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Dr Sarveppalli Radhakrishnan ( 1888-1988)

A teacher, writer, and speaker of uncommon brilliance

,Radhakrishnan was the most authentic , eloquent and illuminating

interpreter of Indias philosophical heritage in modern times. ( R

Venkataraman .Former President on India in commemorative Volume of S RadhakrishnanRajyasabha brought out in 1988 his birth centenary.)

With a mind interpreting the highest philosophies of India and having a fine understanding of

Western philosophical systems and Religious thoughts , a familiarity with both Sanskrit and English

Literatures and grasp of world history , Radhakrishnan had a vision for India which was beyond all

political parties and nationalities. He knew well that after Independence if we go on putting

blames upon the British for everything we will never move forward . His words :-Our

opportunities are great ,but let me warn you that when power

outstrips ability, we will fall on evil days. We should developcompetence and ability which would help us to utilize the

opportunities which are now open to us. From tomorrow morning-

from midnight today- we can no longer throw the blame on the

British.

Ability to take up responsibilities goes hand in hand with the rights of every citizen .In 1959 Dr

Radhakrishnan noticed one day that the hose had to be adjourned for want of quorum. He said on

that occasion: I notice that for the first time during these seven or eight years our house had to

suspend business onFriday for lack of quorum. Membership of the Rajyasabha is an honour and a

distinction .It also carries with it responsibilities and obligations.If you do not carry out the latter ,

you damage your honour and your distinction

Think of this. The political parties are busy finding new Rajyasabha members . Are they active and

responsible- No one seems to think about that . If a survey is done we will probably get a

percentage of active responsible members and inactive irresponsible members . We are

commemorating the 125th

Birth anniversary of Dr Radhakrishnan next year. It would be nice for the

Rajyasabha to do a survey in this matter and publish the results of it on Dr Radhakrishnans 125th

birthday as a tribute to that Teacher-philosopher-President of India , the only one of its kind .It

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would be an Educative and Research activity in Educating the future Leaders ,Politicians , and

Statesmen of India . The Nation will definitely benefit from such activities .

Dr Suvarna Nalapat