Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a great philosopher , teacher , and politician in Indian history. He became the second President and first Vice President of India. His life was full of exemplary contributions in the field of Indian education , philosophy, and politics. His biography is given in detail below:
Early life and education :
- Born : 5 September 1888
- Location : Tiruttani , Madras Presidency (now in Tamil Nadu)
- Father’s Name : Sarvepalli Veeraswami
- Mother’s name : Seetamma
Dr. Radhakrishnan belonged to a Telugu Brahmin family. His family was not financially well off , yet he gave top priority to education. His early education was in Vellore and Tirupati. His higher education was in Philosophy from Madras Christian College.
Teaching and philosophical life :
Dr. Radhakrishnan was an able teacher and a great philosopher. He was a deep scholar of Indian philosophy , especially Vedanta.
- He represented Indian philosophy at the Madras Presidency College and later at Oxford University.
- He introduced the Western world to Indian philosophy , especially Advaita Vedanta.
- His major works:
- “The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore”
- “Indian Philosophy” ( in two parts)
- “The Principal Upanishads”
- “Eastern Religions and Western Thought”
He believed that religion and philosophy should be adopted practically in life.
political life :
- First Vice President of India : 1952 – 1962
- Second President of India : 1962 – 1967
They He was a learned politician , whose image was that of a moral , pure and inspirational leader. Even while being in politics, he gave top priority to education and moral values.
Respect for teachers :
When he became President , some of his students and friends asked for permission to celebrate his birthday ( September 5 ). Dr. Radhakrishnan said:
” If you want to celebrate my birthday , celebrate it as Teacher’s Day.”
Since then in India ‘Teachers Day’ on 5 September It is celebrated as.
Honors and Awards :
- Bharat Ratna : He received India’s highest civilian honour in 1954.
- ‘Knight Bachelor’ from Britain (although he gave up this title after independence).
- was also associated with the United Nations Educational , Scientific and Cultural Organization ( UNESCO) .
Death :
- Death : 17 April 1975 in Chennai (then Madras).
conclusion : Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was not only a great teacher but also glorified Indian culture , spirituality and education. His life is an inspiration for the youth and teachers.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Early Life
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Early Life He was full of simplicity , struggle and thirst for knowledge. He rose from a very ordinary background to achieve extraordinary heights in the field of education and philosophy. A detailed account of his early life is given below:
Birth and Family Background :
- Date of Birth : 5 September 1888
- Place of Birth : Tiruttani , Madras Presidency (now Tamil Nadu)
- Family : He belonged to a Telugu speaking Brahmin family.
- Father’s Name : Sarvepalli Veeraswami
- Mother’s name : Seetamma
His father was an ordinary government employee who used to measure land. The financial condition was not very good , but religion and education had a prime place in the family.
Childhood :
- Radhakrishnan’s childhood was spent near religious places like Tiruttani and Tirupati , due to which he was inclined towards spirituality and philosophy from the very beginning.
- He was very intelligent and of calm nature since childhood.
- His parents wanted him to become a religious priest , but his intelligence and curiosity led him towards education.
Education :
- Elementary Education :
- Her education was imparted in schools in Tiruttani and Tirupati.
- Later he joined the Hermannsburg Evangelical Lutheran Mission School in Vellore.
- Higher Education :
- He did his graduation and post-graduation from Madras Christian College , Chennai.
- He chose philosophy as his subject – although he chose this subject by chance because a relative of his gave him some philosophy books to read.
- He completed his bachelor’s degree in philosophy in 1906 and master’s degree in 1908 .
During his education, he did not even have money to buy books. He studied by borrowing books from his friends. Still, he scored top marks in every exam.
Youth and Married Life :
- Dr. Radhakrishnan was married in a traditional manner in 1904 Sivakamu Ammal It happened when he was only 16 years old.
- They had five daughters and one son. Their son Dr. Sarvepalli Gopal Became a famous historian.
Early career :
- After post-graduation, he started working as a lecturer of Philosophy at the Presidency College, Madras.
- From there, he attracted everyone’s attention with his scholarship , style and deep thinking and later he came to be counted among the best teachers of India.
conclusion :
Dr. Radhakrishnan’s early life was full of hardships , but he maintained his keen interest in education and philosophy even in adverse circumstances. His life is an inspiration for the youth that greatness can be achieved with determination and hard work even with limited resources.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Education
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s life as an educator is extremely inspiring. He achieved remarkable achievements in the field of education even in difficult circumstances with his deep passion and curiosity to acquire knowledge. His education not only became the basis of his intellectual development , but also helped him in becoming a great teacher , philosopher and national leader later on .
Elementary Education :
- Primary education : Received at local schools in Tiruttani and Tirupati.
- Later he served as the District Magistrate of Vellore Hermannsburg Evangelical Lutheran Mission School I studied in.
- He was extremely brilliant in studies and always secured high marks.
- Since childhood he was influenced by religious books and philosophy , especially Vedanta and the Bhagavad Gita.
Secondary and Higher Education :
- Vijayawada Colleges :
- He studied here for some time and then went to Madras.
- Madras Christian College ( Chennai) :
- This was the most important phase of his education.
- Here he Philosophy He chose English as his major subject – although he chose this subject by chance , as it was included in the books of one of his relatives.
- He obtained his bachelor’s degree ( BA) in 1906 and master’s degree ( MA) in 1908 .
- He scored such good marks in Philosophy that he was counted among the best students of the college.
Challenges during education :
- Due to financial constraints, he had to borrow books many times to read them.
- He completed his studies through scholarships and student aid.
- But these difficulties never weakened his desire to learn.
Inspirational aspects related to education :
- They believed that ” True education is not merely the acquisition of information ; it is a means of building character and developing the ability to think.”
- He studied both Indian and Western philosophy deeply , and worked as a bridge to connect the two ideologies.
conclusion :
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s education not only became the basis of his personal success , but he also made education a medium of social service and nation building. His life gives the message that if the resolve is strong , then no situation can become an obstacle in your path.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Teaching Career
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Teaching career is extremely inspiring , influential and holds a proud place in the history of Indian education. He was a great teacher , thinker and philosopher , who considered education not just a medium of information but a means of soul development and building of society.
Beginning of teaching career :
- Dr. Radhakrishnan in 1909 Madras Presidency College I started my teaching career as a lecturer of Philosophy .
- He used to teach in a very impressive style. His speeches were a wonderful amalgamation of logic , knowledge and emotions.
Major educational institutions where he worked :
- Madras Presidency College (1909 – 1918)
- It was from here that he started his teaching career.
- Mysore University (1918 – 1921)
- He became a professor of philosophy and aroused interest in Indian philosophy among students.
- University of Calcutta (1921 – 1931)
- Here he served as professor of philosophy.
- His lectures were so famous that students came from far and wide to listen to him.
- Oxford University , England
- In 1936 he was appointed a Fellow of the University of Oxford Appointed as Professor of “Eastern Religions and Ethics” .
- He was the first Indian to hold this position.
- He represented the philosophy and culture of India there brilliantly.
Characteristics of his teaching style :
- He not only taught in the class but also awakened thoughts.
- He believed that “Education is not merely a means of imparting information but a process of thinking , understanding and improving life.”
- He used to teach in an interactive and inspiring manner with students.
His attitude towards teachers :
Dr. Radhakrishnan always used to say:
“ A good teacher is one who inspires his or her students to ask questions , think and make decisions independently.”
When he became President and some of his students and friends wanted to celebrate his birthday , he said:
” Instead of celebrating my birthday , celebrate it as Teacher’s Day.”
since ‘ Teachers Day ‘ on 5 September It is celebrated all over India.
His views on education :
- The aim of education should not be only to obtain a degree but to build character and prepare responsible citizens for the society.
- He was in favor of coordination between Indian culture and Western education.
conclusion : Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s teaching life was not only knowledge-giving , but he also made education a medium of national character building. Even today he is a ” The Ideal Teacher” are remembered as.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Philosophical life
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Philosophical life was the basic foundation of his entire personality. He was not only a deep thinker and scholar , but he also brought respect to Indian philosophy on the world stage. He presented Indian spiritual thoughts at par with Western ideologies and proved that India’s cultural and intellectual tradition is no less than anyone else’s.
Beginning of philosophical life :
- Radhakrishnan showed an inclination towards philosophy while he was a student at the Madras Christian College.
- They “Indian Philosophy” studied extensively and in particular Advaita Vedanta Was very impressed by.
Main philosophical ideas :
1. Support of Advaita Vedanta :
- Propounded by Dr. Radhakrishnan Shankaracharya Advaita Vedanta He was a strong supporter of.
- They believed that ” There is no difference between Brahman (Ultimate Truth) and Atman.”
- According to him , the ultimate goal of human being is self-realization and experiencing oneness with the Brahman.
2. Religion and morality :
- He considered religion to be a lived experience , not a mere tradition of rituals.
- they wrote:
“Religion is not talking about God, it is experiencing God.”
- believed in equality , tolerance and spiritual unity among all religions .
3. Coordination of East and West :
- Dr. Radhakrishnan served as a bridge between Eastern (Indian) and Western (European) philosophy.
- He introduced Indian thoughts to the West and proved that Indian philosophy was not just mysticism but also rational and practical.
4. Humanism and Spirituality :
- He believed that true education and philosophy is that which make man a better human being Make it.
- He believed that spirituality , morality and human love are the soul of philosophy .
Major philosophical works ( Books):
- Indian Philosophy ( Vol I & II)
- The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore
- The Hindu View of Life
- An Idealistic View of Life
- Eastern Religions and Western Thought
- The Principal Upanishads
In these books he worked to explain Indian philosophy in modern context.
Some of his famous quotes on philosophy :
- “ Knowledge gives us power , love gives us perfection.”
- ” A man becomes great only when he starts listening to the voice of his soul.”
- ” Knowing the truth is religion ; and following it is the purpose of life.”
Philosophical influences and contributions :
- He showed the whole world that Indian philosophy provides not only religion but also practical guidance for living life .
- He worked to take philosophy out of the classroom and connect it to people’s lives and morality.
- they a Philosopher President He is known as , whose thoughts had both depth and practicality.
conclusion : Dr. Radhakrishnan’s philosophical life was a symbol of his dedication , contemplation and spirituality. He gave prestige to Indian philosophy on the global stage and showed that the power of ideas is the soul of any nation.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Political life
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Political life was an extension of his philosophical and teaching life. He considered politics a medium of service and morality , not a game of power. He gave a new direction to Indian politics with his scholarship , simplicity , and morality . His political life may have been shorter than his teaching and philosophical life , but its impact was extremely deep and widespread.
Entry into Politics :
Dr. Radhakrishnan entered active politics after independence. He first Served the country as a diplomat and then held high constitutional posts .
Important political roles :
1. 🇺🇳 Representation in UNESCO :
- 1946 he was made India’s representative to UNESCO.
- He played an influential role in India in the fields of education , culture and humanity.
2. 🇷🇺 Indian Ambassador to the Soviet Union :
- Time : 1949 – 1952
- He strengthened the good relations between India and the Soviet Union (now Russia).
- This was an extremely important time as India was newly independent and making its mark in global politics.
3. 🇮🇳 First Vice President of India :
- Tenure : 1952 – 1962
- They are from India First Vice President Made.
- At the same time they Chairman of the Rajya Sabha There were also debates in which he maintained dignity and depth in the debates.
4. 🇮🇳 Second President of India :
- Tenure : 1962 – 1967
- They Dr. Rajendra Prasad He assumed this position after.
- During his tenure, India witnessed several political and military challenges , such as:
- India-China War of 1962
- Indo-Pakistani War of 1965
Nevertheless, he inspired the country to follow the path of unity , patience and moral values.
Political style and principles :
- He also lived as a philosopher in politics – a supporter of peace , wisdom and morality.
- He never indulged in party politics , but kept national interest paramount.
- he believed:
” There must be morality in politics , otherwise it becomes destructive.”
- They Education , secularism , and democracy was fully committed to the values of.
Emphasis on education policy and moral values :
- As President, he always talked about strengthening the education system.
- He called teachers nation builders and described education as the basis of national character building.
An inspirational incident while being the President :
When he became President , his students expressed their desire to celebrate his birthday ( 5 September). To this he said:
” Instead of celebrating my birthday, I would be proud if you celebrate it as Teacher’s Day.”
That is why today also on 5 September ‘ teacher’s Day’ It is celebrated as.
conclusion :
, morality and service even after reaching the highest position of power . He is still remembered as a moral ideal of Indian politics.
Respect for Teachers
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan had immense respect and reverence for teachers. He believed that a teacher is not just a giver of information , but also a source of knowledge . The guide of the nation , the character builder , and carrier of culture Throughout his life, he not only expressed the dignity , role and importance of teachers in words but also proved it by his deeds.
Respect for teachers – in their views :
- “ True teachers are those who inspire us to think , not just to think what they themselves think.”
👉 This statement shows that he considered the teacher as a motivating force , who creates self-reliance and independent thinking in students. - ” Teachers are the soul of the nation.”
👉 He believed that the influence of a teacher determines the direction and character of a society or country. - “ The purpose of education is not only to impart knowledge but also to awaken the great qualities hidden within a person , and this work can only be done by a teacher.”
🔹 5 September – Beginning of Teachers’ Day :
1962 when he President of India When he became PM , some of his students and friends asked him for permission to celebrate his birthday ( 5 September). To this he very politely replied:
” If you want to celebrate my birthday , celebrate it as Teacher’s Day.”
Since then Every year 5th September is celebrated as ‘ Teachers Day ‘ .
In memory of Dr. Radhakrishnan’s respect and devotion towards teachers.
His contributions towards teachers :
- He worked in the education system Role of the Teacher gave it a central place.
- He wanted that a teacher should not be just a job holder but should be the one who gives direction to the life of society and students.
- He always advocated improving the economic , social and moral condition of teachers.
Examples of respect for teachers in their actions :
- Even after becoming President, he considered himself a “teacher” first and a “politician” later.
- Every year on Teachers’ Day, he used to address teachers across the country and inspire them.
- He tried throughout his life to Teachers should get the respect and place in society which they truly deserve.
conclusion : Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan not only gained fame as a great teacher , but also by his actions and thoughts Respect and inspiration to the entire teaching community Today Teachers Day in India is not just a day , but There is a view – that a teacher has the highest position in society.
Respect
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan for his unique Philosopher , educationist , and national leader for contributions made as Many awards in India and around the world His life and work gave new heights to education , philosophy , and moral politics , for which he was appreciated at many levels.
Major honors and titles :
Bharat Ratna ( 1954)
- This is the highest civilian honour of India.
- This honour was given to Dr. Radhakrishnan for his extraordinary contribution in the field of education and philosophy.
- They are the ones receiving this honor first educationist Made.
🎖️ Knighthood – 1931
- The British government honoured him with the title of ” Knighthood” .
- Degree: Sir Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
- After independence , he renounced this title because he believed in the sovereignty and self-respect of the Republic of India.
Honorary degree from the University of Oxford
- He was honored by the Oxford University of England for his contribution in the field of philosophy. Honorary Doctorate Gave.
- He also served as Professor of ” Eastern Religions and Ethics” at Oxford.
Honors received from abroad :
- Them Universities , institutes , and international organizations He received numerous honorary degrees and awards from the
- He has received international praise for his role at UNESCO and his contribution to global dialogue .
Symbol of respect for teachers – Teachers’ Day :
- In honour of Dr. Radhakrishnan 5 September (his birthday) In India ” teacher’s Day” It is celebrated as.
- This honor is not only for him , but A symbol of inspiration and pride for the entire teaching community It is done.
Institutions and awards named after him :
- Several universities and institutes are named after him Academic Chair And more buildings have been built.
- The Government of India and state governments are named after him. Award in the field of Education and Philosophy The provide.
- As:
- ” Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan National Teacher Award”
- Radhakrishnan Fellowship (by Indian Council of Philosophical Research )
Postage stamps and coins :
- The Government of India in his honour Postage stamp And Commemorative coins Have issued.
- This honor shows that he is not just a person , but A symbol of ideology and inspiration Have been made.
conclusion :
Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan gets the honor for his depth of thought , dedication to education , and Ethical lifestyle He is a proof of this. Even today he is respected as an ideal and a source of inspiration not only in India but also globally.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Award
Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan has been awarded many awards for his extraordinary contribution. National and International Awards These awards were given for his philosophical thinking , service in the field of education , and for bringing prestige to Indian culture at the global level. Let us take a detailed look at his major awards and honours:
Major awards received by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan :
🔹 1. Bharat Ratna ( 1954)
- it India’s highest civilian award Is.
- this honor to them Education , philosophy and public service Received for his invaluable contribution in the field of.
- Dr. Radhakrishnan , Dr. C. Rajagopalachari and C.V. Raman He was one of the first persons to receive the Bharat Ratna in 1954 along with .
🔹 2. Knighthood (1931)
- The British government awarded him the title of ” Knight Bachelor” in 1931 .
- After receiving the degree, he “ Sir Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan” It came to be known as.
- Being a supporter of independent India , he stopped using the title after 1947 .
🔹 3. Order of Merit ( 1963, Britain)
- This is a very prestigious honour in Britain , which is received by very few people.
- He gets this honor for his Philosophical works and international reputation got to.
🔹 4. Honorary Doctorates
Dr. Radhakrishnan was awarded honorary degrees by many leading universities in India and abroad , such as:
- Oxford University
- Cambridge University
- Delhi University , Banaras Hindu University , and other Indian institutions.
🔹 5. Other awards by universities and institutions :
- Various academic and educational institutions honoured him with special awards during his lifetime.
- They have many Fellowships , Memorial Lectures , and Honors Papers Was awarded with.
🏵️ Dr. Radhakrishnan Awards :
Several awards and honors have been established in his memory , which are given to teachers and scholars today:
🔹 1. National Teacher Award
- every year by the Indian Government 5 September (Teachers’ Day) This award is given to the outstanding teachers of the country.
🔹 2. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan India Education Award
- is given by private and government institutions in the field of education , innovation and excellence.
🔹 3. Radhakrishnan Fellowship ( ICPR)
- It is given by the Indian Council of Philosophical Research (ICPR) for research in the field of philosophy.
conclusion :
These awards received by Dr. Radhakrishnan are not just personal achievements , but they are proof of the fact that a teacher , thinker and moral person can also be entitled to the highest honor of society and nation. His honors , awards and awards given in his name are still a source of inspiration in the field of education and philosophy.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Death
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s He died on 17 May 1975. He died at the age of 84. At the time of his death, deep condolences and tributes were paid in India and around the world for his contribution and thoughts.
Honoring his contributions at the time of his death :
Dr. Radhakrishnan’s death was seen as the loss of a great personality. His life and work influenced Indian education , philosophy , and politics forever. His philosophical understanding , his role as a teacher , and His loyalty to the nation will always be remembered.
Some key aspects of his death:
1. His respect for teachers :
After the demise of Dr. Radhakrishnan , his contribution is remembered by celebrating the teachers on 5th September every year. ‘ teacher’s Day ‘ This day became an occasion to honour his ideals of life and his qualities as a teacher.
2. National mourning :
After his death the Indian government declared a one day National mourning His contributions and ideas were mourned across the country. Many tribute ceremonies were held in India and around the world on the day of his death and in the time that followed.
conclusion :
The life and work of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan continues today Education , philosophy , and politics His contribution remains a source of inspiration in the field of philosophy. The deep impact of his contribution is felt in the thinker , teacher and student community of India and the world even after his demise. With his death a great philosopher and teacher left the world , but his legacy remains forever. Ideology , teachings and inspirations Will always remain alive.
Conclusion
The life of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan is a excellent teacher , philosopher , and Great leaders who contributed to nation building He will always be remembered as the great philosopher and philosopher of India. His thoughts , work and principles have become an invaluable legacy for Indian society , education and politics. Visit He considered education not only as an intellectual process but also as a guide to living life. The basic spirit of his education was ” knowledge and love” , and he proved that the true purpose of education was not merely to impart information , but to transform a person Empowering people mentally and morally Is.
their Philosophical life He served as a bridge between Indian culture and Western ideologies , and brought Indian philosophy respect on the global stage. His contributions to politics Despite the hardships , he never let go of the values of morality and education. He was a personality who believed in applying deep philosophical thoughts in politics and public life as well.
His devotion to teachers And Respect It was visible in every aspect of his teaching style and life. His teacher’s Day Being honored as such symbolizes that he always gave a high place to the teacher considering him as the most important person in the society.
Honours , awards , and national and international awards He received many awards in recognition of his greatness and contributions. But the greatest reward is his thoughts and teachings , which continue to inspire people across the world even today. Dr. Radhakrishnan’s life shows that a person can achieve his goal in life Through morality , simplicity , and education not just a country but can bring change to the whole world . His life will always be a source of inspiration , and his contribution will be invaluable to the Indian society.
References
President of India – Former Presidents (Official Website)
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan – Rashtrapati Bhavan
National Portal of India (India.gov.in)
Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Biography
Radhakrishnan, S. (1927). Indian Philosophy (Vol. 1 & 2). Oxford University Press.
Radhakrishnan, S. (1953). The Principal Upanishads. HarperCollins.
Minor, R. N. (1987). Modern Indian Interpreters of the Bhagavad Gita. State University of New York Press.
Murty, K. Satchidananda. (1992). Radhakrishnan: His Life and Ideas. SUNY Press.