Who Was Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a prominent figure in Indian history, made remarkable contributions as a scholar, philosopher, and statesman. His legacy extends beyond his presidency, encompassing his influence in philosophy, education, and the promotion of Hinduism and Vedanta.

Early Life and Education

Born on September 5, 1888, in Tiruttani, British India, to Telugu-speaking Niyogi Brahmin parents, Sarvepalli Veeraswami and Sarvepalli Sita, Radhakrishnan’s educational journey began in Thiruttani and Tirupati. However, it was at Madras Christian College where he excelled, earning a Master’s degree in Philosophy in 1906.

Academic Achievements

Radhakrishnan’s academic career blossomed when he became a philosophy professor at Madras Philosophy university in 1909. His journey continued with positions at the University of Mysore, where he authored significant philosophical works. Notable among these are “The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore” and “The Reign of Religion in Contemporary Philosophy”. In 1921, he assumed the prestigious King George V Chair of Mental and Moral Science at the University of Calcutta, further solidifying his academic prowess. Throughout his career, he maintained a minimal use of passive voice in his writings.

International Recognition

Radhakrishnan’s influence transcended borders as he participated in international conferences, including the International Congress at Philosophy at Harvard University. His Hibbert Lecture, “An Idealist View of Life,” delivered at Manchester College, Oxford, marked a significant milestone in his global recognition.

Oxford Professorship and Nobel Nomination

Radhakrishnan was named the Spalding Professor of Eastern Religions Ethics in 1936 and admitted as a Fellow of All Souls College, Oxford. His intellectual eminence earned him Nobel Prize nominations, with 27 in total, emphasizing his global acclaim.

Political Career

After establishing himself as a philosopher of international repute, Radhakrishnan ventured into politics. He actively participated in the Andhra Mahasabha and supported the renaming of the Ceded Districts division as Rayalaseema. Following India’s independence, he represented the nation at UNESCO and served as India’s Ambassador to the Soviet Union. Radhakrishnan’s political journey culminated in his role as India’s second President, where he championed Hindu culture and Indian intellectual traditions.

Celebration of Teacher’s Day

Dr. Radhakrishnan’s birthday, September 5, now celebrated as Teachers’ Day in India, pays tribute to educators’ profound impact on society. It was at his humble suggestion that this tradition began.

Philosophical Legacy

Radhakrishnan’s enduring legacy lies in bridging the gap between Eastern and Western thought, defending Hinduism against Western misconceptions. He asserted that Advaita Vedanta, with its emphasis on intuition and inner realization, represented the pinnacle of religious experience.

Awards and Honors

Throughout his life, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan received numerous awards and honors, including Knight Bachelor in 1931 (British India), Bharat Ratna in 1954 (India), Order of the Aztec Eagle in 1954 (Mexico), Pour Le Merite in 1954 (Germany), and Order of Merit in 1963 (United Kingdom).

His legacy continues to inspire generations and underscores the importance of educators in society.