EAM Jaishankar inaugurates ‘Shunya to Ananta’ exhibition at UN

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar inaugurated the exhibition “From Shunya to Ananta” at the United Nations headquarters in New York City on May 11, 2026.

The exhibition highlights India’s historic contributions to mathematics and their enduring influence on global scientific and intellectual traditions.

Showcasing India’s Mathematical Legacy

The exhibition traces India’s mathematical journey from the concept of “Shunya” (zero) to broader scientific and mathematical advancements that shaped global knowledge systems.

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It showcases how Indian scholars contributed to: numerical systems, algebra, geometry, astronomy, and Mathematical reasoning across centuries.

Jaishankar’s Remarks

Addressing the gathering, Jaishankar stated that the spread of mathematics across civilizations reflects deep historical interconnectedness among cultures.

He observed that:

• Many foundational mathematical ideas originated in India, and
• The history of scientific progress has often been viewed through a narrow geographical and historical perspective.

He further noted that changing geopolitical and economic realities are enabling a broader cultural rebalancing and greater recognition of contributions made by non-Western civilizations.

India’s Civilisational Outreach

The exhibition forms part of India’s broader efforts to present its civilisational heritage and intellectual traditions on global platforms. It aims to:

• Promote awareness of India’s role in the development of mathematics and science,
• Highlight ancient India’s knowledge systems, and
• Strengthen cultural diplomacy through academic and historical engagement.

Significance of “Shunya”

The concept of “Shunya” or zero is regarded as one of India’s greatest contributions to global mathematics.

Indian mathematicians developed:

• The decimal place-value system,
• The formal use of zero as a numeral, and
• Advanced mathematical concepts that later spread to the Arab world and Europe.

These innovations became foundational to modern mathematics, science, computing and economics.

Source: DD