Jyesthadeva: A Pioneer of Indian Mathematics

Abinash Das
April 25, 2024

Abstract
Jyesthadeva was a renowned Indian mathematician and astronomer
of the 16th century. He is best known for his seminal work, Yuktibhasa,
which is a comprehensive treatise on mathematics and astronomy. This
article provides an overview of Jyesthadeva’s life and contributions to In-
dian mathematics, with a special focus on his magnum opus, Yuktibhasa.
We explore the significance of Yuktibhasa and its impact on the develop-
ment of mathematics in India.

1 Introduction
Jyesthadeva was a prominent mathematician and astronomer of the Kerala
school of mathematics, which flourished in the 14th to 16th centuries in
southern India. Born in the 16th century, Jyesthadeva was a member of the
Namboothiri Brahmin community of Kerala. Although little is known about his
personal life, his contributions to Indian mathematics are immense and far-
reaching.
Jyesthadeva’s work was deeply influenced by the mathematical traditions of
ancient India, particularly the works of Aryabhata and Bhaskara. He built upon
the foundations laid by these mathematicians and made significant
contributions to various areas of mathematics, including algebra, geometry, and
astronomy.

2 Yuktibhasa: The Magnum Opus

Jyesthadeva’s most famous work is the Yuktibhasa, a comprehensive treatise
on mathematics and astronomy. Written in Malayalam, the local language of
Kerala, Yuktibhasa is a remarkable work that showcases Jyesthadeva’s mastery
of mathematical concepts and his ability to present them in a clear and concise
manner.
Yuktibhasa is divided into several chapters, each dealing with a specific
area of mathematics or astronomy. The treatise covers a wide range of topics,
including arithmetic, algebra, geometry, trigonometry, and astronomy. One of
the most significant aspects of Yuktibhasa is its emphasis on the use of proofs
and logical reasoning in mathematical derivations.

1
 In Yuktibhasa, Jyesthadeva presents several innovative mathematical con-
cepts, including the concept of infinity and the use of infinite series to calculate
mathematical constants such as pi. He also provides detailed explanations of
mathematical techniques, such as the method of indivisibles, which is
equivalent to the modern method of integration.
Yuktibhasa is also notable for its discussion of astronomical concepts, includ-
ing the calculation of planetary orbits and the prediction of eclipses.
Jyesthadeva’s work in astronomy was influenced by the ancient Indian
astronomical tradition, as well as by the works of Arab astronomers such as
Al-Biruni.

3 Impact and Legacy

Yuktibhasa had a profound impact on the development of mathematics in India.
The treatise was widely studied and admired by Indian mathematicians and
astronomers, and it played a significant role in shaping the course of Indian
mathematics for centuries.
Jyesthadeva’s work also influenced European mathematicians, particularly
during the colonial period. The Portuguese, who established trade and cultural
contacts with Kerala in the 16th century, were instrumental in transmitting
Indian mathematical knowledge to Europe. The German mathematician, Got-
tfried Wilhelm Leibniz, is known to have studied Yuktibhasa and was influenced
by Jyesthadeva’s work on infinite series.
Today, Jyesthadeva is recognized as one of the most important mathemati-
cians of medieval India. His work, particularly Yuktibhasa, continues to inspire
mathematicians and historians of mathematics around the world.

References
[1] Katz, V. J. (1995). A History of Mathematics: An Introduction. Addison-
Wesley.

[2] Joseph, G. G. (2009). Crest of the Peacock: Non-European Roots of Math-

ematics. Princeton University Press.

[3] Sarma, K. V. (2008). Yuktibhasa of Jyesthadeva: A Critical Study. Indian

Journal of History of Science, 43(2), 147-164.

[4] Ramasubramanian, K. (2010). Indian Mathematics: A Historical Overview.

Resonance, 15(10), 934-945.