International Journal on Science and Technology

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History of the Number System in Ancient India: Origins, Evolution, and Global Influence

Author(s) Dr. Prahlad Singh
Country India
Abstract The history of the number system in ancient India can be considered one of the most remarkable accomplishments of mankind. Ancient Indian mathematicians invented the decimal place-value system and the concept of zero, which changed the face of mathematics, astronomy, trade, and science all over the world. This paper critically reviews the development of the Indian number system from the Vedic times up to the medieval period. It pays particular attention to the Brahmi number system, the introduction of the place-value system, the mathematical definition of zero, and the spread of the Hindu-Arabic numeral system to the Islamic countries and Europe. The contributions of Indian mathematicians like Aryabhata, Brahmagupta, Bhaskara I, Mahavira, and Bhaskara II will be analyzed. Moreover, this study focuses on archaeological evidence, inscriptions, manuscripts, and mathematical treatises like Sulbasutras, Bakhshali Manuscript, Aryabhatiya, and Brahmasphutasiddhanta. It will be argued that the number system of India was not just a mathematical tool used by Indians but a universal intellectual achievement that made possible further scientific advancements around the globe. At the same time, the paper considers the philosophical ideas behind the invention of shunya (zero) and infinity in India.
Keywords Ancient India, Number System, Zero, Decimal System, Brahmi Numerals, Hindu-Arabic Numerals, Indian Mathematics, Positional Notation
Published In Volume 12, Issue 1, January-March 2021
Published On 2021-01-06
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