Shakuntala Devi
Shakuntala Devi | | |
Born - 4 November 1929
Died - 21 April 2013
Very few people around the world achieved what this wonder-woman did. A mathematical prodigy, also known as the 'human computer', Shakuntala Devi was known for her complex problem-solving skills without the aid of any mechanical device. During her early years, she shot to fame by mentally calculating one of the toughest mathematical multiplications 10 seconds before the fastest and the most efficient computer of the time. Her problem-solving prowess came to the limelight with her performances at various institutions where she answered complex mathematical questions with great ease. She soon rose to prominence for her adept calculations and her confident demeanor. According to many sources, this famous prodigy met Albert Einstein and even he was taken aback by this acclaimed genius' skills. She was able to answer all of his challenging mathematical problems, prompting him to call her a "Mathematical Wizard". Apart from being an unparalleled mathematician, Devi was also an astrologer, activist and a prolific writer, whose works went on to inspire millions of people. Some of her best-known works are 'Figuring: the Joy of Numbers', 'Astrology for You', 'Perfect Murder' and 'The World of Homosexuals'. Scroll further for more information on this intriguing personality.
Family Background & Early Years
Shakuntala Devi was born on November 4, 1929 in Bengaluru to an orthodox, Brahmin Kannadiga family. Her father refused to become a priest and instead, wanted to entertain others as a tight-rope walker. He thus became a circus artist and 3-year-old Shakuntala used to accompany him to the circus and often come back mesmerized with her father's performances. It was he who eventually introduced her to the world of mathematics and taught her interesting card tricks that initiated her love for numbers. News of her ability to solve difficult mathematical problems soon spread like wildfire
Born - 4 November 1929
Died - 21 April 2013
Very few people around the world achieved what this wonder-woman did. A mathematical prodigy, also known as the 'human computer', Shakuntala Devi was known for her complex problem-solving skills without the aid of any mechanical device. During her early years, she shot to fame by mentally calculating one of the toughest mathematical multiplications 10 seconds before the fastest and the most efficient computer of the time. Her problem-solving prowess came to the limelight with her performances at various institutions where she answered complex mathematical questions with great ease. She soon rose to prominence for her adept calculations and her confident demeanor. According to many sources, this famous prodigy met Albert Einstein and even he was taken aback by this acclaimed genius' skills. She was able to answer all of his challenging mathematical problems, prompting him to call her a "Mathematical Wizard". Apart from being an unparalleled mathematician, Devi was also an astrologer, activist and a prolific writer, whose works went on to inspire millions of people. Some of her best-known works are 'Figuring: the Joy of Numbers', 'Astrology for You', 'Perfect Murder' and 'The World of Homosexuals'. Scroll further for more information on this intriguing personality.
Family Background & Early Years
Shakuntala Devi was born on November 4, 1929 in Bengaluru to an orthodox, Brahmin Kannadiga family. Her father refused to become a priest and instead, wanted to entertain others as a tight-rope walker. He thus became a circus artist and 3-year-old Shakuntala used to accompany him to the circus and often come back mesmerized with her father's performances. It was he who eventually introduced her to the world of mathematics and taught her interesting card tricks that initiated her love for numbers. News of her ability to solve difficult mathematical problems soon spread like wildfire