Is astrology science or symbolism? Experts revisit vedic knowledge

Vedic sciences, originating from ancient Indian texts, are gaining renewed academic interest. While areas such as mathematics, astronomy, and Ayurveda are being reassessed for their historical relevance, astrology continues to be the subject of debate.“Ancient texts show that Indian scholars had a deep understanding of geometry and planetary movements,” said Dr Dev Swarup Shastri, a vedic literature expert. He added that early astronomers tracked cosmic cycles and calculated planetary orbits.Astrology, or Jyotish Shastra, remains one of the more contested aspects. It is still used in India for marriage planning, naming ceremonies, and business decisions.“Vedic astrology is based on actual astronomical positions,” said Dr Pooja Sharma, a practitioner of Vedic healing. “It is intended to offer insight into patterns rather than provide fixed predictions.”Astrologer Dr Mahesh Parashar pointed to the lack of scientific reproducibility in astrology. “Science raises valid concerns,” he said. “But if astrology is viewed as a psychological or cultural model, it can still be examined for its influence.”Dr Shastri added that ancient texts offer insights across disciplines. He cautioned that astrology should be studied with evidence or viewed through a cultural lens, not as a predictive science.