Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a philosopher and statesman who served as the first Vice President and second President of India. He was a renowned scholar, author, and advocate of Hindu philosophy, whose teachings continue to inspire millions around the world. This article will explore the life and legacy of this great Indian thinker and statesman.

Early Life and Education

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888, in a small village called Tiruttani, in the then Madras Presidency. His father was a subordinate revenue official, and his mother was a devout housewife. Radhakrishnan was a brilliant student, and he completed his initial education in Tirupati and Vellore. He then went on to study philosophy at Madras Christian College, where he excelled in his studies and gained a reputation as a brilliant scholar.

Teaching Career and Philosophical Contributions

After completing his education, Radhakrishnan embarked on a teaching career that spanned several decades. He started as a professor of philosophy at Mysore University and later became the Vice-Chancellor of the same institution. He then moved on to become the Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University and later the Vice-Chancellor of Delhi University.

Radhakrishnan's philosophical contributions are vast and varied. He was an expert in Hindu philosophy, and he used his knowledge and expertise to promote the understanding and appreciation of Indian philosophy around the world. His most famous work, "The Hindu View of Life," is considered a classic of Indian philosophical literature. He also wrote several other books, including "Indian Philosophy," "Recovery of Faith," and "The Idealist View of Life."

Political Career and Presidency

Radhakrishnan's political career began in 1931 when he was appointed as the Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University. He later served as the Indian Ambassador to the Soviet Union, and in 1952, he was elected as the Vice-President of India. In 1962, he was elected as the second President of India, a position he held until 1967. As President of India, Radhakrishnan worked tirelessly to promote education, culture, and international relations. He was a firm believer in the importance of education and worked to establish several institutions of higher learning during his presidency. He was also a strong advocate of peace and non-violence, and he worked to promote peaceful relations with other countries.

Legacy and Influence

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan is widely regarded as one of India's greatest thinkers and statesmen. His philosophical contributions continue to inspire scholars and students around the world, and his teachings on Hindu philosophy are still highly regarded today. He was a man of great integrity and wisdom, and his leadership and vision continue to influence Indian society today. He was awarded Bharat Ratna the highest civilian award of the country in 1954 and his birthday is celebrated as "Teachers' day" in India.

Conclusion

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a brilliant philosopher and statesman whose contributions to Indian society and the world at large continue to be felt today. His teachings on Hindu philosophy and his advocacy of education and international relations have inspired generations of scholars and leaders. Radhakrishnan's legacy is one of wisdom, compassion, and vision, and his life and achievements will continue to be celebrated for many years to come.

FAQs

Q. What is Radhakrishnan's most famous work?
A: Radhakrishnan's most famous work is "The Hindu View of Life."

Q. What were Radhakrishnan's views on non-violence?
A: Radhakrishnan was a strong advocate of peace and non-violence, and he believed in promoting peaceful relations with other countries.

Q. How did Radhakrishnan's leadership influence Indian society?
A: Radhakrishnan's leadership and vision continue to influence Indian society today, particularly in the areas of education, culture, and international relations.

Q. What is the significance of Radhakrishnan's presidency in India's history?
A: Radhakrishnan's presidency was significant in Indian history because he worked tirelessly to promote education, culture, and international relations, and his contributions continue to be felt today.

In conclusion, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a remarkable philosopher, scholar, and statesman who made significant contributions to Indian society and the world at large. His teachings on Hindu philosophy, his advocacy of education and non-violence, and his leadership and vision have inspired generations of scholars and leaders. Radhakrishnan's legacy will continue to be celebrated for many years to come, and his life and achievements will serve as a source of inspiration for generations to come.