Shakuntala Devi
A mathematical genius with a Guinness World Record who delved deep into her own humanity and unofficially wrote the first case study on homosexuality.
Featuring artwork by Harsho Mohan & words by Dr. Roopali Chaudhary, Sci-Illustrate Stories. Set in motion by Dr. Radhika Patnala.
Though never formally educated, and opinions abound that she was a numbers juggler rather than a mathematician, Shakuntala Devi worked throughout her life on making mathematics accessible and fun for all. Performing shows, and enjoying the process too, at schools and colleges, writing many children’s books, she was able to impress, and inspire youth with the joys and excitement of mathematics. Where numbers are a source of anxiety for many students, Shakuntala dedicated her life to teaching mental math and math tricks. Her sense of humour and charm made numbers less scary, and her approachable personality led many to appreciate arithmetic.
Early Life
Born in Bangalore, India to a 15 year-old mother and a 61 year-old father, Shakuntala’s talent for numbers was “discovered” by her father at the age of 3. Her father, who was born to an orthodox Brahmin Karnataka family, ran away to become a circus entertainer. While playing with his young daughter, showing her card tricks, he recognized her ability to memorize numbers. He honed her innate skill, and eventually quit…
