Shibdas Ghose
Dimapur
Observing ‘Teachers’ Day’ is significant because it honours the hard work, dedication, and vital role that educators play in shaping students and building society. In India, Teachers’ Day marks the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radha Krishnan, who humbly asked his students and friends to celebrate his birthday as Teachers’ Day in 1962 out of respect for all teachers. He stated that he would be honoured if his birthday were celebrated as Teachers’ Day. Thus, this special tradition began, reflecting his profound respect for the teaching profession. He often used to say, “Teaching gives me satisfaction and peace of mind.” Since then, September 5 has been celebrated as ‘Teachers’ Day.’ It reflects deeper respect for the teaching profession and highlights education as a key pillar of national progress.
Dr Sarvapalli Radha Krishnan is, undoubtedly, one of the most recognized and influential Indian thinkers of the 20th Century. An academician, a philosopher, a statesman with an international reputation, a patriot, a scholar with a phenomenal memory, a resourceful, eloquent and effective speaker, and a prolific writer with an uncanny flair for lucidity and epigrammatic strength are the hats that Sarvepalli Radha Krishnan wore.
Radha Krishnan was born on September 5, 1888, in an orthodox middle-class Brahmin family at Tiruttani in Tamil Nadu. He received his early education at Tiruchani. He was a brilliant student and had a keen interest in studies right from the beginning. Consequently, he received scholarships at various stages of his student life. In 1908, he received his Master’s degree in Philosophy from Madras Christian College (affiliated with the University of Madras). His academic recognition extended from Calcutta to Oxford and from Benaras to Moscow. While at Oxford, he was bestowed with two of the highest honours – an honorary doctorate and an honorary fellowship, recognizing his philosophical work. Bertrand Russell, the English philosopher and mathematician – who won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1950 – was particularly impressed by the expositions of Radha Krishnan and praised him for his intelligence and precision.
Radha Krishnan was more than an ornamental figurehead. He had a worldwide reputation and was admired by many eminent people all over the world. Because of his eloquence, he became an extraordinary Indian speaker among English-speaking audiences, especially the younger generation. C.E.M. Joad was so greatly influenced by Radha Krishnan’s oratory and writing that he wrote a lengthy version about Radha Krishnan’s integrated personality, his social awareness and ability to make intellectual statements. Radha Krishnan is a distinguished Indian master of English. All his writings are notable for originality and depth of thought, mysticism and idealism. He immensely influenced both Eastern and Western thinkers through his deep and profound thoughts, flawless expression, unmatched perfection of style and oratorical force. A critic once wrote about his style: “Such clear, vigorous English can only come from clear and vigorous thinking.”
He viewed teaching as the most valuable profession, emphasizing that educators shape moral values and build the character of future generations rather than merely filling their minds with bookish knowledge. His profound influence is evident in the Radha Krishnan Education Commission (1948-1949), formally known as the University Education Commission. It was established by the Government of India to assess the existing state of university education in Independent India and to recommend improvements to align it with national needs, democratic values, and global standards. He served as India’s first Vice-President from 1952 to 1962 and later became its second President, serving from 1962 to 1967. He was a man who was not obsessed with powers and prerogatives of the Presidency. He was honoured with Bharat Ratna in 1954. He breathed his last on April 17, 1975, in Madras.
Teachers generally feel deeply appreciated and re-energized on ‘Teachers’ Day’ when they receive words, cards, flowers, and various gifts from students expressing their love and devotion in a sincere manner. The occasion is meant to affirm the everlasting ties between the teachers and taught. The day gives teachers a chance to reflect on the positive impact they have on young minds and feel proud of their choice of profession. Young teachers often experience pleasant surprise when students genuinely appreciate them so early in their journey. Observing Teachers’ Day helps them transition from the basic survival mode of early-career teaching into a deeper, more reflective professional mindset. It triggers a strong urge to live up to the high standards expected of good teachers. The celebration uplifts their spirits, giving them renewed motivation to continue guiding and mentoring young minds. Memories shared by former students often bring tears of joy to a teacher’s eye.
National Awards are presented by the President to dedicated teachers in recognition of their dedication and noble service to the teaching profession.
