Dakargaladhyaya, also known as Jalargalashastra or Udakargala, is a chapter of Varahamihira’s Brihatsamhita concerned with the identification of water sources and the importance of water. The chapter records traditional observations relating to land, vegetation, soil conditions and other natural indicators associated with groundwater. The Ashtaadashi Project studies this material in relation to water-resource management in rural areas. Through OCR, textual comparison, proofreading and digital presentation, the project seeks to make the Dakargala tradition accessible for further research and public understanding.

Salilargalam.in is the principal digital outcome of the Ashtaadashi Project: “An explorative study on the adaptability of ancient Indian techniques and procedures for water resource management in rural areas, based on the findings from Jalargalashastra of Varahamihira’s Brihatsamhita.” The project brings together textual sources, multilingual editions, research articles and supporting materials related to Dakargala, groundwater knowledge and classical Indian water traditions. It was undertaken during November 2024 to May 2026 with financial assistance under the Ashtaadashi Project, Central Schemes of the Government of India, implemented by Central Sanskrit University.