Puran Chand Sharma
History is adorned with personalities who not only influenced their surroundings but also left an indelible mark on generations to come. Among them Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan stands tall as a philosopher of rare depth, teacher of immense dedication and a statesman of extraordinary vision. He devoted his life to interpreting India’s cultural and philosophical heritage for the modern worldwhile simultaneously shaping the destiny of Independent India as its Vice President and later as the President.Accordingly,Life story of Dr. S Radhakrishnan ishighly inspirational and truly worthy of emulation not only for students but for one and all across the national horizon as to how to live and lead a purposeful and serviceoriented life in this mortal and complex world. It shall be therefore, quite advantageous for all the learned readers to joyfully remember and pay their respectful homage to Dr. Radhakrishnan on his birthday which is celebrated as TEACHER’S DAY on 5th of September every year. Let us begin and explore with a positive mindset and heartfelt salutations.
CHILDHOOD and EDUCATION: Dr. Radhakrishnan got incarnated in a modest Telugu Brahmin Family in Tiruttani a small town in Tamil Nadu on September,5, 1888. His father was a subordinate revenue officer and mother Sitamma was a homemaker. Despite confronting with severe financial hardships, he exhibited extraordinary brilliance as a student. He completed his primary education In Tiruttani, Tirupatiand later on joined Voorhees College, Vellore and subsequently Madras Christian College. Whilst in the Madras Christen College, he specialized in philosophy, obtaining his B.A. degreein 1906 M.A. in 1908. His master’s thesis on the topic “The Ethics of the Vedanta and its Metaphysical Presuppositions. ” earned world recognition and was published when he was just 20 years old. His sharp intellect, deep understanding of Indian Philosophy and ability to connect it with Western thought soon recognized him as an innovative scholar.
*ACHIEVEMENTS AS TEACHER:- He commenced his innings as a teacher from Madras Presidency college as Assistant Professor of Philosophy in the year 1916 . His amazing clarity of thought and style of teaching made him a popular teacher. Dr.Radhakrishnan taught at Mysore university from 1918 to 1921 where he also wrote his classic book “The Philosophy of Rabindernath Tagore” by virtue of which he earned international recognition. CALCUTTA UNIVERSITY (1921-1931):- He joined Calcuuta University as professor of Philosophy wherein he produced his most important works such as *Indian Philosophy in two volumes, 1923 &1927 in the form of seminal study which introduced Indian philosophicalthinking to the rest of the world. He was appointed as vice-chancellor of Andhra University from 1931 to 1936.
*HIS SCHOLARSHIP AND WRITINGS:- His books like Indian Philosophy (two volumes) , Philosophy of the upanshidas and Eastern Religions and Western thought introduced Indian philosophy to the west.
*He interpreted ADVAITA VEDANTA in a way that connected ancient wisdom with modern humanism and rationality. * His role as a bridge between Indian and Western Philosophy earned international acclaim.
*Teacher’s Day: He was deeply respected by his students. When some of the students requested to celebrate his birthday, he said, “ Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if September 5th is observed as Teacher’s day, reinforcing the dignity of the teaching profession. Dr. Radhakrishnan firmly believed that ‘ Education is the tool for national reconstruction.’ His contribution was not confined to academics. He played a significant role as a bridge betweenIndian philosophy and the western thinking.
*His Role as DIPLOMAT: Dr. RADHAKRISHNAN successfully handled his assignment as Ambassador to the Soviet Union from 1949-1952. He played a crucial role in strengthening INDIA -SOVIET RELATIONS during a very sensitive post-world war- 2 and cold war phase. Further his wisdom and diplomacy won the trust of Soviet leaders like STALIN. His philosophical outlook and calm demeanor helped India gain respecton the global stage.
*AS VICE PRESIDENT OF INDIA (1952—1962):-DR. RADHAKRISHNAN became first vice president of India in the year 1952 and served two terms, as vice president, he also presided over the Rajya Sabha ( upper house of Parliament). He was known for his wit, scholarly quotes and sense of justice while handling debates in parliament. His speeches often reflected deep philosophical wisdom combined with a touch of humour.
PRESIDENT OF INDIA:- He succeeded Dr. Rajendra Prasad as the second President of India from 1962 to 1967. His tenure coincided with challenging times , including the 1962 Indo- china war and the 1965 INDO—PAK WAR. Though largely a constitutional head, his moral authority and philosophical outlook gave strength to the nation.
*He laid emphasis on education, morality and unity as the backbone of India’s progress.
*On his election as President, his students and friends requested to celebrate; he suggested to dedicate it to the teachers, which institutionalized TEACHER’S DAY.
*AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS RECEIVED:- Knighthood (1931) : He was honoured as KNIGHT by the British Govt for his contribution to education and philosophy.
*Bharat Ratna: He got Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award in the year 1954.
*Honourary Doctorates: Dr. Radhakrishnan received honorary degrees Oxford, Cambridge and several Indian universities. * International reputation: He was considered and recognized as one of the finest comparative philosophers of the 20th century. * CHAIRMANSHIP OF UNESCO executive Board (1948): While handling this assignment, he worked for International cooperation for Education , science and culture.
*LATER LIFE AND LEGACY:-After completing his term as President in 1967, he retired from public lifebut remained a respected figure in the intellectual and academic circles. He left for heavenly abode on 17th April, 1975, leaving behind his rich legacy that continues to inspire the nation in all circumstances. His life is a testimony to the power of knowledge, humility and service. He symbolized the fusion of the philosopher’s depth, teacher’s dedication and the statesman’s vision. His writings continue to inspire generations of students and scholars. Teacher’s day celebrated in his honor, is not just a tribute to him but also a reminder of the nobility of the teaching profession.
*INFERENCE:- While concluding the ‘Write up’ it is inferred that Dr. Radhakrishnan was a philosopher who interpreted India’s spiritual heritage for the modern world, a teacher who shaped generations and a statesman who gave moral strength to a young nation. He has brilliantly quoted, “The true measure of a manis not, in what he has achieved, but in what he has given to the world.” (author is president ved mandir)
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