Name some famous Indian philosophers and their teachings.

India has a rich philosophical tradition that spans thousands of years and encompasses a wide range of philosophical schools of thought. Here are some famous Indian philosophers and a brief overview of their teachings:

1. Adi Shankaracharya (788-820 CE): Adi Shankaracharya is a prominent figure in the Advaita Vedanta school of Hindu philosophy. He emphasized the concept of non-dualism (Advaita), asserting that the ultimate reality (Brahman) is the same as the individual soul (Atman). Shankaracharya's teachings stressed the illusory nature of the material world and the importance of self-realization.

2. Swami Vivekananda (1863-1902): A key figure in the modern Indian philosophical and spiritual revival, Swami Vivekananda was instrumental in introducing Indian philosophies to the West. He propagated Vedanta and emphasized the idea of the divinity within each individual. Vivekananda's teachings stressed the unity of all religions and the importance of social service.

3. Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948): While not a traditional philosopher, Mahatma Gandhi's principles of nonviolence (Ahimsa) and truth (Satyagraha) had a profound impact on Indian and global philosophy. His philosophy of nonviolent resistance was a key element in India's struggle for independence from British rule.

4. Ramanuja (1017-1137 CE): Ramanuja was a proponent of the Vishishtadvaita Vedanta, a school of thought that emphasized qualified non-dualism. He believed that the individual soul (Atman) is eternally dependent on the ultimate reality (Brahman) and that devotion (Bhakti) is the path to realization.

5. Chanakya (c. 4th century BCE): Also known as Kautilya or Vishnugupta, Chanakya was an ancient Indian philosopher, economist, and political strategist. He is best known for his treatise, the Arthashastra, which covers various aspects of statecraft, economics, and politics.

6. Aryabhata (476-550 CE): Aryabhata was an ancient Indian mathematician and astronomer who made significant contributions to the fields of mathematics and astronomy. His work "Aryabhatiya" is an important treatise on mathematics and astronomy.

7. Nagarjuna (c. 2nd century CE): Nagarjuna is a key figure in the Mahayana Buddhist tradition. His philosophy, often referred to as Madhyamaka, emphasizes the concept of emptiness (Shunyata) and the idea that all phenomena are interdependent and devoid of inherent existence.

8. Jiddu Krishnamurti (1895-1986): A modern philosopher and spiritual teacher, Jiddu Krishnamurti's teachings centered on the importance of self-awareness and self-inquiry. He advocated for a direct and unmediated exploration of the mind and consciousness.

9. B.R. Ambedkar (1891-1956): Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was a jurist, social reformer, and one of the architects of the Indian Constitution. He was a strong advocate for the rights of marginalized communities, particularly the Dalits (formerly known as "untouchables"). His teachings emphasized social justice, equality, and the eradication of caste-based discrimination.

These are just a few of the many influential philosophers and thinkers who have contributed to India's diverse philosophical heritage. Indian philosophy encompasses a wide array of perspectives, beliefs, and schools of thought, making it a rich and dynamic tradition.