(1) Ganita, which treats of the constellations.
(2) Sankita, which explains the origin of the constellations, comets, falling stars, and earthquakes.
(3) Hora, by which the fate of man is explained.
"The Panikkar, who follows in the footsteps of his forefathers, should have a thorough knowledge of astrology and mathematics, and be learned in the Vedas. He should be sound in mind and body, truthful, and patient. He should look well after his family, and should worship regularly the nine planets:--Suryan, the sun; Chandran, moon; Chovva, Mars; Budhan, Mercury; Vyazham, Guru, or Brihaspati, Jupiter; Sukran, Venus; Sani, Saturn; Rahu; and Ketu. The two last, though not visible, are, oddly enough, classed as planets by the Panikkar. They are said to be two parts of an Asura who was cut in two by Vishnu. The Panikkars also dabble in magic, and I have in my possession a number of yantrams presented to me by a Panikkar. They should be written on a thin gold, silver, or copper plate, and worn on the person. A yantram written on gold is the most effective. As a rule, the yantram is placed in a little cylinder-case made of silver, fastened to a string tied round the waist. Many of these are often worn by the same person. The yantram is sometimes written on cadjan (palm leaf), or paper. I have one of this kind in my collection, taken from the neck of a goat. It is common to see them worn on the arm, around the neck."
The following examples of yantrams are given by Mr. Fawcett:--
Aksharamala.--Fifty-one letters. Used in connection with every other yantram. Each letter has its own meaning, and does not represent any word. In itself this yantram is powerless, but it gives life to all others. It must be written on the same plate as the other yantram.
Sulini.--For protection against sorcery or devils, and to secure the aid of the goddess.
Maha Sulini.--To prevent all kinds of harm through the devils, chief of whom is Pulatini, he who eats infants. Women wear it to avert miscarriage.
Ganapati.--To increase knowledge, and put away fear and shyness.
Sarasvati.--To enable its possessor to please his listeners, and increase his knowledge.
Santana gopalam.--As a whole it represents Sri Krishna. Used by barren women, so that they may bear children. It may be traced on a metal plate and worn in the usual way, or on a slab of butter, which is eaten. When the latter method is adopted, it is repeated on forty-one consecutive days, during which the woman, as well as the Panikkar, may not have sexual connection.
