Emergence of Algebra in Ancient India

Dr. Mangala J. Narlikar Memorial Lecture

Dr. Mangala J. Narlikar Memorial Lecture
(Organised by Bhaskaracharya Pratishthana, Pune)


Lecture 5 in the series

Prof. Amartya Kumar Dutta, ISI Kolkata will deliver a lecture on
" Emergence of Algebra in Ancient India"

  • Day and Date: Thursday, 17th October 2024.
  • Timing: 4:00 PM
  • Speaker: Prof. Amartya Kumar Dutta (ISI, Kolkata).
  • Venue: AV Hall, Library Building, Bhaskaracharya Pratishthana, Pune.
  • Topic: Emergence of Algebra in Ancient India

Abstract:

In a correspondence on history of mathematics, Prof. David Mumford (the Fields Medallist) wrote: ``It seems clear to me that Brahmagupta is the key person in the creation of algebra as we know it.''  The talk will primarily be an exposition of Prof. Mumford's succinct remark. 

We shall discuss the question: when did `Algebra' emerge in India as a distinct discipline and which aspects of this branch of mathematics does one see in ancient Indian texts. 

The talk will cover a part of the author's article on the topic which appeared in the mathematics magazine BhAvanA in April 2023.  

All are cordially invited to attend the lecture.