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Synopsis Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (September 5, 1888-April 17, 1975), was a philosopher and statesman. One of the foremost scholars of comparative religion and philosophy in his day, he is best known for having introduced the thinking of western idealism into Indian thought and conversely, Indian philosophy into western thought. He was an Oxford don who became the first Vice-President and the second President of India. Sarvepalli is his family name and Radhakrishnan is his first name.  He was born at Tiruttani, a town in Tamil Nadu, South India. His primary education was in Gowdie School, Tiruvallur. He graduated with a Master's Degree in Arts from the University of Madras. Bharat Ratna, the highest award of the nation, was conferred on him in 1954 in recognition of his meritorious service to mankind. 5 September, the birthday of Dr. Radhakrishnan, is observed as Teacher's Day.