Teachers’ Day, celebrated every year on 5 September in India, is a day dedicated to recognising and appreciating the contribution of teachers to society. The date has special significance as it marks the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, one of India’s most revered scholars, philosophers and statesmen. In 2024, as we honour Teachers’ Day, we also celebrate the life and legacy of Dr Radhakrishnan, whose contributions to education continue to inspire generations.
Who was Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?
Born on 5 September 1888 in Tiruttani, Tamil Nadu, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a noted scholar of philosophy, a teacher par excellence, and the second President of India. He was an advocate of education and his teachings emphasized the importance of knowledge, ethics, and character building. His academic career began as a professor of philosophy at several prestigious institutions including the University of Mysore, the University of Calcutta, and the University of Oxford, where he taught Eastern Religions and Ethics.
A true visionary, Dr. Radhakrishnan believed that education plays a vital role in shaping individuals and building a strong nation. His writings on comparative religion and philosophy, particularly his works on Hinduism, earned him international recognition. His exemplary career as a teacher earned him immense respect and his deep understanding of education made him a national icon.
Why is Teachers’ Day celebrated on September 5?
The tradition of celebrating Teachers’ Day in India began in 1962, the year Dr. Radhakrishnan became the President of India. When his students and admirers approached him to celebrate his birthday, Dr. Radhakrishnan humbly suggested that instead of commemorating his birthday, the day should be dedicated to honouring all teachers. This marked the beginning of Teachers’ Day celebrations on September 5, recognising the crucial role that teachers play in shaping the future of the country.
Teachers’ Day is currently being celebrated in schools, colleges and educational institutions across the country with events and programmes that express gratitude to teachers. It serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions teachers make in shaping young minds and inspiring tomorrow’s leaders.
10 Motivational Quotes by Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
“True teachers are those who help us think for ourselves.”
“A life of joy and happiness is only possible on the basis of knowledge.”
“Education is the means by which we discover that learning makes life worth living.”
“Books are the means by which we build bridges between cultures.”
“Tolerance is the homage that the finite mind pays to the inexhaustibility of the infinite.”
“The final product of education must be a free and creative man, capable of fighting against historical circumstances and the adversities of nature.”
“The goal of education is not the acquisition of information, but the understanding of life.”
“When we think we know, we stop learning.”
“Spiritual life is the genius of India.”
“It is essential to understand that the goal of life is not simply to earn a living, but to create a life.”
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