Surendranath Dasgupta
Indian scholar of Sanskrit and Indian philosophy.
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Surendranath Dasgupta was an Indian scholar of Sanskrit and Indian philosophy, best known for his multi-volume work 'A History of Indian Philosophy'. He earned a master's degree in Sanskrit and a second master's in Western philosophy from the University of Calcutta. He studied at Cambridge under J. M. E.
- born
- 18 October 1887 (Kushtia, Bengal, now Bangladesh)
Lore & Background
He later married Suramā Mitra, a former student and colleague, after his first marriage broke down. M. E.
Reader's Guide
Surendranath Dasgupta's significance lies in his 'A History of Indian Philosophy', the first systematic attempt to trace Indian thought from original Sanskrit, Pali, and Prakrit sources. Originally planned as a single volume, it expanded into five volumes as he uncovered unpublished manuscripts. His work provided a critical and historical survey of Indian philosophical systems. His legacy endures through his writings and his influence on students who became prominent scholars.
Did You Know?
- He earned both a master's degree in Sanskrit and a second master's in Western philosophy from the University of Calcutta.
- The first volume of his 'A History of Indian Philosophy' was published in 1921 while he was studying at Cambridge under J. M. E. McTaggart.
- He was known as an almost invincible controversialist in debates at the Aristotelian Society and the Moral Science Club.
- His students included the historian of religions Mircea Eliade and the Marxist philosopher Debiprasad Chattopadhyaya.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Surendranath Dasgupta?
Surendranath Dasgupta was an Indian scholar specializing in Sanskrit and the history of Indian philosophical traditions. He is widely regarded as one of the foremost academic voices of his era in the field.
What is Surendranath Dasgupta's most famous work?
His landmark multi-volume series *A History of Indian Philosophy* remains his signature contribution, offering a systematic and scholarly survey of India's diverse philosophical schools. The work established him as a leading authority on the subject.
Where was Surendranath Dasgupta born and where did he study?
He was born on 18 October 1887 in Kushtia, Bengal, which is now part of Bangladesh. He went on to earn his doctorate from the University of Calcutta before taking up teaching posts at several Indian institutions.
Why is Surendranath Dasgupta important to the study of Indian philosophy?
His rigorous, multi-volume history gave the Western and global academic world a comprehensive, internally informed account of Indian philosophical thought. He bridged traditional Sanskrit scholarship with modern academic methodology, making the tradition accessible to a broader readership.
What was Surendranath Dasgupta known for in academic debates?
He was particularly noted for his sharp, well-structured exchanges with leading philosophers of his time. His willingness to engage in rigorous public and scholarly debate cemented his reputation as a formidable intellectual.
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