Scientific Research of Lonar: From Meteor Impact to Temple Architecture

Scientific Research of Lonar: From Meteor Impact to Temple Architecture

Ar. Samrat Sarode

Independent Researcher, Pune.

Abstract – The Lonar Crater, located in Buldhana district of Maharashtra, India, is a rare meteoritic impact structure formed in basaltic rock and represents a unique convergence of planetary science, geology, hydrology, architecture, and cultural history. This research presents an integrated study of the Lonar Crater and its surrounding sacred landscape, focusing on the relationship between the impact event, crater geomorphology, freshwatersaline water systems, and ancient temple planning.

The study documents the spatial distribution and orientation of key temples such as Daityasudan, Gomukh, Mohta Maruti mandir and associated tirthas, analyzing how natural geological fractures, perennial freshwater springs, and crater topography were consciously incorporated into sacred architecture. Special attention is given to the Gomukh freshwater spring, highlighting indigenous knowledge of hydrogeology within an otherwise saline and alkaline environment.

Comparative analysis with Martian basaltic terrains is also discussed, establishing Lonar as an important terrestrial analogue for planetary research. The findings suggest that ancient builders possessed advanced understanding of site selection, water management, and cosmic symbolism, integrating natural forces with Vastu and ritual geography.

This research contributes to heritage studies by bridging scientific interpretation with traditional knowledge systems and emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary conservation of Lonar as a site of global geological, cultural, and planetary significance.

Keywords: Lonar Crater, meteorite impact, basaltic geology, sacred architecture, hydrogeology, Vastu, temple landscape, planetary analog research.

INTRODUCTION

Lonar Lake was formed thousands to millions of years ago due to the impact of a meteorite striking the Earth. This lake is one of the worlds rare meteorite crater structures formed in basalt rock, which gives it global scientific importance. The ancient temples located around the lake reflect Indias advanced understanding of astronomy, architectural science, and spiritual traditions.

The name Lonar is associated with two meanings. The first comes from lon / lavan (salt), as the lake water is saline. The second is linked to mythology, according to which Lord Vishnu killed the demon Lonasura at this very place. In this way, science and mythology coexist at Lonar

Fig 1 : The surface of Mars

A hypothesis on how Lonar Lake may have formed

Between the planets Mars and Jupiter lies a massive Asteroid Belt. It is possible that a very large asteroid from this belt collided with Mars at extremely high speed. Due to the enormous energy of this impact, large rock fragments from the Martian surface may have been ejected into space. Some of these fragments could have escaped Mars gravitational pull and travelled further through space. One such large fragment may have moved towards Earth and fallen at very high velocity in the Lonar region, resulting in the formation of Lonar Lake. This hypothesis may help explain why geochemical similarities are found between the basalt rocks of Lonar and the surface of Mars.

Ancient Indian knowledge and architecture

In my view, ancient Indian architects and Sthapatis, who possessed deep knowledge of geology and natural sciences, may have symbolically expressed this cosmic event through architecture and sculpture. My research attempts to understand and decode this hidden knowledge.

Indication through the Gomukh Temple

The Gomukh Temple at Lonar is not merely a religious site; it is also an important hydraulic and architectural structure. Its dimensions appear to be symbolically connected with the planet Mars.

The inner square measurement of the main water tank of the Gomukh Temple is:

21 feet 9 inches = 6.629 meters. If 6.629 meters is converted to km, the result is 6,629 km, which is very close to the equatorial diameter of the planet Mars.

Fig 2 : Measurement of Gomukh kund

In addition, there are two other water Kund within the Gomukh Temple premise. 1) Brahmakund 2) Papahareshwar Kund. These can be interpreted as symbolic representations of Mars two moonsPhobos (which is closer to Mars) and Deimos (which is farther away).

Fig 3: Mars two moons

Daityasudan (Vishnu) Temple: An Alternative Perspective on the Original Deity: – The Daityasudan Vishnu Temple at Lonar is today identified as a Vishnu temple. However, when its architectural form and symbolic elements are carefully examined, it becomes evident that the temple may not have been originally built for Vishnu. Some scholars consider it a Sun (Surya) temple, but based on my study, this temple was more likely dedicated to Bh-Dev (Bhmt / the Earth principle).

The following points support this interpretation:

1. Temple built on a seven-layered platform (Jagati): indication of seven levels

   The Daityasudan Temple is constructed on a foundation composed of seven layers of stone.

   In the Hemadpanti and Chalukyan architectural traditions, the jagati (base platform) is not merely a structural element; it carries deep philosophical and geological meaning.

   A seven-layered base suggests that the temples central concept is not oriented upward toward the Sun or the sky, but downward toward the womb of the Earth. In this temple, the jagati is not created only to raise the structure in height; it itself functions as a primary architectural statement. In temples associated with the Earth Goddess, the foundation is given special importance, because the Earth itself is the foundation upon which life, water, mountains, and civilization exist. Lonar itself is a site formed by a geological eventa meteor impact.

   This place symbolizes the inner power of the Earth, impact, and regeneration. Bh-Dev is not merely land, but a force that:

   • endures impact,

   • sustains life, and

   • restores balance after destruction.

At such a location, the presence of a temple dedicated to the Earth Goddess appears both logical and culturally coherent.

Fig 4 : The Seven-Layered Foundation of the Temple and earth The Seven-Layered Foundation of the Temple: A Symbolic Representation of the Earth

The foundation of this temple is not merely a structural arrangement of stones; it symbolically represents the seven internal layers of the Earth. From bottom to top, these seven layers can be understood as follows:

1. Diamond Form

   This is the lowest layer.

   It symbolizes the Earths extremely hard and solid inner core (Inner Core).

   Just as a diamond is the strongest and most unyielding material, the Earths inner core is the hardest and most rigid part of the planet.

2. Peacock Form

   This layer represents the Earths outer core (Outer Core).

   The outer core is made of molten metals and generates the Earths magnetic field, which protects us from harmful solar radiation. Just as a peacock spreads its feathers in a protective display, this layer protects the entire planet.

   It is because of this magnetic energy that auroras (polar lights) are seen in the sky.

3. Go-Padma Form

   Go means Earth, and Padma here refers to a base or support. This layer symbolizes the lower mantle (Lower Mante).

   The lower mantle acts like a strong foundation for the upper layers of the Earth, preventing them from collapsing inward.

4. Swan (Hamsa) Form

   This fourth layer represents the asthenosphere.

   It is neither fully solid nor fully liquid; it is hot and flexible.

   Just as the swan is believed to separate milk from water, in this layer molten material (magma) separates from solid rock and rises upward, creating new land.

5. Lotus Form

   This layer symbolizes the lithospheric mantle.

   It is one of the strongest upper layers of the Earth.

   The stability of mountains, plateaus, and firm land depends on this layer.

   Just as deities are shown seated on a lotus, all of nature rests upon this strong layer.

6. Kirtimukha

   Kirtimukha is traditionally carved at temple entrances as a guardian against negative forces. This layer symbolizes the oceanic crust.

   It forms the boundary between the Earths deep internal heat and the wateratmosphere above.

   Just as Kirtimukha guards a doorway, this layer regulates and controls the energy rising from within the Earth.

7. Human Layer

This is the topmost layer.

It is the land where humans live, move, and conduct their lives. It is the stage for human actions, festivals, and civilization.

Summary

Thus, the seven layers of the temples foundation represent a complete journeyfrom the depths of the Earth to human life on the surface.

This is a remarkable example of the scientific and symbolic knowledge hidden within ancient Indian architecture.

Scientific Mirror

According to modern science, the Earth is divided into seven distinct layersfrom the outer crust to the inner core. Constructing a temple on a seven-layered foundation may symbolize that the temple itself represents the foundation of the Earth.

In this sense, the structure is not only religious but also a symbolic model of the Earths internal composition.

Bhumi Devi and the Concept of the Underworld

Although this temple is presently dedicated to Lord Vishnu, it shows a deep connection with Bhumi Devi (Mother Earth).

• Mythological account:

  According to the Skanda Purana, the demon Lonasura (or Lavanasura) lived beneath the Earth, in the underworld.

• Role of Vishnu:

  Lord Vishnu killed the demon who was hiding within the Earth and causing suffering to Bhumi Devi.

• Meaning:

  Vishnu is the protector of Bhumi Devi, as seen clearly in the Varaha incarnation.

  Therefore, this temple celebrates the protection and restoration of the Earth. From this perspective, it can also be seen as a monument commemorating the safeguarding of Bhumi Devi.

  EastWest Order and Astronomical Indications

  If we observe the spatial arrangement:

• East: Sun

• Middle: Bhumi Devi / Daityasudan Temple

• West: Lonar Lake

  In astronomy, the planet Mars is often observed in the direction opposite to the Sun.

  This spatial sequence appears to correspond symbolically with that astronomical relationship.

  EastWest Alignment and Meteor Impact

• Sun (East):

  The Daityasudan Temple includes a dedicated solar niche (Surya Koshtha).

• Line of sight from temple to crater:

  At certain times, the temple, the rising Sun, and the Lonar crater appear aligned in a straight line, creating a powerful symbolic visual.

• Connection with Mars:

  NASA and the Geological Survey of India (GSI) consider Lonar an important analogue site for studying Mars, because Lonar is the only known crater on Earth formed in basalt rockand Mars is also largely basaltic.

  Distance and the Diameter of Mars

• Another interesting observation:

  Distance from Gomukh Dhar to the Daityasudan Temple: approximately 636 meters (measured using Google Earth).

• Calculation:

  636 meters × 1003 6,360,000 meters 6,360 kilometers. This number is very close to the average diameter of the planet Mars.

  Symbolically, 6,360 kilometers is also close to the distance from the Earths surface to its inner core. The accepted distance from the Earths surface to its exact centre is about 6,371 kilometers.

• Relevance:

  Measurements and symbolic numbers associated with the Daityasudan Temple closely approach this value.

  This suggests that the temples planning and dimensions were deliberately designed to represent the Earths internal structure. For this reason, the argument becomes stronger that the temple was originally dedicated to Bhumi Devi (Mother Earth), as its entire architecture appears connected to the depth, layers, and core of the Earth.

  CONCLUSION

  The Daityasudan Temple

• its seven-layered foundation,

• the myth connected with the protection of Bhumi Devi,

• the sequence of SunTempleLonar Lake, and

• the measurements and similarities linked with the planet Mars

  all indicate that this temple is not merely a place of worship, but a symbolic architectural document containing profound knowledge of the Earth, the sky, and the planets.

  Fig 5 : (Gowmukh Dhar to Daityasudan temple google earth distance) (Google earth photo and measuring scale)

  Mars Analogue

  Scientists from NASA and ISRO refer to Lonar as a Mars Analogue. The reason is that the basalt rocks of the Lonar crater are chemically very similar to the rocks found on the surface of Mars.

  Therefore, Lonar is considered one of the most suitable places on Earth to study Martian surface conditions. In simple terms, Lonar is the closest Mars-like location on Earth.

  The Mystery of the Orientation of the Daityasudan Temple

  Another interesting aspect is why the Daityasudan Temple was established in only one specific direction. This does not appear to be a coincidence; rather, it seems to be a carefully planned site selection.

  Direction of the Meteor Impact

  According to geologists:

• The meteor that formed Lonar Lake came from the eastern direction.

• It struck the Earth at an angle of approximately 35 to 40 degrees.

  When this fact is viewed together with the orientation of the temple and the eastwest alignment, it becomes possible that the temples position was intended to indicate the direction from which the celestial impact occurred.

  Conclusion

  The scientific connection of Lonar with Mars,

  the evidence that the meteor approached from the east, and the special orientation of the Daityasudan Temple

  all three together suggest that this site is not only religious in nature, but is deeply connected with astronomy, geology, and architectural knowledge.

  Hanuman and the Planet Mars (Martian Energy)

  Hanuman is considered the highest spiritual form of the energy of the planet Mars. Mars symbolizes strength, courage, valor, and fearlessness.

  Where Mars is regarded as a warrior or military commander, Hanuman is seen as a divine warrior.

  In astrology, Hanuman is believed to be the deity who controls and balances the planet Mars. Therefore, the presence of Hanuman at places and events associated with Mars is considered especially significant.

  The Meteorite and the Maruti (Hanuman) Idol

  Near the Chhota Ambar Sarovar (Little Lonar), the Motha Maruti (Great Hanuman) Temple provides a very important indication.

• The Hanuman idol installe in this temple is approximately 9.3 feet tall.

• According to local belief and research, this idol is believed to have been carved from a fragment of the same meteorite that created the Lonar crater.

  If Lonar is considered a Mars analogue and the meteorite is viewed as a Mars-related event, then the existence of a Hanuman idol made from that meteorite fragment becomes symbolically very meaningful. In Hindu astrology, Hanuman is regarded as the deity who governs and pacifies the planet Mars.

  Mars represents strength, aggression, anger, and warfare. When Mars is disturbed, it can increase aggression, fear, and obstacles in a persons life. Through his strength, discipline, and selfless service, Hanuman balances the intense energy of Mars.

  For this reason, Hanuman worshipsuch as reciting the Hanuman Chalisa, Sundarkand, or performing Tuesday ritualsis traditionally practiced to reduce Mars-related afflictions (Mangal Dosh).

  Thus, in astrology, Hanuman is regarded as the presiding deity of Mars, who channels Martian energy in a positive direction.

  Fig 6 : Distance from Gomukh temple to Mohta Maruti temple (Google earth photo and measuring scale)

  Importance of the Location

  Another interesting observation is that the location of the Motha Hanuman Temple also appears to have been deliberately chosen. Its relationship with other major structures and water sources in the Lonar region seems not only geographical, but also astronomical and symbolic.

  One more notable fact is that the distance from Gomukh Dhar to the Motha Hanuman Temple is approximately 660 meters (measured using Google Earth).

  If this distance is viewed symbolically:

• 660 meters × 1003 = 6,600,000 meters, that is, 6,600 kilometers. This value comes very close to the equatorial diameter of the planet Mars.

  Thus, the similarity between the measurements of Gomukh Dhar, the Motha Hanuman Temple, and the dimensions of Mars once again suggests that the temple planning of the Lonar region is not purely religious, but deeply connected with Mars, astronomical knowledge, and symbolic calculations.

  Another Significant Observation

  Another striking fact is that the radius of Lonar Lake is approximately equal to the distances between:

• Gomukh Temple and Motha Hanuman Temple, and

• Gomukh Temple and Daityasudan Temple. When this distance is interpreted symbolically:

• 660 meters × 1003 = 6,600,000 meters (6,600 kilometers), which is again very close to the equatorial diameter of the planet Mars.

This repetition further strengthens the idea that the spatial planning of Lonar was guided by deliberate symbolic and astronomical considerations.

Fig 7 : B. Radius of Lonar Lake and Motha Maruti temple to Gomukh temple distance (Google earth photo and measuring scale)

Another Interesting Observation

Another noteworthy fact is that the radius of Lonar Lake is approximately equal to the distances from the Gomukh Temple to the Motha Hanuman Temple and to the Daityasudan Temple.

If this distance is interpreted symbolically:

660 meters × 1003 = 6,600,000 meters, that is, 6,600 kilometers.

This value comes very close to the equatorial diameter of the planet Mars.

Fig 8 : Bottom Radius of lonar lake (Google earth photo and measuring scale) Another Noteworthy Observation

Interestingly, the lower radius of Lonar Lake is found to be very close to the distance between the Motha Hanuman Temple and the Daityasudan Temple, as measured using Google Earth. This similarity is of special importance from the point of view of study and comparative analysis.

Understanding the Gomukh Temple through Vastu Shastra and Aayaadi Calculations

We will now examine the Gomukh Temple from the perspective of Vastu Shastra and Aayaadi calculations.

In Vastu Shastra, the method used to examine the dimensions and proportions of any temple, house, or sacred structure is known as Ayadi calculation.

Ayadi calculations ensure that a structure is balanced not only on a physical level, but also on spiritual, astronomical, and natural planes.

Ayadi calculations make use of ancient classical units of measurement. These units are considered extremely important in temple architecture.

• 1 Kishku Angula = 1 inches

• 24 Angula = 33 inches = 1 Kishku Hasta

• 1 Danda = 11 feet

• 1 Rajju = 88 feet

All these measurements are described in the Kmikgama Shastra and the Sthapatya Veda (Architecture of Sthapatya Veda).

1. Inner Perimeter of the Gomukh Water Kund

   One side of the Gomukh water Kund measures 21 feet 9 inches. Total perimeter of all four sides:

   21 9 × 4 = 87 feet 0 inches

   Now converting this into classical units: 87 0 ÷ 1 inches = 759 Angula

   Ayadi Number: 759

   In the classical texts, 759 is considered a highly auspicious Ayadi number. Its Ayadi results are as follows:

   • Aayaam (Gain): 12

   • Vyayam (Loss): 1

   • Yoni: West

   • Nakshatra: Shatatrak

   • Amsa: Shakti

   • Vaar (Weekday): Friday

   • Ayul (Longevity): 930 years

   • Yoga: Siddha Yoga

     This clearly shows that the dimensions of the Gomukh water Kund are fully Aayaadi-compliant and auspicious.

     Distance from Gomukh Dhar to Daityasudan Temple

     According to Google Earth, the distance from Gomukh Dhar to the Daityasudan Temple is 636 meters. Now converting this into classical units:

     1 Kishku Hasta = 2 9

     636 meters ÷ 2 9 = 759 Kishku Hasta

     The important point here is the repetition of the number 759.

     This reflects the remarkable intelligence of the ancient Sthapati, who used the same auspicious Aayaadi number in both:

   • the water structure (Gomukh kund), and

   • the spatial distance to the Daityasudan Temple.

     According to local tradition, the garbhagriha (sanctum) and architectural design of the Daityasudan Temple are believed to have been executed by a ancient Sthapati named Tribhuvan Kirti.

     Distance from Gomukh Dhar to Motha Hanuman Temple

     According to Google Earth:

     Distance from Gomukh Dhar to the Motha Hanuman Temple = 660 meters 660 meters ÷ 2 9 = 787 Kishku Hasta

     Ayadi Number: 787

     The number 787 is also considered auspicious according to the shastras. Its Ayadi results are as follows:

   • Aayaam (Gain): 12

   • Vyayam (Loss): 1

   • Yoni: West

   • Nakshatra: Shatatrak

   • Amsa: Shakti

   • Vaar (Weekday): Friday

   • Ayul (Longevity): 490 years

   • Yoga: Siddha Yoga

     This further supports the idea that the planning of distances, water structures, and temples in the Lonar region was carried out with deliberate Aayaadi calculations and symbolic precision, rather than by chance.

     Fig 9 : The Garbhagriha of the Daityasudan Temple (Lord Vishnu with Bhudevi)

     Inner Dimensions of the Garbhagriha of the Daityasudan Temple

     The internal dimensions of the garbhagriha (sanctum) of the Daityasudan Temple are 11 feet 1 inch × 11 feet 1 inch. When Ayadi calculations are applied to these dimensions, the resulting Ayadi number is 387.

     This number is considered especially suitable for Vishnu-related nakshatras. Moreover, this measurement gives auspicious results across all 16 Ayadiparameters. The Ayadi results are as follows:

   • Aayaam (Gain): 12

   • Vyayam (Loss): 3

   • Yoni: East

   • Nakshatra: Jyeshtha

   • Amsa: Yash (Success/Fame)

   • Vaar (Weekday): Wednesday

   • Ayul (Longevity): 490 years

   • Yoga: Siddha Yoga

   • Tithi: 3 (Vijaya)

   • Rashi: 12 (Pisces)

   • Bhuta: Jala Devata (Water Element)

   • Guna: Dirghyu (Long Life)

   • Avastha: Madhya Vaya (Middle Age)

   • Netra: 1

   • Gana: Rakshasa

CONCLUSION

The dimensions and spatial relationships of the Gomukh water tank, the Daityasudan Temple, and the Motha Hanuman Temple are all carefully planned, auspicious, and mutually interconnected according to Ayadi principles.

This reinforces the view that the architectural layout of the Lonar region was designed with deliberate application of Vastu and Ayadi knowledge, rather than by coincidence. This clearly indicates that the architecture of the Lonar region is not merely religious in nature, but represents a highly advanced and scientifically planned system based on mathematics, Aayaadi principles, Vaastu Shastra, and astronomical knowledge.

Now, if we look at the three mysterious water structures that I have studied together

1. Waloor Stepwell (Waloor AkashGanga well)

2. Khajana Well at Beed

3. Gomukh Temple and water tank at Lonar

If these three sites are connected on a map in a straight line, then according to Google Earth, the total straight-line distance between these three points is approximately 299.47 kilometers.

If this is viewed as a symbolic calculation:

299.47 × 10³ = 299,470 kilometers

This value is very close to the speed of light, which is approximately 300,000 kilometers per second. This numerical proximity suggests that the spatial alignment of these three water structures may not be accidental, but symbolically connected to advanced mathematical and cosmic concepts.

Fig 10 Distance between lonar – Waloor – khajana well

CHART: SUMMARY OF RESEARCH ON LONAR LAKE, GOMUKH DHAR & DAITYASUDAN TEMPLE

By Ar. Samrat R. Sarode, Pune

1. SITE OVERVIEW

   Component	Description	Core Insight
   Lonar Lake	Basalt crater formed by meteor impact	Only such crater in India; global scientific value; Mars analogue
   Gomukh Dhar	Naturalengineered water flow to temple complex	Measured dimensions match planetary values & Vaastu ratios
   Brahma Kund and Papahareshwar kund	One is near the main kund and other is away from main kund,	Symbolically represents as two moons of mars

   Daityasudan Temple	11tp2th century Hemadpanti structure	Symbolic construction reflecting Earths inner layers and Bhoo devi
   Motha Hanuman Temple	Local sacred site with meteor fragment belief	Distance alignment linked to Mars symbolism

2. SCIENTIFICCULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS

   Theme	Evidence	Conclusion
   Meteor Impact	Basalt structure, orbital direction studies	Lonar created from high-velocity cosmic strike
   Mars Connection	Basalt chemistry, planetary-scale numbers	Lonar = Earths closest landscape analogue of Mars
   Geomatics Alignment	Measured site-to-site distances	Patterns imply ancient scientific planning
   Mythic Parallels	Daityasudan narrative, Bhoomi Devi associations	Myth records impact memory symbolically

3. GEOMETRY & MEASUREMENTS

   Measure Set	Value Recorded	Interpretation
   Gomukh Tank Inner Side	219 6.629 m	Matches Mars equatorial diameter 6.629 m ×1003 6629 Km
   Gomukh Daityasudan Distance	~636 m	Symbolic link to planetary radius (Earth) 636 m x 1003 6360 Km
   Gomukh Mohta Hanuman Distance	~660 m	Matches Mars diameter factor 660 m x 1003 6660 Km
   LonarWalurKhajana Alignment	~299.47 km	299.47 km x103 km/s = speed of light symbolic

4. ARCHITECTURAL SYMBOLISM

   Structural Element	Physical Feature	Suggested Meaning
   Seven-layer foundation (Jagati)	Seven stepped stone courses	Mirrors Earths seven inner layers
   Axis Alignment (EastWest)	SunriseTempleCrater lonar lake	Marks direction of impact & solar cosmology
   Tri-Temple System	GomukhDaityaHanuman	EarthWaterEnergy triangle

5. AYADI & VASTU ANALYSIS OF DAITYA SUDAN TEMPLE

   Main Garbhagraha	Findings	Observation / Conclusion
   11 1 x 11 1 (inside)	387 kishku angula perimeter	Sacred measurements suitable for lord Vishnu nakshtra (Shravan Nakshtra)
   Yoni	East West aligned	East facing Garbhagraha
   Vyayam, Vaar, Amsa etc	16 Aayaadi sutra applied	Intentional design, not coincidence
   Ayul of Vaastu energy	490930 years	Symbolic longevity encoded in plans

6. SYNTHESIS & INTERPRETATION

   Dimension	Key Finding
   Physical	Meteor crater + flow networks
   Cultural	Ancient knowledge preserved in architecture
   Mathematical	Repeated numeric patterns (636, 660, 759)
   Cosmic	Implied MarsEarth correspondence
   Philosophical	Land, sky, and cosmic energy unified

7. CORE CONCLUSION

   Lonar is not merely:

   • A geological impact site

   • A place of worship

   • Or a mythic landscape

     It is all three at once, showing that ancient builders embedded knowledge of:

     • Planetary scale

     • Earth interior

     • Geometry

     • Water engineering

     • Astronomical symbolism

     • Cultural memory

in a single, interlinked sacred terrain.

CONCLUSION

The research conducted on Lonar Lake, Gomukh Dhar, and the Daityasudan Temple s not merely a study of measurements, distances, Vastu, or stone structures. It is an introduction to the profound knowledge that our ancestors understood, explored, and preservedquietly embedding it within temples and water systems, even without modern instruments.

Understanding a geological event such as a meteor impact and preserving that knowledge through temples, water management systems, Ayadi measurements, and symbolic architecture is not just an act of construction; it is a knowledge tradition meant to be transmitted across generations. The objective of this research is to demonstrate that Lonar is not merely a crater, but a living text that connects the Earth, planets, and ancient Indian intelligenceone that the present generation has a responsibility to understand, conserve, and protect.

Every stone, every line, every measurement, and every direction seems to convey that whatever was built here was created with deep thought and a clear purpose. Through this research, it becomes evident that in our tradition, faith, culture, and science were never separatethey were two expressions of the same unified knowledge system.

Therefore, Lonar is not just a lake or a temple complex; it is a heritage site representing our cultural memory, scientific understanding, and spiritual vision. Preserving, studying, and honouring this site for future generations is of utmost importance.

REFERENCES:

1. Fredriksson, K., Dube, A., Milton, D.J., & Balasundaram, M.S. (1973). Lonar Lake, India: An impact crater in basalt.

   Science, 180(4088), 862864

2. NASA Earth Observatory Lonar Crater overview

3. Skand Mahpura Hindi/ Sanskrit Translation S. N. Khandelwal (Chaukhambha Sanskrit Series; 7 volumes).

4. Ved Vyasa. Skanda Mahpura (Sanskrit text). Chaukhamba Sanskrit Series Office, Varanasi

5. Louzada, K.L. et al. (2008). Paleomagnetism of Lonar impact crater, India

6. Rai, S.S. et al. (2023). 3-D geometry of the Lonar impact crater, India, imaged from cultural seismic noise. Geophysical Journal International

7. Building Architecture of Sthapatya veda by Dr. Ganapati Sthapati.

8. Kamika agama shastra by S.P. Sabaratham.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I sincerely express my heartfelt gratitude to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), Lonar Sub-Circle and ASI Nagpur Circle, for providing me the opportunity to carry out an in-depth study of the archaeological and architectural significance of the Lonar region. Without their support and guidance, this work would not have been possible.

I would like to specially thank the ASI officers, engineers, conservation staff, and security personnel posted at Lonar, whose continuous efforts and vigilance have ensured that the site remains protected, secure, and suitable for detailed study.

I am also thankful to the local guides, temple communities, and regional citizens, who generously shared site-related information, historical memories, and practical guidance. Their local knowledge formed an important foundation for this research.

In particular, I humbly offer my respect and thanks to the ancient Indian Sthapatis, artisans, and builders, who, thousands of years ago, created such remarkable water structures, temples, and architectural compositions at this site. Through their work, we continue to witness their scientific understanding, mathematical insight, and spiritual depth. Their creations are the core inspiration behind this research.

This report is the result of my personal study; however, the direct and indirect contributions of all the above-mentioned individuals and institutions have been extremely significant in completing it. I dedicate this research to them with deep respect.

Researcher

Architect Samrat R. Sarode Registration No.: COA/2024/175789 Pune