Radhakrishnan, Sarvepalli (1888–1975)

Born near Chennai in South India, Hindu philosopher Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan achieved distinction in several fields. He studied and eventually taught philosophy at several universities, including the universities of Mysore, Kolkata, Delhi, Oxford University, and Banaras Hindu University. He was also vice-chancellor of Andhra University and Banaras Hindu University and chancellor of Delhi University. His diplomatic career included positions as ambassador to the former USSR and leader of the Indian delegation to and president of UNESCO. He became the second president of the Republic of India, serving from 1962 to 1967. He has been characterized as a philosopher, religious thinker, educator, and statesman. Much of his scholarly work sought to bring an understanding of Indian thought to the West.

Schooled in his childhood by Christian missionaries in ...