New Delhi: Every year on 5th September, India celebrates Teachers’ Day to honour the invaluable contributions of teachers in shaping young minds and guiding them towards success. This day, marked with special events and celebrations in schools and colleges across the country, also commemorates the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a distinguished philosopher, educator, and India’s second President.
Dr. Radhakrishnan, born on 5th September 1888 in Tamil Nadu, was a renowned scholar and one of the leading educators of his time. His contributions to the Indian education system are monumental, and he is widely credited with reforming and uplifting the nation’s educational framework. For him, education was more than just academic learning—it was a means to imbue values of humanity, love, and equality. His dedication to education led to his appointment as India’s first Vice President and, subsequently, its second President.
The tradition of celebrating Teachers’ Day began in 1962, the same year Dr. Radhakrishnan assumed the role of President. Since then, the 5th of September has been a day dedicated to acknowledging and appreciating the hard work and dedication of teachers across the country. Students express their gratitude with gifts, best wishes, and special programmes organised in schools and colleges. Teachers’ Day reminds everyone of the pivotal role educators play in shaping not just individual lives but also the future of the nation.
While India celebrates Teachers’ Day on 5th September, the global community marks World Teachers’ Day on 5th October, reflecting the universal importance of education.
Celebrating India’s Iconic Teachers
India is home to many legendary educators who have significantly contributed to the country’s educational landscape. Among them are five teachers whose legacy continues to inspire generations:
- Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: The inspiration behind India’s Teachers’ Day, Dr. Radhakrishnan was a philosopher and educator who believed in the transformative power of knowledge. He devoted his life to teaching and held that education should cultivate humanity and equality.
- Savitribai Phule: India’s first female teacher, Savitribai Phule was a pioneer in promoting girls’ education. Along with her husband, she established several schools for girls in Maharashtra and became the principal of India’s first girls’ school. Her contributions paved the way for gender equality in education.
- Rabindranath Tagore: A Nobel laureate, Tagore was more than just a poet and artist. As an educator, he introduced a holistic learning approach that emphasised creativity and physical and mental development, transcending rote learning. His ideas continue to influence modern education.
- Madan Mohan Malaviya: The founder of Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Malaviya was a stalwart of Indian education, journalism, and advocacy. His role in advancing India’s higher education system is undeniable, and his famous slogan, “Satyamev Jayate,” continues to inspire the nation.
- Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam: Known as the “People’s President,” Dr. Kalam was also a revered scientist and educator. His teachings on skill development and self-reliance still resonate with students. Dr. Kalam firmly believed that education should be practical and should equip students with the skills necessary for personal and professional growth.
The Spirit of Teachers’ Day
Teachers’ Day is not just about celebrating the achievements of renowned educators; it is also a day to acknowledge the everyday efforts of teachers who work tirelessly to ensure that each student can reach their potential. It is through their guidance that future leaders, innovators, and thinkers emerge, contributing to the growth and development of society.
As we honour our teachers, let us remember their crucial role in preparing us for the challenges of life, equipping us with knowledge, values, and skills that help us succeed.
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