The Shastras

The 'Yoga Vāsiṣṭha' is a classical Sanskrit philosophical text attributed to Sage Vasiṣṭha, composed as a discourse given to Prince Rāma. It blends Vedantic philosophy, stories, and teachings to explain the nature of reality and the path to liberation.

The 'Means to Liberation' — a philosophical Sanskrit text that offers a systematic path (upāya) to attain Mokṣa (liberation).

The Science of Logic and Reasoning — one of the six classical schools (Darshanas) of Hindu philosophy, focusing on logical analysis and valid means of knowledge.

Yoga Shastra refers to the scriptural and scientific study of Yoga, a spiritual discipline rooted in ancient Indian philosophy aimed at the union of the individual self (Atman) with the universal consciousness (Brahman).

Liberation Texts. Moksha Shastra refers to the body of sacred literature, philosophical doctrines, and practical methods within Sanatan Dharma (Hinduism) aimed at achieving Moksha — the liberation of the soul from the cycle of birth and death (Samsara). These texts include Upanishads, Vedanta Sutras, Yoga texts, and teachings of various spiritual masters.

The Vaimānika Shāstra is a controversial Sanskrit text that describes various types of flying machines or vimanas said to have existed in ancient India. It includes technical schematics, propulsion techniques, pilot training, clothing, food habits, and battle strategies related to aerial warfare.

Therapeutic transformation of metals and minerals into potent medicines and pursuit of longevity or immortality (Deha Siddhi). Rasa Shastra is the ancient Indian science of alchemy and chemistry, developed to prepare powerful medicinal formulations using metals, minerals, and herbs. Rooted in Ayurveda and influenced by Tantric practices, it aims at curing chronic diseases, rejuvenation, and even transmuting base metals into noble ones like gold (Loha Siddhi).

Study of life forms, their classification, physiology, behavior, reproduction, and connection with cosmic forces. Jiva Shastra is the study of life and living beings in ancient Indian thought. It encompasses human anatomy, zoology, embryology, reproduction, classification of species, and concepts of consciousness. Deeply rooted in Ayurveda and Darshanas (philosophical systems), it integrates both physical and metaphysical dimensions of life.

The traditional Indian science of physics, dealing with matter, energy, motion, and the fundamental constituents of the physical world. Includes concepts like anu (atom) and parmanu.

The Sūrya Siddhānta is a foundational Sanskrit treatise on Indian astronomy, providing mathematical models and detailed calculations for planetary motions, timekeeping, eclipses, and calendrical astronomy. It forms the basis of many later Hindu astronomical works and Panchanga (Hindu calendars).

A traditional Indian system of architecture based on ancient texts that describe principles of design, layout, measurements, ground preparation, space arrangement, and spatial geometry. Aims to harmonize structures with natural and cosmic energies.

A comprehensive ancient Indian treatise on the performing arts, including drama, dance, and music. It covers all aspects of stagecraft, from acting and aesthetics to costumes and makeup.

The traditional Hindu system of physiognomy, palmistry, and body analysis to understand a person's character, fortune, and future.

A collection of ancient texts that describe the arts, crafts, and their design rules, principles, and standards. They cover sculpture, painting, pottery, jewelry, and other crafts.

The science of music in Indian tradition, covering vocal music, instrumental music, and dance (as it is often integrated). It includes concepts of Raga (melodic modes), Tala (rhythmic cycles), and musical forms.

A genre of Sanskrit texts referring to the shastras or treatises on dharma. They include teachings on religious duty, law, ethics, and social obligations.

An ancient Indian Sanskrit treatise on statecraft, economic policy, and military strategy. It provides a comprehensive guide for rulers on how to govern a kingdom effectively.

A genre of Indian literature dealing with wise and moral conduct, ethics, statecraft, and worldly wisdom. Often presented as maxims, fables, or advice to rulers.

The science of poetics and rhetoric in Indian tradition, dealing with figures of speech (alankaras), literary embellishments, and aesthetic theories.

The Indian tradition of poetics and literary criticism, encompassing theories of poetry, drama, and prose. It explores aesthetic experience (Rasa), style, and literary forms.

The science of Sanskrit grammar. Pāṇini's Ashtadhyayi is the foundational and most renowned work in this field, providing a comprehensive and systematic analysis of Sanskrit morphology and syntax.

A body of literature concerning Kama (desire, pleasure, erotic love). The Kama Sutra by Vatsyayana is the most well-known text in this genre.

A vast collection of philosophical and commentarial texts within Mahayana Buddhism. These shastras elaborate on Buddhist doctrines, ethics, metaphysics, and meditative practices.