The individual widely recognized as the "human calculator girl," or more formally the "Human Computer," is Shakuntala Devi.
Shakuntala Devi (4 November 1929 – 21 April 2013) was an extraordinary Indian mental calculator who amazed the world with her unparalleled ability to solve complex mathematical problems instantly in her head. Her incredible talent earned her the moniker "Human Computer," and she is often referred to as the "human calculator girl" due to her exceptional numerical prowess, which was evident from a very young age.
Shakuntala Devi: The Marvel of Mental Calculation
Born in Bangalore, India, Shakuntala Devi's unique gift for numbers was discovered when she was just three years old. Her father, a circus artist, noticed her ability to memorize and calculate numbers during card tricks. By the age of six, she was already demonstrating her arithmetic abilities at the University of Mysore, showcasing a capacity to perform calculations that would challenge even advanced digital computers.
Her remarkable feats included:
- Lightning-Fast Multiplication: On June 18, 1980, at Imperial College London, she mentally multiplied two 13-digit numbers (7,686,369,774,870 × 2,465,099,745,779) chosen at random by the audience. She provided the correct answer in just 28 seconds, including the time it took to pronounce the 26-digit result.
- Complex Root Extraction: She also demonstrated her ability to extract the 23rd root of a 201-digit number, a feat that astounded mathematicians.
These public demonstrations solidified her reputation as a mathematical prodigy and a true "Human Computer."
Global Recognition and Enduring Legacy
Shakuntala Devi's extraordinary skills led to her global recognition. She travelled the world, performing in front of audiences that included academics, politicians, and the general public, all of whom were astonished by her rapid mental computations.
Key facts about this exceptional individual:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Shakuntala Devi |
| Born | November 4, 1929 |
| Died | April 21, 2013 |
| Nationality | Indian |
| Known For | Exceptional mental calculation abilities, often called "Human Computer" or "Human Calculator" |
| Recognition | Her talent earned her a place in the 1982 edition of The Guinness Book of World Records |
Beyond her mathematical genius, Shakuntala Devi was also an accomplished astrologer and a prolific writer. She authored several books, including works on mathematics, puzzles, and even a groundbreaking book on homosexuality titled The World of Homosexuals (1977), which was considered pioneering at the time.
Her legacy continues to inspire, serving as a powerful reminder of the incredible potential of the human mind. Her life story is a testament to the fact that mathematical genius can emerge in the most unexpected ways, captivating the world with sheer mental power and leaving an indelible mark on history.
