teacher day

Teachers' Day 2019: History, Significance and Facts

 jagran josh

 While globally, Teachers’ Day is celebrated on 5th October; in India, we celebrate it on 5th September from 1962

Wondering why did India decide to celebrate a separate Teachers’ Day and how is it celebrated across the nation? Let’s find out!

Why Celebrate Teachers’ Day?

Teachers' Day in India is celebrated on 5th September to commemorate the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. He was a renowned scholar, recipient of Bharat Ratna, first Vice- President and second President of independent India. He was born on 5 September, 1888. As an educationist, he was an advocate of edification, and was a distinguished envoy, academician, and above all a great teacher.

Importance of Teachers'  Day

Teachers’ Day is one such event for which students and teachers equally look forward to. Teachers' Day is important for the students as it gives them a chance to understand the efforts put in by their teachers to ensure that they get proper education. Similarly, teachers also look forward to Teachers’ Day celebration as their efforts get recognised and honoured by students and other agencies as well.

Why is Teachers' Day celebrated on 5 September?

Teachers should be respected and honoured. In India, on the eve of Teachers' Day, i.e. on 5 September, the National Teachers’ Awards are given to the meritorious teachers by the President of India. The awards are conferred as a public gratitude to praiseworthy teachers working in the primary schools, middle schools and secondary schools.

As, it is rightly said that:

In addition to their own teachers and mentors, 5th September is also a day when a person can look back,and be inspired by the life and works of  Dr. S. Radhakrishnan. Dr Radhakrishnan, hailed from a small city boy and with the help of education he became an esteemed politician and a visionary educationist.

Do you know about Dr. S. Radhakrishnan?

Dr. S. Radhakrishnan is one of the most renowned writers in contemporary India. He has made significant contribution to a variety of subjects starting from theoretical, theological, moral, instructive, communal and enlightening subjects. He wrote several articles to many recognised journals which are of great importance.

Why is Teachers' Day Celebrated?

Dr. Radhakrishnan became President of India in 1962. He was approached by some of his friends and students who requested him to allow them to celebrate his birthday on 5 September. Dr. S. Radhakrishnan responded, "Instead of observing my birthday discretely, it would be my pompous privilege if 5th September is scrutinised as Teachers' Day". Such a request coming from President of India clearly showcased Dr. S. Radhakrishnan's affection and dedication for teachers. From then onwards, India celebrates Teachers' Day on 5th September.

Teachers' Day is a great occasion for celebrating and enjoying the relationship between teachers and students. So, try to meet your teachers on the day and convey your wishes. If they are far then send them message and make his/her day memorable.