गुरुर्ब्रह्मा गुरुर्विष्णु र्गुरुर्देवो महेश्वरः
गुरु साक्षात परब्रह्मा तस्मै श्रीगुरवे नमः
A teacher/guru is the one who plays a pivotal role in imparting basic life values to us after our parents. They are the ones who do this selflessly, competently, and with utmost caution. They hold the highest place in our hearts. Every country has its way of celebrating them. In India, we celebrate them as Teacher’s Day in the memory of a great professor, philosopher, and brilliant political leader, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhdakrishnan.
Today, on his Birth Anniversary, let’s know about 8 facts about Dr. Sarvepalli Radhdakrishnan.
1. He took Philosophy by chance in college.
His choice of the subject of Philosophy happened because of the availability of books passed down by his elder cousin. Choosing the subject by chance, he devoted his entire life to it.
2. He published the first systematic study of Indian Philosophy which made it possible to be taught in foreign universities.
While at Calcutta University he published, “Indian Philosophy.” It was a study of Indian philosophical development starting from 5000 thousand years ago. This work was the first systematic approach on the subject of Indian philosophy enabling it to be included for formal studies in major and renowned universities throughout the world.
3. He became the first Indian to hold a chair at Oxford University
In 1936 Dr Sarvepalli became the first Indian to hold a chair at Oxford University. There he raised and taught bright young minds from all over the world, notably there he also taught Indira Gandhi, who later became Prime Minister of India while he served his last year as President.
4. He was not involved Politically till the age of 58!
His first direct political involvement came when he was 58 years old. He headed India’s delegation to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization and became chairman of the organization in 1949. Also, a member of the Indian Assembly that drafted the nation’s first constitution.
5. He was India’s first Ambassador to the Soviet Union.
In 1949, Prime Minister Nehru appointed him as India’s first Ambassador to the Soviet Union.
6. He was honoured with the Bharat Ratna in 1954. He was the one to receive the first Bharat Ratna in India.
7. He donated a big part of his salary.
He only kept ₹2,500 from ₹10,000 and donated the rest to the Prime Minister National Relief Fund.
8. It was his wish to celebrate his birthday as a tribute to Teachers.
When he became the President, some of Dr Radhakrishnan’s students requested him to allow them to celebrate his birthday. He replied, “Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if September 5 is observed as Teachers’ Day.”
In his own words,
“The true teachers are those who help us think for ourselves.”
Dr. Radhakrishnan was a great role model, and in 45 years since he passed away his lifelong work of helping people has come into fruition in the form of various charities and scholarships that are helping thousands. His teachings and books serve as an Ideal of what a great teacher. It is India’s honor to celebrate today in his tribute.
Happy Teachers Day.
The article is written by Mohit. His Instagram id is @not_that_god_
The article is Edited by Alisha Srivastava. Her Instagram id is @yeah_me_alisha
The article is Curated by Vaibhav. His Instagram id is @frameshade
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