta Pisharati, a renowned Indian grammarian, astrologer, astronomer, and mathematician, was born into a prominent family in Kerala. He was a disciple of Jyesthadeva and an integral part of the renowned Kerala school of astronomy and mathematics established by Madhava of Sangamagrama.
Contributions to Astronomy
Pisharati left an indelible mark on the field of astronomy through his authoritative works, including "Sphuta-nirnaya," "Rashigola-sphuta-niti," and "Karanottara" (1593). He also penned the renowned treatise "Upagrahakriya Krama" on lunar and solar eclipses.
Guru to Narayana Bhattathiri
Achyuta Pisharati's legacy is profoundly entwined with the legendary poet Narayana Bhattathiri, whom he mentored as a guru. He played a pivotal role in Bhattathiri's spiritual journey and imparted his knowledge of Sanskrit and other erudite disciplines.
The Miracle of "Narayaniyam"
Achyuta Pisharati witnessed a remarkable event when Bhattathiri, unable to bear seeing his teacher suffer from rheumatism or paralysis, prayed to transfer his mentor's ailment to himself. Pisharati was miraculously cured while Bhattathiri became severely ill. The ailing Bhattathiri then sought refuge at Guruvayur, where he encountered the venerated Brahmin scholar Thunjathu Ezhuthachan.
Inspired by Ezhuthachan's devotion to the deity Guruvayurappan, Bhattathiri embarked on a miraculous endeavor. For 100 days, he composed 10 slokas each day, reciting them before Lord Krishna's idol in the temple, beseeching divine healing. Each decad culminated in a prayer to Krishna, pleading for his recovery.
The Appearance of Lord Krishna
On November 27, 1586, as Bhattathiri completed the final decad, Lord Krishna himself is said to have appeared before him. In the concluding verses of his masterpiece, now known as "Narayaniyam," Bhattathiri vividly describes the divine form of Krishna. Miraculously, his ailment vanished at that moment.
Legacy and Celebration
The anniversary of this extraordinary event is celebrated annually in Guruvayur as "Narayaniyam Dinam." Achyuta Pisharati's role in Bhattathiri's spiritual journey and in the composition of this beloved Sanskrit poem continues to be honored to this day. His contributions to academia and the advancement of Indian astronomy remain an enduring testament to his brilliance.
