Why was Varahamihira considered one of the nine jewels of Vikramaditya’s court?

Varahamihira

Varahamihira was an indian astrologer, astronomer, and mathematician who lived in Ujjain between 505 and 587 AD. His book ‘Pancha Siddhanta’ holds a prominent place in the realm of astronomy. The work is a treastise on mathematical astonomy, and it summarizes five earlier astronomical treatises.

            Varahamihira’s other works reveal his discoveries in the fields of geography, science, botony, and animal science.

            In his treatise on botanical science, Varahamihira presents cures for various diseases afflicting plants and trees. His work ‘Brihat Samhita’ gives us desciptions of heavenly bodies, their movements, and conjunctions.

            Varahamihira made some important mathematical discoveries as well. He was considered to be one of the nine jewels or navaratnas of the court of the legendary ruler Vikramaditya of Ujjain for his contributions to different branches of science.