Early Life and Education

Shakuntala Devi was born on November 4, 1929, in Bangalore, India. From a young age, she showed exceptional mathematical abilities, earning her the title of "human computer." She never received any formal education and was entirely self-taught in mathematics.

Mathematical Achievements

Shakuntala Devi's extraordinary mathematical talents were first recognized when she demonstrated her ability to solve complex mathematical problems at lightning speed. She went on to break several records, including correctly multiplying two 13-digit numbers in just 28 seconds, a feat that earned her a place in the Guinness Book of World Records.

Author and Educator

Aside from her mathematical prowess, Shakuntala Devi was also a prolific author, writing several books on mathematics, puzzles, and astrology. She traveled the world giving lectures and demonstrations of her remarkable skills, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their interests in mathematics.

Personal Life

Shakuntala Devi married Paritosh Banerji, an officer of the Indian Administrative Service, and had a daughter named Anupama Banerji. Despite her busy schedule, she always made time for her family and was a devoted mother and wife.

Legacy

Shakuntala Devi's legacy lives on through her contributions to the field of mathematics and her inspirational story. She remains a symbol of intelligence, perseverance, and passion for knowledge, inspiring future generations to push the boundaries of what is possible.

Age and Height

At the time of her passing on April 21, 2013, Shakuntala Devi was 83 years old. She stood at a height of 5 feet 1 inch.

Net Worth

While the exact net worth of Shakuntala Devi is unknown, her impact on the world of mathematics and education is immeasurable. She dedicated her life to sharing her love of numbers with others and inspiring them to explore the wonders of mathematics.

Recognition and Awards

Throughout her career, Shakuntala Devi received numerous awards and honors for her contributions to mathematics and education. She was celebrated as a pioneer in her field and a role model for aspiring mathematicians around the world.

Documentary and Biopic

In 2020, a documentary film titled "Shakuntala Devi: Human Computer" was released, showcasing her life and achievements. Additionally, a biographical film titled "Shakuntala Devi" starring Vidya Balan was also released, bringing her story to a wider audience.

Impact on Women in Mathematics

As a woman excelling in a male-dominated field, Shakuntala Devi broke barriers and inspired countless women to pursue careers in mathematics. Her success served as a beacon of hope for women everywhere, showing that gender is no barrier to achieving greatness.

Philanthropy and Social Work

Shakuntala Devi was also known for her philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes related to education and women's empowerment. She believed in using her talents for the betterment of society and dedicated herself to making a positive impact on the world.

Quotes

"Numbers have life; they're not just symbols on paper." - Shakuntala Devi

"Without mathematics, there's nothing you can do. Everything around you is mathematics. Everything around you is numbers." - Shakuntala Devi

Conclusion

Shakuntala Devi's life story is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and perseverance. Her remarkable achievements in mathematics continue to inspire individuals around the world to reach for the stars and never stop learning. She will forever be remembered as a true genius and a trailblazer in the field of mathematics.