Every year, when 5 September arrives, schools across India become more colourful and lively. Students prepare cards, performances and special activities to thank the teachers who guide, encourage and inspire them. But have you ever wondered why Teachers’ Day is celebrated on 5 September? The answer takes us back to one of India’s most respected scholars, philosophers and teachers, Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. His birthday, 5 September, is celebrated as Teachers’ Day across the country. However, the story behind Teachers’ Day is about more than a birthday. It is about a teacher who believed that education could shape individuals, strengthen society and build a better future.
Who was Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan?
Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was a philosopher, educationist, scholar and statesman who made important contributions to Indian education and philosophy.
A teacher who became India’s President
Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan had a long and distinguished career in education before entering public life.
- He was born on 5 September 1888.
- He studied philosophy and became a professor.
- He taught at institutions including the University of Mysore and the University of Calcutta.
- He held the prestigious Spalding Professorship of Eastern Religions and Ethics at the University of Oxford.
- He served as Vice-President of India from 1952 to 1962.
- In 1962, he became the second President of India, serving until 1967.
- He received the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award, in 1954.
- He died on 17 April 1975.
His life brought together education and public service. He believed that education should develop not only knowledge but also character, values and a sense of responsibility.
How did Teachers’ Day begin in India?
The story of Teachers’ Day began in a thoughtful and meaningful way. It started with Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s birthday.
In 1962, Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan became President of India. That year, his 75th birthday fell on 5 September, and people wanted to celebrate the occasion. Instead of allowing the day to be celebrated only as his birthday, Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan suggested that it should be dedicated to teachers. In this way, he turned a personal celebration into an opportunity to honour an entire profession. The tradition of celebrating 5 September as Teachers’ Day began in 1962.
Why did his suggestion matter?
Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan had spent much of his life as a teacher, professor and academic. By suggesting Teachers’ Day instead of a personal birthday celebration, he highlighted the important role teachers play in shaping young minds. He showed that teachers deserve appreciation not only for teaching lessons but also for helping students become thoughtful, confident and responsible people.
Teachers’ Day therefore became more than a birthday remembrance. It became a national occasion to appreciate teachers and recognise their contribution to education and society.
Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan’s contributions included:
- Teaching and scholarship: He taught philosophy at several leading institutions.
- Indian philosophy: His writings helped introduce Indian philosophical ideas to readers outside India.
- Education: He believed education should develop the mind and character, not simply prepare students for examinations.
- Public service: He carried his experience as a scholar and teacher into public life.
- Inspiring teachers: His connection with education is one reason his birthday became associated with honouring teachers across India.
Quick fact box:
Born: 5 September 1888
Birthplace: Tiruttani, then in the Madras Presidency
Profession: Philosopher, teacher and scholar
Vice-President of India: 1952-1962
President of India: 1962-1967
Bharat Ratna: 1954
Teachers’ Day: 5 September
Died: 17 April 1975
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