Vedic Mathematics

ORIGIN

It was developed and expounded by Shankaracarya Sri Bharati Krishna Tirtha (1884 – 1960) during the first half of the 20th century. As a devotee installed at Sringeri Math in southern India. Tirthaji spent years studying the ancient texts and teachings called Vedas. From stray references together with a genius intellect and brilliant intuition, he formulated the system now known as Vedic mathematics.

As a Shankaracarya he expounded and taught the teachings of Advaita – the philosophy of unity. This teaching is reflected in several of the sutras.

Before his passing he left the manuscript for an illustrative volume which was first published in 1965. Since then, there has been widespread interest and much developmental research into the meaning and applications of the sutras.

WHAT IS VEDIC MATHEMATICS?

Vedic Mathematics is a complete and coherent system offering simple, direct techniques through use of our natural thought processes. It is a brilliant approach to maths problems and has a growing interest around the world. The system offers lightning-fast calculation methods. It is based on only a few short rules, 16 sutras and a similar number of sub-sutras, and these form the substratum of mathematical thinking. They provide short and pithy rules of thumb, general and specific principles together with methods of working. So different is its approach to mathematics that it can rightly be termed as a new paradigm for mathematical work.

This unified system offers an enjoyable and mentally harmonious approach which makes maths easy to do and easy to understand. Students are also encouraged to apply their creativity and this leads to a deeper understanding of mathematics, greater mental agility, improved memory and increased speed.

UNIQUE FEATURES

Unity

The Vedic approach to mathematical problems is full of interconnectedness giving a sense of great unity. Disparate topics become entwined, not because they are in the same discipline, but due to the same mental pattern or rule or sutra being used. This helps simplify and deepen understanding of mathematical structures. As the great essayist Joseph Addison wrote, “Nature delights in the most plain and simple diet.”

Speed

Many of the methods are far quicker than those conventionally taught. Achieving a result in double-quick time always gives a sense of delight. The high speed with which students can reach answers in competitive exams gives them an edge because it enables more time to be given over to solving the harder problems. Statistical analysis shows that the VM methods lead to improved exam results.

Flexibility

With Vedic Maths there are multiple ways of looking at a problem, multiple ways to arrive at an answer and even multiple ways to express numbers. This leads to developing strategic problem-solving skills and to finding the path of least action; qualities that are highly valued in the worlds of industry, commerce, technology, science, and research in general. The multiplicity of approaches to any topic means students see them from different angles, so that different properties and aspects are appreciated and highlighted.

Creativity

The flexibility of Vedic Maths, together with the development of strategic thinking skills enables a personal input which allows a more creative and inquisitive approach to solving problems. This includes the use of intuition as well as logic. We are naturally creative and blanket methods should not be allowed to impede this.

Specialisation

As well as general methods, for such things as numerical or algebraic multiplication, there are also special methods, applicable in certain cases. These are much easier and quicker than that offered by a blanket method.

Enjoyment

Many of the methods are so easy and magical that they naturally result in sheer delight. As the founder encourages, “Turn mathematics for the children from its present excruciatingly painful character to the exhilaratingly pleasant and even funny and delightful character it really bears.” Sri Sankaracarya Bharati Krishna Tirthaji