On September 5th, many nations around the world, including India, observe Teachers’ Day to recognise and honour the role that educators have played in influencing the course of society. This day is a great chance to thank the committed people who have made a difference and inspired the way we live.
The Significance of Teachers’ Day
Honouring Education Pioneers
Teachers’ Day is a day for paying tribute to the great philosopher, scholar, and former President of India, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. He also believed that teachers should be the greatest minds in the nation and stood up for education throughout his life.
Let us light a candle in memory of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.
Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was an Indian philosopher, teacher, and statesman who served as the country’s second President from 1962 to 1967. On September 5, 1888, he was born in Thiruttani, a small town in Tamil Nadu, India. Radhakrishnan’s life journey is not just a testament to his remarkable contributions to education and philosophy but also a source of inspiration for those who come after him.
Synthesising Eastern and Western Philosophy
The ability of Dr Radhakrishnan to combine Eastern and Western philosophical traditions was well known. His writings, including “The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore” and “The Idealist View of Life,” made him known as a major philosopher who united these two schools of thought. Also, his ideas emphasised the importance of understanding and respecting various philosophical traditions.
Dedicated to Education
Throughout his life, Radhakrishnan was passionate about education. He taught at prestigious institutions such as the University of Mysore and the University of Calcutta, where his lectures were both intellectually stimulating and spiritually enlightening. His dedication to teaching and influence on his students left an indelible imprint on the educational world.
Contribution to the Indian Constitution
During India’s struggle for independence, Radhakrishnan played a pivotal role in the Constituent Assembly, contributing to the framing of the Indian Constitution. His insights into moral and ethical values significantly influenced the drafting of the Constitution’s preamble, which enshrined India’s commitment to justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Presidential Legacy
In 1962, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan became India’s second President. During his tenure, he chose to celebrate his birthday, September 5th, as Teachers’ Day, a tradition that continues to this day in India. This gesture symbolised his deep admiration for educators and their vital role in shaping society.
Legacy and Enduring Influence
Although Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan died on April 17, 1975, his legacy lives on through his writings, teachings, and the influence he had on Indian philosophy and education. His insights into the convergence of philosophical thought and his commitment to ethical values continue to inspire generations of thinkers, scholars, and leaders around the world. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s life and work demonstrate the power of intellect, education, and the pursuit of wisdom.
What is the significance of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birthday as Teachers’ Day? “Teachers should be the best minds in the country,” Dr. Radhakrishnan believed. Some of his students and friends requested permission to celebrate his birthday on September 5 during his presidency (1962–1967). In response, he stated modestly, “Rather than celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if September 5th is observed as Teachers’ Day.” Since then, his birthday has been observed in India as Teachers’ Day.
Students organise special programmes at schools and colleges on this day to show their appreciation and respect for their teachers. Moreover, to show their appreciation to their teachers, senior students in some schools take on the responsibility of teaching junior classes.