Every year on September 5th, Teachers’ Day is celebrated in India. The day is used to highlight the efforts, guidance, and sacrifices made by teachers and teachers are an important factor in shaping society. The date is not arbitrary, rather it coincides with the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a philosopher, scholar, and teacher, who was the second President of India. The tradition stemmed from Dr. Radhakrishnan’s desire to celebrate and honor all teachers on the occasion of his birth instead of the day alone representing him.
Initial years and Education
Dr. Radhakrishnan was born in 1888 in a small town in Tamil Nadu. His parents hailed from a financially low background, though they valued the importance of education. He studied philosophy while at Madras Christian College and was quickly recognized as a scholar and talented student. His early writing in Indian philosophy was well regarded and led to opportunities for him to teach at some of the best universities in India and abroad.
Establishment of Teachers’ Day
In 1962, when Dr. Radhakrishnan took over to be the President of India, we wanted to celebrate his birthday. He asked us to not put the focus on him and suggested September fifth be celebrated as Teacher’s Day instead. This was a modest act of humility that transformed a private birthday into a public national celebration focused on teachers.
After that, Teachers’ Day became a day for students and for society to acknowledge and recognize those who devoted their lives to teaching. Thus, celebrating Teachers’ Day became a yearly observance every September 5 throughout India.
A Life Of Teaching
Although he has had numerous significant roles in life (including Vice President and then President of India), Dr. Radhakrishnan regarded himself to always the (former) teacher. He had taught known institutions such as Madras Presidency College, Calcutta University, Oxford University (in England). His lectures were well-received for their profundity, lucidity and simplicity. In the end, students appreciated him for his intellect, but also for his personality and humility.
Leadership & Public Service
Dr. Radhakrishnan’s life, interests and efforts extended beyond just the classroom:
- Vice Chancellor of Andhra University then Vice Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University (BHU)
- In 1946 he served as an Indian representative to the U.N. Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and later served as Ambassador to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics (USSR) 1949-1952.
- He served as Vice President of India 1952-1962 and President of India there after.
Yet, despite these prestigious roles, he always introduced himself first as a teacher. This humility earned him immense respect worldwide.
His Educational Philosophy
Dr. Radhakrishnan viewed education as fundamental to developing a fair and progressive society. His educational philosophy included:
- Knowledge beyond textbooks – True education should provide an understanding of thinking and creativity.
- Character formation – He suggested education developed honesty, sympathy, and sense of responsibility.
- Cultural balance – Education should inspire students to respect India’s rich traditions and sensitivities and learn additional cultures and advances.
- Teacher as model – A teacher would live as a model for a student, inspiring through example.
- Education for nation-building – No country can be greater than its teachers.
These ideas stem from Dr. Radhakrishnan’s life work and ideas that carry through to education policy and to relevance seeing each day in an increasingly complicated world.
Celebrations of Teachers’ Day in India
Teachers’ Day is celebrated vigorously and with regard in all parts of India. Customs vary, but the essence is the same.
- In schools and colleges, cultural programmes, speeches, or plays are conducted among the students to express honour to their teachers.
- In many institutions, students are given the chance to take-over the classes as a symbolic /functional appreciation of their teachers and instructor face the animosities of a teacher in that time.
- On a national level, Teachers’ Day is observed when, on behalf of our country, the President gives away the National Awards to Teachers at the national ceremony for outstanding teachers who demonstrate personal, professional, and instructional excellence.
This illustrates that teaching is one of the highest and most honorable professions in society.
Observance of Teachers’ Day Worldwide
India observes Teachers’ Day on September 5, and many countries also have a special day to honor teachers.
- World Teachers’ Day is observed on October 5 around the world, under the auspice of UNESCO.
- The day was established in 1994 to coincide with the signing of the 1966 UNESCO/ILO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers.
- The United States, China, and Brazil also celebrate Teachers’ Day, but not on the same day.
This reflects the universal respect for teachers, although traditions vary.
The Lasting Impact of Dr. Radhakrishnan
Dr. Radhakrishnan passed away in 1975, but his teachings are still embraced in this generation. His life exemplifies that education is more than preparation for a vocation; it is preparation to live a good life.
His legacy continues in three important disciplines:
- As a philosopher, he connected Indian thought with Western thought.
- As a teacher, he demonstrated that teachers are the true architects of nations.
- As a statesman, he reminded leaders that education can never be sealed off from national development.
Also read:-
Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti: Celebrating the Legacy of a Timeless Visionary