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Why Mathematics?
Why Mathematics?
I've been asked this question many times throughout my life. Coming from a small city in India, I had little to no exposure to the broader world, and I certainly didn’t know what a future in mathematics looked like. I was always good at math, but not so great at other subjects. Naturally, I developed a sense of security with mathematics. Whenever my parents urged me to study, I would reach for my math textbooks and conveniently ignore every other subject.
During my school years, around eighth or ninth grade, I learned that Delhi University offered an undergraduate program in mathematics—and the best part? You didn’t have to study any other subject. From that day on, Delhi University became my goal. However, like many science students in India, I also prepared for engineering entrance exams. It was during that preparation that I realized I had no interest in studying physics or chemistry. That’s when I made the decision to pursue an undergraduate degree in mathematics.
Once I arrived at the university, I quickly realized that mathematics at this level was nothing like what we studied in school. It was much deeper—it was epsilon-delta definitions! But I adapted, and from there, I went on to pursue a master's degree and then a Ph.D. My journey has always been about taking one step at a time. When I began my undergraduate studies, I had no idea I would go on to complete a Ph.D. It just unfolded naturally, one decision leading to the next.
Throughout my years as a mathematician, I've often heard the stereotype that girls aren’t good at math. I’ve always wanted to prove those people wrong, and that’s been a strong motivation for me as well.
My aim as a mathematician is to change people's perspectives on this beautiful subject. If I can succeed in math, so can anyone else.
Beyond Mathematics!
Beyond Mathematics!
Whenever you meet someone new, there's a good chance they'll ask, "So what do you do for fun?" For a long time, I didn’t quite know how to answer that. Could spending the day watching movies really count? I wasn’t so sure. But over time, I felt a genuine urge to find activities that brought me joy away from my laptop.
That exploration began simply with walks. Plugging in my favorite playlist and heading out for a stroll became a daily ritual I looked forward to. Eventually, that love for being outdoors turned into weekend hikes with friends, and I discovered how much I enjoy being surrounded by nature. During vacations, I realised that I much prefer being surrounded by nature rather than visiting old buildings.
I also enjoy spending cozy nights in with family and friends, cooking together, and playing games, rather than going out to clubs or parties. Following in the footsteps of my mom and elder brother, I became a plant parent. Taking care of my plants, checking on them each morning, has become another thing that brings me joy.
Recently, I’ve added a couple of new interests to my list. I’m learning the Indian classical dance form Kathak, and I've developed a newfound passion for running.
Some of my favourite outdoor moments are captured in the photos below:
How I became a Runner?
How I became a Runner?
I was never bad at sports as a kid. Like most children, I loved playing outside. But at some point, I started hearing the usual advice: "Focus on your studies, stop wasting time playing." Slowly, I stopped being active.
People from my school days wouldn’t say I wasn’t fun. But they’d definitely describe me as the nerdy one. Sports and physical activity just didn’t feel like a part of my identity anymore.
In 2023, my then boyfriend (Shubham, now husband) was running the Cardiff Half Marathon, and I went along to support him. I had seen him train for weeks, staying consistent and motivated. Watching him run that day, being part of the crowd, feeling the energy, I felt inspired. It was the first time I seriously thought, maybe I could try this too. A few days later, I signed up for the 2024 edition of the same race.
At first, it felt like an impulsive decision. Months passed and I didn’t train properly. There were times I seriously considered skipping it. But as the race got closer, I started running, slowly. Shubham motivated me and ran with me to help me train. Slowly I started running more regularly. On race day, I showed up but I was very nervous. And I finished. As I crossed the finish line, I cried. It felt like more than just completing 21.1 kilometres. I had supported him at that same finish line the year before, and now here I was, finishing it myself with him. It was something I had never imagined myself doing, and I felt genuinely proud of what I had achieved.
Since then, I have run three more half marathons in Cambridge, Stevenage, and Hackney (London). Each one has felt like a personal milestone. I even joined a local running club, something I never imagined myself doing. It’s brought new friendships, confidence, and a sense of joy I didn’t expect from something as simple as running.
At the moment, I’m recovering from a knee injury. I’m taking it slow and hoping to return to running soon. One day, I’d love to run a full marathon. Not to prove anything to anyone else, but to prove myself what my body is capable of doing.
Some of my proudest running moments are here:
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