'astonishingly ignorant': the hidden story of how ancient India shaped the West

The article discusses the significant yet often overlooked contributions of ancient Indian scholars, particularly Brahmagupta and Aryabhata, to mathematics and science, which have profoundly influenced Western thought. Brahmagupta, who defined the concept of zero and developed arithmetic rules for positive and negative numbers, and Aryabhata, who made advancements in astronomy and trigonometry, laid the groundwork for modern mathematics. Their ideas traveled through the Arab world to Europe, where they were integrated into the mathematical systems that underpin contemporary education. Despite these contributions, Western narratives often credit ancient Greece for foundational scientific advancements, neglecting India's role. The article argues that this ignorance stems from colonial legacies that devalued Indian history and knowledge. It highlights India's historical position as a cultural and intellectual hub, influencing regions across Asia through trade and ideas rather than conquest. The diffusion of Indian knowledge, particularly in mathematics and religion, shaped civilizations and continues to impact a significant portion of the global population today. The article calls for a reevaluation of India's historical contributions to ensure a more accurate understanding of its role in shaping the modern world.

- Ancient Indian scholars made crucial contributions to mathematics and science, particularly the concept of zero.

- Brahmagupta and Aryabhata's works significantly influenced the development of mathematics in the Arab world and later in Europe.

- Western education often overlooks India's historical contributions, attributing advancements primarily to ancient Greece.

- The legacy of colonialism has contributed to the undervaluation of Indian history and knowledge.

- India's cultural and intellectual influence extended across Asia, shaping various civilizations through trade and ideas.