Vedic Maths in the 21st Century: A Time-Tested Solution for Modern Problems

      Vedic mathematics formulas are a part of our tradition of mathematical calculations derived from the ancient Vedas. When we neither had calculators nor computers to do mathematical calculations, these mathematical formulas were used by our sages to speed up the events. These mathematical formulas are small but their explanation is quite world class and they are used in various ways in mathematical calculations. These Vedic formulas not only increase our ability to calculate but also help us in solving problems of mathematics and algebra. 

    Vedic Maths, a system of mental arithmetic, originated in ancient India around 1500 BCE. It was based on 16 Sutras (aphorisms) and 13 Upasanas (sub-rules) developed by the ancient Indian sage, Jagadguru Shankaracharya Bharti Krishna Tirthaji Maharaj (Also known as Father of Vedic Mathematics).

Jagadguru Shankaracharya Shri Bharti Krishna Tirthaji

(14 March 1884 - 2 February 1960)

    Jagadguru Shankaracharya Shri Bharti Krishna Tirthaji Maharaj was a renowned Indian sage and mathematician who made significant contributions to the development of Vedic mathematics. He systemized the ancient Vedic system of mathematics, making it easier to learn and apply. He also developed new techniques for solving complex problems, emphasized the importance of mental arithmetic, and showed that many complex calculations can be simplified using Vedic mathematics. His work has had a profound impact on mathematics education and has inspired many people around the world to learn and use Vedic mathematics.

    Jagadguru Shankaracharya Shri Bharti Krishna Tirthaji Maharaj was a pioneering mathematician who made significant contributions to the development of Vedic mathematics. His work has had a profound impact on mathematics education and has inspired many people around the world to learn and use Vedic mathematics.

There are sixteen main sutras in Vedic Maths and thirteen Sub- Sutras that are discussed below with their uses in mathematics aspects. 

Sutras of Vedic Maths

No	Sutras	Meaning	Uses
1	Ekadhikena Purvena	By one more than the one before	Sutra for simplifies squaring numbers close to it's base values
2	Nikhilam Navatashcaramam Dashatah	All from 9 and the last from 10.	Quicker technique for subtraction, especially useful when dealing with numbers close to multiples of 10.
3	Urdhva Tiryak	Vertically and Crosswise.	Sutra for streamlines multiplication, especially useful for multiplying large numbers.
4	Paraavartya Yojayet	Transpose and adjust	Unique technique aids in simplifying complex mathematical problems involving equations and variables.
5	Shunyam Saamyasamuccaye	When the sum is the same, that sum is zero.	Easier approach for solving algebraic equations with equal sums on both sides.
6	Anurupye Shunyamanyat	If one is in ratio, the other is zero	Sutra is for indispensable for solving proportionality problems.
7	Yavadunam Tavadunikritya Varga Samam	Whatever the extent of its deficiency, lessen that deficiency to form a square	Simplification of division and also finding square roots.
8	Vilokanam	By mere observation	For the purpose to encourages quick, intuitive solutions based on patterns and observations.
9	Sankalana-vyavakalanabhyam	By addition and by subtraction	This Sutra offers techniques for both addition and subtraction, enabling quick calculations
10	Puranapuranabhyam	By the completion or non-completion.	This Sutra aids in finding fractions and complements, simplifying various mathematical operations.
11	Chalana-kalanabyham	Differences and Similarities	Useful for problems involving ratios and proportions
12	Yaavadunam	Partial Products	This Sutra facilitates the multiplication of large numbers by breaking them down into smaller, more manageable parts
13	Vestanam	Specific and General	This Sutra helps in solving problems where a specific value is derived from a general one
14	Yavadvividham Vyashtih	Separately the particular from the general	This Sutra is handy for finding individual components from a group
15	Samuccaye	Collective addition.	Useful for quick summations, especially when dealing with a series of numbers
16	Ekanyunena Purvena	By one less than the previous one	This Sutra provides a technique for division and helps in finding quotients efficiently

Sub-Sutras of Vedic Maths

There are 13 sub-sutras in Vedic maths which are derived from the above mentioned 16 sutra as an addition methods to solve the problem in an effective and time saving manner.

No	Sub-Sutras	Meaning	Uses
1	Antyayordashakepi	The last digit remains the same	This sub-Sutra aids in quickly determining the last digit of a product.
2	Sopantyadvayamantyam	The last two of the last	Useful for solving problems where the last two digits are required.
3	Ekaadhikena Purvena	One more than the previous	This sub-Sutra extends the “Ekadhikena Purvena” technique for squaring numbers closer to the base
4	Paravartya Sutra	Transposition and adjustment	Helps in solving linear equations and balance problems
5	Calana-Kalanabhyam	Differences and Similarities	Offers additional methods for solving ratio and proportion problems.
6	Gunakasamuccayah	The product of the sum	Useful for solving problems involving the product of two sums.
7	Gunita Samuccayah	The product of the sum is the sum of products	Aids in simplifying algebraic expressions.
8	Yavadunam Tavatirekena Varga Yojayet	By one less than the one so much is the square	Provides an alternative approach for finding squares.
9	Antyayordasake’pi	The last digit is as it is	Useful for quick calculations involving the last digit of numbers
10	Antyayorekadhikaduhitayor	On the last two digits	Enables efficient calculations when focusing on the last two digits.
11	Ardhasamuccayah Samuccayoh	The sum of the half-sums is the sum	A technique for adding fractions with common denominators
12	Ekanyunena Sesena	One less than the one followed by the last	Facilitates quick division.
13	Sesanyankena Caramena	The last by the last, and the ultimate by one less than the last	A technique for division, especially when dealing with recurring decimals.

Above mentioned Sutras and sub-Sutras together constitute the comprehensive system of Vedic Mathematics, which can make a  multitude of strategies and techniques for mental calculations and problem-solving. We will use the above mentioned sutras and up-sutras in upcoming blogs and will solve the problem in a fraction of time.

A Summery Insight

In conclusion, Vedic Mathematics offers unique and powerful approach to mathematical problem-solving, rooted in ancient Indian wisdom. Its methods, characterized by simplicity, efficiency, and mental calculation, provide valuable tools for enhancing numerical agility and understanding. By leveraging the techniques outlined in the Vedic sutras, students and practitioners can achieve faster and more intuitive solutions to a wide range of mathematical problems. The system not only aids in practical calculations but also promotes a deeper grasp of mathematical concepts. Despite its historical origins, Vedic Mathematics continues to be relevant and beneficial in modern education, supporting improved mathematical skills and fostering a more profound appreciation of the subject. Its principles stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of ancient knowledge and its applicability in contemporary learning environments.