Ganit Siddhi

The book "Ganit Siddhi" (Mathematics Achievement) by Dhirajlal Tokarshi Shah, published by Pragna Prakashan Mandir, is a comprehensive guide to mathematics, focusing on practical methods and mental calculations. The book aims to make mathematics accessible and interesting for a wide audience, including students, businessmen, and anyone interested in improving their numerical skills.

Key themes and content covered in the book include:

• The Importance of Mathematics: The book emphasizes that mathematics is fundamental not only to science but also to everyday life, crucial for governance, commerce, and personal affairs. It highlights how a lack of mathematical knowledge can lead to exploitation.
• Historical Context of Number Systems: It traces the development of number systems, from the base-five system to the base-ten system, explaining the advantages of the latter, which was pioneered by ancient Indians.
• Efficient Calculation Methods: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to teaching short and easy methods for addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. These methods aim to save time and effort, especially for mental calculations.
• Multiplication Techniques: The book elaborates on various multiplication techniques, including:
  • Multiplying by 5, 15, 7.5, 12.5, 9, 11.
  • Special methods for multiplying numbers ending in 5, numbers with specific digit patterns, and large numbers.
  • Techniques for multiplying by numbers like 25, 50, 75, 125, 37.5, 45, 55, 35, 99, 101, and numbers with patterns like 18, 27, 36 etc.
• Mathematical "Tricks" and Puzzles: The book includes several engaging mathematical experiments and puzzles that demonstrate the power and wonder of mathematics. These are presented as "magic" or "miracles" to captivate the reader. Examples include:
  • Determining the item chosen by a participant.
  • Predicting the result of calculations based on hidden cues.
  • Solving problems through seemingly magical methods, like the "invisible bell toll" or "sea churning" experiments.
• Mathematical Proofs and Verifications: It discusses methods for verifying calculations, particularly addition and multiplication, to ensure accuracy. The "nine-checking" method is explained for verifying sums.
• Mental Arithmetic: The book stresses the importance of mental calculation and provides strategies to improve speed and accuracy in mental arithmetic.
• Practical Applications: The author illustrates how these mathematical techniques can be applied in various real-life scenarios, such as business transactions, budgeting, and managing personal finances.
• The Author's Background and Philosophy: The text includes biographical information about the author, Pandit Shri Dhirajlal Shah, highlighting his journey from humble beginnings, his commitment to education, his literary achievements in various fields, and his passion for making mathematics accessible. He is described as a "Shatavdhani" (one who can remember twenty things at once) and a "Ganitdinnmani" (jewel of mathematics).
• Endorsements and Reviews: The book features positive reviews and endorsements from prominent figures, including Maharaja Fatehsinhrao Gaekwad, Shri K. K. Shah (former Union Minister), Shri Morarji Desai (former Prime Minister of India), and various educationalists and critics, praising its clarity, utility, and engaging presentation.

Overall, "Ganit Siddhi" is presented as a valuable resource for anyone seeking to master mathematical calculations and appreciate the practical and even enchanting aspects of arithmetic. It aims to demystify mathematics and equip readers with skills that are both intellectually stimulating and practically beneficial. The book is part of a trilogy by the author, following "Ganit Chamtar" (Mathematical Wonders) and "Ganit Rahasya" (Mathematical Secrets).