Explanation
Why Correct: Varahamihira compiled and summarized the Surya-Siddhanta in his Pancha-Siddhantika, making him the scholar most directly associated with preserving and transmitting this astronomical text.
Distractor Analysis: Aryabhatta authored the Aryabhatiya, which introduced revolutionary mathematical concepts including zero and decimal notation. Bararuchi (Vararuci) was a Sanskrit grammarian and poet. Sushruta was an ancient surgeon who authored the Sushruta Samhita, a foundational text of Ayurvedic surgery.
Takeaway: The Surya-Siddhanta contains calculations for planetary positions, eclipses, and time measurement that influenced Indian astronomy for centuries.