Who was Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan? Why His Birthday Is Marked as Teachers’ Day

Every year on 5 September, India celebrates Teachers’ Day to recognise the role of teachers in guiding and shaping young minds. The occasion is marked across schools, colleges, and institutions to express gratitude towards educators. The date holds special importance as it coincides with the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, one of India’s most noted scholars and the second President of the country.

Why Teachers’ Day is Celebrated on 5 September

The tradition of celebrating Teachers’ Day began in 1962 when Dr. Radhakrishnan assumed office as the President of India. His students and friends approached him to celebrate his birthday. Instead, he suggested that the day should be observed as Teachers’ Day to honour teachers across the nation. Since then, 5 September has been marked as a day to recognise the contribution of teachers to society.

Early Life and Career of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

Dr. Radhakrishnan was born on 5 September 1888 in Tamil Nadu. A bright student, he pursued philosophy and went on to become a respected academic. Over his career, he served as a professor at several prestigious universities, including those in Chennai, Calcutta, Mysore, and Oxford. His writings covered philosophy, ethics, and comparative religion, and they continue to be widely read.

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Beyond his academic career, Dr. Radhakrishnan served as the Vice President of India from 1952 to 1962 and later became the country’s second President, serving from 1962 to 1967. Throughout his public life, he highlighted the importance of education and the central role of teachers in shaping the moral and intellectual framework of a nation. He often emphasised that education was not just about preparing for a profession but about building character and values.

The Significance of Teachers’ Day in India

Teachers’ Day in India is not only about celebrating individual achievements but also about acknowledging the importance of education in society. On this day, students organise cultural programmes, performances, and special assemblies to honour their teachers. Many schools and colleges also hold ceremonies to recognise outstanding educators. The day serves as a reminder that teachers play a key role in guiding future citizens, not only through knowledge but also by instilling values and discipline.