A math prodigy
FROM ZERO INTEREST TO A LOVE FOR NUMBERS
WHILE others may reach for calculators, Yaashwin Sarawanan, 15, solves complex mathematical problems in his head without breaking a sweat. Dubbed the “Human Calculator”, the SMK Bandar Tun Hussein Onn 2 student finished second place in Asia’s Got Talent Season 3.
He attracted attention after an audition for the TV programme where he showcased rapid fire mental calculations faster than a calculator.
Some people are born with extraordinary talent or are gifted but for Yaashwin, nothing will come of it unless there is practice.
He attended abacus and mental arithmetic classes as early as 7 years old, with zero interest in mathematics and numbers.
“I began without skills when I enrolled in the classes. However, as the years passed, I started to fall in love with numbers and realised that I have a knack for solving math problems,” said Yaashwin.
He quit the class when he was 9 and practised mental arithmetic on his own. Using mental arithmetic, his ability to add, subtract, multiply and divide numbers swiftly with speed and accuracy is comparable to modern devices such as calculators.
In 2017, Yaashwin emerged as champion in the International Abacus and Mental Arithmetic Competition.
“Other than mathematics, I enjoy learning science. In the future, I’II like to
venture into accountancy. I love numbers,” said Yaashwin who aspires to be an entrepreneur.
To him, being good with numbers is about minimising the use of calculators.
“When my friends ask for my help to solve mathematics questions, I encourage them to use their brain power. The main reason why people are weak and not interested in mathematics is because they are too dependent on calculators. Sometimes, they even use calculators to solve basic subtraction and addition,” he added, suggesting that children should be exposed to mental arithmetic at the prime age of 7.
Yaashwin practises mental arithmetic five to 10 minutes per day and humbly claims that he is not the best in what he does.
“There are many other ‘human calculators’ who are better than me.”
At the finals of Asia’s Got Talent, the math prodigy pulled off an act called “Calendar Problem” where he accurately guessed the day of significant life events of the three judges.
He had doubts about competing in the show as he was afraid that people would perceive his ability in math as a skill rather than a talent.
“My aim of joining this programme is to show that numbers and calculations can be fun.”
Appearing on stage and on TV can be a daunting experience to many but Yaashwin’s confidence comes naturally.
“I have always loved speaking in public and entertaining people. Initially, I was quite nervous but the moment I answered the first question correctly, I regained my confidence.
“Joining this competition is a once-in-alifetime experience as I get to meet people across Asia with different talents, from singers to magicians. They are all good in what they do and I am truly inspired by them. “Even though I did not win Asia’s
Got Talent, I am thankful that millions of Malaysians supported me.
“I am humbled at the chance to represent the country on such a recognised platform as Asia’s Got Talent.
“There is no harm in trying. In life, there is no rewind button and, at the end of the day, you can only regret the chance you did not take. I always tell myself that it is better to try and fail rather than fail to try.”
Yaashwin’s father Sarawanan Murugaiah is thrilled at his achievements.
“He is very disciplined. When I attend parent-teacher meetings, they often end very quickly with the teacher telling me that I am lucky to have Yaashwin as my son. I hope that he can continue motivating people in the future,” he said.