Teacher's Day 2024: Here's why it's celebrated on September 5

Every year, on September 5, India celebrates Teacher's Day to acknowledge and honour the significant role teachers play in shaping our lives. This day is not only about expressing gratitude to those who teach us but also about recognizing the positive influence they have on our personal development and the progress of society.?

The importance of Teacher's Day extends beyond the classroom, showing the deep respect and admiration that students, parents, and communities have for educators who dedicate their lives to teaching. But have you ever wondered why it’s celebrated on September 5th in India? There's an interesting story behind this national event—let's explore it:

Why is Teacher's Day Celebrated on September 5?

Credit: Wikipedia

Teacher's Day in India is celebrated on September 5 to honour the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Born on this day in 1888, Dr. Radhakrishnan was not only India’s first Vice President and second President, but he was also a respected scholar, philosopher, and recipient of the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award.

Since 1962, the year Dr. Radhakrishnan became President of India, his birthday has been celebrated as Teacher's Day. This tradition began as a tribute to the teachers and gurus who play a significant role in society, inspired by the values and teachings of Dr. Radhakrishnan.

The Life and Contributions of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was one of India’s most distinguished scholars, particularly in the fields of comparative religion and philosophy. His academic career included teaching at renowned institutions like Chennai’s Presidency College and Calcutta University. He also served as the Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University from 1931 to 1936. Later, in 1936, he was invited to become the Spalding Professor of Eastern Religions and Ethics at Oxford University, a position he held for 16 years.

Dr. Radhakrishnan’s philosophy was deeply rooted in Advaita Vedanta, which he interpreted in a way that made it more understandable to the modern world. He was a strong advocate for Hinduism, defending it against misunderstandings and criticisms from the West. His efforts greatly contributed to the modern understanding of Hinduism and helped build a bridge between India and the Western world.

Why Dr. Radhakrishnan's Birthday is Celebrated as Teacher's Day

When Dr. Radhakrishnan became President of India in 1962, some of his students and friends wanted to celebrate his birthday. However, Dr. Radhakrishnan suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, it would be more meaningful if September 5 was observed as Teacher's Day to honour all educators. He believed that "teachers should be the best minds in the country," a belief that continues to inspire people today.

How Teacher's Day is Celebrated

On Teacher's Day, students across India express their appreciation for their teachers through various activities such as Teacher's Day speeches, drawing, essays, singing competitions or more. Schools and colleges organize special programs where students honour their teachers. In some schools, senior students take on the role of teachers for the day, symbolizing their respect and admiration for the teaching profession.

The Lasting Impact of Dr. Radhakrishnan’s Vision

Dr. Radhakrishnan was not just a philosopher; he was also a humanitarian who cared deeply about social issues. He played a key role in establishing Helpage India, a non-profit organization that supports underprivileged elderly people in India. His vision and work have left a lasting mark on Indian society, making Teacher's Day not just a celebration of educators but also a reflection of the values he stood for.

Teacher's Day 2024: Quotes by Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

• "Teachers should be the best minds in the country."
• "The true teachers are those who help us think for ourselves."
• "Books are the means by which we build bridges between cultures."
• "Knowledge gives us power, love gives us fullness"
• "When we think we know, we cease to learn."
• "The end product of education should be a free, creative man who can battle against historical circumstances and adversities of nature."
• "True religion is a revolutionary force: it is an inveterate enemy of oppression, privilege, and injustice."

Inspiring Teacher's Day quotes to share with loved ones

• “One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world.” – Malala Yousafzai
• “Teachers affect eternity; no one can tell where their influence stops.” – Henry Brooks Adams
• “Teaching is a very noble profession that shapes the character, caliber, and future of an individual. If the people remember me as a good teacher, that will be the biggest honor for me”- A. P. J. Abdul Kalam
• “A good teacher is like a candle – it consumes itself to light the way for others.” – Mustafa Kemal Atatürk
• “If you were successful, somebody along the line gave you some help. There was a great teacher somewhere in your life.” – Barack Obama
• "God lives, feels and suffers in every one of us, and in the course of time, his attributes, knowledge, beauty and love will be revealed in each of us." - Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
• “The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires.” – William Arthur Ward
• "The end product of education should be a free creative man, who can battle against historical circumstances and adversities of nature." - Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
• "When educating the minds of our youth, we must not forget to educate their hearts." - Dalai Lama
• "Love thy neighbour as thyself because you are your neighbour. It is illusion that makes you think that your neighbour is someone other than yourself." - Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
• "A teacher who establishes rapport with the taught, becomes one with them, learns more from them than he teaches them." - Mahatma Gandhi

Teacher's Day on September 5 is more than just a day of celebration. It’s a day to remember and honour the legacy of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. His contributions continue to inspire both educators and students, reminding us all of the vital role that teachers play in shaping

Happy Teacher's Day to All!