Know All About The History of Teachers' Day in India
Every year on 5th September, India celebrates Teachers' Day to honour the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, one of the country’s most distinguished scholars, philosophers, and its second President. This national day is not only a Tribute to Dr. Radhakrishnan’s legacy but also an occasion to celebrate the unwavering dedication and contributions of teachers in shaping the nation’s future.
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The Origin and Significance of Teachers' Day in India
The celebration of Teachers’ Day on 5th September began in 1962, when Dr. Radhakrishnan assumed the role of President of India. His students and friends wished to celebrate his birthday, but Dr. Radhakrishnan suggested, “Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if 5th September is observed as Teachers’ Day.” Since then, the day is observed nationwide, recognising the vital role educators play in society and continuing his vision that “teachers should be the best minds in the country.”
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan: A Life Dedicated to Learning
Born on 5th September 1888, Dr. Radhakrishnan was a renowned philosopher and prolific academic. He served as the first Vice President and the second President of India. His work in comparative religion, philosophy, and education earned him respect in India and abroad. Dr. Radhakrishnan held prestigious positions, including:
- Professor at the University of Mysore and University of Calcutta
- Spalding Professor of Eastern Religions at the University of Oxford
- Vice Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University
- India’s Ambassador to the Soviet Union
He was awarded the Bharat Ratna in 1954, India’s highest civilian honour. His dedication to education inspired a generation and continues to motivate millions today.
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Why Is Dr. Radhakrishnan’s Birthday Observed as Teachers' Day?
Dr. Radhakrishnan’s birthday is celebrated as Teachers’ Day because he believed education is the foundation of society and teachers are its architects. When students proposed marking his birthday as a celebration, he humbly redirected the honour to all teachers, making it a day to acknowledge and appreciate educators’ impact on students and the nation. This gesture set a timeless tradition, reaffirming the significance of teaching as a noble and celebrated profession.
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Teachers’ Day: Honouring the Pillars of Our Society
Celebrating Teachers’ Day on 5th September 2025 is a chance for every student to express respect and admiration for their teachers. Dr. Radhakrishnan’s visionary approach turned his own birthday into a day dedicated to every educator, underscoring the key role of teachers in shaping responsible, knowledgeable, and compassionate citizens.
On this Teachers’ Day, let’s continue the tradition of honouring our teachers and strive to embody Dr. Radhakrishnan’s ideals of knowledge, respect, and gratitude in our daily lives.
FAQs on Why is Dr. Radhakrishnan’s Birthday Celebrated as Teacher’s Day in India?
1. Why is Dr. Radhakrishnan’s birthday celebrated as Teachers Day in India?
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birthday—5th September—is celebrated as Teachers Day in India to honor his lasting contribution to education and his belief in the importance of teachers.
Key points:
- 5th September marks Radhakrishnan’s birth anniversary.
- He was a respected scholar, philosopher, and the second President of India.
- He suggested that his birthday be celebrated as a day to recognize educators, inspiring the tradition from 1962 onwards.
2. When is Teachers Day celebrated in India?
In India, Teachers Day is celebrated each year on 5th September to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.
- The day is observed across schools and colleges nationwide.
- It upholds a tradition of honoring and appreciating the role of teachers in society and education.
3. Who was Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was an eminent philosopher, academician, and India’s second President.
- Born on 5th September 1888.
- Known for his work in philosophy and education.
- Served as Vice President (1952-1962), and President (1962-1967) of India.
- Believed teachers play a vital role in shaping society and young minds.
4. Why do we celebrate Teachers Day on 5th September in India?
Teachers Day is celebrated on 5th September in India because this date marks the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who advocated for the recognition of teachers and their impact.
- It started in 1962 at his request.
- The day highlights teachers’ importance in building the nation and inspiring future generations.
5. What is the significance of celebrating Teachers Day?
Teachers Day is significant because it acknowledges the dedication and hard work of educators and promotes gratitude among students for knowledge and mentorship.
- Helps raise the status and respect of teachers in society.
- Encourages appreciation, fostering a positive educational environment.
- Inspires students to value learning and lifelong education.
6. How is Teachers Day observed in schools?
On Teachers Day, schools in India organize various celebrations to honor teachers. Common activities include:
- Students perform skits, songs, and dances dedicated to teachers.
- Special assemblies with speeches about the importance of educators.
- Card and poster-making, and distributing tokens of gratitude.
- Some students role-play as teachers for fun classroom activities.
7. What are some popular Teachers Day quotes?
Some inspiring Teachers Day quotes, including those by Dr. Radhakrishnan, are:
- "Teachers should be the best minds in the country." – Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
- "A good teacher is like a candle—it consumes itself to light the way for others."
- "Teaching is the profession that teaches all the other professions."
- "Education is the means of achieving immortality."
- "Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world."
8. What is the theme for Teachers Day 2025?
Teachers Day 2025 might have a special national or school-level theme to guide celebrations. While the official theme is announced each year by authorities, common themes focus on:
- Recognizing teachers’ innovation in education.
- Fostering lifelong learning and mentorship.
- Saluting the dedication of educators in modern times.
9. How did the tradition of Teachers Day start in India?
The tradition of celebrating Teachers Day in India began in 1962, when Dr. Radhakrishnan, then-President, suggested his birthday be marked as a day to recognize teachers’ contributions.
- Since then, 5th September is dedicated nationwide to educators.
- The aim is to encourage respect and appreciation for teachers across generations.
10. What are creative ideas to celebrate Teachers Day at school?
Creative ways to celebrate Teachers Day at school in 2025 include:
- Virtual thank you cards and video messages from students.
- Poster-making, slogan-writing, and e-certificates for teachers.
- Organizing online quizzes or debates about the role of teachers.
- Story-sharing sessions of memorable teachers’ impacts.
- Hosting a ‘Role reversal’ day where students play the role of teachers.
