Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan as a prose writer

Greetings!! Everyone. This blog is a part of a thinking activity given by Prakruti Ma'am Bhatt. Which is based on Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan as a prose writer.

CLICK HERE FOR THE BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION ABOUT DR. S. RADHAKRISHNAN

# Introduction of Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan:-

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (born Sept. 5, 1888, Tiruttani, India—died April 16, 1975, Madras [now Chennai]) was a scholar and statesman who was the president of India from 1962 to 1967. He served as a professor of philosophy at Mysore (1918–21) and Calcutta (1921–31; 1937–41) universities and as vice chancellor of Andhra University (1931–36). He was a professor of Eastern religions and ethics at the University of Oxford in England (1936–52) and vice-chancellor of Benares Hindu University (1939–48) in India. From 1953 to 1962 he was chancellor of the University of Delhi. Radhakrishnan led the Indian delegation to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO; 1946–52) and was elected chairman of UNESCO’s executive board (1948–49). From 1949 to 1952 he served as Indian ambassador to the Soviet Union. On his return to India in 1952 he was elected vice president, and on May 11, 1962, he was elected president, succeeding Rajendra Prasad, who was the first president of independent India. Radhakrishnan retired from politics five years later. Radhakrishnan’s written works include Indian Philosophy, 2 vol. (1923–27), The Philosophy of the Upanishads (1924), An Idealist View of Life (1932), Eastern Religions and Western Thought (1939), and East and West: Some Reflections (1955). In his lectures and books, he tried to interpret Indian thought for Westerners.

# Some Major Points Related Thinking Activity Task:-

1. Write a note on S. Radhakrishnan’s perspective on Hinduism.

> Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was an Indian philosopher and statesman. He served as the 2nd President of India and as the 1st Vice President of India. One of the most distinguished twentieth-century scholars of comparative religion and philosophy, Radhakrishnan’s philosophy was grounded in Advaita Vedanta, reinterpreting this tradition for a contemporary understanding. He defended Hinduism against what he called "uninformed Western criticism", contributing to the formation of contemporary Hindu identity. He has influenced the understanding of Hinduism in India and the West and earned a reputation as a bridge-builder between India and the West.

The Hindu View Of Life is a philosophical text by Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. This text is based on the lecture series addressed by him at the Manchester College, Oxford. The picture of India was not good in the eyes of the Westerners. Therefore to clarify the vision of Hinduism, he addressed this „Upton Lecture‟ in Manchester College, to defend against uninformed criticism and explain its inherent characteristics. Radhakrishnan was aware of the facts which ought to be clarified or without which the Hindu view is incomplete. In the Text, S.Radhakrishanan has stated the principle of Hinduism. It is an endeavour to indicate the central motives of the Hindu faith and show its way of approaching it. This text is a relic in the world of philosophy. The text is composed of four chapters each chapter is a delivered attempt to clarify the vision of Hinduism. In the first two chapters of the text, Radhakrishnan has given the nature and content of Hinduism toward these conflicts. He believes that Hinduism is a kind of experience it insight into the nature of reality (Darshana) or understanding of reality (Anubhav). The third chapter deals with the theory of Maya, and talks about ethical principles. The theory of karma has two aspects – The Individual aspect or the principle of Ashrams, Another is the social aspect or the Varna Theory. In the third lecture, S.Radhakrishanan talked about Hinduism along with the principles of Ashrams, In the final chapter he discussed about the social issues related to the caste and the class system, also discussed racial conflict and provided solutions to all of these problems. He finds that the racial problems in India are unique, and the caste system in India is complex in origin. S.Radhakrishnan is known for his commentaries on the Bhagavad Gita, the Upanishads and the Brahma Sutras where he shows his ability to convert the incomprehensible into a meaningful. The Hindu view of life by S.Radhakrishanan is considered a relic in the world of philosophy. S.Radhakrishnana was aware of the usual criticism levelled against the Hindu religious practice and beliefs by missionaries. He has painted the problems of nature and the destiny of men, also portrait the importance of spirituality in the very nature of men and men‟ 's spiritual development. In this Philosophical text S.Radhakrishnana has explained the origin, and development of the Hindu religion and analyzes the Hindu way of life. The four lectures deal with different aspects of „Hinduism‟. For Him, Hinduism is not an internally recognized word, but the term „Hindu‟ has territorial significance, not the creedal one, which implies “residence in well-defined geographical areas.” The people on the Indian of the Sindhu River were called Hindu by the Persian and later by the Western Invaders. Hinduism is not a sectarian creed or a form of thought but a way of life believing in unity in diversity. Hinduism is a scientific religion based on facts that one reaches through the institution or religious experience. For many, Hinduism is without content, S.Radhakrishnana believes that if it has content then it has altered from age to age. The ease of Hinduism is that it has steadily absorbed the customs and ideas of the people without whom it has come in contact. If we talk about the Hindu Religion or the Religious Experience, In Hindu Religion is not the acceptance of academic abstractions or celebrations of ceremonies, but Religion is a kind of experience. Religion is an insight into the nature of reality (Darshana) or the Experience of reality (Anubhava). Religious experience is self-certifying and depends on faith, an institution that depends upon experience rather than on authority just like in Christianity. To define „Faith‟ Radhakrishnan has quoted western critic Wesley “ Faith is the vision of soul the power by which spiritual things are apprehended. To transform the religious experience gained through vision of soul into reality we depend upon the intellectual account of experience.” Therefore we depend upon Vedas. Vedas are the chief sacred scriptures of the Hindus. Vedas are not so much dogmatic but capable of being re-experienced. Vedas are co-existence of institution and reason. In Hindu thought there is no breach between reason and institution. Hinduism is a living tradition experimental and admits other points of view. Unlike other religions which believe in absolutism and dismiss others' experiences as illusionary, Hinduism readily admits others' points of view and considers them to be worthy of attention. Like in Christianity which accepts only a particular kind of spiritual experience. S. Radhakrishnan has a belief that a tradition that doesn't grow means its followers are spiritually dead. Hinduism tradition is an organism with steady growth of insight and experimenting with new forms developing new ideals.

In the Second lecture, S.Radhakrishnan discussed about the conflicts of religion and the attitude of Hinduism toward it. He says that „though different religions have inherent differences in formulations of mystical experiences, Hinduism is universal in believing in one Reality God‟. He means that God is one but images and descriptions of God vary from person to person, religion to religion. A seer who has seen the Divine doesn't attach importance to „outward forms‟. For him the exterior reality doesn‟t matter. Through his institutions and faith, he gains experience which is an apprehension of the spiritual things. The true seer is gifted with a universality of outlook. He is convinced of the inexhaustibility of the nature of God and the number of its manifestations. “Hinduism is not a fanatic faith in an inflexible creed”. Hinduism absorbs everything that enters into it, magic or animism and raises it to a higher level. Comprehensive charity, respect and goodwill for other creeds are notes of Hinduism. Hinduism is the world‟ first missionary religion in that it takes into it all fold non-Aryan creeds and beliefs without any mission to convert humanity to its opinion. It is a religion of reconciliation and assimilation that incorporates all good and bad but it cuts unsatisfying elements. It has a large comprehensive unity of living with a fixed orientation. Hindu methods of religious reform are essentially democratic in nature, they accept every cult and bring out a change in its content and not merely in its beliefs in transformation by assimilation, suggestion and persuasion and not by force. The aim of the reformer is to cure the defect not to criticize the view. This aspect leads to the realization of the incorporate supreme by altering the bias of the mind. The Hindu religion has a belief in gradual but continual evolution. The Hindu method of conflict has been criticized as indifferent as it enables every group to retain its past associations and preserve its individuality and interests. It doesn‟t believe in exclusive absolutism, i.e. bringing about a mechanical uniformity of belief. It has a notion that religion is not a correct belief but righteous living. Though the Hindu method is perfect, it has bound together multitudinous sects and devotions into a common scheme. Radhakrishnan's belief in tolerance of other beliefs is the only solution to achieve peace in the world.

2. Write a note on the contribution of S. Radhakrishnan in Indian Writing in English.

S. Radhakrishnan, a philosopher, statesman, and scholar, made significant contributions to Indian writing in English, particularly through his exploration of Indian philosophy and its relevance to the modern world. His writings, both philosophical and literary, helped shape the intellectual landscape of modern India, and his influence continues to resonate in Indian Writing in English.

1. Bridging Eastern and Western Philosophies:-

   Radhakrishnan's primary contribution to Indian writing in English lies in his role as a bridge between Eastern and Western thought. He brought Indian philosophy, especially the Vedantic tradition, into dialogue with Western philosophical frameworks, presenting it in a way that was accessible to both Indian and Western audiences. His works like 'The Philosophy of the Upanishads' (1924) and 'Indian Philosophy' (1923-27) not only introduced the profound metaphysical ideas of ancient Indian texts but also established Indian philosophy as a respectable field of study in the Western academic world. Radhakrishnan emphasized the universal aspects of Indian philosophy, which appealed to global readers and scholars.

2. Indian Identity and Philosophy:-

   Radhakrishnan saw Indian philosophy as the foundation of Indian identity, and his writings in English served as a vehicle to assert this intellectual tradition on the global stage. His texts often juxtapose the spiritual and metaphysical richness of India with the rationalism and materialism of the West. By doing so, he positioned Indian thought as a vital alternative to Western modes of understanding reality. For instance, in 'The Hindu View of Life' (1926), he articulates how Hinduism, with its broad acceptance of diverse viewpoints and emphasis on inner spiritual development, offers solutions to the existential crises of modern humanity. His works not only catered to intellectuals but also influenced how India was perceived in the global intellectual arena.

3. Philosophical Exposition in English:-

   Radhakrishnan’s writing style is notable for its clarity and ability to make complex philosophical ideas understandable to the general reader. Writing in English, he ensured that Indian philosophy was not relegated to esoteric discussions but was part of a broader dialogue that included modern science, politics, and Western philosophy. His English writings are infused with Indian philosophical ideas but are presented in a manner that resonates with the universal human condition, making his work a key part of Indian Writing in English. His use of English as a medium for expounding Indian thought enabled these ideas to transcend geographical and linguistic barriers.

4. Influence on Indian Literature and Nationalism:-

   Radhakrishnan’s philosophical writings also intersect with the development of Indian nationalism. His articulation of Indian philosophy as a source of national pride contributed to the cultural revivalism that paralleled the freedom movement. He argued that India’s rich philosophical tradition offered a moral and spiritual foundation that was crucial for the country’s emergence as an independent nation. In many ways, his work paralleled the writings of other Indian intellectuals like Rabindranath Tagore, who also used English to express the essence of Indian culture. His belief in the universality of Indian wisdom helped foster a sense of Indian exceptionalism, which was central to the intellectual resistance against colonial rule.

5. Role in Shaping Indian Academic and Literary Discourse:-

   Radhakrishnan’s career as a scholar and educator also had a lasting impact on Indian writing in English. As a professor at institutions like the University of Oxford, he was instrumental in promoting Indian philosophy as a legitimate field of study. His tenure at these institutions and his interaction with Western scholars allowed him to integrate Indian philosophical discourse with Western academic standards, making his work accessible and respected worldwide. His role as a scholar of Indian thought in English contributed to the larger discourse of Indian Writing in English by bringing the intellectual heritage of India into the purview of a global readership.

6. Radhakrishnan as a Writer and Statesman:-

   In addition to his philosophical works, Radhakrishnan's speeches and essays as a statesman (he served as the second President of India) were marked by his characteristic depth and intellectual rigour. His ability to communicate philosophical ideas through his political role gave his English writings a unique blend of intellectual and practical insights. His 'Presidential Addresses' and 'Speeches' often reflected his philosophical outlook, drawing from ancient Indian texts to address contemporary political and social issues. His ability to weave Indian wisdom into political and educational discourses contributed to the growth of Indian English writing in fields beyond literature, enriching the intellectual fabric of Indian society.

7. Legacy in Indian Writing in English:-

   Radhakrishnan’s contribution to Indian Writing in English can be seen not just in his own works but in the way he inspired future generations of Indian writers and thinkers. His emphasis on the relevance of Indian philosophy to modern life influenced other Indian intellectuals and writers who sought to engage with India’s cultural heritage through the medium of English. His success in using English to convey complex Indian philosophical concepts demonstrated the versatility of the language as a medium for Indian thought, setting a precedent for subsequent Indian writers.

# Conclusion:-

   S. Radhakrishnan’s contributions to Indian Writing in English are profound and multifaceted. He brought Indian philosophy into a global conversation, used English to convey the depth of Indian thought, and influenced India's intellectual and literary culture and the world. His legacy lies in how he demonstrated that English could be a medium for expressing Indian intellectual traditions without diluting their essence. Radhakrishnan’s works remain pivotal in the canon of Indian Writing in English, inspiring both philosophical inquiry and literary creativity while fostering a deeper understanding of India’s spiritual and intellectual heritage in a global context.

3. According to Radhakrishnan, what is the function of philosophy?

According to Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan, the function of philosophy extends far beyond abstract speculation and intellectual debate. For him, philosophy is an essential activity that serves both personal and societal purposes, offering insight into the nature of reality, human existence, and moral life. Radhakrishnan believed that philosophy has a transformative role, bridging the gap between different ways of knowing and providing guidance for both individual spiritual growth and the advancement of society as a whole. His view on the function of philosophy was deeply rooted in his profound understanding of Indian spiritual traditions, particularly Vedanta, as well as his engagement with Western philosophical thought.

1. Philosophy as the Search for Truth:-

   Radhakrishnan viewed philosophy as the pursuit of ultimate truth, one that transcends the limitations of ordinary human experience. For him, philosophy was not just an intellectual exercise but a quest to understand the deeper, often hidden realities of existence. This search for truth involved going beyond the sensory world and examining the metaphysical foundations of life, exploring questions of existence, purpose, and the divine.

   In his view, truth was not a fixed concept but something that evolves with human understanding. He saw philosophy as a process of continuous inquiry, one that required openness to new ideas and perspectives. Radhakrishnan believed that the truth discovered through philosophy should be in harmony with both reason and spiritual experience. This was influenced by his Vedantic background, which emphasizes the unity of all existence and the idea that truth is ultimately an experience of that oneness with the Absolute (Brahman). For Radhakrishnan, philosophy helps individuals realize this unity, leading them toward a higher understanding of themselves and the universe.

2. Philosophy as a Mediator Between Science and Religion:-

   One of Radhakrishnan’s key contributions to philosophy was his effort to bridge the gap between science and religion. In the modern world, science had come to dominate intellectual life, while religion was often relegated to the realm of faith and private belief. Radhakrishnan saw philosophy as the necessary mediator between these two realms. He argued that both science and religion had their limitations—science was focused on empirical, material knowledge, while religion, in its conventional forms, often became dogmatic and exclusive.

   For Radhakrishnan, philosophy could reconcile these two fields by providing a broader framework within which both empirical knowledge and spiritual wisdom could be understood. He did not see science and religion as mutually exclusive but as complementary forms of understanding. While science gave us knowledge of the physical world, religion, through philosophy, offered insight into the moral and spiritual dimensions of life. Philosophy, in this sense, acts as a synthesizing force that integrates the insights of science with the deeper truths of religion, offering a more holistic understanding of reality.

3. Philosophy as a Guide to Ethical Living:-

   Radhakrishnan believed that the function of philosophy was not only to seek theoretical understanding but also to provide practical guidance for living a good and meaningful life. He was deeply concerned with the moral and ethical dimensions of philosophy, arguing that the ultimate purpose of philosophical inquiry is to guide individuals in leading lives of virtue and wisdom.

   He stressed the importance of ethical self-discipline, compassion, and love as central to any philosophical system. Radhakrishnan’s emphasis on ethical living was influenced by his Vedantic beliefs, particularly the idea that realizing the unity of all beings leads to a more compassionate and morally responsible life. In his writings, he often referred to the Bhagavad Gita and other Indian texts, which emphasize the importance of right action (karma) and the need to live in harmony with others. For him, philosophy provided the tools to understand our responsibilities to ourselves, to others, and to the world at large.

   Radhakrishnan also rejected the purely intellectual approach to philosophy that often characterized Western traditions. He argued that philosophical knowledge without moral and ethical action was incomplete. True philosophy, in his view, must inspire individuals to lead lives of integrity, kindness, and selflessness, working toward the common good of humanity.

4. Philosophy as a Path to Spiritual Liberation:-

   In line with the Indian tradition, Radhakrishnan saw philosophy as a path to moksha, or spiritual liberation. Philosophy, in this sense, is not merely an intellectual discipline but a transformative process that leads the individual toward self-realization and enlightenment. For Radhakrishnan, this process involves recognizing the spiritual nature of existence and understanding one’s true identity as the Atman (the soul or self), which is ultimately one with Brahman, the universal reality.

   Radhakrishnan believed that the ultimate aim of philosophy was to help individuals transcend the ego and the material world and to realize their oneness with the divine. This idea of philosophy as a spiritual practice was central to his worldview and shaped his interpretation of the function of philosophy. Unlike many Western philosophers, who saw philosophy as primarily a rational and intellectual pursuit, Radhakrishnan argued that philosophy must also involve personal experience and spiritual discipline.

   In his work 'The Idealist View of Life' (1932), Radhakrishnan explained that philosophy helps us see beyond the ordinary, fragmented view of reality to the underlying unity that connects all of existence. He believed that once individuals realized this unity, they would be free from the limitations of worldly desires and attachments, achieving a state of spiritual liberation. Thus, for Radhakrishnan, philosophy had a transformative power that could lead individuals toward ultimate freedom and enlightenment.

5. Philosophy as a Means to Social and Cultural Renewal:-

   Radhakrishnan also saw philosophy as playing an important role in the renewal of society and culture. He believed that philosophy had the power to inspire positive change in the world by offering a vision of human life grounded in truth, ethics, and spiritual wisdom. This was particularly relevant in the context of colonial India, where Radhakrishnan argued that the application of Indian philosophical traditions could help restore national pride and guide the country toward independence and cultural revival.

   For Radhakrishnan, the philosophies of Vedanta and other Indian traditions offered a basis for unity, compassion, and social harmony. He believed that if individuals and societies could embrace the ethical and spiritual values of these philosophies, they would be able to overcome divisions based on class, race, or religion. He saw philosophy as a source of moral and spiritual renewal that could help create a more just and compassionate world.

   In his public life, including his role as India’s second President, Radhakrishnan often emphasized the importance of philosophical ideals in shaping political and social institutions. He believed that a society guided by philosophical wisdom would be more likely to promote justice, equality, and peace. Thus, philosophy was not only a personal path to enlightenment but also a means of creating a better world.

6. Philosophy as a Universal Discipline:-

   One of Radhakrishnan’s lasting contributions to philosophy was his belief in its universal relevance. He argued that philosophy should not be restricted by cultural or national boundaries. His works often integrated Indian and Western philosophical traditions, demonstrating that the search for truth is a global endeavor that transcends cultural differences. In this sense, Radhakrishnan’s philosophy was deeply cosmopolitan, aiming to build bridges between different philosophical traditions and promote mutual understanding among people of different backgrounds.

   His synthesis of Eastern and Western thought was not an attempt to impose one tradition on the other but to show that both could offer valuable insights into the nature of reality and human existence. Radhakrishnan believed that philosophy, by exploring universal truths, could help overcome the divisions between cultures and foster greater global harmony. This universalist approach was key to his understanding of the function of philosophy, as he saw it as a tool for fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse peoples and cultures.

# Conclusion:-

   According to S. Radhakrishnan, the function of philosophy is multifaceted. It serves as a search for ultimate truth, a mediator between science and religion, a guide to ethical living, and a path to spiritual liberation. Moreover, philosophy plays a crucial role in the social and cultural renewal of societies, offering a moral and spiritual vision that can inspire individuals and communities alike. Radhakrishnan’s conception of philosophy is deeply rooted in the Indian tradition but remains universal in its scope and relevance, reflecting his belief that the wisdom of philosophy can contribute to both personal and societal transformation. Through his work, Radhakrishnan demonstrated that philosophy is not merely an intellectual exercise but a vital force for achieving a deeper understanding of life and creating a more just and compassionate world.

CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNCTION OF PHILOSPHY BY S. RADHAKRISHNAN

# Conclusion:-

In conclusion, the intellectual legacy of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, as explored through his views on Hinduism, his contributions to Indian writing in English, and his understanding of the function of philosophy, marks him as one of the most influential thinkers of modern India. His perspective on Hinduism highlights its inclusiveness, emphasizing the openness and spiritual depth of the religion. Radhakrishnan’s interpretation of Hinduism was not just an articulation of its core beliefs but a call to see the universal aspects of spiritual life. He presented Hinduism as a philosophy of life that could bridge the gap between various religious and philosophical traditions, offering wisdom and ethical guidance for the modern world. Through his writings, he positioned Hinduism as a living, dynamic tradition that fosters personal spiritual growth while encouraging harmony with others.

In the realm of Indian writing in English, Radhakrishnan made significant contributions by introducing Indian philosophical thought to the global stage. His English-language works provided the intellectual tools for a dialogue between East and West, showing that Indian philosophy held timeless value and could contribute meaningfully to contemporary global debates. His ability to explain complex metaphysical ideas in clear, accessible language helped elevate Indian philosophy to a respected place in Western academia, while simultaneously helping Indians appreciate the richness of their own intellectual heritage. Through his work, Radhakrishnan played a pivotal role in shaping the intellectual discourse of modern India and influenced the development of Indian English literature by promoting Indian identity and thought through English.

Finally, Radhakrishnan's understanding of the function of philosophy reflects his belief in its transformative power. For him, philosophy was not just a theoretical discipline but a practical guide for living a meaningful, ethical life. He viewed philosophy as a bridge between science and religion, offering a holistic view of reality that could integrate empirical knowledge with spiritual insight. More importantly, philosophy served as a tool for self-realization, leading individuals toward spiritual liberation and a deeper understanding of their unity with the divine. Beyond personal growth, Radhakrishnan saw philosophy as essential to social and cultural renewal, offering a vision of life that could inspire compassion, ethical responsibility, and global harmony.

Through these three interconnected areas, Radhakrishnan’s ideas continue to resonate with readers and thinkers today. His ability to merge the spiritual, intellectual, and practical dimensions of life into a coherent philosophy has left a lasting impact not only on Indian writing in English but also on the global philosophical landscape. Radhakrishnan’s vision—of a world where philosophy serves as a guiding light for ethical living, spiritual understanding, and intercultural harmony—remains as relevant today as ever, reminding us of the enduring power of thought to shape a better future.

THANK YOU FOR READING...

HAPPY LEARNING..EXPLORING...