A History of Hindu Chemistry from the Earliest Times to the Middle of the Sixteenth Century A.D. v1.c16.s2.8

v1.c16.s2.8

(1) Dutt is probably correct in so far as he states his views with regard to “the manufacture of nitre” as an ingredient of gunpowder. For it is well known saltpetre has been in use from time immemorial as the basis of rocket and other fireworks both in China and India. In the Dasakumáracharita by Dandí, mention is made of yogavartiká (magic wick) and yagachùrna (magic powder), of which saltpetre was probably the basis. The earliest account of the manufacture of saltpetre on a commercial scale that we have come across occurs in a rare work entitled: “The Travels of John Albert de Mandelso from Persia into the East Indies. London, 1669.” The book is in the valuable collection of my friend, Mr. Prithvísa Chandra Ráya. Says our author:—