Chandrayaan,space missions reflect ancient scientific heritage:Singh

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday said India’s flagship space missions such as Chandrayaan, Mangalyaan and Aditya-L1 are not merely technological milestones but modern expressions of the country’s ancient scientific heritage.Speaking at the Maha Shivaratri celebrations organised at the Isha Foundation at the Isha Yoga Center, Singh said the Sun and the Moon have always held scientific and cultural significance in India.“Our fasts, festivals and auspicious timings are determined through precise scientific calculations. Today, missions like Chandrayaan and other space programmes are modern expressions of our ancient scientific heritage, where tradition and technology move forward together,” he said.
He emphasised that when India launches missions to the Moon, Mars and the Sun, it showcases not only technological capability but also the continuity of a scientific spirit embedded in its civilisation. “As we send satellites into space, we are simultaneously advancing our scientific culture,” he added.Linking science and spirituality, Singh said national security is often associated with weapons, advanced technology and the physical strength of soldiers. While acknowledging their importance, he stressed that lasting security stems from a strong national consciousness.“A fear-based society can never be truly secure in the long term. Only a fearless society can build a strong nation. This fearlessness does not come from physical strength alone, it comes from a spiritual core,” he said.
Drawing a cultural parallel, the Defence Minister said that Indian soldiers embody the spirit of Lord Shiva — offering humanitarian assistance with compassion during crises and executing decisive operations with intensity when required. Referring to Operation Sindoor, he said the Armed Forces demonstrate both restraint and resolve when circumstances demand.Singh also spoke about the “Bhavya Bharat Bhushan” awards instituted by the Isha Foundation to recognise individuals who have made exceptional contributions in fields such as science and technology, arts, history and culture. He noted that three Armed Forces formations — Western Air Command, Army’s Southern Command and Western Naval Command — were also honoured for the success of Operation Sindoor.“Personally, this filled me with great joy and a deep sense of pride,” he said.
Observing that culture and science are often viewed as separate domains, Singh said that in India they have always complemented one another. “Culture is not merely a set of rituals; it is our way of life,” he remarked.Highlighting civilisational links, he referred to the ancient connection between Varanasi (Kashi) and Tamil Nadu, describing both as cradles of enduring cultural traditions. “Kashi is among the oldest living cities in the world, and Tamil culture is counted among the most ancient cultures globally,” he said.
“In language, culture and cuisine, Tamil Nadu is deeply rich and rooted in history. For me, coming to the sacred land of Tamil Nadu feels like a blessing. I have not come here as a guest, but as a seeker, as a spiritual person,” he added.Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis was among the dignitaries present at the event.