Vedic Mathematics is the term used to describe an ancient Indian mathematical system that was rediscovered between 1911 and 1918 by Sri Bharati Krsna Tirthaji (1884-1960) from the Vedas. According to his research, all of mathematics is founded on sixteen Sutras, or word-formulae. An example of one such Sutra is ‘Vertically and Crosswise.’ These formulae elucidate how the mind naturally operates and assist students in finding the appropriate problem-solving methods. The Sutras essentially outline the mental processes described in the paper no. 57 titled “Structures in the Vedic Mathematics Sutras.” These mental processes underpin the construction of mathematical concepts.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Vedic system is its inherent coherence. Unlike a disparate collection of unrelated techniques, this system is elegantly interconnected and unified. For instance, the general multiplication method can be easily reversed to facilitate one-line divisions, and the simple squaring method can be reversed to obtain one-line square roots. These methods are readily comprehensible. This inherent coherence fosters an environment where mathematics becomes both easy to grasp and enjoyable, encouraging innovative thinking.
The Vedic system excels at solving “difficult” problems or large calculations swiftly and effortlessly. These ingenious methods are just a fraction of a comprehensive mathematical system that is more organized than the modern approach. Vedic Mathematics demonstrates the unified and structured nature of mathematics, and its methods are complementary, straightforward, and user-friendly.
The simplicity of Vedic Mathematics allows for mental calculations, although these methods can also be transcribed. There are numerous advantages to employing this flexible mental system. Students can devise their own problem-solving approaches rather than being limited to a single “correct” method. This fosters creativity, engagement, and enhanced intellectual development among pupils.
Interest in the Vedic system is growing in the field of education, with mathematics educators seeking superior alternatives and finding Vedic Mathematics to be the solution. Ongoing research spans various areas, including the impact of learning Vedic Maths on children and the development of new, potent yet straightforward applications of the Vedic Sutras in geometry, calculus, computing, and other fields.
However, the genuine elegance and effectiveness of Vedic Mathematics can only be fully appreciated through practical application. By actively using the system, one can discern that it may be one of the most refined and efficient mathematical systems ever devised.
