Did India invent binary numbers, rhinoplasty, and rocket science — centuries before the West claimed credit? Two researchers deliver a compelling, evidence-backed answer.
This panel discussion, moderated from Tamil Nadu, features researcher Savarish and mathematician Chandrahas M. Halai dismantling the colonial and Dravidian narrative that pre-modern Bharat lacked scientific sophistication. Drawing from 6,000+ years of recorded history, they trace India’s contributions across mathematics (Pingalacharya’s binary number system predating Leibniz by 1,800 years; Bhaskaracharya’s Leelavati as the gold standard of pedagogical mathematics), surgery (Sushruta’s 100+ instruments, cataract and brain surgery, and the documented 1794 rhinoplasty case that seeded modern plastic surgery in Europe), rocket technology (Vijayanagara and Maratha armies, Tipu Sultan’s rockets inspiring William Congreve and later the Battle of Waterloo), and architecture (Lothal’s 6,500-year-old artificial port with dry docks).
The conversation also challenges the pseudoscience label placed on Indian knowledge systems — pointing to turmeric and neem patent battles as proof that “time-proven” traditions withstand Western scrutiny. Both researchers urge the next generation to learn Sanskrit, build domain expertise, and access primary sources directly to reclaim India’s scientific story.

About the Speakers:
Chandra M Halai is a Author, Consultant, and Faculty – Expert in Indian Mathematics, Engineering, and Applied Sciences.

Dr Sabareesh P.A is a writer and author of ‘A Brief History of Science in India’, ‘Our Hindu Nationhood’ and a PhD from Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.

Kiran Srivatson is the Moderator of this Panel Discussion.