Honoring the Legacy: The History of Teacher’s Day and Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
गुरु ब्रह्मा गुरु विष्णु, गुरु देवो महेश्वरः। गुरु साक्षात् परब्रह्म, तस्मै श्री गुरवे नमः॥
In a country like India, where education and knowledge are revered, Teacher’s Day holds a special place in our hearts. Every year on September 5th, India celebrates Teacher’s Day—a day dedicated to honoring the educators who have a profound impact on shaping the minds and futures of countless students. This day is not merely a day of celebration but a significant event that is deeply rooted in the legacy of one of India’s most respected scholars, educators, and leaders, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.
Why September 5th?
The choice of September 5th as Teacher’s Day is not arbitrary. It marks the birthday of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a towering figure in the world of education and philosophy, born in 1888. Dr. Radhakrishnan’s contributions to education were so impactful that when he became the second President of India in 1962, his students and friends proposed celebrating his birthday as a special occasion. However, in his characteristic humility, Dr. Radhakrishnan suggested that rather than celebrating his birthday, the day should be observed as Teacher’s Day, a day dedicated to recognizing the invaluable role of teachers in shaping society.
This suggestion reflected Dr. Radhakrishnan’s deep respect for the teaching profession. He believed that teachers are the pillars of society, and their work in educating the youth is fundamental to a nation’s progress. Thus, September 5th was chosen as a day to honor all teachers, acknowledging their dedication, hard work, and the significant impact they have on the lives of their students.
Who Was Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s life is a testament to the power of education and the influence of great teachers. Born in a small town in Tamil Nadu, Radhakrishnan’s journey to becoming one of the most respected thinkers of his time is truly inspirational. Despite coming from a humble background, he excelled in academics, eventually earning a scholarship to study at the prestigious Madras Christian College. His exceptional intellect and deep understanding of philosophy soon became evident, and he went on to serve as a professor at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world, including the University of Mysore and Oxford University.
Dr. Radhakrishnan was not just a teacher; he was a philosopher who brought Indian philosophy to the global stage. His works on Indian philosophy, particularly his interpretations of Vedanta, earned him international acclaim. He was a strong advocate for the idea that Indian philosophy had much to offer to the world, and he played a crucial role in introducing Indian thought to the Western academic world. His contributions to the field of philosophy were recognized globally, and he was invited to lecture at numerous universities around the world.
Despite his global recognition, Dr. Radhakrishnan always considered himself first and foremost a teacher. He believed that teaching was not just about imparting knowledge but about shaping the character and values of students. For him, teaching was a noble mission, a way to contribute to society’s development by nurturing the youth’s minds. He was known for his deep commitment to his students, and his ability to inspire them to think critically and explore the world of ideas.
Dr. Radhakrishnan’s influence extended beyond the classroom. He was a statesman who served as the Vice President of India from 1952 to 1962 and later as the President of India from 1962 to 1967. Even in these high offices, he continued to emphasize the importance of education and the role of teachers in society. He used his position to advocate for better educational opportunities for all and to promote the values of education, knowledge, and wisdom.
The Importance of Teacher’s Day
Teacher’s Day is much more than a day of appreciation; it is a day that reminds us of the critical role that educators play in our lives. Teachers are the architects of society, responsible for molding young minds and shaping the nation’s future. They do more than teach academic subjects—they inspire, guide, and mentor students, helping them to develop into well-rounded individuals.
In today’s fast-paced and ever-evolving world, the role of teachers is more important than ever. The challenges of the 21st century, such as rapid technological advancements, globalization, and the need for sustainable development, require a new generation of thinkers and leaders who are equipped with the knowledge and skills to navigate this complex world. Teachers are at the forefront of this mission, preparing students to meet these challenges and to contribute positively to society.
Teacher’s Day is an opportunity for all of us to express our gratitude to the teachers who have made a difference in our lives. It is a day to recognize their hard work, dedication, and the sacrifices they make to ensure that their students receive the best possible education. It is also a day to reflect on the importance of education and to reaffirm our commitment to supporting and empowering teachers in their vital roles.
My Experience at FIIB
As I reflect on the significance of Teacher’s Day, I am reminded of the profound impact that the faculty at FIIB has had on my life. Although I have only been at FIIB for a couple of months, the influence of the professors here has been nothing short of transformative. From the very beginning, the faculty at FIIB have been more than just educators—they have been mentors, guiding me through the complexities of academic subjects and encouraging me to develop my management skills.
The learning experience at FIIB has been intense, challenging, and incredibly rewarding. The professors here are deeply committed to their students, and they go above and beyond to ensure that we are not only learning but also growing as individuals. Their teaching methods are innovative and engaging, making even the most complex subjects accessible and interesting. But their influence extends beyond the classroom. They encourage us to participate in extracurricular activities, to engage in critical thinking, and to apply what we learn in real-world situations.
In just two months, I have learned so much at FIIB, not only in terms of academic knowledge but also in terms of personal and professional development. The exposure I have received here is invaluable, and I am excited about the plethora of opportunities that lie ahead in my MBA journey. The faculty at FIIB have played a crucial role in shaping my experience here, and I am deeply grateful for their guidance and support.
As I look to the future, I am confident that the lessons I have learned at FIIB will continue to shape my path. The influence of great teachers like those at FIIB is something that stays with you for a lifetime. They have the power to inspire, to challenge, and to push you to achieve your best. On this Teacher’s Day, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the teachers who have made a difference in my life, especially those at FIIB who have been instrumental in my growth and development.
Conclusion
Teacher’s Day is a celebration of the educators who dedicate their lives to shaping the future of their students. It is a day to honor the legacy of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, who believed that teaching was the noblest of all professions. As we celebrate Teacher’s Day, let us take a moment to reflect on the importance of education and the role of teachers in our lives. Let us express our gratitude to the teachers who have inspired us, challenged us, and guided us. And let us commit to supporting and empowering teachers so that they can continue to make a difference in the lives of future generations.
Happy Teacher’s Day!