Books Written by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: A Legacy of Knowledge and Philosophy

Introduction

India’s intellectual heritage has produced many philosophers and thinkers, but few have been able to bridge the gap between the East and the West as effectively as Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888–1975). Best remembered as the second President of India and a renowned statesman, he was also a celebrated teacher and philosopher. His contribution to Indian thought lies primarily in the way he interpreted ancient Indian philosophy for modern audiences. One of the finest ways to understand his legacy is by exploring the books he authored. These works not only highlight his depth of knowledge but also his vision of presenting Indian philosophy to the global stage.

In this article, we will explore the major books written by Dr. Radhakrishnan, the themes they discuss, and their enduring relevance.

1. Indian Philosophy (Two Volumes, 1923 & 1927)

This magnum opus is perhaps the most celebrated of Radhakrishnan’s works. It consists of two volumes that provide a comprehensive history of Indian philosophical thought.

  • Volume I covers the Vedas, Upanishads, early Buddhist and Jain philosophies, and the six classical schools of Indian philosophy (Nyaya, Vaisheshika, Sankhya, Yoga, Mimamsa, and Vedanta).
  • Volume II deals with the later developments in Vedanta and focuses on key figures like Shankara, Ramanuja, and Madhva.

The uniqueness of this book lies in the fact that Radhakrishnan explained Indian philosophy in a manner that was accessible to Western audiences, using terms familiar to them without compromising authenticity. The work became a standard reference for students worldwide and remains one of the finest introductions to India’s intellectual traditions.

2. The Hindu View of Life (1927)

This book is based on a series of lectures delivered at the University of London. It is a concise but powerful exposition of Hindu philosophy and culture.

Key highlights include:

  • The essence of Hinduism as a way of life rather than a rigid dogma.
  • Emphasis on tolerance, diversity, and spiritual pursuit as the foundations of Hindu culture.
  • Presentation of Hinduism as a religion of harmony, universality, and inclusiveness.

The book played an important role in reshaping how Hinduism was perceived in the West, countering colonial stereotypes of Hindu practices as irrational or superstitious.

3. Eastern Religions and Western Thought (1939)

In this comparative study, Radhakrishnan explored the meeting ground between Indian spiritual traditions and Western philosophical systems.

The book discusses:

  • How Western philosophers like Plato, Kant, and Hegel engaged with concepts similar to those found in Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
  • The idea that India’s spiritual traditions are not inferior but deeply compatible with the philosophical inquiries of the West.
  • His vision of a global civilization where Eastern and Western thought complement each other.

This book reflects his lifelong mission: to create intellectual bridges across cultures.

4. The Religion We Need (1939)

In this work, Dr. Radhakrishnan argued for a universal religion that transcends sectarian boundaries. He believed that while the world’s religions differ in rituals and practices, they share a common quest for truth and moral values.

He suggested that modern humanity needed a religion that:

  • Promotes unity rather than division.
  • Encourages ethical living and spiritual growth.
  • Moves beyond dogmatism while respecting cultural traditions.

This book highlights his vision of religion as a force for world peace.

5. An Idealist View of Life (1932)

This book is based on the Hibbert Lectures Radhakrishnan delivered in 1929. It is a profound exploration of idealism as a philosophy.

Key arguments include:

  • The spiritual dimension of life is as real as the material.
  • Human life attains meaning only when it is guided by ideals and values.
  • A defense of philosophy as a means of achieving truth and spiritual fulfillment.

Through this book, Radhakrishnan presented Indian thought not as mystical speculation but as a rational and practical philosophy of life.

6. The Bhagavadgita: With an Introductory Essay, Sanskrit Text, English Translation and Notes (1948)

Dr. Radhakrishnan’s commentary on the Bhagavad Gita is one of his most popular contributions. Unlike many earlier commentaries, his interpretation combined scholarly analysis with universal appeal.

The book includes:

  • The original Sanskrit text of the Gita.
  • A modern English translation accessible to all readers.
  • Detailed commentary linking the Gita’s teachings to modern life.

He highlighted the Gita’s emphasis on selfless action (karma yoga), detachment, and spiritual discipline, showing its relevance beyond religious boundaries.

7. The Principal Upanishads (1953)

Radhakrishnan’s translation and commentary on the Upanishads remains a classic.

  • It includes the original Sanskrit texts, translations, and extensive notes.
  • His commentary makes the abstract concepts of Brahman (ultimate reality), Atman (soul), and Moksha (liberation) accessible to readers.
  • The book demonstrates how the Upanishads represent the highest achievements of Indian spiritual thought.

By presenting these texts in clear English, he made the wisdom of the Upanishads available to a global readership.

8. Recovery of Faith (1956)

This book was written in a period of global turmoil, after the Second World War and amidst Cold War tensions. Radhakrishnan argued that humanity had lost faith in higher values and was trapped in materialism and violence.

  • He called for a renewal of faith in spiritual and ethical values.
  • Stressed the need for a religion of humanity that goes beyond narrow creeds.
  • Urged individuals to rediscover inner strength and moral responsibility.

The work was not just philosophical but also deeply ethical and political, reflecting his role as a statesman.

9. A Sourcebook in Indian Philosophy (1957, with Charles A. Moore)

Co-edited with Charles Moore, this book is a treasure for students of philosophy.

  • It presents a collection of translations from ancient and medieval Indian texts, covering Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions.
  • Includes explanatory notes to make these complex texts accessible.
  • The book became widely used in universities across the world, introducing generations of students to Indian philosophy.

10. Other Works

Apart from the above, Dr. Radhakrishnan authored and edited several other important works, including:

  • Kalki or the Future of Civilization (1929) – a reflection on India’s role in the modern world.
  • East and West: Some Reflections (1955) – on the cultural meeting of civilizations.
  • Religion and Society (1947) – on the ethical foundations of Indian society.
  • The Dhammapada (translation, 1950) – presenting Buddhist wisdom to a wide audience.

Conclusion

The books written by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan stand as monuments of intellectual brilliance and cultural diplomacy. Through them, he achieved what few others could: he interpreted India to the world and showed that Indian philosophy was not just ancient wisdom but a living tradition relevant to modern times. His writings combined scholarly precision with spiritual insight, making them valuable for both academics and general readers.

Today, as we celebrate Teachers’ Day in his honor, revisiting his books reminds us that true education is not about information alone but about wisdom, values, and understanding. His works continue to inspire students, teachers, philosophers, and seekers worldwide, ensuring that his voice remains alive in the dialogue between East and West.

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