SourceMathematics, often considered a daunting subject for many, has witnessed a remarkable transformation in recent years. Thanks to technology and some innovative startups. One such pioneering platform that is making waves in the realm of math education is Bhanzu. Founded in November 2020 by the exceptional Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash, also known as the World’s Fastest Human Calculator, Bhanzu is rewriting the rules of math learning for children aged between 5 and 16 years.
The driving force behind Bhanzu’s mission is Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash himself, who developed a passion for mathematics from a young age. With support from his parents and constant practice, he honed his skills and went on to become India’s fastest human calculator at the age of thirteen. At just 15 years old, he broke world records previously held by math legends like Shakuntala Devi and Scott Flansburg, earning him the title “Usain Bolt of Mathematics” by BBC News. In this post, The Inspiring Chapters explores Bhanzus’s journey and the way it is empowering the next generation of math enthusiasts.
The Story Behind Creating Bhanzu and Initial Success
Founded in November 2020 by Neelakantha Bhanu Prakash, Bhanzu aims to provide experiential math learning courses online for children aged between 5 and 16 years. During his journey of becoming the fastest human calculator, Bhanu discovered that the fear of math was prevalent in about three out of four children globally. Determined to make a difference, he stepped out of his comfort zone and, along with his co-founding team, experimented with innovative math techniques in various government schools and NGOs. These findings laid the foundation for Bhanzu’s current curriculum, which focuses on experiential learning through stories and conceptual understanding.
Bhanzu’s approach has already shown remarkable results, helping students become 4 times quicker in mathematics in significantly shorter timeframes. The platform offers personalized learning trajectories, encouraging students to explore coding, AI/ML, science, and other STEM fields, with a focus on outcome-oriented learning.
The startup’s courses have gained significant popularity, with over 30,000 students already benefiting from the platform’s engaging live classes. Bhanzu’s courses cater not only to students in India but also across the Middle East and South-East Asia. The company has plans to expand its presence further and cater to students in over 50 countries.
Investments and Growth Strategy
On February 24, 2022, Bhanzu raised an impressive seed round of $2 million led by Lightspeed Venture Partners, with active participation from prominent angel investors like Nitin Gupta (CEO of Uni), Gaurav Munjal (CEO of Unacademy), Maninder Gulati (Global CSO at Oyo), Kunal Shah (CEO of CRED), Ashish Gupta (ex-Helion MD), and Biswa Kalyan Rath (noted stand-up comedian). On September 21, 2022, the innovative edtech startup further raised $15 million in a Series A funding round that was led by Eight Roads Ventures, a global investment firm. B Capital also made an investment from its Ascent Fund.
As part of its growth strategy, Bhanzu is actively working on building a stronger tech platform and customer acquisition. Apart from conducting classes through Zoom, the startup has also launched its proprietary app Bhanzu Student App. In the coming years, it is planning to expand its operations internationally.
With Bhanzu’s vision of eradicating math phobia and inspiring careers in mathematics, this Hyderabad-based edtech startup is undoubtedly making a significant impact in the world of education.
To learn more about Bhanzu, its courses, reviews, and funding information, visit their official website and join the math revolution today!
