Ancient Wisdom, Modern Learning #A Living Expression of the Indian Knowledge System through Vedic Mathematics

The Departments of Computer Science and Statistics and Data Science at CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus continue to stand out as leading academic units in the region, known for their excellence in teaching, research, and industry relevance. With a strong emphasis on Industry 4.0 technologies, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Analytics, these departments aim to equip students and faculty with practical skills and analytical expertise that are highly valued in modern professional environments.

In line with this vision, the School of Sciences recently organized an engaging online session on 12 September 2025, titled “Ancient Wisdom, Modern Learning – A Living Expression of the Indian Knowledge System through Vedic Mathematics.” The workshop saw participation from over 110 students and faculty members, reflecting the university’s commitment to integrating traditional Indian Knowledge Systems (IKS) with contemporary computational methods.

Vedic Mathematics has gained widespread popularity and become an integral part of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) because it seamlessly blends ancient wisdom with practical utility. Rooted in the Vedas, it showcases the advanced mathematical thinking of ancient India, preserving cultural heritage while emphasizing the continuity of indigenous knowledge. Its simple and efficient techniques, such as “Nikhilam” (all from 9 and the last from 10), “Urdhva Tiryagbhyam” (vertically and crosswise multiplication), and squaring numbers ending in 5, enable faster and more intuitive calculations, making it highly appealing to students, educators, and professionals. Beyond computational efficiency, Vedic Maths enhances mental agility, concentration, memory, and pattern recognition, training the brain to think logically and analytically. Its relevance extends to modern education, complementing STEM disciplines, data science, AI, and analytics by strengthening foundational arithmetic and algebra skills. Globally recognized for its speed calculation techniques, Vedic Mathematics has also gained traction in competitive exams and educational programs. By integrating it into the Indian Knowledge System, India acknowledges its historical contributions to mathematics, fosters a connection with cultural and intellectual heritage, and encourages interdisciplinary learning that bridges traditional knowledge with contemporary scientific and computational approaches.

The session focused on the principles and applications of Vedic mathematics, particularly through the lens of Cosmic Maths. Participants were introduced to mental calculation techniques, such as manipulating numbers to reach 9,999, which simplifies addition by conceptualizing it as subtracting from 10,000. The historical context was discussed, with a special mention of Dev, a notable scholar in the compilation of these methods, highlighting the rich heritage of Indian mathematics.

During the workshop, several practical Vedic sutras were explained. Methods such as “one more than the previous,” squaring numbers ending in five, and multiplying numbers whose unit digits sum to ten were demonstrated, emphasizing the patterns and logic that make calculations faster and more intuitive. The Bijank method, used for verifying calculations through digit sums, illustrated how students could ensure accuracy in addition and multiplication. Advanced techniques for multiplying five-digit numbers and numbers close to base values were also shared, showcasing the versatility of Vedic mathematics in solving complex problems efficiently.

The session highlighted the benefits of Vedic mathematics training, including enhanced mental agility, faster calculations, improved numerical intuition, and stronger problem-solving skills. These advantages directly complement modern education in data science, analytics, and computing, where rapid calculations and logical thinking are crucial. The interactive format encouraged participants to ask questions, engage with the techniques, and explore additional resources, extending the learning experience beyond the workshop itself.

Speaking on the occasion,Dr. Anita Kumari emphasized the importance of revisiting such age-old mathematical techniques, noting that they provide both academic and practical value. She highlighted that the School of Sciences regularly conducts such skill-enhancing sessions to facilitate the upskilling of faculty and students, ensuring that the university stays at the forefront of modern education while honoring traditional knowledge.

Through initiatives like this, CHRIST (Deemed to be University), Pune Lavasa Campus, continues to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern technology, fostering a learning environment where traditional Indian mathematical principles enhance contemporary scientific thinking. This approach strengthens the analytical capabilities and cognitive skills of students and faculty alike, preparing them to excel in research, industry, and real-world problem solving.