Great Indian philosopher, teacher, politician
Born on September 5, 1888 in Tamil Nadu
Studied in Christian schools, won scholarships
Professor of Philosophy at multiple universities
Advocated for education for all, especially the poor
First Vice President of India from 1952 to 1962
Became the second President of India from 1962 to 1967
Awarded Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor in 1954
September 5, his birthday, celebrated as Teachers’ Day in India
Wrote books on Indian philosophy, ethics, religion
Helped develop a new understanding of Hinduism for the modern world
Emphasized tolerance, and harmony between religions, cultures
Supported nonviolence, believed it could end ignorance and conflict
Ambassador of Indian culture and spiritual wisdom abroad
Died on April 17, 1975, their legacy lives on through his teachings
Known for intellect, idealism, insights into ethics and education
Influential 20th century philosopher and political leader
Inspired generations of students and thinkers in India
Radhakrishnan’s life embodied the wisdom he imparted
20 points on Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan in English
Here are 20 more Points on Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan:
- Studied at Madras Christian College, won prizes in philosophy
- M.A. in Philosophy from Madras University with great distinction
- Taught philosophy at colleges in Mysore and Chennai
- Earned doctorate from University of Madras in 1908
- Professor at the University of Mysore, University of Calcutta
- Vice Chancellor at Andhra University from 1931 to 1936
- Invited to teach Eastern Religions at Oxford University in 1936
- Published books on Indian philosophy, Hinduism, and ethics
- Mastered Sanskrit, Telugu, Hindi, Greek, German and English
- Nominated 27 times for Nobel Prize in Literature, but never won
- Awarded Templeton Prize and Peace Prize of German Book Trade
- Friend of Albert Einstein, Hermann Hesse, Bertrand Russell
- Believed true religion leads to spirituality, not bitterness
- Emphasized harmony and tolerance, not doctrine and dogma
- Survived assassination attempt when Vice President in 1953
- As President, survived wars with China and Pakistan
- Remained active and mentally sharp into his late eighties
- Never owned a house, donated his entire savings to charity
- Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was the archetype of the sage-philosopher
- His life and wisdom continue to inspire young minds everywhere
