Philosophers : 3 Dr S Radhakrishnan

Philosophers : 3 Dr S Radhakrishnan In the previous two messages covering philosophers, we discussed J Krishnamurthy and Bertrand Russell. Today we are trying to introduce Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan* : https://iep.utm.edu/radhakri/ As an academic, philosopher, and statesman, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888-1975) was one of the most recognized and influential Indian thinkers in academic circles in the 20th century. Throughout his life and extensive writing career, Radhakrishnan sought to define, defend, and promulgate his religion, a religion he variously identified as Hinduism, Vedanta, and the religion of the Spirit. He sought to demonstrate that his Hinduism was both philosophically coherent and ethically viable. Radhakrishnan’s concern for experience and his extensive knowledge of the Western philosophical and literary traditions has earned him the reputation of being a bridge-builder between India and the West. He often appears to feel at home in the Indian as well as the Western philosophical contexts, and draws from both Western and Indian sources throughout his writing. Because of this, Radhakrishnan has been held up in academic circles as a representative of Hinduism to the West. His lengthy writing career and his many published works have been influential in shaping the West’s understanding of Hinduism, India, and the East. Books Bhagavadgita The Bhagavadgita, or 'Sacred Song', holds an assured place among the world's great scriptures. In fourteen hundred lines of verse,the relationship of man with God - and the intense joy of divine love - are celebrated,in a language that is precise and beautiful.The Gita is a tale of action, taking the form of a dialogue between Arjuna and Krishna on the eve of a battle. Krishna teaches the fearful Arjuna the need for action and the requirement that he - like all mankind - take his place in the world in love and faith. Only through the search for God andthe Absolute will the true self be discovered.This edition of the Bhagavadgita offers the Sanskrit text as well as Radhakrishnan's English translation and a commentary that has become a classic. His clear understanding of the profound wisdom contained within the Gita ensures an equally clear vision of its powerful and eternal message, one that cannot fail to touch the minds and spirits of all those who reach for it. *While introducing celebrities, the effort is to pick up one aspect among several, for which the person will be remembered and not to attempt a biographical note. M G Warrier