Teachers Day 2024: How Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Birthday Became Teachers’ Day in India? Details Here

India celebrates Teachers’ Day every year on September 5 to honour educators and their priceless contributions to society. But have you ever wondered why this particular date was chosen and how it ties in with Teachers’ Day in India? Dr. Savipalli Radhakrishnan, one of India’s most renowned politicians, philosophers and scholars, is crucial to the story of this celebration. The history of how his birthday, September 5, became Teachers’ Day is both instructive and inspiring.

Who is Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?

Dr. Savapalli Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888, in a small town in Tamil Nadu, India. He was a brilliant student and later a renowned scholar, specializing in Indian philosophy and comparative religion. His academic achievements earned him respect in India and abroad, and he served as a professor of philosophy at several prestigious institutions, including Calcutta University and Oxford University.

Radhakrishnan was not only a scholar but also a diplomat and statesman. He served as India’s first Vice President from 1952 to 1962 and its second President from 1962 to 1967. Despite his many achievements, Radhakrishnan remained steadfast in his commitment to education and to the role of teachers in shaping the nation’s future. His life and work have left an indelible mark on Indian society and continue to inspire educators and students.

The birth of Teachers’ Day in India

The story of how Radhakrishnan’s birthday became Teachers’ Day is a testament to the humility and respect he had for the teaching profession. When Dr. Radhakrishnan became the President of India in 1962, some of his former students and friends approached him, asking for permission to celebrate his birthday on September 5. They wanted to pay tribute to their beloved teacher and his contribution to the country.

In this regard, Dr. Radhakrishnan humbly suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, September 5 should be designated as National Teachers’ Day. He believes that this day should be used to recognize the important role that teachers play in society and the huge responsibility they bear in training future talents.

Dr. Radhakrishnan’s response reflects his deep respect for the teaching profession and his belief in the power of education to transform lives.

He believed that teachers were the real builders of society and his proposal was warmly responded to by the Indian people. Since then, September 5 has been designated as Teachers’ Day in India to commemorate and appreciate the dedication and hard work of teachers.

The significance of Teachers’ Day in India

Teachers’ Day holds a special place in the hearts of students and educators across India. On this day, students express their gratitude to their teachers in a variety of ways, including giving cards, flowers and gifts, and organizing special events in schools and colleges. Many schools host cultural performances and events where students play the role of their teachers to further strengthen the bond between them.

In conclusion, Teachers’ Day is not only a day of celebration, but also a day of reflection. It is an opportunity to recognize the challenges faced by teachers and the important impact they have on shaping the future of the nation. Teachers play a vital role in shaping young minds, instilling values ​​and fostering a love of learning beyond the classroom.