Pathani Samanta Chandrasekhar (1835-1904) was an eminent astronomer of
Orissa. He was conferred the title ‘Mahamahoadhyaya’ by the British government in 1893, in recognition to his contribution in the field of astronomy.
Pathani Samanta Chandrasekhar was born at Khandapara in Nayagarh District. He chose Sanskrit as his medium of education instead of English. He achieved great expertise in traditional Indian astronomy. During his research, he constructed many instruments using the local available materials like wooden sticks and bamboo pieces. His knowledge in astronomy ensured that these instruments had great accuracy in their measurement. His findings are recorded in his book titled ‘Siddhanta Darpana’, which is written in Sanskrit. This book won him wide acclaim and fame, finding special mention in the European and American press in the year 1899.
Pathani Samanta Chandrasekhar’s calculations are referred in the preparation of almanacs in Orissa. The Pathani Samanta Planetarium is dedicated to him.
