On 5th September every year, India celebrates Teachers’ Day tributing to the role played by teachers in building society. It is the birthday anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, one of India’s most eminent scholars, thinkers, and statesmen who was also the second President of India. His life and thought symbolise the concept of teaching as a great calling that instills values, knowledge, and wisdom in people of the society. The youth of India today doesn’t know much about such unsung heroes we should know and inspire from.
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Dr. Radhakrishnan’s Life and Work
Born in Tiruttani, Tamil Nadu in 1888, Dr. Radhakrishnan was an outstanding scholar and had a natural aptitude for philosophy. He became a renowned teacher at Madras Presidency College, University of Mysore, and afterwards Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University and Banaras Hindu University. His academic research into comparative religion and philosophy made him one of the world’s leading thinkers, and his writings on Indian philosophy helped to bridge Eastern and Western thought.
Outside the field of studies, Dr. Radhakrishnan was a key figure in diplomacy and administration. He became the first Vice President of India (1952–62) and went on to assume the President of India (1962–67). Nevertheless, even after reaching the peak position of power, he was passionately devoted to teaching and took pride in being called a teacher first.
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Origin of Teachers’ Day
The Indian tradition of Teachers’ Day started in 1962 when Dr. Radhakrishnan’s students asked him to celebrate his birthday. Dr. Radhakrishnan replied that rather than celebrating his birthday himself, the day should be celebrated as Teachers’ Day as a tribute to all teachers all over the country. Ever since then, 5th September has been celebrated as a thanksgiving day towards teachers who contribute a great deal towards nation-building.
Importance of Teachers’ Day
Teachers’ Day is more than a ritual event. It is a reminder that teachers not only shape people but also the nation’s future. By teaching them and imparting values, they mold citizens who are responsible and can push development forward. The event also reminds every one of the difficulties of teachers and the necessity to invest in the enhancement of teaching quality, infrastructure, and e-learning to catch up with the times.
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On this day, students from all schools and colleges participate in cultural activities, thanksgiving ceremonies, and artistic tributes to their teachers. It strengthens the relationship between students and mentors as well as revives respect for the teaching fraternity.
Summary
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s vision of education was rooted in nurturing wisdom, empathy, and character. Teachers’ Day, celebrated on his birth anniversary, is not just a token of respect but a celebration of the timeless role teachers play in shaping society. Honouring them reaffirms our collective duty to preserve education as the foundation of national progress. We should be able to
