Celebrating Teachers’ Day in India: Honoring Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

Each year on September 5, India observes Teachers’ Day to honor educators and their invaluable contributions to society. This special date was chosen to commemorate the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a distinguished statesman, philosopher, and scholar.

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888, in a small town in Tamil Nadu, India. He excelled academically and became a renowned scholar, specializing in Indian philosophy and comparative religion. His teaching career spanned several prestigious institutions, including the University of Calcutta and the University of Oxford.

In addition to his academic achievements, Dr. Radhakrishnan served as India’s first Vice President from 1952 to 1962 and as the second President of India from 1962 to 1967. His commitment to education and the importance of teachers in shaping society remained evident throughout his career.

The tradition of celebrating Teachers’ Day on September 5 traces back to 1962 when some of Dr. Radhakrishnan’s former students proposed a celebration of his birthday. In a move reflecting his humility, Dr. Radhakrishnan suggested that instead of a personal celebration, the day should be dedicated to recognizing the role teachers play in society.

His proposal was enthusiastically accepted, leading to the establishment of September 5 as Teachers’ Day across India. The day serves as a reminder of the vital responsibilities teachers hold in nurturing future generations.

On Teachers’ Day, students express their gratitude to teachers through various gestures, such as giving cards, flowers, and gifts. Schools often conduct cultural programs that include performances where students take on the roles of their teachers, reinforcing the bonds between them.