Shakuntala Devi, often referred to as the “Human Computer,” was an Indian mathematician and writer renowned for her extraordinary arithmetic abilities. Here’s an overview of her life and achievements:

Early Life and Talent

Shakuntala Devi was born on November 4, 1929, in Bangalore, India. Her father discovered her mathematical talent when she was just three years old, as she solved complex arithmetic problems while playing cards. Recognizing her potential, her father began showcasing her abilities at various shows, where she performed mental calculations and quickly gained fame for her prodigious skills.

Mathematical Feats

Shakuntala Devi’s mental arithmetic abilities were truly extraordinary. Some of her most notable achievements include:

  • Guinness World Record: On June 18, 1980, Shakuntala Devi entered the Guinness Book of World Records when she successfully multiplied two 13-digit numbers (7,686,369,774,870 × 2,465,099,745,779) in just 28 seconds. This feat took place at Imperial College, London.
  • Complex Calculations: She demonstrated her skills by extracting the 23rd root of a 201-digit number, a task that few could replicate even with modern computers.
  • Calendar Calculations: She could provide the day of the week for any given date in history with remarkable speed and accuracy.

Literary Contributions

In addition to her mathematical prowess, Shakuntala Devi was a prolific writer. She authored several books, including:

  • “Figuring: The Joy of Numbers”: A book that explores various fascinating aspects of numbers and their properties.
  • “The World of Homosexuals”: Published in 1977, this groundbreaking book was one of the first studies of homosexuality in India and advocated for the acceptance of same-sex relationships.
  • Puzzle Books: She wrote numerous books on puzzles and mathematics, aiming to make learning fun and engaging for children and adults alike.

Legacy

Shakuntala Devi’s contributions extend beyond her mathematical feats. She inspired countless individuals with her abilities and showed that the human mind is capable of incredible feats. Her life and achievements have been celebrated in various forms, including a biographical film titled “Shakuntala Devi,” released in 2020, starring Vidya Balan in the titular role.

Conclusion

Shakuntala Devi’s life is a testament to the incredible potential of human intellect and the power of education and perseverance. Her legacy continues to inspire mathematicians, educators, and students around the world, reminding us of the joy and beauty inherent in mathematics.