Samanvay Library recently marked National Mathematics Day with a special and engaging talk that brought together students, teachers, and curious learners under one roof. The event focused on making mathematics relatable and meaningful, moving beyond textbooks and exams. The highlight of the programme was an interactive session led by Nandita Narain, who spoke about how mathematical thinking quietly shapes everyday decisions, from budgeting at home to understanding social data and public policy.
I am writing about this event because such initiatives show how community spaces like libraries can play a powerful role in education outside classrooms. At a time when many students see mathematics as difficult or intimidating, conversations like these help break that fear. Celebrating National Mathematics Day through dialogue and real-life examples makes the subject more accessible and reminds us why logical thinking and numerical understanding are essential life skills, not just academic requirements.
About the National Mathematics Day Event
The talk was organised by Samanvay Library as part of its ongoing effort to promote learning through discussions and public lectures. National Mathematics Day, observed every year to honour Srinivasa Ramanujan’s birth anniversary, provided the perfect occasion to host a session that connected mathematics with daily life experiences.
Students from different age groups, educators, and local residents attended the event, turning it into a lively exchange of ideas rather than a one-way lecture.
Key Themes from Prof. Nandita Narain’s Talk
During her address, Prof. Narain highlighted how mathematics is often misunderstood as a subject limited to classrooms and examinations. She explained that mathematical reasoning plays a role in many aspects of society and personal life.
Some of the key points discussed included:
- How basic mathematical thinking helps in making informed everyday decisions
- The role of mathematics in social sciences, economics, and public policy
- Why understanding numbers is crucial in an age driven by data and information
- The need to remove fear and anxiety associated with learning mathematics
Her simple language and real-world examples made complex ideas easy to grasp, especially for young students.
Why Such Talks Matter for Students and Educators
Events like this help students see mathematics as a useful and living subject rather than a burden. For educators, it offers new ways to present concepts beyond traditional teaching methods.
The interaction also encouraged students to ask questions freely, creating a comfortable space for curiosity and discussion. This kind of exposure can inspire learners to explore mathematics further, whether as a subject of study or as a practical tool in everyday life.
