Why Do We Celebrate Teacher's Day?
Every year in India we celebrate 5th September as Teacher's Day. But, when asked why most of us would be blank?
5th September is the birth anniversary of our second president, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan Virswami. Thus, to remember our beloved president for his teachings and wisdom, we observe Teachers’ Day on September 5.
It is believed that when Dr. Radhakrishnan became the President (1962-1967), his students and friends wished to celebrate his birthday. Known for his humble nature, he was a staunch believer that Teachers should be the best minds in the country. He requested, “Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if September 5 is observed as Teachers’ Day.”
Since 1962, his birthday has been observed as Teachers’ Day.
Why Is Teachers' Day Special?
A day dedicated to teachers and their contributions in shaping one's life, this year it commemorates the 131st birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Unlike other special days where a holiday is observed, Teachers Day is a working day. It is a day filled with fun and emotions where students express their gratitude towards teachers and try to build a strong bond with fun-filled activities. It aims at honoring and admiring the hard work, dedication and endless contribution of teachers in the academic and personal development of students.
The Hero of Students - Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
1. Dr. Radhakrishnan was born in 1882 in a small town in Andhra Pradesh, Tirupati. While his father wanted him to be a priest, the boy’s talents paved his way to study at Vellore. Later, he joined a Christian College in Madras to study philosophy.
2. He strongly believed that studying Indian philosophy and its interpretation in the modern context would help to cast off the imperial inferiority complex and give Indians a renewed sense of self-esteem. He was one of the most popular teachers at the Presidency College in Madras and the University of Calcutta. Students tagged him as the most evocative teacher.
3. Later, he served as the Vice-Chancellor of both Andhra University and Banaras Hindu University. The Oxford University recognized his excellence when he was called to fill the Chair of Spalding Professor of Eastern Religions. In 1939, he was elected as the Fellow of the British Academy. In 1952, he became the first Vice President of India and took oath as the nation’s second President from 1962 to 1967.
4. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was awarded India’s highest civilian honor, the Bharat Ratna, in 1984 and won the British Order of Merit in 1963. He breathes his last on April 17, 1975 and has since then been nominated 11 times for the Nobel Peace Prize.
5. Regardless of his numerous achievements and contributions, Radhakrishnan followed his teaching profession throughout his life.
Value and Acknowledge Teachers’ Efforts
Teachers Day holds huge significance for both students and teachers and is marked with revelry and different programs. Students perform skits, write poems and try to make their teachers’ feel special.
Teachers’ Day is celebrated all over the world at different days. However, World Teachers Day is celebrated on October 5.
So, how are you planning to make this special for your teacher?
