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Indian student shatters mental math record calculating 120 time zones

Published by YuToday Staff

0 views · 1 hour ago · 4:28 read · September 2, 2026

A 21-year-old student from Ahmedabad, Gujarat, has set a new world record in mental math by calculating the local times for 120 nations in just 5.14 minutes. The feat, achieved without any external aids, highlights the growing prowess of Indian students in competitive mental calculations and problem-solving.

Key takeaways

Yash Hemang Baxi, a 21-year-old from Ahmedabad, set a world record by calculating local times for 120 nations in 5.14 minutes.
A government school in Gujarat's Botad district has gained popularity among parents, including officials, due to its quality education.
The achievement underscores India's strong tradition in mental math and challenges perceptions about private vs. public education.
Mental math records highlight the need for balanced educational approaches that combine traditional skills with modern learning tools.

How did Yash Hemang Baxi achieve this record?

Yash Hemang Baxi, a resident of Ahmedabad, demonstrated exceptional mental calculation skills by accurately determining the local times across 120 countries in under six minutes. The record was set under controlled conditions, with independent verification from officials. Baxi's achievement is a testament to rigorous training and natural aptitude for mental math, a skill that has historically been a point of pride in India. The process involved converting standard time zones into local times based on geographical coordinates, a task that requires deep understanding of global timekeeping systems. While the exact method remains personal, Baxi's performance aligns with traditional mental math techniques taught in Indian schools, where such skills are often nurtured from an early age.

Why is Gujarat's government school gaining popularity?

A government school in Botad, Gujarat, has emerged as a preferred choice for parents, including those from official backgrounds, due to its focus on quality education and measurable outcomes. The school's success challenges the perception that private institutions alone can deliver superior results. Parents cite the school's emphasis on foundational skills, extracurricular activities, and competitive achievements as key factors in its rising reputation. The institution's ability to attract students from diverse backgrounds, including those from affluent families, underscores the growing trust in public education systems. While specific programs or policies driving this success remain unconfirmed, the school's reputation is bolstered by anecdotal evidence of student achievements in academic and extracurricular domains.

What does this record mean for India's mental math legacy?

India has long been celebrated for its tradition of mental math, with historical figures like Shakuntala Devi setting global benchmarks. Baxi's record reinforces this legacy, showcasing the country's continued dominance in competitive mental calculations. The achievement also highlights the role of grassroots education systems, where students from diverse backgrounds can excel with the right guidance. While private coaching centers often take credit for such feats, Baxi's success from a government school setting challenges that narrative. The record serves as an inspiration for young students across India, proving that talent and dedication can overcome resource constraints. Additionally, it positions India as a hub for mental math competitions, attracting international attention to its educational systems.

How do mental math records impact education trends?

Records like Baxi's often spark discussions about the role of mental math in modern education. While calculators and digital tools dominate daily life, mental math remains a critical skill for cognitive development, particularly in early education. Schools that emphasize mental calculation techniques report improved problem-solving abilities and confidence among students. Baxi's achievement may encourage more institutions to integrate mental math into their curricula, especially in regions where such skills are traditionally valued. However, critics argue that an overemphasis on records could divert attention from broader educational goals. The debate underscores the need for balanced approaches that combine traditional skills with modern technological literacy.

What challenges do mental math enthusiasts face?

Despite its benefits, mental math presents challenges, particularly in terms of accessibility and standardization. Students from rural or underprivileged backgrounds may lack access to training resources or mentorship opportunities. Additionally, the pressure to achieve records can lead to burnout or unhealthy competition among young learners. Institutions and coaches must balance the pursuit of excellence with the well-being of students. Another challenge is the lack of a unified global platform for mental math competitions, which can limit opportunities for aspiring mathematicians. Baxi's record, while inspiring, also highlights these systemic gaps that need addressing to foster a more inclusive environment for mental math enthusiasts.

What happens next

As Baxi's record gains traction, expect increased interest in mental math competitions and school programs across India. Institutions may revisit their curricula to incorporate mental calculation techniques, while parents could prioritize schools with strong extracurricular offerings. The achievement may also inspire more students to explore mental math, potentially leading to new records and innovations in the field. However, the focus must remain on holistic education to ensure long-term benefits for learners.