Famous Indian Intellectuals & Academics

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was an Indian philosopher, politician, and statesman who held various prestigious positions throughout his career. He served as the second President of India and the first Vice President of India. Additionally, he was the Indian Ambassador to the Soviet Union, Vice-Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University and Andhra University, and held academic chairs at the University of Calcutta and University of Oxford. Radhakrishnan was a renowned scholar of comparative religion and philosophy, known for his defense of Hinduism and role as a bridge-builder between India and the West.

Amartya Sen is an esteemed Indian economist and philosopher known for his significant contributions to welfare economics, social choice theory, economic and social justice, famine studies, decision theory, development economics, and public health. He received the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences in 1998 and India's highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1999. Sen has held prestigious positions at universities in England and the United States, including the title of Thomas W. Lamont University Professor at Harvard. He was also recognized with the 2020 Peace Prize of the German Book Trade for his work on global justice and social inequality in education and healthcare.

Sir Syed Ahmad Khan was a South Asian Muslim reformer, philosopher, and educationist in nineteenth-century British India. He entered the service of the East India Company in 1838 and later became a judge at a Small Causes Court. During the Indian Mutiny of 1857, he remained loyal to the British Raj and saved European lives. Sir Syed founded modern schools, a scientific society for Muslims, and the Muhammadan Anglo-Oriental College, the first Muslim university in Southern Asia. He advocated for Western-style scientific education and promoted Urdu as the lingua franca of Indian Muslims.

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar was an Indian educator and social reformer known for his efforts to simplify and modernize Bengali prose, as well as rationalize and simplify the Bengali alphabet and type. He was a prominent campaigner for Hindu widow remarriage, leading to the passing of the Hindu Widows' Remarriage Act, 1856. He also advocated against child marriage, resulting in the Age of Consent Act, 1891. Vidyasagar was involved in the establishment of the Somprakash Patrika newspaper and contributed to the Hindu Female School (later Bethune Female School).

Raghuram Rajan is an Indian economist known for his distinguished contributions to the field of finance. He has served as the Chief Economist and director of research at the International Monetary Fund, the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, and the Vice-Chairman of the Bank for International Settlements. Rajan gained recognition for his early warnings about the risks in the financial system before the 2008 crash, which were initially criticized but later proved prescient. He has received prestigious awards and accolades for his significant contributions to financial theory and practice.

Abul A'la al-Maududi was an influential Islamic scholar, Islamist ideologue, and activist known for his extensive contributions to various disciplines such as Qur'anic exegesis, law, philosophy, and history. He founded the Islamist party Jamaat-e-Islami and played a key role in politicizing Islam, opposing the partition of India, and advocating for the establishment of an Islamic state in Pakistan. Maududi's work focused on reviving Islam and promoting what he considered to be the true essence of the faith, emphasizing the importance of sharia and Islamic culture in governance and society.

Ramana Maharshi was an Indian Hindu sage and jivanmukta known for his teachings on self-enquiry and devotion. He experienced a profound "death-experience" at a young age, leading him to recognize a force within himself that he identified with the personal God, Shiva. He spent his life at the holy mountain Arunachala, attracting devotees who saw him as an avatar of Shiva. Ramana Maharshi's teachings gained popularity in the West from the 1930s onwards, emphasizing self-awareness and spiritual instruction through self-enquiry and devotion.

Sri Aurobindo was an Indian philosopher, yogi, poet, and nationalist known for his contributions to Indian independence and spiritual reform. He studied at King's College in Cambridge and later served in civil service roles in Baroda. A key figure in the Indian National Congress and revolutionary movements, he faced charges related to bombings and treason during British colonial rule. Following mystical experiences in jail, he shifted focus to spiritual work in Pondicherry, where he developed Integral Yoga and founded the Sri Aurobindo Ashram with Mirra Alfassa.

Ahmed Raza Khan Barelvi was an influential Indian Islamic scholar and poet known as A'la Hazrat. He is credited with founding the Barelvi movement and the Razvi branch of the Qadri Sufi order. As a polymath, he delved into various subjects including law, religion, philosophy, and sciences. Khan was a prolific writer who defended Muhammad and popular Sufi practices, garnering a massive following of around 200 million Barelvi movement followers. He is revered as a Mujadid, or reviver of Islam, by Sufis for his significant contributions to Islamic thought and practice.

Nagarjuna was an Indian monk and Mahāyāna Buddhist philosopher known for his contributions to the Madhyamaka school of Buddhist philosophy. He is widely regarded as one of the most important Buddhist philosophers in history. Nagarjuna is considered the founder of the Madhyamaka school and a prominent figure in the Mahāyāna movement. His work, particularly the Mūlamadhyamakakārikā (Root Verses on Madhyamaka), is highly influential and has inspired numerous commentaries across different languages and cultures. Nagarjuna's profound insights continue to be studied and revered by scholars and practitioners today.

Kabir was a renowned Indian mystic poet and sant known for his critical views on organized religions. He questioned the meaningless and unethical practices in Hinduism and Islam, advocating for righteousness and detachment from worldly affairs. Despite facing threats from both Hindus and Muslims during his lifetime, Kabir's teachings emphasized the importance of truth and divinity in all living and non-living beings. His legacy lives on through the Kabir panth and the Sant Mat sect, with followers known as Kabir panthis.

Allan Octavian Hume was a British civil servant, ornithologist, and botanist who worked in British India. He played a key role in the Indian National Congress, advocating for self-governance by Indians. As an administrator in Etawah, he implemented reforms to improve governance and the lives of common people. Hume rose in the Indian Civil Service, but his outspoken criticism of British policies led to his removal from the Secretariat. He founded the journal Stray Feathers and amassed a significant collection of bird specimens.

Ramakrishna Paramahansa was an Indian Hindu mystic who began his professional life as a temple priest at the Dakshineshwar Kali Temple in Calcutta. He had various religious experiences and visions which led to his recognition as a guru. Initiated into sannyasa by Tota Puri in 1865, he gained widespread acclaim and attracted followers from all walks of life. Ramakrishna founded the monastic Ramakrishna Order and eventually taught his disciples. His teachings on the unity of religions and spiritual realization continue to influence followers and admirers worldwide.

Debendranath Tagore was an Indian philosopher and religious reformer who played a significant role in the Brahmo Samaj. He joined the Brahmo Samaj in 1842 and went on to found the Brahmo religion in 1848. His professional life was dedicated to promoting religious and social reform through his work within the Brahmo Samaj. He was known for his philosophical insights and his efforts to create a more inclusive and progressive society through his teachings and writings.

Ramachandra Guha is a prominent Indian historian, environmentalist, writer, and public intellectual known for his research in social, political, contemporary, environmental, and cricket history, as well as economics. He has held esteemed positions at institutions like the London School of Economics and Political Science and the Indian Institute of Science. Guha is recognized for his expertise in modern Indian history, particularly through his acclaimed books such as "India After Gandhi" and biographies on Mahatma Gandhi. He is a trustee of the New India Foundation and has contributed to various academic journals and publications.

Jiddu Krishnamurti was an Indian philosopher, speaker, writer, and spiritual figure who rejected the role of World Teacher assigned to him in his youth. Throughout his professional life, he traveled globally to speak to groups and individuals, emphasizing the importance of choiceless awareness, psychological inquiry, and freedom from religious and cultural conditioning. Krishnamurti authored numerous books, including "The First and Last Freedom" and "Commentaries on Living," and delivered thousands of talks on these subjects. His supporters continue to promote his teachings through independent schools and various media formats worldwide.

Patanjali is known for his significant contributions to the field of yoga and ancient Indian philosophy. He is credited with compiling the Yoga Sutras, a foundational text that outlines the principles and practices of yoga. Patanjali's work has had a profound impact on the development and understanding of yoga as a spiritual and physical discipline. His teachings emphasize self-discipline, meditation, and the attainment of spiritual enlightenment through the practice of yoga. Patanjali's legacy continues to inspire and guide practitioners of yoga worldwide.

Khawaja Syed Muhammad Nizamuddin Auliya was an Indian Sunni Muslim scholar and Sufi saint of the Chishti Order. He emphasized love as a path to realizing God, promoting a vision of religious pluralism and kindness. His influence led to a shift in the outlook of Muslims in Delhi towards mysticism and prayer. He interacted with Ghiyasuddin Tughlaq, the founder of the Tughluq dynasty, initially on good terms but later faced disputes due to differing opinions. Nizamuddin Auliya's professional life was dedicated to spiritual teachings and fostering a love for humanity.

Paramahansa Yogananda was an influential Indian-American Hindu monk, yogi, and guru who founded the Self-Realization Fellowship and introduced millions to meditation and Kriya Yoga. A disciple of Swami Sri Yukteswar Giri, he promoted the unity of Eastern and Western religions, emphasizing a balance between material growth and spirituality. Yogananda settled in the US, gaining fame as the "Father of Yoga in the West". His teachings spread through speaking tours, monastic orders, and writings like "Autobiography of a Yogi", which sold millions of copies and influenced figures like Steve Jobs and Elvis Presley.

Manabendra Nath Roy, known as M. N. Roy, was a prominent figure in 20th-century Indian revolutionary and political circles. He founded the Mexican Communist Party and the Communist Party of India (Tashkent group), and played significant roles in the Communist International congresses and as Russia's aide to China. After World War II, Roy shifted his focus towards radical humanism, seeking a middle ground between liberalism and communism. His professional life was characterized by his contributions to revolutionary movements, political theory, and philosophical evolution.

William Dalrymple is a renowned India-based liberal Scottish historian, art historian, activist, curator, broadcaster, and critic. He is a co-founder and co-director of the Jaipur Literature Festival. His books have received numerous awards, including the Wolfson Prize for History, and his TV documentary "Shiva's Matted Locks" won the Grierson Award. Dalrymple has curated major exhibitions and held prestigious fellowships at institutions like All Souls College, Oxford, Princeton University, and Brown University. He was awarded the President's Medal of the British Academy and appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire for his contributions to literature and the arts.

Aśvaghoṣa, a prominent figure in Indian literature and philosophy, was a versatile professional known for his contributions as a Buddhist philosopher, dramatist, poet, musician, and orator. He is recognized as the first Sanskrit dramatist and one of the greatest poets in Indian history prior to Kālidāsa. A spiritual advisor and contemporary of Kanishka, Aśvaghoṣa was part of a group of Buddhist court writers who produced epics that rivaled the Ramayana. His works in Classical Sanskrit marked a shift from earlier Buddhist literature composed in Pāli and Prakrit.

Keshab Chandra Sen was a Hindu philosopher and social reformer in British India. He joined the Brahmo Samaj in 1857 but later founded his own Bharatvarshiya Brahmo Samaj in 1866. His followers distanced themselves in 1878 due to a scandal involving his daughter's underage marriage, which contradicted his anti-child marriage stance. Sen was influenced by Ramakrishna and developed a syncretic "New Dispensation" blending Christian theology, Vaishnav bhakti, and Hindu practices.

Abdullah Yusuf Ali was an Indian-British barrister known for his contributions to Islamic literature. He authored several books on Islam, notably an exegesis of the Qur'an. During World War I, he supported the British war effort and was recognized with the CBE award in 1917 for his services. Throughout his career, Ali made significant scholarly contributions to the understanding and interpretation of Islamic teachings, leaving a lasting impact on the study of Islam and the Qur'an.

Prabhat Ranjan Sarkar, also known as Shrii Shrii Ánandamúrti, was a spiritual guru, philosopher, social reformer, linguist, author, and composer of over 5,000 songs. He founded Ananda Marga in 1955, offering spiritual and social teachings, meditation, and yoga practices. Sarkar's system of spiritual practice blended Vedic and Tantric philosophies, rejecting religious dogmas, casteism, materialism, and capitalism. He advocated for social harmony, progress, and spiritual growth, promoting a worldview of interconnectedness and diversity through his socio-economic philosophy of PROUT and Neohumanism.

Ramanuja, also known as Ramanujacharya, was an Indian Hindu philosopher, guru, and social reformer renowned for his contribution to the Sri Vaishnavism tradition within Hinduism. He was a prominent figure in the Bhakti movement and a chief proponent of the Vishishtadvaita subschool of Vedanta. Ramanuja's philosophical foundations emphasized devotion to a personal God as a path to spiritual liberation. His teachings challenged the non-dualistic Advaita Vedanta tradition and engaged in philosophical debates with proponents of theistic dualism and non-dualism.

Ahmad Sirhindi was an Indian Islamic scholar, Hanafi jurist, and member of the Naqshbandī Sufi order during the Mughal Empire. He opposed heterodox movements in the Mughal court, advocating for orthodox Islamic Law. Known as a Mujaddid, or "reviver," he preserved and promoted Islamic orthodoxy. While initially credited for conservative influences in Indian Islam, modern scholars recognize his significant contributions to Sufi epistemology and practices. His professional life reflects a dedication to upholding traditional Islamic principles amidst changing social and political landscapes.

Akka Mahadevi was an early poet of Kannada literature and a prominent member of the Lingayat Shaiva sect in the 12th century. Known for her 430 vachanas, Mantrogopya, and Yogangatrividh, she was honored with the title Akka by saints for her high spiritual stature. She played a significant role in the spiritual discussions at the "Anubhava Mantapa" and is considered a major female figure in Kannada literature and Karnataka's history. Akka Mahadevi's devotion to the god Shiva, whom she considered her husband, further highlighted her spiritual and literary contributions.

Ziauddin Barani, an Islamic historian, is renowned for his work Tarikh-i-Firoz Shahi, focusing on medieval India. Serving as a nadim of Muḥammad ibn Tughluq for 17 years, he faced exile post-Tughlaq's downfall, ultimately passing away in poverty. Barani's professional life was marked by his dedication to historical scholarship, with influences from Sufi mysticism evident in some of his writings, interpreting events as manifestations of the divine. His contributions to the understanding of medieval India remain significant in historical discourse.

Ram Sharan Sharma was an esteemed Indian historian and Indologist specializing in the history of Ancient and early Medieval India. Throughout his career, he held teaching positions at Patna University and Delhi University, served as a visiting faculty at the University of Toronto, and was a senior fellow at the School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London. He played a pivotal role in expanding the History Department at Delhi University and was instrumental in the establishment of the Indian Council of Historical Research. Sharma authored numerous influential books and played key roles in shaping historical research in India.

Urjit Patel is an accomplished economist with extensive experience in central banking and financial policy. He has served as the Governor and Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India, overseeing crucial areas such as monetary policy, economic research, and financial markets. Patel is known for his expertise in information management and statistics. Following his tenure at the RBI, he has taken up roles as the Chairman of the National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, as well as serving as an additional director and independent director in prominent organizations.

Yellapragada Subbarow was an accomplished biochemist known for his groundbreaking discoveries in the field of medicine. He identified adenosine triphosphate (ATP) as a crucial energy source in cells, developed methotrexate for cancer treatment, and led important research at Lederle laboratories. His work also led to the discovery of folic acid as a cure for tropical sprue and the development of diethylcarbamazine (DEC) for filariasis. Despite not gaining tenure at Harvard University, he played a significant role in advancing medical research during World War II, including synthesizing folic acid and methotrexate.

Arjun Appadurai is an Indian-American anthropologist known for his significant contributions to globalization studies. He has held prestigious positions at various universities, including the University of Chicago, Yale University, and NYU Steinhardt School of Culture. Appadurai's work emphasizes the importance of modernity, nation-states, and globalization in shaping societies. Some of his notable works include Worship and Conflict under Colonial Rule, Disjuncture and Difference in the Global Cultural Economy, and Fear of Small Numbers. His expertise and research have earned him recognition as a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences.

Nitin Nohria is an Indian-American academic who served as the tenth dean of Harvard Business School. He holds the prestigious George F. Baker Professor of Administration title at the university. Nohria has contributed to various board positions, including serving as a former non-executive director of Tata Sons. With a strong background in business education and leadership, Nohria has made significant contributions to the academic community and the corporate world, solidifying his reputation as a respected figure in the field.

Ashfaq Ahmed was a prominent Pakistani writer, playwright, and broadcaster known for his significant contributions to Urdu literature. His professional life was marked by a diverse portfolio of works, including novels, short stories, and plays produced for television and radio in Pakistan. He was recognized for his exceptional talent and dedication with prestigious awards such as the President's Pride of Performance and Sitara-i-Imtiaz. Ashfaq Ahmed's enduring impact on the fields of broadcasting and literature in Pakistan solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the industry.

Adi Shankara, also known as Adi Shankaracharya, was an influential Indian Vedic scholar and teacher of Advaita Vedanta. He is credited with restoring Hindu dharma against Buddhist and Jain challenges, reconciling various sects through the introduction of the Pañcāyatana form of worship, and organizing the Dashanami monastic order. Despite the scarcity of reliable information on his actual life, Shankara's impact on Hindu intellectual thought is significant. He authored several works, including commentaries, topical expositions, and poetry, emphasizing liberating knowledge of the self as Ātman-Brahman.

Abhinavagupta was a philosopher, mystic, and aesthetician from Kashmir, known for his diverse talents and deep influence on Indian culture. He studied under numerous teachers and gurus, becoming well-versed in various schools of philosophy and art. Over his lifetime, he authored over 35 works, including the renowned Tantrāloka and the influential Abhinavabhāratī commentary on Nāṭyaśāstra. His contributions spanned philosophy, aesthetics, music, poetry, drama, theology, and logic, establishing him as a polymathic figure of great significance in Indian intellectual history.

Shibli Nomani was a multifaceted Islamic scholar, poet, philosopher, historian, author, orator, reformer, and critic of orientalists in the Indian subcontinent during the British Raj. Regarded as the father of Urdu historiography, he was proficient in Arabic and Persian languages. Associated with the Aligarh and Nadwa movements, he supported the incorporation of English language and European sciences into the education system. Through biographies of Muslim heroes, he aimed to impart valuable lessons to his contemporaries, contributing significantly to Islamic literature in Urdu. He established the Darul Musannefin Shibli Academy and founded the Shibli National College, leaving a lasting impact on Islamic scholarship.

Irfan Habib is an Indian historian specializing in ancient and medieval India, focusing on economic history through the lens of Marxist historiography. He is renowned for his critical views on Hindutva and Islamic fundamentalism. Habib has authored several influential books, including works on the agrarian system of Mughal India and atlases on the Mughal Empire and ancient Indian history. He serves as the general editor of the A People's History of India series, playing a key role in its ongoing publication of volumes.

Yajnavalkya is a revered Hindu Vedic sage known for his profound contributions to metaphysical philosophy. He is prominently featured in the Brihadaranyaka and Tattiriya Upanishads, where he engages in debates on existential questions and consciousness. Yajnavalkya is credited with expounding the epistemic doctrine of neti neti to realize the universal Self and Atman. He is associated with texts such as the Yajnavalkya Smriti, Yoga Yajnavalkya, and Vedanta school texts. His influence extends to the Mahabharata, various Puranas, Brahmanas, and Aranyakas.

Santha Shishunala Sharifa was a prominent figure in Indian society, known for his contributions as a social reformer, philosopher, and poet. He used his platform to advocate for various social causes and promote harmony among diverse communities. Sharifa's poetry and writings reflected his deep insights into human nature and spirituality, inspiring many with his profound wisdom. Through his work, he aimed to uplift and enlighten society, leaving a lasting impact on Indian culture and thought.

Romila Thapar is an eminent Indian historian specializing in ancient India, with a focus on social-historical methods to study change in northern India during the mid-first millennium BCE. As a Professor Emerita at Jawaharlal Nehru University, she has made significant contributions to understanding how Indo-Aryan pastoral groups established caste-based states in the Gangetic Plain. Thapar is the author of several influential works on Indian history and has been recognized with numerous honorary doctorates and prestigious awards for her scholarly achievements, including the US Library of Congress's Kluge Prize.

Bimal Jalan is a prominent figure in the economic and financial sector of India. He served as the Governor of the Reserve Bank of India for two terms and held various key positions in the Government of India, including Chief Economic Adviser, Banking Secretary, and Finance Secretary. Jalan was also the President of the Governing Body of the National Council of Applied Economic Research. Known for introducing the Indian Rupee note of 1000 denomination during his tenure, Jalan's contributions have left a lasting impact on India's economic landscape.

Rajmohan Gandhi is an accomplished Indian biographer, historian, and politician with a rich academic background. He serves as a research professor at the Center for South Asian and Middle Eastern Studies at the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, and is a scholar in residence at the Indian Institute of Technology Gandhinagar. Throughout his career, he has been actively involved in Indian politics, having been associated with parties like Janata Dal and Aam Aadmi Party, and has contested in elections, displaying his commitment to public service.

Śrīdhara, also known as Śrīdharācārya, was an esteemed Indian mathematician of the 8th-9th century. He is renowned for his significant contributions to the field of mathematics through his works on arithmetic and practical mathematics, specifically the treatises Pāṭīgaṇita and Pāṭīgaṇita-sāra. Additionally, he authored a notable treatise on algebra titled Bījagaṇita, although this work is unfortunately lost to history. Śrīdhara's professional life was characterized by his dedication to advancing mathematical knowledge and understanding during his era.

Vijay Prashad is an Indian historian, author, journalist, political commentator, and Marxist intellectual. He serves as the executive-director of Tricontinental: Institute for Social Research, Editor of LeftWord Books, and Chief Correspondent at Globetrotter. Prashad is a senior non-resident fellow at Chongyang Institute for Financial Studies, Renmin University of China. He has held academic positions at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut. Prashad is known for his critiques of capitalism, neocolonialism, American exceptionalism, and Western imperialism, advocating for communism and the global south. He is also involved in activism, including supporting the BDS movement.

Bibek Debroy is an esteemed Indian economist who has served as the chairman of the Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister of India. He is also recognized for chairing the Finance Ministry's 'Expert Committee for Infrastructure Classification and Financing Framework for Amrit Kaal'. Debroy has made significant contributions to various fields including game theory, economic theory, income and social inequalities, poverty, law reforms, railway reforms, and Indology. He has been honored with prestigious awards such as the Padma Shri and Lifetime Achievement Awards for his outstanding work in economics and public service.

Uddhava was a prominent figure in Hinduism, known as the friend and counselor of Krishna. He played a significant role in the Bhagavata Purana, where he was taught the processes of yoga and bhakti by Krishna himself. Uddhava's resemblance to Krishna often led to confusion between the two. He served as a minister of the Vrishnis and was highly respected among them. Uddhava was also a disciple of Brihaspati, showcasing his deep involvement in spiritual and advisory roles within the community.

Raghunath Anant Mashelkar, also known as Ramesh Mashelkar, is an esteemed Indian Chemical Engineer. He served as the Director General of the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) and held prominent positions in various scientific organizations. Mashelkar's contributions include presidency roles in the Indian National Science Academy, Institution of Chemical Engineers, and Global Research Alliance. He was instrumental in establishing the Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR) and has been recognized as a Fellow of prestigious institutions such as the Royal Society and the Royal Academy of Engineering.

Hemachandra, a 12th-century Indian Jain saint, was a renowned scholar with expertise in various fields including mathematics, philosophy, grammar, law, history, and linguistics. Known as a prodigy of his time, he was titled "the knower of all knowledge." He served as an adviser to King Kumarapala, where he authored works on politics and Jain perspectives. Hemachandra also wrote the epic poem Trishashti-shalaka-purusha-charita, detailing the lives of significant figures in Jainism. His contributions established him as a key figure in the development of the Gujarati language.

Dipesh Chakrabarty is an Indian historian and prominent scholar in postcolonial theory and subaltern studies. He holds the position of Lawrence A. Kimpton Distinguished Service Professor in history at the University of Chicago. In 2014, he was honored with the prestigious Toynbee Prize for his notable academic and public contributions. Chakrabarty is renowned for his work, including the influential book, Provincializing Europe: Postcolonial Thought and Historical Difference (2000), which has significantly impacted the field of history and postcolonial studies.

Raj Chandra Bose was an Indian American mathematician and statistician known for his significant contributions to design theory, finite geometry, and error-correcting codes. He introduced important concepts such as partial geometry, association scheme, and strongly regular graph. Bose collaborated with S. S. Shrikhande and E. T. Parker to disprove a conjecture by Leonhard Euler regarding orthogonal Latin squares. His research also included the systematic study of difference sets to create symmetric block designs. Bose's work has had a lasting impact on various areas of mathematics.

Sugata Bose is an Indian historian specializing in South Asian and Indian Ocean history. He has taught at universities in the United States, including Tufts University and Harvard University, where he holds the Gardiner Chair of Oceanic History and Affairs. Additionally, Bose serves as the director of the Netaji Research Bureau in Kolkata, India, focusing on the life of his great uncle, Indian nationalist Subhas Chandra Bose. He is also a prolific author, with notable works such as "His Majesty's Opponent" and "A Hundred Horizons." In his political career, Bose was a Member of India's Parliament representing the Jadavpur Constituency in West Bengal with the All India Trinamool Congress party.

Basava, an Indian philosopher, poet, and social reformer, was active during the rule of the Kalyani Chalukya/Kalachuri dynasty in Karnataka, India. He reached the peak of his influence during the reign of King Bijjala II. Basava spread social awareness through his poetry called Vachanaas, rejecting gender and social discrimination, superstitions, and rituals. He introduced the Ishtalinga necklace to symbolize devotion to Shiva. As chief minister, he established the Anubhava Mantapa, a platform for open discussions on spiritual and mundane matters for people of all backgrounds. Basava's literary works include the Vachana Sahitya in Kannada Language.

K. Pattabhi Jois was an influential Indian yoga guru known for developing and popularizing the flowing style of yoga as exercise called Ashtanga vinyasa yoga. In 1948, he founded the Ashtanga Yoga Research Institute in Mysore, India. Jois played a key role in establishing modern yoga as exercise in the 20th century, alongside other notable figures. However, his professional legacy is marred by allegations of sexual abuse towards some of his yoga students, for which his grandson, Sharath Jois, has issued a public apology.

S. R. Srinivasa Varadhan is an Indian American mathematician renowned for his groundbreaking work in probability theory. He is credited with developing a unified theory of large deviations and making significant contributions to the theory of diffusion processes. Varadhan's research has focused on refining and advancing Itô's stochastic calculus. In 2007, he made history by becoming the first Asian to be awarded the prestigious Abel Prize, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the field of mathematics.

Matsyendranātha was a prominent saint and yogi recognized for his contributions to hatha yoga in various Buddhist and Hindu traditions. He is credited with reviving hatha yoga and writing some of its earliest texts. As the founder of the natha sampradaya, he received teachings from Shiva and is associated with Kaula Shaivism. Revered by both Hindus and Buddhists, Matsyendranātha is regarded as a key figure in early hatha yoga, serving as the guru of Gorakshanath. In the Siddhar tradition of Tamil Nadu, he is honored as one of the 18 Siddhars, known as Machamuni.

Subhash Kak is an Indian-American computer scientist and historical revisionist. He holds the position of Regents Professor in the Computer Science Department at Oklahoma State University–Stillwater and serves as an honorary visiting professor of engineering at Jawaharlal Nehru University. Kak is a member of the Indian Prime Minister's Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council. He has contributed significantly to the fields of history of science, philosophy of science, ancient astronomy, and history of mathematics. Kak's work also includes publications on archaeoastronomy and the advocacy of Indigenous Aryans. Despite criticism, he was honored with the Padma Shri by the Government of India in 2019 for his contributions to various disciplines.

Vandana Shiva is an Indian scholar, environmental activist, food sovereignty advocate, ecofeminist, and anti-globalization author based in Delhi. With over 20 books to her name, she is known as the "Gandhi of grain" for her work in the anti-GMO movement. Shiva is a leader and board member of the International Forum on Globalization, advocating for traditional practices and environmental sustainability. She is involved in various organizations such as Fundacion IDEAS and the International Organization for a Participatory Society, contributing to global discussions on social and environmental issues.

Chinmayananda Saraswati began his professional journey as a journalist at The National Herald and later The Commonweal. His encounter with Swami Sivananda led to a spiritual transformation, prompting him to become a renunciate monk. He extensively studied Vedanta under Tapovan Maharaj, eventually initiating the Chinmaya Mission to spread the teachings of Vedanta. He traveled globally to deliver lectures, founded educational institutions, hospitals, and ashrams, authored numerous publications, and actively participated in promoting Hindu culture and values through organizations like Vishva Hindu Parishad.

Bhartṛhari was an influential Indian philosopher and poet active in the 5th century CE. His professional life was dedicated to significant contributions in linguistics, grammar, and philosophy. Notably, he authored key works such as the Vākyapadīya, Mahābhāṣyatikā, Vākyapadīyavṛtti, and Śabdadhātusamīkṣā. His philosophy centered around the concept of "Shabda-Brahman," emphasizing the connection between language, cognition, and spiritual liberation. Bhartrhari's works are widely studied in Indian philosophical traditions like Vedanta and Mimamsa, as well as by Islamic and Western scholars through translations and commentaries. His Śatakatraya collection remains esteemed in the field of Indian poetics and has been translated into multiple languages for a global audience.

Subramanian Swamy is an Indian politician, economist, and statistician who previously worked as a professor of Mathematical Economics at the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi. He has held various important positions in Indian government bodies, including being a member of the Planning Commission of India and serving as a Cabinet Minister in the Chandra Shekhar government. Swamy has also been actively involved in political parties such as the Janata Party and the Bharatiya Janata Party, contributing his expertise in foreign affairs, particularly focusing on China, Pakistan, and Israel.

Sant Dnyaneshwar, also known as Dnyanadeva, was a 13th-century Indian Marathi saint, poet, philosopher, and yogi of the Nath and Varkari tradition. In his short life, he authored the Dnyaneshwari, a commentary on the Bhagavad Gita, and Amrutanubhav, which are considered the oldest surviving literary works in Marathi. His ideas reflected non-dualistic Advaita Vedanta philosophy, emphasizing Yoga and bhakti towards Vithoba. Dnyaneshwar's legacy inspired saint-poets like Eknath and Tukaram and he is a founder of the Varkari Bhakti movement tradition in Maharashtra.

Vir Singh was an Indian poet, scholar, and theologist known for his significant contributions to the Sikh revival movement and the renewal of Punjabi literary tradition. His work played a crucial role in revitalizing Sikhism and promoting the cultural heritage of the Punjab region. Singh's influence was so profound that he was honored with the title of Bhai, reserved for esteemed figures within the Sikh faith. Through his writings and teachings, Vir Singh left a lasting impact on Sikh philosophy and literature.

Jayachamarajendra Wadiyar was the twenty-fifth and last ruling Maharaja of Mysore, reigning from 1940 to 1950. He later served as the governor of Mysore until 1964 and as governor of Madras from 1964 to 1966. He ascended the throne in 1940 and merged the Kingdom into the Dominion of India in 1947. He continued as maharaja until India's constitution into a republic in 1950. Known for his support of good causes and dedication to the moral and material progress of the people.

Kaushik Basu is an accomplished Indian economist who has held prominent positions such as Chief Economist of the World Bank and Chief Economic Adviser to the Government of India. He is currently a distinguished professor at Cornell University and serves on the academic advisory board of Plaksha University. Basu was also elected as President of the International Economic Association in 2017. Throughout his career, he has made significant contributions to the field of economics and is recognized for his expertise and achievements, including being the recipient of the Humboldt Research Award in 2021.

Jadunath Sarkar was a renowned Indian historian specializing in the Mughal dynasty. Initially an English literature teacher, he transitioned to history research and writing. Fluent in Persian, he authored all his books in English. He served as the vice-chancellor of the University of Calcutta from 1926 to 1928 and was a member of the Bengal Legislative Council from 1929 to 1932. In recognition of his contributions, Sarkar was knighted by the British in 1929.

Vidyaranya, also known as Madhavacharya, was a prominent figure in Hindu philosophy and a jagadguru at the Sringeri Sharada Peetham. He authored the Sarvadarśanasaṅgraha and Pañcadaśī, important texts in Advaita Vedanta. Tradition holds that he played a key role in establishing the Vijayanagara Empire in 1336 and served as a mentor to three generations of kings. While the historical accuracy of this account is debated, Vidyaranya's influence on the empire's rulers is significant. The Vidyashankara temple in Sringeri stands as a testament to his legacy, symbolizing his teachings and enduring impact.

Anu Aga is a prominent Indian businesswoman who served as the chairperson of Thermax, an energy and environment engineering business, from 1996 to 2004. She was recognized as one of the wealthiest Indian women and among the top 40 richest Indians by net worth in 2007. Following her retirement from Thermax, she dedicated herself to social work and was honored with the Padma Shri award for Social Work in 2010. Anu Aga currently serves as the Chairperson of Teach For India and was appointed to the Rajya Sabha by President Pratibha Patil in 2012.

Pāṇini was a highly esteemed logician, Sanskrit philologist, and grammarian in ancient India. His work, Aṣṭādhyāyī, discovered and published by European scholars in the 19th century, positioned him as the "first descriptive linguist" and earned him the title of "the father of linguistics." His innovative approach to grammar significantly influenced prominent linguists like Ferdinand de Saussure and Leonard Bloomfield. Pāṇini's contributions to linguistics continue to be revered and studied for their profound impact on the field.

Shah Waliullah Dehlawi was an Islamic Sunni scholar and Sufi of the Naqshbandi order. He is recognized as a renewer by his followers. He focused on the significance of adhering to Sharia and advocated for the integration of the Hanafi and Shafi'i schools of law to diminish legal variances. Shah Waliullah Dehlawi's professional life was dedicated to promoting unity within Islamic jurisprudence and emphasizing the importance of following religious principles in a practical and harmonious manner.

Bhai Gurdas was a prominent Sikh writer, historian, and preacher known for his significant contributions to Sikh literature. He served as the Jathedar of the Akal Takht, a position of high authority within the Sikh community. Gurdas played a key role in the compilation of the early version of the Guru Granth Sahib, serving as the scribe for Guru Arjan. His work as an amanuensis was instrumental in preserving the teachings and scriptures of Sikhism for future generations.

Buddhaghosa was a 5th-century Indian Theravada Buddhist commentator, translator, and philosopher who worked at the Great Monastery in Anurādhapura, Sri Lanka. He identified with the Vibhajjavāda school and the lineage of the Sinhalese Mahāvihāra. His most renowned work, the Visuddhimagga ("Path of Purification"), is a comprehensive summary of older Sinhala commentaries on Theravada teachings and practices, considered the principal text on meditation in Theravada. Buddhaghosa's interpretations have been influential in shaping the orthodox understanding of Theravada scriptures since the 12th century CE.

Ashraf Ali Thanwi was a prominent Sunni Muslim scholar, jurist, and thinker from the Indian subcontinent during the British Raj. He played a significant role in reviving classical Sufi thought and was a key figure in the Pakistan Movement. Graduating from Darul Uloom Deoband, he became a leading authority on Quran, Hadith, Fiqh studies, and Sufism. Through his prolific writing and teachings, he advocated for a collective, patriarchal, hierarchical, and compassion-based Muslim community, influencing Islamic spiritual, intellectual, and religious life in South Asia.

Masti Venkatesha Iyengar was a highly acclaimed writer in the Kannada language, known for his significant contributions to literature. He was honored with the prestigious Jnanpith Award, the highest literary accolade in India, making him one of the most esteemed Kannada writers. Referred to as "Maasti, Kannada's Treasure," he gained fame primarily for his exceptional short stories. Writing under the pen name Srinivasa, he was also bestowed with the title Rajasevasakta by the Maharaja of Mysore. His professional life was characterized by his literary prowess and recognition for his exceptional writing talents.