While India's first President (Rajendra Prasad) served two terms, the person who succeeded him brought a unique blend of philosophy, diplomacy, and scholarship to the highest office in the land.
Dr. Radhakrishnan was awarded 11 honorary doctorates from universities around the world — including Oxford, Cambridge, and Harvard — making him one of the most academically decorated leaders in Indian history.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was the second President of India (1962–1967).
Before becoming President, he served as India's first Vice-President (1952–1962) — making him the only person in Indian history to hold both the No. 2 (VP) and No. 1 (President) constitutional positions.
Dr. Radhakrishnan was one of the world's greatest philosophers and educators — a professor at Oxford University and a celebrated author on Indian philosophy.
When he became President, some students and friends asked permission to celebrate his birthday. He replied that instead of celebrating it as his personal birthday, he would be honored if September 5 were celebrated as Teachers' Day — recognizing the teaching profession.
Since 1962, every September 5 has been celebrated as Teachers' Day across India.
"Books are the means by which we build bridges between cultures." He also famously said that **teachers should be the best minds of the country** — because the quality of a civilization depends on the quality of its teachers.
Which Is the Highest Peak in India?
Kangchenjunga (8,586 m) is the highest peak in India on the Sikkim-Nepal border. Nanda Devi (7,816 m) is highest entirely within India. Full list of top peaks.
Which is the Highest Peak of India?
Learn which is the highest mountain peak in India. Understand the difference between Kangchenjunga and K2 (Godwin Austen) in PoK.
Highest Team Score in Test Cricket History
Find out which country holds the record for the highest team score in Test cricket history. Read about Sri Lanka's massive 952/6 against India.
What is the Holy Book of Hinduism?
Learn about the holy books of Hinduism. Understand why there is no single holy book, and read about the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita.
How Many AIIMS Are There in India? — Complete List 2024
India has 22 AIIMS as of 2024. AIIMS New Delhi (1956) was the first. New AIIMS were set up under PMSSY. All are Institutes of National Importance.
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