India celebrates Teachers Day every year on September 5th. The aim is to honour teachers across the country and recognise their contribution to society and nation-building, as they shape the futures of millions of students.
This date marks the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. He was a renowned philosopher, scholar, and statesman who served as India’s first Vice President (1952–1962) and second President (1962–1967).
He worked as a professor at several prestigious universities, such as the University of Mysore and the University of Calcutta. His philosophical and intellectual work earned him the Spalding Professor of Eastern Religions and Ethics chair at Oxford University.
His work on comparative religion and philosophy played a pivotal role in introducing the Western world to Indian philosophy. Radhakrishnan firmly believed that education was a means to bring about societal change.
September 5, 1962, marked Radhakrishnan’s 75th birthday, occurring just weeks after he assumed the office of the President of India. He received greetings from across the country and abroad, reflecting his immense stature as a professor and an authority on Indian philosophy.
Within the country, leaders from various political parties praised his contributions to education and the Indian intellectual tradition. In his message, Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru stated, “But above all, he is a great teacher from whom all of us have learned much and will continue to learn.”
Why teachers are honoured on Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birthday: Key reasons
I) The President’s Request: When Dr Radhakrishnan assumed the office of the President of India in 1962, some of his students and friends approached him, seeking permission to celebrate his birthday as a special occasion.
II) A Teacher’s Wish: Declining any special personal honours, Dr Radhakrishnan made a notable suggestion. He stated that it would be a matter of pride for him if, instead of celebrating his birthday individually, September 5th were observed as Teachers’ Day, thereby recognising the invaluable contribution of teachers to society.
III) A Legacy of Teaching and Learning: Dr Radhakrishnan remained a dedicated teacher throughout his life. He served as a Professor of Philosophy at Calcutta University and Mysore University, and later as the Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University and Banaras Hindu University.
IV) National Honour: Since 1962, the nation has adopted his suggestion, and the day is dedicated to honouring the teachers, mentors, and professors who shape students’ futures and provide guidance in nation-building.
Every year on September 5th, the President of India presents National Awards to some of the country’s finest teachers in recognition of their exceptional contributions. These awards honour educators who, through their dedication and hard work, have not only improved the quality of school education but also enriched the lives of their students.
