Astika (Sanskrit for “exists”) — is a Hindu term used in relation to the six orthodox philosophical schools (darshanas), which accept the supreme authority of the Vedas. These schools are: Sankhya, Yoga, Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Mimansa and Vedanta. The heterodox schools are called “nastika” (Sanskrit for “not exist”). Among these are: Buddhism, Jainism, Lokayata.