Why is Ramanujan sometimes mistakenly called the 'father of mathematics'?

Srinivasa Ramanujan (1887–1920) was an Indian mathematician of prodigious and almost unparalleled genius, but he is not historically considered the "father of mathematics" or even the "Indian father of mathematics" in the foundational sense of figures like Archimedes or Aryabhata, respectively.

Reasons for the Misconception:

• Exceptional Genius: Ramanujan's natural talent was so profound and his discoveries so unique and deep (especially in number theory, infinite series, and continued fractions) that his story inspires awe. This leads some to use superlative titles.
• Self-Taught Prodigy: His rise from poverty and isolation to the heights of mathematical research at Cambridge is a compelling narrative that highlights his extraordinary abilities.
• Modern Impact: His work continues to be highly influential in modern mathematics and physics.

Clarification of His Role:

• Ramanujan built upon centuries of existing mathematical knowledge. The foundational elements of mathematics were established long before his time.
• Figures like Aryabhata are more accurately considered foundational ("father figures") in the context of Indian mathematics for their earlier, system-building contributions.
• Globally, figures like Archimedes or Euclid are more often discussed when considering a "father of mathematics" concept due to their ancient, foundational work that shaped entire branches of the discipline.

"Ramanujan's immense contributions and inspiring life story sometimes lead to him being anachronistically or inaccurately described with "father of mathematics" type titles. While he was one of the greatest mathematical minds of the 20th century, the term "father" in this context usually refers to earlier, foundational figures who established the groundwork of the discipline."