Structural characterization and physical properties of ash as a functional nanomaterial of Sri Athi Rudra Homa (an ancient Indian Wisdom), using modern scientific tools for its applications in environmental and ecology

The Athi Rudra Homa is a very rare and auspicious vaidic fire ceremony performed for universal peace, health and prosperity. As with the Agnihotra Homa, this homa too involves chanting and offering of medicinal herbs in the sacred fire, and the ash as functional nanomaterials generated is considered to be very beneficial as minute size functional materials. The present study explores the nanostructure of the ashes generated through the Athi Rudra Homa, which appear to have myriad benefits. Ash from the Athi Rudra Homa was collected from the Art of Living International Centre, Bengaluru, and its physical properties were measured using modern scientific techniques. X-ray diffraction and Scanning electron microscope (SEM) measurement reveal that the size of pure and impure ash is tiny, less than 100nm, and hence this material are nanomaterial. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) indicates the presence of O-H, C-H, C-Cl, C-Br, C-I, N-H functional groups. Due to its nano-crystalline nature and the presence of these functional groups, such material may be useful in purification of water, agriculture as herbal fertilizer and in some other fields. PL measurement shows broad luminescence in the ultra violet and visible range. Due to its physical properties and specially its luminescence behavior, this ‘holy’ ash as multifunctional nanomaterials may be found suitable for use in other areas of science and technology, with potential applications in agriculture, water purification and other sectors. Such research finding highlights the ancient Indian glorious past.