Kolkata Institution Champions Vedic Mathematics for UNESCO Heritage Recognition
The Vedic Maths Forum, a prominent Kolkata-based institution dedicated to promoting ancient Indian mathematical techniques, has formally initiated a process through the Union government to seek recognition of Vedic mathematics under UNESCO's intangible cultural heritage (ICH) framework. This significant move follows extensive scrutiny by India's Ministry of Culture, which has highlighted Vedic maths as the world's fastest mental calculation system.
International Precedent Sparks Initiative
The campaign gained momentum following UNESCO's 2013 inscription of Chinese Zhusuan, an abacus-based calculation system, on its intangible cultural heritage list. Zhusuan employs arithmetic rhymes transmitted through generations to guide bead manipulation, enabling calculations ranging from basic addition to complex square roots. This international recognition directly inspired the Vedic Maths Forum to approach the Ministry of Culture with a comprehensive proposal for similar UNESCO acknowledgment.
Formal Nomination Process Underway
After the institution submitted its initial proposal in August last year, the Ministry of Culture provided detailed requirements for justifying the efficacy and uniqueness of Vedic mathematics. "The ministry sent the UNESCO ICH nomination form to us. We completed it thoroughly and returned it to the ministry," explained Gaurav Tekriwal, president of the Vedic Maths Forum India. "The nomination requires consent from the broader community of Vedic mathematics practitioners. It follows the same category under which Durga Puja and Garba were successfully nominated."
Tekriwal's dedicated efforts to promote Vedic mathematics have previously received commendation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his Man Ki Baat address. More recently, during his Pariksha Pe Charcha interaction last week, PM Modi again emphasized the practical benefits of utilizing Vedic mathematical techniques.
The Foundation of Vedic Mathematics
According to Tekriwal, this ancient system is fundamentally rooted in mathematical techniques based on 16 primary Sutras (formulae) and 13 Sub-Sutras that dramatically simplify and accelerate calculations. The methodology was systematically reconstructed in the early 20th century by the 143rd Shankaracharya Swami Bharati Krishna Tirtha, renowned for his seminal work 'Vedic Mathematics'.
The Vedic approach offers:
- Intuitive and flexible methods for solving arithmetic problems
- Advanced techniques for algebra and geometry
- Applications for higher-level mathematical challenges
- Unparalleled clarity and computational speed
"Unlike conventional step-by-step procedures, Vedic mathematics encourages mental calculation, pattern recognition, and creative thinking," Tekriwal emphasized. "This makes mathematics significantly easier, faster, and more enjoyable for learners. Beyond mere computational speed, it builds confidence, sharpens concentration, and reconnects students with India's extraordinarily rich mathematical heritage."
Upcoming Decision Timeline
The Ministry of Culture has informed the institution that the ICH committee will convene in New Delhi this March to deliberate on the nomination. This meeting will determine whether Vedic mathematics will be formally put forward for UNESCO consideration, potentially joining other Indian cultural treasures on the prestigious intangible heritage list.
