Indian 'human computer' Shankuntala Devi passes away

Indian mathematical genius and astrologer Shakuntala Devi, who was dubbed “human computer” for her swift numerical calculation abilities, passed away in Bangalore Sunday after brief illness. She was 83 and is survived by a daughter. “Madam breathed her last around 8.15 a.m. today (Sunday) in a private hospital due to heart failure and renal problem,” her associate Kavita Malhotra told IANS here. [caption id=“attachment_716742” align=“alignleft” width=“380”]  Shakuntala Devi, courtesy Wikipedia[/caption] Shakuntala Devi was admitted to Bangalore Hospital in the city April 3 as her kidneys became weak and she also had breathing problems. “She was a legend. Really, we didn’t expect madam to go like this. She was very lively and was looking forward to getting well soon. But her health was not good and it’s a great loss for all of us,” said Malhotra, who accompanied Devi on mathematical and astrological tours abroad. Hundreds of people, including relatives and admirers were present at her last rites, conducted in the southern suburb of the city in the evening. IANS