Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Biography: Early Life, Education, Career and Achievements

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan biography: Know about his early life, education, teaching career, books, political journey, achievements, Bharat Ratna and Teachers’ Day.

Sep 4, 2026, 18:44 IST

Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was an Indian philosopher, scholar, teacher and statesman who served as the second President of India. He also served as the first Vice President of India. His birth anniversary, 5 September is celebrated as Teachers’ Day in India.

Who Was Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on 5 September 1888 in Tiruttani, Madras Presidency in British India. He was a renowned philosopher and scholar of comparative religion and He served as Vice President of India from 1952 to 1962. He became the second President of India in 1962.

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What Was Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Early Life?

Radhakrishnan was born into a Telugu-speaking Brahmin family. His father was Sarvepalli Veeraswami, who worked as a subordinate revenue official. His mother’s name was Sitamma. He spent his early years in parts of the Madras Presidency. His academic interests developed strongly during his student years.

Where Did Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Study?

Radhakrishnan received his early education in schools in Tiruttani and Tirupati. He later studied at Madras Christian College. He specialised in philosophy. He completed his master’s degree in philosophy in 1908.

What Was Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Career as a Teacher?

Radhakrishnan began his academic career as a philosophy teacher. He taught at Madras Presidency College. He became a professor at the University of Mysore. He later served as Professor of Eastern Religions and Ethics at the University of Oxford.

What Books Did Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Write?

Radhakrishnan wrote extensively on Indian philosophy, religion and education. Some of his important works include Indian Philosophy, the Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore, the Hindu View of Life, an Idealist View of Life, eastern Religions and Western Thought and the Principal Upanishads.


When Did Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Become Vice President of India?

Radhakrishnan became the first Vice President of India in 1952. He served in the position for two consecutive terms. His tenure as Vice President lasted from 1952 to 1962.

Why Is 5 September Celebrated as Teachers’ Day?

5 September is celebrated as Teachers Day in India. The date marks the birth anniversary of Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. The occasion honours the contribution of teachers and educators.

Jasreet Kaur

Executive - Editorial

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