Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born in a Telugu speaking family in Thiruttani, Tamilnadu.Father worked as a subordinate revenue official for a local Zamindar, indicating a relatively humble and modest status background.Despite financial constraints family valued education and he was able to pursue his academic interests through scholarships.his upbringings, persistence and academic achievements ultimately led him to become what he is known for today.
Born on September 5,1888, to a Telugu Brahmin family , studied philosophy at Madras Christian College, where he developed a strong interest in comparative western and Indian philosophy. Ultimately he completed his masters in philosophy with a Thesis on ” The ethics of the vedanta and it’s Metaphysical Presupposition.”
Taught Philosophy at University of Mysore and University of Calcutta.Authored over 50 books on philosophy, religion and education. He held prestigious positions such as King George v chair of Mental and Moral science at the University of Calcutta and Spalding professor of eastern Religions and ethics at world famous Oxford University.
He Advocated for Advait Vedanta, believed in concept of “The Abheda and emphasized the role of education in shaping individuals, Society and Nation.
Received India’s highest civilian award, The Bharat Ratna,in 1954.He was nominated for Nobel prize in literature 16 times and Nobel peace prize 11 times and was knighted by British government in 1931.
He was known for championing traditional Indian culture including eating with hands. He believed this practice rooted in Vedic science, activates the five elements in the body -space,air,fire, water and earth represented by five fingers, which aids in digestion. Frequently ate food on Banana leaves or on the earth, which was indirectly related to keeping house super clean. In fact he even taught them British PM Churchill about vedic science of eating with hands during a dinner meeting. He preferred using fingers over cutlery, highlighting the significance that a person once a Teacher,is always a simple person he should be.
He served as Ambassador to then Soviet union from 1949-52,Vice President of India from 1952-1962, President of India from 1962-1967, promoting democracy, cultural preservation and Intellectual growth as and when possible. It was his personal request that his birthday be celebrated as Teachers Day, which is now observed on September 5 in India.He Donated one-fourth of his salary to PMs Natural Relief fund showcasing his commitment to giving back to the beloved nation.
His Scholarly aura was such that the British Queen came to The Railway station to receive such a simple man. His life was marked by a deep commitment to education, philosophy and public service.His legacy continues to inspire generations of students, teachers and leaders in India and beyond.
Written by:
Ashish Kumar Pathak
School Incharge
Middle School Sarha
Dharhara
Munger