From Vivekananda to Radhakrishnan: 9 Greatest Teachers in Indian History

India’s history is filled with teachers who shaped not only the minds of their students but also the direction of society. Some worked in classrooms, others taught through their writings, speeches, or personal examples. Their influence crossed generations, and their ideas continue to guide education and thought today.

1. Swami Vivekananda (1863–1902)

Born as Narendranath Datta in Kolkata, Vivekananda was a disciple of the saint Ramakrishna Paramahamsa. He believed that education should build strength of character, self confidence, and a sense of service to others. His famous speech at the Parliament of the World’s Religions in Chicago in 1893 introduced Indian philosophy to a global audience. Vivekananda founded the Ramakrishna Mission, which set up schools, colleges, and vocational training centres. He saw education as a way to empower the poor and unite spiritual knowledge with practical skills.

2. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888–1975)

Radhakrishnan was a philosopher, scholar, and teacher who rose to become the President of India. He taught at universities in India and abroad, including Oxford, and was known for explaining Indian philosophy in a way that connected with modern thought. He believed that education should not only train the mind but also shape moral values. His respect for teachers and his own inspiring career led to his birthday, 5 September, being celebrated as Teachers’ Day in India.

3. Chanakya (c. 4th century BCE)

Also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta, Chanakya was a teacher at the ancient university of Takshashila. He was a master of political science, economics, and strategy. His work, the Arthashastra, is one of the earliest treatises on governance, law, and administration. Chanakya played a key role in the rise of the Mauryan Empire by mentoring and guiding Chandragupta Maurya. His teachings combined practical statecraft with long term vision, and his ideas are still studied in political and management circles today.

4. Savitribai Phule (1831–1897)

Savitribai Phule was one of the first women teachers in India and a pioneer of girls’ education. At a time when educating women was strongly opposed, she and her husband Jyotirao Phule opened schools for girls and children from marginalised communities. She faced social harassment but continued her work, even teaching without pay when funds were low. Savitribai also wrote poems and essays encouraging education and equality. Her efforts laid the foundation for women’s education in India.

Also Read: Why is September 5 Celebrated as Teachers’ Day in India?

5. Rabindranath Tagore (1861–1941)

Tagore was a poet, writer, and Nobel laureate who believed that education should be creative and connected to nature. He founded Visva-Bharati University at Santiniketan, where students learned in open air classrooms and were encouraged to explore art, music, and literature alongside academics. Tagore opposed rote learning and wanted education to develop the whole personality. His approach influenced many educators in India and abroad.

6. Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam (1931–2015)

Kalam was a scientist who played a key role in India’s missile and space programmes, earning the title “Missile Man of India.” Despite his achievements in science and as President of India, he always called himself a teacher first. He travelled widely to meet students, urging them to dream big, work hard, and stay honest. Kalam believed that education should combine knowledge with values and that young people could change the nation’s future.

7. Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948)

Gandhi was not a classroom teacher, but his life and philosophy became a form of education for millions. He promoted the idea of Nai Talim (Basic Education), which combined learning with productive work like spinning and farming. Gandhi believed that education should prepare people to be self reliant, responsible, and committed to truth and non violence. His teachings continue to be part of moral education in India.

8. Gopal Krishna Gokhale (1866–1915)

Gokhale was a political leader, social reformer, and teacher who believed that education was the key to social progress. He worked to expand access to education, especially for the poor, and founded the Servants of India Society to promote education, health, and welfare. Gokhale mentored many young leaders, including Gandhi, and saw education as essential for building a modern, democratic India.

9. Dr. Zakir Husain (1897–1969)

Husain was an educationist who co-founded Jamia Millia Islamia University. He believed in vocational training and practical education that prepared students for real life challenges. As Vice Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University and later as President of India, he promoted the idea that education should develop both skills and a sense of social responsibility. His work strengthened the link between education and nation building.