The Alumni of SCD Government College, Ludhiana, held a virtual meeting to pay heartfelt tributes on the 51st death anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, former President of India (1962–1967). They fondly remembered his historic visit to their alma mater in 1945, when he presided over the college’s Silver Jubilee celebrations during pre-partition India.
Among those who shared their memories and reflections were Advocate Hari Om Jindal, Prof. P. K. Sharma, Prof. Dr. Harblass, and Brij Bhushan Goyal, Organizing Secretary of the Alumni Association, along with several other members.
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Brij Bhushan Goyal highlighted that the college motto, ‘Dare To Be True’, traces its origin to Dr. Radhakrishnan’s visit. Referring to historical records, he noted that the then Principal, U. Kramet, had invited Dr. Radhakrishnan as the chief guest for the Silver Jubilee celebrations. During his convocation address, he inspired students with the powerful words: “For members of such a republic as India, the qualification should not be less than a daring for truth.” These words eventually shaped the institution’s enduring motto.
Prof. P. K. Sharma described Dr. Radhakrishnan as a globally renowned scholar, philosopher, and guide, who delivered lectures on religion and philosophy at prestigious international universities, including those in Pennsylvania and Oxford. “Hats off to this great son of India,” he remarked.
Advocate Hari Om Jindal added that the visionary leader’s ideals and philosophy continue to inspire generations. Principal Dr. Gursharanjit Singh Sandhu, himself an alumnus, appreciated the alumni for organising the tribute and remembering the contributions of the revered statesman and educationist. He noted that Dr. Radhakrishnan’s 1945 visit remains a proud chapter in the college’s history.