Aryabhata was an ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer who lived during the 5th century

CE. He is considered one of the most significant contributors to the fields of mathematics and
astronomy in ancient India. Aryabhata is often referred to as Aryabhata I to distinguish him from
other scholars with similar names who came after him.

Mathematics:
Aryabhata's most famous work is the Aryabhatiya, a Sanskrit mathematical treatise composed of
121 verses. This text covers various aspects of mathematics, including arithmetic, algebra,
trigonometry, and geometry. Some of his contributions to mathematics include the concept of zero,
place value system, and methods for solving linear and quadratic equations.

Astronomy:
Aryabhata's work in astronomy was also groundbreaking for its time. He proposed a heliocentric
model of the solar system, where the Earth rotates on its axis and orbits the Sun. This was a
remarkable insight into the nature of the solar system, considering that the prevailing belief during
that era was a geocentric model with the Earth at the center.

Additionally, Aryabhata calculated the sidereal rotation (the rotation of Earth relative to the fixed
stars) and estimated the value of the length of a year. He also accurately calculated the value of π
(pi) and the sine function, as well as developed tables to help calculate planetary positions and
eclipses.

Legacy:
Aryabhata's contributions to mathematics and astronomy had a significant impact on the
development of these fields in India and beyond. His work influenced later Indian mathematicians
and astronomers, and his ideas eventually spread to the Arab world and Europe, contributing to the
advancement of scientific knowledge worldwide.

It is important to note that while Aryabhata was an influential figure in ancient Indian science, he
was not the only one, and there were several other scholars and mathematicians who made
significant contributions during that period.