“Numbers have life; they’re not just symbols on paper.”
Shakuntala Devi
Shakuntala Devi, born on November 4, 1929, was an Indian writer and mathematical prodigy, famously known as the "Human Computer" for her extraordinary ability to perform complex calculations rapidly and accurately without the aid of any mechanical devices. Her remarkable talent made her a global icon and she remains an inspiring figure in the fields of mathematics and education.
One of her well-known quotes is: “Numbers have life; they’re not just symbols on paper.” This quote reflects Shakuntala Devi’s deep connection with numbers and her belief that mathematics is not merely a dry, abstract subject but a vibrant, living discipline that can be understood and appreciated by everyone.
Shakuntala Devi's incredible abilities were evident from a very young age. Born into a modest family in Bangalore, India, she demonstrated her mathematical talents early on when she began to solve complex arithmetic problems in her head by the age of three. Her father, a circus performer, recognized her talents and began showcasing her abilities at public events. By the time she was six years old, Shakuntala Devi had become a sensation, performing mental calculations that baffled experts.
Her feats were not just limited to addition or multiplication; she could solve complex mathematical problems, such as extracting cube roots or calculating large powers, in mere seconds. In 1982, she set a world record by multiplying two 13-digit numbers—7,686,369,774,870 × 2,465,099,745,779—accurately in just 28 seconds, a feat that was entered into the Guinness Book of World Records.
In addition to her mathematical prowess, Shakuntala Devi was also a prolific author, writing books on mathematics, puzzles, and astrology, as well as a significant work titled "The World of Homosexuals" (1977), which is considered the first study of homosexuality in India. This book was groundbreaking for its time, as it presented a positive view of homosexuality in a conservative society, showcasing her progressive mindset and commitment to understanding diverse aspects of human life.
Shakuntala Devi was passionate about making mathematics accessible and enjoyable for all. She believed that everyone had the potential to understand and appreciate numbers, and she spent much of her life traveling the world, demonstrating her abilities, and teaching mathematics to students. Her shows were not just demonstrations of her skills but were also educational, as she encouraged people to see mathematics as a subject of wonder and excitement.
Her life and achievements have had a lasting impact on the world of mathematics and education. In 2020, her life was depicted in a biographical film titled "Shakuntala Devi," where her story of overcoming societal barriers and achieving international fame was brought to a wider audience.
Shakuntala Devi’s legacy is one of inspiration, showing that with passion and dedication, it is possible to excel in any field, regardless of one’s background. Her quote about numbers having life underscores her belief in the intrinsic beauty of mathematics and her lifelong mission to share that beauty with the world.