🌟 Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: Philosopher, Teacher, and President of India
🔹 Introduction
India has been blessed with great thinkers, teachers, and leaders who dedicated their lives to education, philosophy, and nation-building. Among them, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888–1975) holds a special place. He was not only an outstanding philosopher but also a respected teacher, statesman, and the second President of India. His birthday, 5th September, is celebrated across the nation as Teachers’ Day, to honor his contributions to the teaching profession and his love for education.
This article takes you through his early life, education, philosophical works, teaching career, political journey, and legacy, while also exploring why he continues to inspire millions of students and teachers even today.
🔹 Early Life and Family Background
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on 5th September 1888 in Tiruttani, Tamil Nadu (then part of Madras Presidency). He came from a humble Telugu-speaking Brahmin family. His father, Sarvepalli Veeraswami, worked as a subordinate revenue official in a local zamindar’s office, and his mother’s name was Sitamma.
Despite financial struggles, his parents emphasized the value of learning and discipline. From his early childhood, Radhakrishnan showed remarkable intelligence and memory, which helped him rise from a modest background to global recognition.
🔹 Education Journey
Radhakrishnan received his early education at K.V. High School, Tiruttani, and later at Hermann School, Tirupati. His sharp intellect and curiosity for knowledge led him to Madras Christian College, where he pursued philosophy.
Interestingly, Radhakrishnan had not chosen philosophy by preference—it was assigned to him. But soon, he developed a deep interest in it, and by the age of 20, he had already written a master’s thesis on “The Ethics of the Vedanta and Its Metaphysical Presuppositions.”
This work gained him recognition as a brilliant scholar who could connect Indian philosophy with Western thought, something that later became the hallmark of his career.
🔹 Teaching Career: The Born Teacher
After completing his studies, Radhakrishnan began his teaching journey as an Assistant Professor of Philosophy at Madras Presidency College. His clarity of thought, ability to simplify complex ideas, and inspiring personality made him a favorite among students.
Later, he served at:
University of Mysore – where he wrote influential books.
University of Calcutta – appointed as Professor of Philosophy.
Oxford University – invited to deliver lectures on Indian philosophy, later becoming a visiting professor.
At Oxford, his famous lectures were later published as books, such as Indian Philosophy, which became classics worldwide.
👉 His teaching was not limited to classrooms. He believed that a teacher’s role is to awaken curiosity, develop reasoning, and guide moral growth.
🔹 Philosophy and Works
Dr. Radhakrishnan was deeply influenced by both Indian scriptures (Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, Vedanta) and Western philosophers (Plato, Hegel, Bradley). He aimed to build a bridge between Eastern spirituality and Western rationality.
His philosophical contributions:
1. Advaita Vedanta – He reinterpreted Shankaracharya’s non-dualism for modern times, explaining that spiritual unity can guide humanity towards peace.
2. Comparative Religion – He emphasized that all religions share common truths, promoting harmony and tolerance.
3. Philosophy of Education – He believed education should not only give knowledge but also shape character and spirituality.
4. Democracy and Morality – For him, democracy was meaningful only when based on ethical and spiritual foundations.
Famous Books by Radhakrishnan:
Indian Philosophy (Vol I & II)
The Philosophy of the Upanishads
The Bhagavadgita: A Philosophical Approach
An Idealist View of Life
Eastern Religions and Western Thought
🔹 Political Journey
Though primarily a teacher and philosopher, Radhakrishnan was also a respected statesman.
Ambassador to the Soviet Union (1949–1952): He represented India during a critical period of the Cold War.
Vice President of India (1952–1962): Served two terms, respected for his wisdom and humility.
President of India (1962–1967): He became the second President of India. His presidency was marked by dignity, intellectual depth, and moral leadership.
When students and colleagues wanted to celebrate his birthday, he humbly suggested:
> “Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if September 5th is observed as Teachers’ Day.”
Since then, Teachers’ Day has been celebrated every year in India on his birth anniversary.
🔹 Awards and Recognition
Knighthood (1931) by the British Government.
Bharat Ratna (1954) – India’s highest civilian award.
Honorary Degrees from universities across the world, including Oxford.
Admired globally as a thinker who connected East and West.
🔹 Legacy and Importance
Dr. Radhakrishnan’s legacy lives on in multiple ways:
1. Teachers’ Day: His vision elevated teachers to the highest respect in society.
2. Philosophical Works: His books continue to be studied by scholars worldwide.
3. Education Reforms: He served as Chairman of the University Education Commission (1948–49), recommending reforms that shaped modern Indian education.
4. Global Thinker: He showcased India’s rich intellectual heritage to the world, proving that Indian philosophy was as profound as Western thought.
🔹 Personal Traits and Values
Humility: Despite global fame, he remained simple and approachable.
Sense of Humor: Known for witty remarks, which made even political sessions lighter.
Dedication to Students: Teaching remained his true passion until the end.
Vision of Unity: Believed in the oneness of humanity beyond religion, caste, or nationality.
🔹 Conclusion
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was not just a teacher of philosophy, but a philosopher of teaching. His life reminds us that education is not merely about academics but about character, values, and wisdom.
In honoring him on Teachers’ Day, we celebrate not only his contributions but also the eternal role of teachers in shaping the destiny of a nation. His words still inspire:
> “The end-product of education should be a free, creative man, who can battle against historical circumstances and adversities of nature.”
Even today, Dr. Radhakrishnan stands as a symbol of knowledge, integrity, and inspiration, a true guide for students, teachers, and leaders alike.
