Uttar Pradesh Governor Highlights Vedic Sage Bharadwaj's Concept of Aircraft and Kumbhakaran as Technocrat

Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel recently asserted that the concept of aircraft was first envisioned by Vedic sage Bharadwaj, although the Wright Brothers are credited with its invention. She also described Kumbhakaran, Ravana's brother, as a "technocrat" who secretly built machines for six months instead of sleeping. These remarks were made during the ninth convocation of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Language University in Lucknow.

Patel encouraged students to explore ancient Indian texts to understand the significant research and discoveries made by their ancestors. She emphasised that sages and scholars from ancient India made innovations that continue to benefit the world today. "Rishi Bharadwaj conceptualised the idea of an aircraft, but the credit for its invention was given to another nation, and it is now recognised as the invention of the Wright Brothers," she stated.

Ancient Innovations and Modern Recognition

The governor highlighted Rishi Bharadwaj's mention in Hindu epics like Ramayana and Mahabharata. The Wright Brothers, Orville and Wilbur, are known for flying the first powered aircraft on December 17, 1903, in North Carolina, USA. Patel questioned students about Kumbhakaran's supposed six-month sleep cycle, asserting instead that he was a technocrat who secretly developed technology to prevent theft by other nations.

Patel explained that Ravana instructed Kumbhakaran to remain in his workshop for six months, leading to rumours about his sleep pattern. Some BJP leaders have previously suggested that the concept of flying machines is depicted in the 'Pushpak Vimana' from Ramayana. A 2015 research paper at the Indian Science Congress claimed Shivkar Bapuji Talpade flew a machine over Chowpatty in 1895, predating the Wright Brothers by eight years.

Preserving Ancient Knowledge

The paper also suggested aeroplanes existed in India 7,000 years ago and could travel between countries and planets. However, it faced criticism from scientists for lacking empirical evidence. At the convocation, Patel urged universities to promote studying ancient texts and translating them into various languages to make this knowledge accessible to more people.

She pointed out the Rampur Raza Library's valuable collection of ancient books and artwork, noting that their colours remain vibrant due to natural vegetation-derived pigments. Patel remarked on India's peaceful history as Buddha's land and praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership in advancing education and research.

Educational Advancements

With a population of 1.4 billion, India is being effectively guided by Modi's policies, enhancing its global stature. The governor noted substantial educational funding in the current budget and encouraged universities to undertake projects benefiting students. She also mentioned Uttar Pradesh universities' strong performance in national and international rankings.

Patel highlighted their placements in NAAC and NIRF rankings as evidence of potential for even better results through hard work. Her speech underscored India's rich heritage of innovation and its ongoing commitment to education under current leadership.