Vijayanagara Inscription Chronicles Historic Sighting of Halley's Comet

HYDERABAD — A remarkable historical discovery has emerged from the Vijayanagara period, revealing the first epigraphical reference to Halley's Comet in India. A copper plate inscription, dated back to June 28, 1456 CE, was uncovered at the Mallikarjuna Swamy temple in Srisailam, Andhra Pradesh. This significant find highlights the cultural and astronomical context surrounding one of the most well-known celestial phenomena.

The inscription, inscribed in Sanskrit and utilizing the Nagari script, was located at the Ghanta Mandapam within the temple complex. According to K. Muniratnam Reddy, Director of Epigraphy at the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), the document records not only the appearance of Halley's Comet but also a meteoric shower that coincided with this celestial event. Reddy emphasized that this inscription represents a historical milestone, marking the first time such a reference has been found in Indian epigraphy.

Halley's Comet, which orbits Earth approximately every 76 years, was notably visible in 1456, coinciding with observations made globally. The inscription refers to the comet as 'Dhumaketu,' a term believed to signify misfortune. To counter the perceived negative implications of this celestial occurrence, a traditional 'Santi Puja'—a pacification ritual—was performed. The king at the time, Mallikarjuna, is noted to have donated the village of Simgapura to a Vedic scholar and astronomer named Limganarya from Kadiyalapura, likely modern-day Kadiyapulanka in Kadapa district, as part of the observance.

The phrase 'Prakasyaya mahotpata santyartham dattavan vibhu?' translates to 'In order to pacify the calamities that may arise due to the illuminating comets and meteoric shower on the king and his kingdom, this grant was made.' This highlights the cultural significance attributed to comets in ancient Indian society, paralleling global interpretations of such celestial events as harbingers of doom.

The inscription's discovery underscores a shared human experience across cultures regarding celestial phenomena. Similar interpretations of comets as ominous signs can be found in historical texts from Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. Reddy's comments indicate a broader understanding of how civilizations have reacted to and recorded their fears surrounding astronomical events.

Halley's Comet has a storied history, with its last appearance visible from Earth in 1986. It is anticipated to return in 2061 as it follows its predictable orbit around the Sun. The documentation of this significant historical event not only enriches our understanding of Indian astronomy but also enhances the narrative of global perceptions of comets throughout history. As we prepare for the comet's next appearance, this inscription serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of human culture and our celestial surroundings.