Teachers' Day 2024: Why is September 5 celebrated to honour teachers? Check history and significance
Teachers' Day to honour the immense contributions of educators in shaping the nation's future.
This day is not only a tribute to the dedication and hard work of teachers but also commemorates the birth anniversary of one of India's most revered scholars and former President, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.
As India celebrates and honours all teachers across the nation, here's all you need to know.
The Origin of Teachers' Day
The roots of Teachers' Day in India trace back to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, born on September 5, 1888, in the erstwhile Madras Presidency. A renowned teacher, Dr. Radhakrishnan was an academic luminary who served as a professor at prestigious institutions like the University of Calcutta and Oxford University.
His journey into philosophy was serendipitous, sparked by receiving philosophy textbooks from a cousin. Despite this accidental start, he went on to become a prolific writer, penning numerous works that bridged Eastern and Western philosophies.
Dr. Radhakrishnan's influence extended far beyond academia. He played a crucial role in promoting intercultural understanding through his lectures across the United States and Europe. His contributions to education and philosophy earned him numerous accolades, including knighthood in 1931 and nominations for the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1936 and 1937.
When Dr. Radhakrishnan became the second President of India in 1962, his former students and friends proposed celebrating his birthday. In response, he suggested that instead of celebrating
