Wednesday, September 5, 2018

Teachers’ Day – How it started??


“… It is a greater work to educate a child, in the true and large sense of that phrase, than to rule a State.”

William Ellery Channing, Preacher and Theologian  

A teacher is a friend, philosopher and guide who holds our hand, opens our mind and touches our heart. In India, Teachers’ day is celebrated on 5th September every year in the memory of Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan on his birthday. This day is celebrated throughout India by honouring teachers as well as meritorious students.

How and when it started? : In India, Teachers’ day is celebrated on 5th September since 1962 to honour Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan as it is his birth anniversary. Dr. Sarvapalli Radhakrishnan was an outstanding student. He has played many roles in his life… a teacher, philosopher, author, politician. He was a great teacher and was very popular among his students. He was the first Vice-President of India (1952-62) and the second President of India ((1962-67). He was awarded Knighthood in 1931. In 1954, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India. After he became the President of India, some of his former students came to him and sought his permission to celebrate his birthday on 5th September. Dr. Radhakrishnan politely declined their request and suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, it would be his privilege if this day is observed as Teachers’ day. Since then this day is celebrated as Teachers’ day.

What about other countries? : Many other countries also celebrate Teachers’ day but the date varies from country to country. However, World Teachers’ day is celebrated on 5th October since 1994. This tradition was started by UNESCO to celebrate the accomplishment of teachers all over the world.

Wish you a very happy Teachers’ Day!!

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