Ancient Indians had not only mastered philosophy, but they were also experts in various fields of science and literature. Rasashastra (Indian Alchemy) was also researched and experimented upon extensively. Indian alchemy seems to have been evolved from techniques of transmutation of metals and minerals into their application in therapeutics. Few of the compilations based on experiences of practitioners of alchemy, metallurgical processes etc. became extinct in due course of period from 7th Century onwards. Rasendra Chudamani is a prominent text of 12th Century AD containing the experiences of previous authors. In a bird’s eye view, it may seem as an ordinary text written in Sanskrit regarding the crude metallurgical procedures. However, thorough study will throw insight of the deep and intricate procedures prevalent in that period. Present paper will deal with the status of Indian Alchemy with special emphasis on Rasendra Chudamani, its framework and contributions in the field of Rasashastra.

Keywords: Indian Alchemy; Rasashastra; Parada; Rasendra Chudamani.