By Gaurav Tekriwal

From time immemorial, India has made profound contributions to the advancement of human civilization across numerous fields, including philosophy, science, mathematics, medicine, literature, and spirituality. The country’s rich intellectual traditions have shaped global thought for centuries. From the invention of the decimal place value system and the concept of zero to pioneering ideas in astronomy, yoga, and holistic medicine, India’s knowledge systems have influenced the development of human understanding across continents. These contributions have not only advanced scientific and academic progress but have also enriched the cultural and philosophical fabric of the world.

In this context, one Indian knowledge tradition that is increasingly gaining attention across the country and beyond is Vedic Mathematics. This remarkable system of calculation was reconstructed and popularized in the twentieth century by the revered Indian saint and scholar Bharati Krishna Tirtha. After years of extensive research and contemplation, he compiled his insights into a book titled Vedic Mathematics, in which he presented a collection of simple yet powerful formulas—known as Sutras—that enable remarkably fast and efficient mental calculations.

Traditionally, mathematics has been taught in schools through fixed and often rigid methods. For example, when students are asked to find the square of a number such as 65, they are usually taught one standard procedure, or at most two, to arrive at the answer. Vedic Mathematics, however, introduces a refreshing and flexible approach. Through its techniques, a student may discover several different ways—sometimes five or more—to reach the same result. This flexibility not only simplifies calculations but also equips learners with a wider range of tools and strategies for problem solving.

In many ways, Vedic Mathematics transforms the learning experience of mathematics. It changes the dynamics of how the subject is taught and how students perceive it. For many learners, mathematics is often considered one of the most challenging and intimidating subjects due to the mechanical nature of traditional methods and the difficulty students face in understanding them. Vedic Mathematics introduces creativity, pattern recognition, and logical thinking into the learning process. As students begin to see the simplicity and beauty hidden within numbers, their fear of mathematics gradually gives way to curiosity and enthusiasm.

By making calculations quicker and more intuitive, Vedic Mathematics helps engage students more deeply with the subject. It stimulates interest, builds confidence, and encourages learners to explore mathematics with greater enjoyment. At the same time, it reconnects students with an important aspect of India’s intellectual heritage, fostering a sense of pride in the nation’s long tradition of knowledge and scholarship.

This is one of the key reasons why Vedic Mathematics has gained immense popularity not only in India but also across many parts of the world. Governments, educators, and policymakers have long sought effective ways to improve numeracy and make mathematics more accessible for students. Considerable resources have been invested in technology, innovative teaching methodologies, and new educational tools to address this challenge. While many of these initiatives have been valuable, a growing number of educators are now recognizing the potential of Vedic Mathematics as a powerful and practical approach to strengthening numerical ability and improving overall mathematical confidence.

Our Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Ji has been advocating Vedic Mathematics to students since the last four to five years. He has spoken about the importance of it on platforms like Mann Ki Baat, Pariksha Pe Charcha and also discussed it with National Award-Winning Teachers.

So much so that it is included under the Ministry of Education’s Indian Knowledge System Department and policies have been made to promote, propagate and preserve it in our country.  We have also applied to UNESCO to list Vedic Math under the Intangible Cultural Heritage, so that it too can see the glory of the day just like Yoga and Ayurveda.

As interest in improving foundational numeracy continues to grow globally, Vedic Maths is emerging as a promising pathway—one that combines ancient wisdom with modern educational needs, helping students approach mathematics with clarity, speed, and confidence.