Famous Educationists of India that have Paved the Way for the Indian Education

  • CalendarOn May 09, 2022

The meaning of education goes beyond the "way to earn a living" –more importantly, education teaches us "how to live every day." Education is paramount when it comes to shaping societies and honing the intellectual abilities of humans.

The education system of a country plays a vital role in empowering its citizens. Moreover, education teaches us to overcome daily obstacles in life with ease and comfort.

India is recognized as a haven because of its culture, civilization, and knowledge imparted by renowned teachers of all times. We'll be talking about famous individuals who were well-informed in their chosen niche.

Besides, these individuals have successfully influenced the actions and thoughts of society on a wide scale through their thought processes and teachings. Let's look at seven great Indian minds and teachers who have worked their fingers to the bone to impart knowledge while helping us become good human beings.

Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who has served us as the second president and the first Vice President of Independent India, is revered as a prominent teacher of almost all times. He was born on September 5th, 1988, and worked hard to earn the recognition of an eminent scholar during the 20th century.

Radhakrishnan wrote several books during his life, and the most famous books have been successful in bringing reforms in the Indian society. For example, he wrote the religion society, the Hindu view of life, and a renowned book in Indian philosophy. Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan is one of the finest writers in history and has contributed to international journals.

Radhakrishnan urged his fellow beings to stick to the principle, "transform the world with your teachings." September 5th, his birthday, is commemorated throughout India as "Teachers Day." Teacher's Day is celebrated to pay reverence to an acclaimed and well-informed teacher that the countrymen of Indian soil will always be indebted.

Chanakya

Chanakya, who belonged to the fourth century and is commonly referred to as Kautilya and Vishnugupta, is still worshipped as a great teacher across India today. Chanakya was successful in playing multiple roles at the time: on the one hand, he played the role of a royal advisor during the reign of King Chandragupta Maurya, whereas, on the other hand, he played the role of a jurist and a philosopher.

He is the author of two world-famous books Arthashastra and Chanakya Niti or Nitishastra. Chanakya's works are enriched with life-enhancing wisdom coupled with several experience-related-realities, which he wished to share with his countrymen Chanakya Niti, famous worldwide, consists of principles and quotes applicable during times of distress or adversities. Eventually, Chanakya Niti includes an array of thought-provoking sutras necessary for living a peaceful and better life.

Rabindra Nath Tagore

Rabindra Nath Tagore was born in the year 1861 on May 7th. Mr Rabindra Nath Tagore is known for his excellence in the academic and educational world. His world-famous literary work 'Gitanjali' called for praise all over the world. Gitanjali is a collection of beautiful verses and prayers for which Rabindranath Tagore was bestowed with a Nobel Prize in Literature during 1913. Apart from being a renowned writer, Mr Tagore was a freedom fighter who fought against the British. As per Tagore, a child's mental and physical growth was triggered through practical activities.

He took learning processes a notch up by transforming abstract knowledge into practical ones. Thus, Shantiniketan emphasizes practical activities such as climbing trees, learning music and drama, dancing, and plucking fruits and vegetables.

His teaching processes included narration and discussion sessions coupled with debates. Such practices aimed to strengthen the oratory and thinking skills of students. He bestowed the students with sufficient freedom while encouraging his students to realize their inner potential. He was a practitioner and strict believer in outdoor education or learning in natural surroundings.

He encouraged his students to bask in the natural atmosphere while assimilating knowledge. Besides, he believed that "teaching shouldn't be confined to offering explanations, but to trigger the mind's energy and learning capacity."

Swami Vivekananda

Not only was Swami Vivekananda an influential Indian reformer of the bygone decade, but he was also a man of outstanding intellect. He became the founder of the 'Ramakrishna Mission' in the year 1863. Ramakrishna Mission is a monastery whereby Vivekananda's followers, along with monks, came together to spread the knowledge of Vedanta. He was a supporter and a staunch convict of the Gurukula system. Gurukula system has become common in India: the system seeks teachers and students to live together.

With the help of his teachings, Vivekananda helped his students to overcome the challenges that occur during adverse times in life. He urged his countrymen to live their lives as good Indian citizens. His words, "Education is the manifestation of perfection already present in men," are worshipped to date. Swami Vivekananda's teachings aimed to instil self-confidence in individuals that they are blessed with immense potential.

Savitribai Phule

Apart from the above mentioned male Indian teachers, there's a female name who worked very hard to improve the conditions of female education in India. Savitribai Phule deserves special attention as she was the first to raise her voice against the sins and atrocities women face. Additionally, she tried to work very hard to promote gender equality in the educational institutions located throughout India. She is renowned for establishing the first women's or girl's school. She rekindled the life-long dream of several women to receive education by setting up an institution for untouchable or Dalit girls.

As a respectful deed, today, the University of Pune has been named Savitribai Phule Pune University.

Conclusion

These leaders have lived exemplary lives and strived hard to educate themselves and those around them. Several schools and universities in India respect them for their simplicity and leaving an indelible mark on those seeking knowledge.