Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan : In the annals of history, certain luminaries shine brighter than others, casting a radiant glow that transcends generations. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan is undeniably one of these extraordinary individuals. Born on September 5, 1888, he left an indelible mark on the world as an Indian politician, philosopher, and statesman. His legacy continues to inspire and guide us, offering profound insights into the realms of philosophy, religion, and education.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s life journey is a testament to the power of knowledge and the relentless pursuit of truth. He served as the second President of India from 1962 to 1967, leaving an indelible imprint on the nation’s cultural and intellectual landscape. Before his presidency, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan held the esteemed position of the first Vice President of India from 1952 to 1962.
Beyond his political career, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a philosopher of unparalleled brilliance. His philosophy was deeply rooted in Advaita Vedanta, a spiritual tradition that he reinterpreted for contemporary understanding. He staunchly defended Hinduism against Western criticism, playing a pivotal role in shaping the contemporary Hindu identity.
Scholarship and Academic Prowess
Radhakrishnan’s academic journey was marked by scholarships and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. His educational odyssey took him from Voorhees College in Vellore to the prestigious Madras Christian College, where he graduated in 1907. It was during this time that he serendipitously embarked on the path of philosophy, a discipline that would define his life’s work.
His bachelor’s degree thesis, “The Ethics of the Vedanta and its Metaphysical Presuppositions,” was a seminal work that aimed to counter the misconception that Vedanta lacked ethical foundations. This early foray into philosophy sowed the seeds of his lifelong dedication to understanding and defending Hinduism against unwarranted criticism.
Radhakrishnan’s academic pursuits took him to the University of Calcutta, where he occupied the King George V Chair of Mental and Moral Science from 1921 to 1932. Subsequently, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan assumed the Spalding Chair of Eastern Religion and Ethics at the University of Oxford from 1936 to 1952. His time at Oxford further solidified his position as a preeminent scholar of comparative religion and philosophy.
The Spirit of Abheda: Bridging Divides
One of Radhakrishnan’s most significant contributions to philosophy was his concept of “The Spirit of Abheda.” In a world marked by divisions and discord, Radhakrishnan advocated for the recognition of non-difference among all creations. This philosophy naturally led to the ethics of love and brotherhood.
In his own words, “Every other individual is to be regarded as your co-equal, and treated as an end, not a means.” This profound notion resonates deeply in a world where unity and empathy are more crucial than ever.
The Teacher Extraordinaire
Radhakrishnan firmly believed that teachers should be the best minds in the country. It is no wonder that, since 1962, India has celebrated his birthday as Teachers’ Day every year on September 5th. This symbolic gesture pays homage to a man who not only imparted knowledge but also ignited the flames of curiosity and wisdom in countless students.
Personal Life and Family
Radhakrishnan’s personal life was characterized by simplicity and devotion. He was married to Sivakamu at the tender age of 16, in accordance with tradition. Their union bore witness to a loving family, with five daughters and a son, Sarvepalli Gopal, who would go on to achieve eminence as a historian.
Academic Eminence and Global Influence
Radhakrishnan’s academic journey took him to prestigious institutions worldwide. He held positions at the University of Mysore, University of Calcutta, and the University of Oxford. His academic prowess earned him recognition and respect not only in India but also on the global stage.
As a testament to his influence, Radhakrishnan was knighted by George V in 1931 and received the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1954. His impact was not limited to academia; he served as the Ambassador of India to the Soviet Union and played a crucial role in shaping India’s foreign relations.
The Philosopher-Politician
Radhakrishnan’s entry into politics came later in life, after a successful academic career. His motivation was rooted in his deep pride for Hindu culture and his desire to defend it against uninformed Western criticism. He represented India at UNESCO and was elected as the first Vice President of India in 1952. Later, he assumed the office of the President of India from 1962 to 1967.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Awards
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a distinguished figure in India’s history, was bestowed with the prestigious Bharat Ratna, the nation’s highest honor, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the fields of education and politics. His exceptional dedication to his homeland led to the declaration of his birthday as Teacher’s Day in India, a day dedicated to honoring educators.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Awards
In 1962, the Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Awards marked a momentous occasion when he was inducted as a member of the British Academy. During this time, he also received the Golden Spar, presented to him by Pope John Paul II. This article offers insights into Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s biography and his noteworthy associations.
Furthermore, Dr. Radhakrishnan was honored with the Order of Merit by the British government. In his illustrious career, he served as a professor at Mysore University and concurrently held a teaching position at Presidency College. Between 1949 and 1952, he served as India’s ambassador to the Soviet Union.
Subsequently, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s career took a remarkable turn when he became India’s first Vice President. Later, while holding the position of Vice President, he was elected as the country’s second President in 1962. During his tenure, India faced significant challenges, including conflicts with China and Pakistan. Following his retirement from the presidential post in 1967, he chose to reside in Madras.
Throughout his life, he held numerous significant positions, including the presidency of the working committee of UNESCO. According to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s biography, he also served as India’s ambassador to Moscow, Russia, from 1949 to 1952.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Quotes
- “A literary talent is something that everyone possesses but few nurture.”
- “Reading a book instills in us a habit and a true sense of happiness.”
- “It is said that without a religion, a person is like a horse without a rein.”
- “Democracy encompasses not only the uniqueness of individuals but also the spiritual potential within each human being.”
- “Books serve as bridges that facilitate communication between diverse cultures.”
Legacy and Continuity of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s legacy extends far beyond his time. His ideas on philosophy, religion, and education continue to inspire scholars, leaders, and individuals seeking wisdom and enlightenment. He bridged the gap between East and West, defending the richness of Hinduism while incorporating Western philosophical thought.
His classification of religions, with Advaita Vedanta at the pinnacle, emphasized the importance of religious experience. Radhakrishnan’s influence persists in the modern world, where spirituality and introspection are valued more than ever.
Also Read : COVID-era : Australia Will Phase Out Student Visas by Feb 2024