Happy Teacher's Day 2023

Celebrating the Legacy of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: A Visionary Scholar, Statesman, Teacher's Day, and His Views on Libraries and Books

         Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a distinguished Indian philosopher, statesman, and educator who played a pivotal role in shaping India's intellectual and educational landscape. He is celebrated on his birth anniversary, September 5thOn his birth anniversary, September 5th, he is celebrated as Teacher's Day in India. This special day is dedicated to honoring his significant contributions to education and the invaluable role of teachers in society.

        Dr. Radhakrishnan's early education in Christian missionary schools instilled in him a thirst for knowledge and a deep respect for the power of education. This foundational experience laid the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to the pursuit of wisdom and enlightenment. His academic journey took him to the corridors of prestigious institutions, culminating in a distinguished career as a philosopher, author, and educator.

      In philosophy, Dr. Radhakrishnan's contributions were nothing short of groundbreaking. His seminal works, such as "The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore" and "Indian Philosophy," bridges Eastern and Western philosophical thought, introducing the world to the rich tapestry of Indian wisdom. His profound insights into spirituality, ethics, and the nature of reality continue to inspire scholars and seekers of truth. However, not just his philosophical prowess endeared him to the masses. Dr. Radhakrishnan was an exemplary teacher who understood the transformative power of education. His tenure as a professor at various universities, including the University of Mysore and the University of Calcutta, saw him inspire and mould the minds of countless students. His pedagogical approach emphasised academic excellence and the cultivation of values, ethics, and a deep appreciation for the world's diversity of ideas.

        Dr. Radhakrishnan's remarkable journey extended beyond the classroom. His diplomatic and political career saw him represent India on the international stage, serving as India's Ambassador to the Soviet Union and eventually ascending to Vice President and, later, the President of India. Throughout his political career, he remained a staunch advocate for education, firmly believing that teachers should be the torchbearers of a nation's progress. One facet of Dr. Radhakrishnan's life that stands out prominently is his profound respect for libraries and books. To him, libraries were not just knowledge repositories but also enlightenment sanctuaries. His views emphasised the role of books in shaping individuals and societies, with an enduring belief in their power to broaden minds, foster empathy, and bridge cultural divides. His wisdom on this subject remains as pertinent today as it was during his lifetime. As we reflect upon the life and legacy of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, we are reminded of the transformative potential of education, the enduring value of philosophy, and the immense influence of a dedicated teacher. His quotes continue to resonate, his ideas continue to inspire, and his impact on the world of education and thought endures as a testament to the heights that a visionary scholar, statesman, and teacher can reach.

Biography of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan:

Early Life and Education: Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888, in a small town in Andhra Pradesh, India. His early education was in Christian missionary schools, and he later studied philosophy at Madras Christian College and earned a master's degree.

Academic and Philosophical Career: Radhakrishnan was deeply influenced by Indian philosophy, especially the works of Swami Vivekananda and Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. He became a renowned philosopher, authoring several influential books on Indian philosophy and spirituality.

Teaching Career: Dr. Radhakrishnan's teaching career took him to various colleges and universities, including the University of Mysore and the University of Calcutta. His lectures and writings on philosophy gained international recognition.

Diplomatic and Political Career: He served as India's Ambassador to the Soviet Union and was later appointed as the Vice President of India. In 1962, he assumed the role of the President of India, a position he held with distinction until 1967.

Why We Celebrate Teacher's Day on His Birth Anniversary:

         The celebration of Teacher's Day on September 5th is a tribute to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan's illustrious career as an educator and his commitment to the teaching profession. The story goes that when he became President, some of his former students and friends wanted to celebrate his birthday. In response, he suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, it would be more fitting to honor all teachers and the noble profession of teaching. Thus, Teacher's Day was established to express gratitude to educators for their tireless efforts in shaping the nation's future.

His Views on Library and Books: 

Dr. Radhakrishnan deeply appreciated libraries and books, recognizing their vital role in education and the pursuit of knowledge. 

Importance of Libraries: Radhakrishnan believed libraries were repositories of human wisdom and knowledge. He emphasized the significance of libraries as places where individuals could access a wide range of books and resources, enabling them to expand their horizons and acquire valuable information.

Books as a Source of Enlightenment: He regarded books as indispensable tools for personal growth and enlightenment. According to him, books served as windows to the world, offering insights into diverse cultures, ideas, and philosophies. In his view, reading was a transformative experience that enriched the mind.

Role of Teachers in Promoting Reading: Dr. Radhakrishnan stressed that teachers should encourage their students to read widely and develop a love for books. He believed that a well-stocked library and an enthusiastic teacher could instill a lifelong passion for learning in students.

Notable Quotes by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan:

• "Teachers should be the best minds in the country." 
• "The end-product of education should be a free creative man, who can battle against historical circumstances and adversities of nature." 
• "Books are the means by which we build bridges between cultures." 
• "Reading a book gives us the habit of solitary reflection and true enjoyment." 
• "A life of joy and happiness is possible only on the basis of knowledge and science."
• “Library is the heart of an institution”

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan's legacy continues to inspire educators and students alike. His views on the importance of teachers, libraries, and books remind us of the profound impact of education on society. Teacher's Day in India is a testament to his enduring influence and belief in education's power to shape a brighter future.