Teacher’s Day, celebrated every year on the 5th of September, honors Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s second president and a distinguished educator. Teaching is one of the most respected professions, and this special day is dedicated to expressing gratitude for the invaluable contributions of teachers. Beyond gifts, flowers, and warm wishes, Teacher’s Day serves as a heartfelt reminder of the profound impact teachers have in shaping our lives, values, and future.

History: How It All Started

Teacher’s Day in India is celebrated to honor Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a renowned philosopher, educator, and statesman born on 5th September 1888. He served as India’s first Vice President and later as the second President. In 1962, while serving as President, some of his former students approached him to celebrate his birthday. Humble as ever, Dr. Radhakrishnan suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, the day should be observed as Teacher’s Day to recognize and honor the invaluable contributions of all teachers.

Significance of Teacher’s Day

• Teacher’s Day marks the birthday of one of India’s greatest leaders, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who believed that “Teachers should be the best minds in the country.”
• It offers students and society a special opportunity to pause and appreciate the tireless efforts, patience, and dedication of teachers.
• Teaching goes beyond academics; teachers instill discipline, moral values, empathy, and resilience in their students.
• By educating and guiding the youth, teachers play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation.
• In today’s rapidly evolving world, teachers continuously adapt to new technologies, hybrid learning methods, and diverse student needs. Teacher’s Day honors their ongoing and evolving contributions.

Teacher’s Day is more than a celebration; it is a powerful reminder of the essential role teachers play in shaping society. Often called nation-builders, teachers do more than impart knowledge; they nurture values, inspire creativity, and prepare students to thrive in the real world.

Theme: Inspiring Minds, Building the Nation

Teachers are more than just educators; they are nation-builders. Council for the Indian School Certificate Examinations (CISCE) has announced several initiatives under the theme ‘Inspiring Minds, Building the Nation’ for this year.

Educational Facts:

• Global Teachers’ Day – The world celebrates World Teachers’ Day on 5th October, declared by UNESCO, while India celebrates it on 5th September.
•  International Practice – Many countries celebrate Teachers’ Day on different dates. For example, China celebrates it on 10th September and Thailand on 16th January.
• Apart from the modern Teachers’ Day on 5th September, there is also a deeply spiritual and traditional celebration of teachers in Hindu culture called Guru Purnima.

Teacher’s Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a celebration of wisdom, guidance, and the selfless dedication of those who light the path of knowledge. As we honor our teachers, let us also remember that their lessons go far beyond the classroom- they shape our character, our choices, and ultimately our future. This day is a gentle reminder to cherish their efforts, respect their sacrifices, and carry forward the values they teach us, because the influence of a good teacher lasts a lifetime.