Lucknow: Hailing ancient Indian contribution to astrology, science and mathematics, home minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that there was no need to look at a US observatory to seek information on lunar and solar eclipse predictions, as it would easily be available with a pundit.
"Many times our media is confused. They say that US observatory has informed about lunar and solar eclipse on a particular date ... Don't look at an observatory, ask any pundit next to you. They will open the "panchang" (Hindu calender) and tell you the dates of eclipse 100 year ago and also 100 years hence," Singh said while addressing the convocation of Lucknow University here.
"Our saints had said that Earth existed 1.96 "arab" (196 crores) years ago. Earlier, science did not accept this, but later it had to. What they tell is run by our channels ... They should have asked pundits," he said praising ancient Indian knowledge.
Stating that no other country possesses the knowledge, which India has, Singh said be it theorems of trigonometry, algebra or others no other country could match our knowledge.
"Indian cosmological calculations are in tune with modern scientific calculations," the minister said while emphasizing on "spiritual development" of students and inculcating traditional values in them.
Citing example of highly-educated youth involved in terror activities, Singh said here that knowledge devoid of values is "disastrous" for society.
"When knowledge is cut-off from traditional values, it becomes disastrous. Civilizations which get cut-off from their traditions and values do not survive for long. It was India which showed a big heart and gave message of "vasudhaiva kutumbakam" (the world is one family)," he said.
Objecting to "hi and bye" culture, the minister asked students not to indulge in it and instead follow traditions and touch feet of their parents and elders.
"Today, youths say 'hi and bye' even to their parents. Instead, they should touch parents' feet as a mark of respect," Singh said, adding that "jo jhukna nahi jaante, woh toot jaate hain" (those who can't bend get broken).
In his address, Singh also highlighted difference between positive and negative thinking with mathematical formula and advised students to work for their self-development and that of others around them.
