Celebrating Ramanujan through a Math session for young minds

On December 22, 2024, five enthusiastic students accompanied by their Mathematics teacher, Pankaj Attri, PGT Math, from Apeejay School, Panchsheel Park, attended a special session at DPS RK Puram. The event was organised to mark National Mathematics Day, celebrated annually on the birth anniversary of the legendary mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan. 

The day was an ode to mathematics, fostering curiosity and inspiration among young minds. The highlight of the event was a talk by Mr Anant Mudgal, a distinguished name in the field of mathematics education. 

Mr Mudgal is renowned as a coach for the six-member Indian team at the International Mathematical Olympiad (IMO). With a global reputation for coaching Mathematical Olympiads in various countries, his expertise has shaped the journeys of numerous aspiring mathematicians. 

His session emphasised viewing mathematics not merely as a subject but as a way of thinking. Through thought-provoking anecdotes and real-life stories, Mr Mudgal showcased how mathematical principles influence everyday life and decision-making. 

Speaking about the reason for the session, Mr Attri said that the event was organised to encourage students to develop a deeper interest and appreciation for mathematics, and to help them understand the importance of math in their everyday lives.

“The session aimed to make Math more engaging, interactive, and fun, and to provide students with a platform to explore and learn Math concepts creatively and innovatively.  It helped to develop their problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and analytical abilities, which are essential for success in math and other areas of life. It also provided a platform for students to collaborate and work together, which helped to build their teamwork and communication skills,” the educator shared.

Inspiring Stories of Mathematicians

One of the most engaging aspects of the session was the storytelling. Mr Mudgal shared fascinating tales about iconic mathematicians, including their struggles, breakthroughs, and contributions to the field. These stories not only highlighted the historical significance of mathematics but also motivated the students to explore the subject with renewed enthusiasm. 

Abbas Hasnain, who attended the session stated: “I was surprised by how much I enjoyed the session. I thought Math was just about numbers and formulas, but I realised that it’s so much more than that. It’s about problem-solving, critical thinking, and creativity.

Sharing a similar sentiment, Aalya Choudhary said that the Math session ignited a spark within her. “It transformed Math from a subject to a passion, and I’m excited to see where this journey takes me,” she shared.

National Mathematics Day is a celebration of Srinivasa Ramanujan’s legacy and a reminder of the critical role the subject plays in shaping our world. As the students returned with fresh insights and heightened enthusiasm, the experience added significant value to their learning journey.

This celebration was more than an event; it was a step towards building a stronger foundation in Mathematics for future generations.