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A Theoretical View on Vedic Mathematics

Article in International Multidisciplinary Research Journal · June 2013

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International Multidisciplinary e- Journal – E. Dhivyadeepa, Dr. G. Singaravelu (98-106)
International Multidisciplinary e- Journal ISSN 2277 - 4262

A Theoretical View on Vedic Mathematics

E. Dhivyadeepa
Research Scholar, Department of Education, SDE, Bharathiar University,
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Dr. G. Singaravelu
Associate Professor & HOD i/c, Department of Education (SDE), Bharathiar University,
Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

Introduction

Vedic Mathematics is the name given to the ancient system of Mathematics which
was rediscovered from the Vedas between 1911 and 1918 by Sri Bharati Krsna Tirthaji
(1884-1960). According to his research all of Mathematics is based on sixteen sutras or word-
formulae. Perhaps the most striking feature of the Vedic system is its coherence. The whole
system of Mathematics is beautifully interrelated and unified. It makes Mathematics easy and
enjoyable and encourages innovation. In the Vedic system difficult problems or huge sums
can often be solved immediately by the Vedic method. These striking and beautiful methods
are just a part of a complete system of Mathematics which is far more systematic than the
modern system. Vedic Mathematics manifests the coherent and unified structure of
Mathematics and the methods are complementary, direct and easy. The simplicity of Vedic
Mathematics means that calculations can be carried out mentally (though the methods can
also be written down). There are many advantages in using a flexible mental system. Pupils
can invent their own methods which are not limited to the one correct method. It leads to
more creative, interested and intelligent pupils.

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International Multidisciplinary e- Journal – E. Dhivyadeepa, Dr. G. Singaravelu (98-106)

History of Vedic Mathematics

Vedic Mathematics was rediscovered from the ancient Indian scriptures between 1911
and 1918 by Sri Bharati Krsna Tirthaji (1884-1960), a scholar of Sanskrit, Mathematics,
History and Philosophy. He studied these ancient texts for years and after careful
investigation was able to reconstruct a series of mathematical formulae called sutras. Bharati
Krsna Tirthaji, who was also the former Shankaracharya (major religious leader) of Puri,
India, delved into the ancient Vedic texts and established the techniques of the system in his
pioneering work - Vedic Mathematics (1965), which is considered the starting point for all
work on Vedic Mathematics. It is said that Bharati Krsna's original 16 volumes of work
expounding the Vedic system were lost and it was produced as a single volume. It was
published after five years.

Sutras and Sub-Sutras of Vedic Mathematics

In Sanskrit, the ancient language of India, the word Sutra means “Thread of
Knowledge”. In English, the word Suture from Sutra and Suture is the thread used for
stitching wounds together. So each rule is a thread of knowledge and the whole subject is
based on these sutras. The system is based on 16 Vedic Main-Sutras together with 14 Sub-
Sutras which are actually would formulae describing natural ways of solving a whole range
of mathematical problems. These are 16 one-line formulae originally written in Sanskrit,
which can be easily memorized; enable one to solve long mathematical problems quickly.

The Sutras apply to and cover each and every part of each and every chapter of each
and every branch of Mathematics including Arithmetic, Algebra, Geometry – plane and solid,
Trigonometry – plane and spherical, Conics – geometrical and analytical, Astronomy,
Calculus-differential and integral etc. The name and meaning of sutras and sub-sutras of
Vedic Mathematics are shown in the following tables.

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International Multidisciplinary e- Journal – E. Dhivyadeepa, Dr. G. Singaravelu (98-106)

Table 1: Name and Meaning of Sutras of Vedic Mathematics

S. No. Name Meaning

1 Ekadhikina Purvena By one more than the previous one

Nikhilam Navatashcaramam
2 All from 9 and the last from 10
Dashatah

3 Urdhva-Tiryagbyham Vertically and crosswise

4 Paraavartya Yojayet Transpose and adjust

5 Shunyam Saamyasamuccaye When the sum is the same that sum is zero

6 (Anurupye) Shunyamanyat If one is in ratio, the other is zero

7 Sankalana-vyavakalanabhyam By Addition and by Subtraction

8 Puranapuranabyham By the completion or non-completion

9 Chalana-Kalanabyham Differences and Similarities

10 Yaavadunam Whatever the extent of its deficiency

11 Vyashtisamanstih Part and Whole

12 Shesanyankena Charamena The remainders by the last digit

13 Sopaantyadvayamantyam The ultimate and twice the penultimate

14 Ekanyunena Purvena By one less than the previous one

The product of the sum is equal to the sum

15 Gunitasamuchyah
of the product

The factors of the sum is equal to the sum

16 Gunakasamuchyah
of the factors

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International Multidisciplinary e- Journal – E. Dhivyadeepa, Dr. G. Singaravelu (98-106)

Table 2: Name and Meaning of Sub-Sutras of Vedic Mathematics

S. No. Name Meaning

1 Anurupyena Proportionately

2 Sisyate Sesasamjna The Remainder Remains Constant

Adyamadnyenantya-
3 The First by the First and the Last by the Last
mantyena

4 Kevalaih Saptakam Gunyat For 7 the Multiplicand is 143

5 Vestanam By Osculation

6 Yavadunam Tavadunam Lessen by the Deficiency

Whatever the Deficiency lessen by that

Yavadunam Tavadunikrtya
7 amount and set up the Square of the
Varganca Yojayet
Deficiency

8 Antyayordasake'pi Last Totalling 10

9 Antyayoreva Only the Last Terms

10 Samuccayagunitah The Sum of the Products

11 Lopanasthapanabhyam By Alternative Elimination and Retention

12 Vilokanam By Mere Observation

Gunitamuccayah The Product of the Sums is the Sum of the

13
Samuccayagunitah Products

14 Dhwajanka On the Flag

Development of Vedic Mathematics

Vedic Mathematics was immediately hailed as a new alternative system of

Mathematics, when a copy of the book “Vedic Mathematics” written by Sri Bharati Krsna

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International Multidisciplinary e- Journal – E. Dhivyadeepa, Dr. G. Singaravelu (98-106)

Tirthaji was reached London in the late 1960s. Some British mathematicians, including
Kenneth Williams, Andrew Nicholas and Jeremy Pickles took interest in the new system.
They extended the introductory material of Bharati Krsna's book and delivered lectures on it
in London. In 1981, this was collated into a book entitled Introductory Lectures on Vedic
Mathematics. A few successive trips to India by Andrew Nicholas between 1981 and 1987
renewed the interest on Vedic Mathematics.

Vedic Mathematics in Schools

Quite a few years ago, St James' School, London and other schools began to teach the
Vedic system with notable success. Today the remarkable system is taught in many schools
in India and abroad. Even MBA and economics student are taught Vedic Mathematics. When
in 1988, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi brought to light the marvels of Vedic Mathematics;
Maharishi Schools around the world incorporated it in their syllabi. According to Mahesh
Yogi, "The sutras of Vedic Mathematics are the software for the cosmic computer that runs
this universe." Since 1999, a Delhi-based forum called International Research Foundation for
Vedic Mathematics and Indian Heritage, which promotes value-based education, has been
organizing lectures on Vedic Mathematics in various schools in Delhi, including Cambridge
School, Amity International, DAV Public School and Tagore International School.

Importance of Vedic Mathematics in Modern Days

It is well known that India has given the lead to the world in the field of
Mathematics and has produced several mathematicians of eminence like Ramanujan. The
value of zero and the use of decimals were made known to the world by Indian
mathematicians and they laid the foundation of complex mathematical calculations for
scientific technology and development of computers. Vedic Mathematics clearly highlights
simple steps incorporated in the Vedas of solving complex problems in Mathematics in an
easier, logical and interesting manner. Vedic Mathematics presents a very sound theoretical
exposition with numerous illustrative problems and explanatory notes for easier
understanding of critical mathematical problems detailed in the Sutras. It is unified approach
to teaching of Mathematics. In the modern age of computers and calculators, a lot of people
have shied away from developing skills of mental arithmetic. Vedic Mathematics is attractive

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International Multidisciplinary e- Journal – E. Dhivyadeepa, Dr. G. Singaravelu (98-106)

for a good many reasons. It is extremely easy to learn, it is effective and it has a gratifying
simplicity. At first glance, Vedic Mathematics may seem like Mathematics tricks, more a part
of old-fashioned rote-learning than a route to better fundamental understanding. The real
magic of Vedic Mathematics is that, by offering so many choices, it encourages budding
mathematicians to analyze their sums to find the easiest way to a solution.

There is no correct way to solve a problem and finding the most suitable trick to lead
the learner gently towards a mathematical way of thinking. Vedic Mathematics is non-
restrictive and it is all about looking for patterns and ways to simplify a problem. It leads to a
flexible approach and develops lateral thinking. The 16 Sutras and 14 Corollaries form a
useful platform to speed up the mental calculations dramatically and the learners enjoy
finding ways to link them back to traditional western Mental Mathematics. Vedic
Mathematics proves immensely useful to the students, teachers, professionals and to all those
who need to use Mathematics in day-to-day performance of duties. Vedic Mathematics brings
more self-confidence. It contains 16 Sutras of Vedic Mathematics along with illustrations,
powerful nine, series, square rules and preliminary chatting in very interesting manner. Hence
it is most important in present world.

Applications of Vedic Mathematics

The main area of application of Vedic Mathematics is competitive exams like MSPC /
UPSC / GMAT / MBA -CAT / CET / RAILWAY RECRUITMENT / BANKING / STAFF
SELECTION COMMISSION (SSC) etc. Mathematics phobia started in the age group 9 to
13. There are so many reasons behind it. Students change their direction of education, mostly
after 10th exam and they choose education field where Mathematics is absent. Vedic
Mathematics can be used for removing such fear of Mathematics.

Advantages of Vedic Mathematics

Mathematics can be learnt and mastered with minimum efforts in a very short span of
time and can be translated into a playful and blissful subject with the help of Vedic
Mathematics. Vedic Mathematics may be considered as a boon for the modern world.

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International Multidisciplinary e- Journal – E. Dhivyadeepa, Dr. G. Singaravelu (98-106)

The several advantages of Vedic Mathematics are:

 It is very simple, direct, totally unconventional, original and straight forward.

 Mathematics is a dreadful subject which is converted into a playful and blissful

subject, which can be learnt with smiles on the face and joy in the heart.

 Vedic Mathematics enriches the knowledge and understanding of Mathematics, which

shown clear links and continuity between different branches of Mathematics.

 It reduces the burden of remembering large amount of stuff because it requires

learning multiplication tables upto 5 only.

 It enables faster calculations when compared to the Conventional method. The time is

saved in the process and it can be used to answer more questions.

 It acts as a tool for reducing finger counting and scratch work.

 It plays an important role in increasing concentration as well as improving

confidence.

 It enriches the understanding of Mathematics and enables to see links and continuity

between different branches of Mathematics.

 Vedic Mathematics system also gives a set of checking procedures for independent

cross-checking.

 It keeps the mind alert and because of the element of choice and flexibility.

 Holistic development of the human brain takes place through Vedic Mathematics

along with multi-dimensional thinking.

 Vedic Mathematics system is quite an extent to help in developing the spiritual side of

personality.

 It can introduce creativity in intelligent and smart students, while helping the slow-

learners grasp the basic concepts of Mathematics.

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International Multidisciplinary e- Journal – E. Dhivyadeepa, Dr. G. Singaravelu (98-106)

 More and more use of Vedic Mathematics can, without any doubt, generate interest in

a subject that is generally dreaded by children.

Hence Vedic Mathematics is considered to be a blessing of the Vedas for the entire
humanity.

Need of Vedic Mathematics for Children

If a child is not good in Mathematics, the child can score less marks in exams. Once a
child starts getting low grades in exams, the child ignores the class and slowly become
inactive in class. The child starts ignoring the teacher. It results in less participation in class
activities which in turn effects the overall development of the child. The student loses
confidence. Hence the student suffers from Mathematics phobia. Mathematics is the subject
of concentration. Students do silly calculating mistakes and they lose marks and long method
of solving the questions reduce the speed and most of the times students are not able to
complete the exam within set time. Students also get confused whether the answer is right or
wrong, they do not have important and helpful features of the system of Vedic Mathematics.
The system of Vedic Mathematics is very simple as compared to Conventional method. The
system of Vedic Mathematics is interrelated and unified. Effective and significant benefit of
Vedic Mathematics training is solving and calculations like squares and square roots,
reciprocals, cubic equations and high degree calculations. It also portrays a significant role in
providing a new approach to Mathematics by enriching knowledge and understanding of
Mathematics. Problems in Arithmetic and Algebra too can be solved very easily. The
methods are very simple and more flexible. Even complex problems can be tackled. Teaching
Vedic Mathematics can help the students who are struggle with Conventional method of
learning Mathematics.

Conclusion

Mathematics is an integral part of the students’ life. If it is not developed from

primary level, it affects the overall academic performance, loses confidence and degrades the
personality of the students. The study substantiates that difficulty of the learner in learning
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 International Multidisciplinary e- Journal – E. Dhivyadeepa, Dr. G. Singaravelu (98-106)

Mathematics can be eliminated through Vedic method and the Conventional method fails to
make the learning fruitful to the learners. Using an innovative method such as Vedic
Mathematics can attract the learners and eliminating the hurdles in learning the Mathematics.
Hence a study may ensure quality and assure the learner to score more marks in Mathematics
by using Vedic Mathematics.

References

Annapurna, I., (2001). Vedic Mathematics Techniques to Develop Computational Skills.

Retrived from http://www.magicalmethods.com/FREE/EOVM_R_Apik.pdf.

Bargersh, O.M.H., (2009). The Effect of Vedic Method to Perform Multiplication and
Division on the Achievement the Pupils of the 5th Grade in Aden. Retrieved from
http://vedicmaths.org/Community/Newsletter/2009/newsletter_issue_62.asp.

Glover, J.T., (1995). Vedic Mathematics for Schools: Book 1. New Delhi: Motilal
Banarsidass Indological Publishers & Booksellers.

Glover, J.T., (1995). Vedic Mathematics for Schools: Book 2. New Delhi: Motilal
Banarsidass Indological Publishers & Booksellers.

Glover, J.T., (1995). Vedic Mathematics for Schools: Book 3. New Delhi: Motilal
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Josephina, Sister., (1960). Mental arithmetic in today’s classroom. Arithmetic Teacher, 7,

199-200.

Rajesh Kumar, T., (2009). Vedic Mathematics: For Students Taking Competitive Exams.
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Williams, K.R., (1984). Discover Vedic Matheamtics: A practical system based on

sixteen simple formulae. Available through Vedic Mathematics Research Group,
Roorkee Univeristy, Roorkee 247667, India.

Williams, K.R., (2009). Vedic Mathematics Teacher’s Manual: Elementary Level.

Scotland: Inspiration Books.

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