Teacher's Day
- Manyanshi Joshi
- Sep 5, 2025
- 6 min read
🌸 "To the Hands That Light the Way"
You shaped our minds with wisdom's art,
You touched our souls, you reached our heart.
With chalk and words, you drew the line,
That guides us through both space and time.
You saw the spark we couldn’t see,
You made us all believe we’d be—More than what we dared to dream,
You taught us how to build a team.
With every lesson, kind and true,
You planted seeds that gently grew.
Through books, through talks, through patient care,
You taught us more than just what’s fair.
You gave us wings, you made us soar,
You opened wide the learning door.
And though we may not say each day,
Your wisdom never fades away.
So here’s to you, our guiding star,
Who made us who we truly are.
On this Teacher’s Day, we proudly say—Thank you for lighting the way. 🌟
Teacher’s Day in India is celebrated every year on September 5th to honor and appreciate the contribution of teachers in shaping the lives of students and building the future of the nation.
📅 Why is Teacher’s Day Celebrated on September 5?
Teacher’s Day marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (born on September 5, 1888), who was:
A great scholar, philosopher, and teacher.
The first Vice President of India (1952–1962).
The second President of India (1962–1967).
When Dr. Radhakrishnan became President, his students and admirers wanted to celebrate his birthday. However, he humbly requested that instead of celebrating his birthday, it would be his privilege if September 5 was celebrated as Teacher’s Day to honor all teachers.
👩🏫👨🏫 Importance of Teachers
Teachers play a crucial role in:
Imparting knowledge.
Instilling values and discipline.
Guiding students to build careers and character.
Being mentors and role models.
🏫 How is Teacher’s Day Celebrated in India?
In schools and colleges:
Students organize performances, speeches, and fun activities to show appreciation.
Some students dress up as teachers and conduct classes.
Teachers are given cards, flowers, and small gifts.
Cultural programs, skits, and dances are often arranged.
In recent years, digital messages and virtual celebrations have also become popular.
✨ Famous Quotes on Teachers
"The true teachers are those who help us think for ourselves."— Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
"A teacher affects eternity; he can never tell where his influence stops."— Henry Adams
Here’s a detailed look at the history and significance of Teacher’s Day in India:
🇮🇳 History of Teacher’s Day in India
Teacher’s Day in India is celebrated annually on September 5th to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888–1975). He was a:
Distinguished scholar of philosophy
Respected teacher and academician
First Vice President (1952–1962) and second President of India (1962–1967)
📚 Origin of the Celebration:
When Dr. Radhakrishnan became President in 1962, some of his students and friends requested to celebrate his birthday. In response, he said:
"Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if September 5 is observed as Teachers’ Day."
This gesture reflected his deep respect and regard for teachers. Since then, 5th September is celebrated as Teacher’s Day across India every year.
🌟 Significance of Teacher’s Day
1. Honoring the Role of Teachers
Teachers are the pillars of society who guide students to become better individuals and responsible citizens. Teacher’s Day is a way to:
Acknowledge their dedication
Express gratitude
Celebrate their contribution to nation-building
2. Promoting the Importance of Education
This day reminds society about the importance of quality education and the key role that educators play in shaping the moral and intellectual foundation of the youth.
3. Inspiring Future Generations
By remembering a great educator like Dr. Radhakrishnan, the day serves as an inspiration to:
Value knowledge and learning
Encourage more individuals to pursue teaching as a noble profession
4. Strengthening the Student-Teacher Bond
Schools and colleges celebrate this day through events and activities that allow students to:
Show appreciation
Understand the hard work of teachers
Strengthen the mutual respect between students and educators
🏛️ Legacy of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
Taught at Madras Presidency College, University of Mysore, and Oxford University.
Known for interpreting Indian philosophy, especially Advaita Vedanta, for the Western world.
Advocated for education as a means to national development.
Here’s a look at how Teacher’s Day is celebrated in other countries, along with its dates and significance:
🌍 Teacher’s Day in Other Countries
Different countries celebrate Teacher’s Day on different dates based on local traditions, historical events, or to honor specific educators.
🇺🇳 World Teachers' Day – October 5 (UNESCO)
Celebrated globally since 1994, established by UNESCO.
Commemorates the adoption of the ILO/UNESCO Recommendation (1966) on the Status of Teachers.
Focuses on the rights, responsibilities, and global standards for teachers.
Observed in over 100 countries including Canada, Germany, and the UK.
🇨🇳 China – September 10
Celebrates the importance of teachers and education.
Students often give flowers and cards, and schools hold ceremonies.
There has been discussion about moving it to September 28, the birthday of Confucius, who is regarded as the "First Teacher" of China.
🇺🇸 United States – First Tuesday of May
Part of Teacher Appreciation Week.
Celebrated with thank-you notes, classroom activities, and community events.
Organized by the National Education Association (NEA) and PTA.
🇧🇷 Brazil – October 15
Marks the day when Dom Pedro I signed a decree in 1827 on the foundation of elementary schools.
Teachers are honored with cultural events, dances, and public recognition.
🇹🇭 Thailand – January 16
Known as Wan Khru, or "Teacher's Day."
Students pay respect through traditional ceremonies like “Wai Khru”, offering flowers and gifts.
A deeply respected and spiritual observance.
🇮🇳 India – September 5
In honor of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birthday (as explained earlier).
🇮🇷 Iran – May 2
In memory of Morteza Motahhari, a scholar and teacher who was assassinated in 1980.
Recognizes teachers’ contributions to education and moral development.
🇷🇺 Russia – October 5
Coincides with World Teachers’ Day.
Celebrated with ceremonies, student performances, and awards for teachers.
🇰🇷 South Korea – May 15
Known as Seonsaengnim-ui Nal (스승의 날), meaning “Teacher’s Day.”
Coincides with the birthday of King Sejong the Great, who created the Korean script (Hangul).
Students visit former teachers with carnations and gifts.
🌐 Why Dates Vary Around the World
Each country links Teacher’s Day to a figure or event meaningful to its history, culture, or education system.
Regardless of the date, the essence remains the same: to honor and appreciate teachers for their essential role in society.
Here is a detailed overview of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a remarkable figure in Indian history and the inspiration behind Teacher’s Day in India:
👨🏫 Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan – A Life of Wisdom and Service
🗓️ Birth: 5 September 1888
📍 Place: Tiruttani, Tamil Nadu, India
✝️ Death: 17 April 1975
🎓 Early Life and Education
Born into a modest Telugu Brahmin family.
Studied at Madras Christian College.
Excelled in philosophy and literature.
He completed his Master’s degree in Philosophy and began his career as a lecturer.
📚 Career as a Philosopher and Teacher
One of India’s most distinguished philosophers and educationists.
Taught at:
Madras Presidency College
University of Mysore
University of Calcutta
Oxford University (He was invited to deliver lectures on Hindu philosophy.)
Famous for interpreting Indian philosophy—especially Advaita Vedanta—for the Western world.
Believed in blending Eastern spiritualism with Western rationalism.
📘 Major Works
Some of his most notable books include:
Indian Philosophy (2 volumes)
The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore
The Hindu View of Life
Eastern Religions and Western Thought
Recovery of Faith
🇮🇳 Political and Diplomatic Career
Vice Chancellor of Andhra University and Banaras Hindu University.
Served as India’s Ambassador to the Soviet Union (1949–1952).
First Vice President of India (1952–1962).
Second President of India (1962–1967).
Even while holding top political positions, he remained humble and committed to education and ethical governance.
🧑🏫 Inspiration for Teacher’s Day
When Dr. Radhakrishnan became President in 1962, his students and friends wanted to celebrate his birthday.
He humbly said:
"Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if September 5 is observed as Teachers’ Day."
Since then, India celebrates Teacher’s Day on 5th September every year to honor his legacy and all teachers.
🏅 Honors and Awards
Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award (1954)
Honorary memberships in many international academic societies
Nominated multiple times for the Nobel Prize in Literature and Peace
🕊️ Legacy
Remembered as a model teacher, deep thinker, and global representative of Indian philosophy.
His birthday continues to inspire millions of teachers and students across India.
In conclusion, Teacher’s Day is a special occasion to express our gratitude and respect for the teachers who shape our minds and futures. Their hard work, dedication, and guidance play a crucial role in building a strong and educated society. Celebrating this day reminds us of the importance of teachers and the value of education in our lives.
Teachers don’t just teach subjects—they inspire dreams, ignite curiosity, and nurture values. As we celebrate Teacher’s Day, let us honor their selfless contribution and remember that behind every successful individual, there is a dedicated teacher. Their influence lasts a lifetime.
📝 "Thank You, Teacher"
You taught me how to read and write,
To dream big dreams and reach new height.
You helped me grow and made me strong,
You cheered me on when things went wrong.
You showed me kindness every day,
And guided me along the way.
So here’s a big and warm “Thank You”,
For everything you say and do! 💐
Happy Teacher's Day!!!!!!
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