What is the Importance of Vedanga?

The sacred Sanskrit literature of tho Hindus consists of two main divisions: Srutis and Smritis, while the Sruti refers to what is heard, the Smriti constitutes what is remembered.

The authority of the Smriti is as binding as that of the Sruti provided it is not in contradiction with the latter. The Smritis consist mainly of (i) the two epics, (ii) the 18 Parana, (iii) the Dharma Sastras, (iv) the Smartha Sutras, (v) the six Vedangas and (vi) the Niti Sastras.

Vedanga means the limb of the Veda. The study of the Vedangas is considered necessary for the proper understanding of the Veda and hence the Vedangas are said to support the Veda.

Ceremonial religion is a matter of correct pronunciation, correct grammar and correct accents the subjects which form the core of the Vedangas and hence they are considered sacred.

The Vedangas are six; (i) Kalpa or ceremonial directory, (ii) Siksha or phonetic directory, (iii) Chanda or metre, (iv) Nirukta or exposition, (v) Vyakarana or grammar and (vi) Jyotisha or astronomy.