In the heart of 20th-century India, there lived a remarkable man named Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. He was not only a distinguished scholar and philosopher but also an exceptional teacher. His passion for education and his ability to inspire his students were unparalleled. As he journeyed through his career, his wisdom and integrity led him to the highest office in the country—he became the second President of India.
Despite the many honors and accolades he received throughout his life, Dr. Radhakrishnan never lost his deep connection to his roots as a teacher. His years in the classroom, guiding young minds and fostering a love for learning, were always close to his heart.
As his birthday on 5th September approached one year, a group of his students and close friends decided to celebrate the occasion in a grand manner. They wanted to honor the man who had given so much to education, who had shaped not only their lives but also the future of the nation.
When Dr. Radhakrishnan learned of their plans, he listened thoughtfully and then, with characteristic humility, offered a different perspective. He suggested that instead of focusing solely on him, the day should be dedicated to recognizing and honoring teachers across the country. He believed that teachers were the true architects of society, molding the minds and values of the future generations.
His suggestion resonated deeply with his students and friends. They realized that this was a reflection of the very values Dr. Radhakrishnan had always embodied—selflessness, humility, and a profound respect for the role of educators.
And so, in 1962, Teacher’s Day was officially established in India on 5th September, not just as a celebration of Dr. Radhakrishnan’s life, but as a day to honor every teacher who plays a crucial role in the development of society. It became a day to acknowledge the dedication, hard work, and impact that teachers have on their students and the nation.
Every year since then, schools and institutions across India have commemorated this day with a sense of gratitude and reverence. Students express their appreciation through gestures of thanks and ceremonies and often by taking on the roles of teachers themselves for a day, gaining a small glimpse into the challenges and rewards of teaching.
Dr. Radhakrishnan’s legacy lives on in this tradition—a reminder that the true measure of a society lies in how it values and respects those who educate its people. His vision turned a simple birthday celebration into a nationwide recognition of the importance of teachers, a testament to his enduring influence on Indian education and culture.
Government of India bestows special President's awards on the country's best teachers on the occasion of Teacher's Day every year in Delhi, the capital of India.
Comments