India today remembered Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan on his birth anniversary, which is observed nationwide as Teacher’s Day. Born on September 5, 1888, Radhakrishnan, India’s second President, remains celebrated as one of the greatest teachers and philosophers the country has ever produced.
Teacher’s Day in India has a unique origin. When Dr. Radhakrishnan took office as President in 1962, some of his students and friends wished to celebrate his birthday. In response, he said that instead of marking it as his personal occasion, the day should be dedicated to all teachers. Since then, September 5 has been observed across the nation as a day to honour the teachers,who light the path of knowledge.
Born in 1888 in Tiruttani, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Radhakrishnan rose from a modest background to become a globally respected philosopher. He studied philosophy with great dedication and went on to teach at institutions like the University of Mysore, Calcutta University, and Oxford University. His writings on Indian philosophy made him famous worldwide, and he was known for his gift of explaining difficult concepts in simple language.
Across India, schools and colleges organised cultural programs, speeches, plays, and award ceremonies to honour their teachers. A common tradition is students stepping into the shoes of teachers for a day, conducting classes and delivering lectures. This playful role reversal helps students understand the challenges of teaching while also showing respect to their mentors.
In many places, students prepared handmade cards, flowers, and small gifts to thank their teachers. Teachers, on the other hand, used the occasion to reflect on their responsibilities and the impact they have on shaping young minds.
At the national level, the government held ceremonies to present the National Teachers’ Awards to outstanding educators for their contribution to society. Leaders including the President and Prime Minister paid tributes to Dr. Radhakrishnan and extended greetings to teachers across the country.
While Teacher’s Day celebrations bring joy and colour to schools, the occasion also raises important questions. How can India ensure that teachers get the recognition and respect they deserve? What role do teachers play in a fast-changing education system shaped by technology and new challenges?
Experts believe that while digital learning tools are becoming popular, the role of a teacher can never be replaced. Teachers are not only providers of knowledge but also mentors, guides, and role models. They play a vital role in developing values such as discipline, empathy, and critical thinking in students.
Dr. Radhakrishnan’s life continues to inspire. He believed that education was not just about academics but also about character building. He once said, “Teachers should be the best minds in the country.” His vision was of an India where education created enlightened citizens who would contribute to building a just and strong society.
As a philosopher, Dr. Radhakrishnan introduced Indian thought to the world, bridging Eastern and Western philosophies. As a leader, he served as the first Vice-President and later as the second President of India, bringing dignity and wisdom to public life. But despite his many achievements, he always identified himself first as a teacher.
Teacher’s Day is more than a yearly celebration. It is a reminder of the respect that society owes to its educators and the need to uphold their dignity. By remembering Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India not only honours a great teacher and leader but also acknowledges the power of education in building the nation.
As the celebrations end and regular classes resume, the spirit of Teacher’s Day lingers on: Every student carries the responsibility to respect and learn from teachers, and every teacher carries the mission to inspire and guide. In Dr. Radhakrishnan’s words, the true test of education lies not in information but in transformation.
