Every year on 5 September, India observes Teacher’s Day, a heartfelt tribute to educators who shape not only individual destinies but also the moral and intellectual fabric of the nation. The date marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888-1975)-a revered philosopher, teacher, scholar, and statesman whose life embodied the noble ideals of education. His belief that “teachers should be the best minds in the country” continues to inspire generations of students and educators alike.
The Origins of Teacher’s Day in India
Unlike many countries that celebrate Teacher’s Day on 5 October (as designated by UNESCO), India’s commemoration has a distinctly personal origin. When Dr. Radhakrishnan became the second President of India in 1962, his students and friends wished to celebrate his birthday. He modestly requested, “Instead of celebrating my birthday separately, it would be my proud privilege if September 5 is observed as Teachers’ Day.”
Thus began a tradition where students across schools, colleges, and universities express gratitude through cultural programs, speeches, and symbolic gestures-honoring not only their own teachers but also the very spirit of learning.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: The Teacher-Philosopher and Statesman
Early Life and Education
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on 5 September 1888 in Tiruttani, a small town in present-day Tamil Nadu. His family, though modest in means, valued learning deeply. A brilliant student from an early age, Radhakrishnan pursued philosophy at Madras Christian College, where he graduated with honors in 1906. His exposure to Western philosophical traditions blended harmoniously with his grounding in Indian scriptures, enabling him to develop a uniquely integrative worldview.
Academic Career and Philosophy
Radhakrishnan began his career as a philosophy lecturer at Madras Presidency College, later teaching at Mysore University and Calcutta University. His eloquence, clarity of thought, and deep scholarship won admiration from students and peers worldwide.
His writings, including Indian Philosophy (in two volumes), The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore, and The Hindu View of Life, introduced the intellectual richness of Indian traditions to the West. He believed that education was not merely about imparting information, but about building character, fostering spiritual understanding, and cultivating universal values.
Global Recognition and Public Service
In 1931, Radhakrishnan was knighted by the British government, though he later chose to use the simple title of “Doctor” after Indian independence. He served as Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University and Banaras Hindu University, and represented India as Ambassador to the Soviet Union (1949-1952).
In 1952, he became Vice President of India, and in 1962, President of India-yet he always insisted that his foremost identity was that of a teacher. Even as President, he opened the doors of Rashtrapati Bhavan to students and continued to lecture, reminding the nation of the moral responsibilities of educators.
Philosophical Contributions
Radhakrishnan was a bridge between East and West, ancient and modern, faith and reason. He emphasized that true religion is a quest for understanding, not blind ritual, and that philosophy must be relevant to human problems. His interpretation of Vedanta highlighted harmony, tolerance, and spiritual freedom, making Indian thought accessible to global audiences.
Awards and Honors
– Bharat Ratna (1954) – India’s highest civilian award
– Honorary doctorates from universities worldwide, including Oxford and Harvard
– Membership in prestigious international bodies such as the British Academy
Teacher’s Day Celebrations Today
– Across India, 5 September is marked by vibrant celebrations:
– Students play the role of teachers in classrooms as a gesture of respect.
– Cultural programs, debates, and felicitation ceremonies honor exemplary educators.
– Schools and colleges reflect on the ideals of learning as service, not just a profession.
– The President of India also confers National Awards to Teachers on this day, recognizing exceptional contributions to education.
The Enduring Legacy of Dr. Radhakrishnan
Dr. Radhakrishnan passed away in 1975, but his message remains timeless: education is the highest form of service, and teachers are its true architects. He saw learning as a continuous dialogue between teacher and student, rooted in respect, inquiry, and moral responsibility.
In honoring him every Teacher’s Day, India reaffirms its cultural respect for gurus-those who dispel darkness and ignite the light of knowledge.
Teacher’s Day is not merely a ceremonial event. It is a reminder that knowledge is sacred, that those who impart it deserve society’s deepest gratitude, and that education must nurture wisdom, not just skills. As India navigates the complexities of the modern world, the ideals of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan-humility, integrity, and reverence for learning-remain guiding stars for both teachers and students.
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