Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, Indian philosopher and politician, 2nd President of India (b. 1888)

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, whose name is sometimes rendered as Sarvepalli Radhakrishnayya, pronounced approximately as Sar-veh-pull-lee Rah-dha-krish-nan, was a towering figure in 20th-century India, renowned as both an eminent philosopher and a distinguished statesman. Born on 5 September 1888, he dedicated his life to intellectual pursuits and public service, eventually serving as India’s second President from 1962 to 1967. Prior to assuming the nation's highest office, he held the significant position of India's first Vice-President for a decade, from 1952 to 1962, playing a crucial role in the nascent years of independent India's governance.

A Scholar Across Continents

Radhakrishnan's academic brilliance shone brightly, establishing him as one of the most distinguished scholars of comparative religion and philosophy during his time. His intellectual journey led him to prestigious academic chairs both in India and abroad. From 1921 to 1932, he held the esteemed King George V Chair of Mental and Moral Science at the University of Calcutta, a testament to his profound understanding of Indian thought and ethical frameworks. His influence extended globally when he was appointed to the Spalding Chair of Eastern Religion and Ethics at the illustrious University of Oxford, a position he held from 1936 to 1952. This appointment was particularly significant, marking a pivotal moment where an Indian scholar was tasked with interpreting Eastern spiritual traditions for a Western academic audience at such a venerable institution, thereby opening new avenues for cross-cultural intellectual exchange.

The Philosopher and Bridge-Builder of Cultures

At the core of Radhakrishnan’s philosophical outlook was Advaita Vedanta, a profound school of Hindu philosophy that posits the ultimate oneness of the individual soul (Atman) with the ultimate reality (Brahman). He masterfully reinterpreted this ancient tradition, making its timeless wisdom accessible and relevant to a contemporary understanding, effectively bridging the past and the present. A staunch defender of Hinduism, he actively countered what he perceived as "uninformed Western criticism" that often misrepresented or misunderstood the complexity and depth of Hindu thought. Through his extensive writings and eloquent lectures, he played a crucial role in shaping and articulating a modern Hindu identity, not just within India but also globally. His ability to articulate Indian philosophy in terms intelligible to Western audiences earned him a unique reputation as a bridge-builder, fostering mutual understanding and respect between India and the West, and challenging ethnocentric views prevalent at the time.

Accolades and a Lasting Legacy

Throughout his remarkable life, Dr. Radhakrishnan was bestowed with numerous high honours, reflecting his immense contributions. In 1931, during the British Raj, he was knighted, becoming "Sir Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan," a recognition of his scholarly achievements. Following India's independence, his service to the nation was further acknowledged with the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian award, in 1954, a testament to his exceptional contributions to public life. His international standing was cemented in 1963 when he received honorary membership of the British Royal Order of Merit, an exclusive distinction given by the sovereign for exceptionally meritorious service in the armed forces or for signal contributions to science, art, literature, or culture. Beyond his official roles and academic pursuits, Radhakrishnan was also a compassionate humanitarian, co-founding Helpage India, a vital non-profit organization dedicated to supporting elderly underprivileged individuals across India, demonstrating his commitment to social welfare.

One of his most enduring legacies stems from his profound belief that "teachers should be the best minds in the country." This conviction underscored the immense importance he placed on education and the role of educators in nation-building. It is in celebration of this philosophy and in honour of his birthday that, since 1962 – the year he assumed the presidency – his birthday on 5 September has been observed annually across India as Teachers' Day. This national observance is a testament to his vision and a day dedicated to appreciating the invaluable contributions of teachers to society, a tradition that began when his students approached him to celebrate his birthday, and he instead suggested dedicating the day to all teachers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who was Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a distinguished Indian philosopher and statesman who served as India's second President (1962-1967) and its first Vice-President (1952-1962). He was also a renowned scholar of comparative religion and philosophy, widely regarded for his efforts to bridge Eastern and Western thought.

What significant political roles did he hold?

He held the distinction of being India's first Vice-President from 1952 to 1962 and subsequently served as the second President of India from 1962 to 1967, playing a pivotal role in the country's formative years post-independence.

What was his main philosophical contribution?

His philosophy was deeply rooted in Advaita Vedanta, which he reinterpreted for a modern audience. He also played a crucial role in defending Hinduism against Western criticisms and fostering a contemporary Hindu identity, thereby acting as a cultural bridge between East and West through his scholarly work.

Why is his birthday celebrated as Teachers' Day in India?

His birthday, September 5th, has been celebrated as Teachers' Day in India since 1962. This tradition began after he expressed that instead of celebrating his birthday personally, it would be a privilege if the day were observed to acknowledge the contribution of teachers, stemming from his belief that "teachers should be the best minds in the country."

What major academic positions did he hold?

He held the King George V Chair of Mental and Moral Science at the University of Calcutta (1921-1932) and the prestigious Spalding Chair of Eastern Religion and Ethics at the University of Oxford (1936-1952), making him a globally recognized academic figure.

What notable awards did he receive?

His accolades include a knighthood in 1931, India's highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna, in 1954, and honorary membership of the British Royal Order of Merit in 1963, reflecting his national and international impact.

How did he contribute to social welfare?

He was one of the esteemed founders of Helpage India, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing support and care for elderly underprivileged individuals across India, showcasing his commitment to societal well-being.