Krishna Kanta Handiqui's life and work represent a unique blend of Eastern and Western scholarship, contributing significantly to the fields of Sanskrit studies and modern Indian academia. His dedication to learning and teaching has left a lasting impact on Indian intellectual history.
Krishna Kanta Handiqui was born on July 20, 1898 at Jorhat, Assam. His parents were Radha Kanta Handique (a philanthropist and tea planter) and Narayani Handique
Education:
Completed education up to Intermediate of Arts (IA) in Assam.
Graduated with BA Honours in Sanskrit (Vedic Group) from the University of Calcutta, excelling in all examinations.
Began a study tour of Europe in 1920.
Obtained a Master’s degree in Modern History from Oxford University in 1923. Studied modern history at the University of Oxford under British economic historian Ephraim Lipson.
Studied in France, Germany, and Italy, gaining proficiency in several European languages and studying Classics.
Returned to India with a collection of over 2,000 books in various languages.
Influences and Mentors:
Mentored by Mahamahopadhyaya Sitaram Shastry in Vedic Sanskrit.
Inspired by historians Acharya Jadunath Sarkar and Acharya Brajendra Nath Seal.
Influenced by Sahityarathi Lakshminath Bezbaroa and Dr. Suryya Kumar Bhuyan.
Critically engaged with Oxford Sanskrit scholar Arthur Anthony Macdonell.
Career:
Declined a career in government service to fulfill social duties.
Became the first principal of J.B. College, Jorhat in 1930, the first non-government college in Assam. Served as principal for 17 years here, significantly contributing to higher education in the state.
Became the first Vice-Chancellor of Gauhati University from 1948 to 1957, shaping the institution with his vision.
Contributions to Education:
Advocated for high ideals and values in education, emphasizing the development of character and moral values over mere academic achievements.
Promoted the idea that education is an internal condition that transforms individuals and empowers them to contribute positively to society.
Critiqued the examination system, viewing it as a link between the university and society and a test of a candidate's ability to serve the community.
Emphasized the importance of adequate pay for teachers, particularly in non-government colleges, to allow them to work with confidence and dedication.
Stressed the significance of strong foundations in school education as essential for higher education.
Scholarship and contributions:
Renowned as an eminent Sanskrit scholar and Indologist.
He mastered Sanskrit kavyas like Meghdoot, Kumar Sambhava, and Raghuvamsa, in addition to various Sanskrit grammars available at that time.
Engaged in lexicographical studies of Yajurveda.
Developed a lifelong association with the ancient Greek language
Authored three major works that earned international acclaim:
Naisadhacarita: A 12th-century Sanskrit epic by Sriharsha; Handiqui's annotation and explication were widely praised by scholars such as M.B. Emeneau, Prof. N. Winternitz, and Prof. A.B. Keith.
Yasastilaka and Indian Culture: Published in 1949, this work received recognition at the All India Oriental Conference, where Handiqui was elected president of the classical Sanskrit session.
Setubandha: A 5th-century Prakrit text by Pravarsena, translated into English by Handiqui post-retirement.
Philosophy and Vision:
Viewed educated individuals as agents of change and progress, particularly in an underdeveloped country.
Advocated for improved academic environments in non-government colleges to enhance the quality of education.
Saw examinations as crucial for maintaining the university’s reputation and inspiring public confidence in its standards.
Language Proficiency and Literary Contributions:
Proficient in multiple languages, including Sanskrit, Spanish, Greek, French, Italian, and German.
Wrote articles in Assamese and English, contributing to journals such as The Modern Review, The Indian Antiquary, and Indian Historical Quarterly.
Authored poems and songs in Assamese and translated prose pieces from Russian to Assamese.
Wrote critical insights and prefaces, including one for Atul Chandra Hazarika's Assamese translation of Sakuntala.
Defended the importance of translation, highlighting its complexities and significance.
Leadership and Public Service:
Presided over the 1937 Guwahati Session of the Assam Sahitya Sabha, promoting inclusivity among religious, linguistic, and ethnic groups.
Served in various public offices while maintaining a commitment to study and research.
Awards and Honors:
Awarded the Padma Shri in 1955 and Padma Bhushan in 1967.
Made an honorary fellow of Deccan College in 1968.
Awarded an honorary D.Lit by Gauhati University.
Elected as Sadasya Mahiyan by Asam Sahitya Sabha.
Posthumously awarded by the Sahitya Akademi in 1985 for Rasona Sambhar, edited by Jatindranath Goswami.
Honored with a commemorative stamp by the Government of India in 1983.
Legacy:
Bequeathed his personal library containing 7,489 books in various languages to Gauhati University.
Remembered for his love for knowledge, dedication to study, and the values and standards he set in education.
His life and work continue to inspire generations, making him a revered figure in Indian scholarship.
Krishna Kanta Handiqui's Passed away on June 7, 1982, and his contributions to education, scholarship, and public service remain a source of inspiration and pride for the people of Assam and India. His dedication to knowledge and his vision for education continue to impact the academic and cultural landscape of the region.
