Teachers’ Day 2023: Commemorating Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s Birth Anniversary
Teachers’ Day is an important observance in India, held on September 5th each year to honor the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. This article sheds light on the history, significance, and the ways in which this day is celebrated.
The First Teachers’ Day Celebration: Teachers’ Day in India finds its roots in the commemoration of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birthday. Dr. Radhakrishnan was an eminent scholar, acclaimed writer, and a distinguished figure in contemporary India. His contributions spanned various fields, including philosophy, theology, education, ethics, and culture. He penned numerous articles of great significance in recognized journals. The first Teachers’ Day in India was celebrated on September 5, 1962, coinciding with his 77th birthday.
Why September 5th? The choice of September 5th for Teachers’ Day is symbolic. Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was not only a revered scholar but also a Bharat Ratna awardee, the first Vice-President, and later, the second President of independent India. He was born on September 5, 1888. As an educationist, he advocated for enlightenment and was a prominent diplomat, academician, and, above all, a remarkable teacher.
In 1962, when he held the esteemed position of President of India, some of his friends and former students approached him with a request to celebrate his birthday. Dr. S. Radhakrishnan’s humble response was, “Instead of observing my birthday separately, it would be my proud privilege if September 5th is observed as Teachers’ Day.” This request from the President of India exemplified his affection and dedication to teachers. From that moment onward, India has celebrated Teachers’ Day on September 5th.
As the saying goes, the future of a nation lies in the hands of its children, and teachers, as mentors, have the power to mold students into future leaders who will shape the destiny of India. They play a crucial role in our lives, helping us succeed in our careers and businesses, become better human beings, responsible members of society, and ideal citizens of the country. Teacher’s Day is a special occasion to acknowledge the challenges, hardships, and unique roles that teachers play in our lives.
The Significance of Teacher’s Day: Teachers’ Day holds great significance for both students and educators. For students, it provides an opportunity to recognize the dedication and hard work invested by their teachers to ensure they receive a quality education. Teachers’ Day also serves as a platform for acknowledging and honoring teachers’ efforts, not only by students but also by various organizations and institutions.
In India, on the eve of Teachers’ Day, which is September 5th, the President of India presents National Teachers Awards to meritorious educators. These awards are a public expression of gratitude, recognizing exceptional teachers working in primary, middle, and secondary schools.
Even Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the importance of teaching as a way of life, stating that “Teaching is not a profession but ‘Jeevan Dharm’ (a way of life).” He urged teachers to understand global changes to prepare the new generation to face them. Teaching, according to him, is a divine responsibility to guide and enlighten, contributing to the nation’s foundation and societal progress.
How Is Teacher’s Day Celebrated? Teacher’s Day is a day of celebration, marked by various activities held in schools and colleges. These activities include singing and dancing competitions, recitations of poems, mimicking teachers, playing games with teachers, organizing picnics, presenting gifts, and, most importantly, expressing gratitude.
This special day fosters a strong bond between teachers and students, providing an opportunity to celebrate the teacher-student relationship. On Teachers’ Day, students strive to make their teachers feel appreciated and cherished. Whether through personal meetings or heartfelt messages, the goal is to make the day memorable for the educators who have played a pivotal role in shaping their lives.
In conclusion, Teachers’ Day in India is a day of honoring and appreciating the invaluable contributions of teachers. It not only recognizes their role in imparting knowledge but also their influence in shaping the future of the nation. So, on this Teachers’ Day, take a moment to celebrate and express gratitude to the teachers who have guided and inspired you on your educational journey.
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