Teachers' Day is celebrated with great enthusiasm every year on September 5th in India, honouring the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Teachers' Day is a unique event that acknowledges and commemorates the important role educators have in influencing people and communities. The importance and function of teachers, also known as Gurus, have changed over time from ancient to present days, mirroring larger shifts in society, education, and culture.
The birthday of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (5 September) is celebrated as Teachers' Day in India since 1962
5 October is celebrated annually as World Teachers' Day, also known as International Teachers Day since 1994
Traditionally in India Guru Purnima is celebrated to honour and pay respect to Gurus and Teachers
Tributes to great Philosopher and educationalist
In India, Teachers' Day has been celebrated since 1962 on September 5, birth anniversary of Dr Radhakrishnan, 2nd President of India. Dr Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888, in a Telugu family in a village near Thiruttani of erstwhile Madras Presidency, British India. He studied Philosophy in University of Madras and remained one of the finest Philosophers and scholars of Modern India, presenting a critical and comprehensive analysis of Vedanta branch of Hindu Philosophy.
He assumed the office of Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University from 1931-36 and Vice-Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University from 1939-48, meanwhile publishing various critical assessment on Hindu religion and Philosophy, writing books; "The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore" and "The Reign of Religion in Contemporary Philosophy" and teaching in various universities across the country.
For his exceptional contributions to education, philosophy, and public service, Dr. Radhakrishnan was awarded the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honour in 1954. He was also nominated for the Nobel Prize 27 times, which led to his global recognition.
After the independence of India, Dr Radhakrishnan served as the first Vice-President from 1952-57 and for the 2nd term from 1957-62. He then succeeded Dr Rajendra Prasad as the second President of India in 1962 till 1967. He took his last breath at the age of 86 on April 17, 1975, in Madras, Tamil Nadu.
Importance of Teachers' Day
Teachers' Day is a moment to recognize and value the dedication and hard work put in by educators. It offers a chance to recognize their impact on students' academic and personal growth.
The day underscores the crucial impact education has on individual and communal advancement. It highlights the importance of knowledge and the educators who share it.
Building stronger connections between teachers and students is facilitated through the celebration of Teachers' Day, promoting respect and mutual understanding. It strengthens the concept of cooperation and respect among learners as they engage in the learning process.
By showcasing teachers' accomplishments, the event also motivates educators to pursue ongoing professional development and aim for high standards in their teaching methods.
Significance of Spiritual Teachers in Ancient India
In ancient India, Gurus were not only teachers but also provided spiritual guidance. They offered lessons on morals and ethics, aiding in the cultivation of students' character and values. Gurus held knowledge, including sacred texts, philosophy, and various sciences. They had a vital role in safeguarding and passing down cultural and spiritual knowledge through the generations.
The connection between a Guru and a disciple was intimate and frequently included personalized mentorship. This bond relied on trust, admiration, and a shared dedication to the student's development. In ancient India, education led by a Guru was complete, addressing intellectual, physical, emotional, and spiritual growth.
Importance of Teachers in contemporary India
Present-day Indian educators are mainly tasked with providing curriculum-based teaching. They support education in different areas, including science, math, languages, and arts. In addition to academic knowledge, teachers in modern India focus on enhancing critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and practical abilities required in students' future careers.
Teachers nowadays also assist students in dealing with personal and social difficulties by offering emotional and social support. Adapting to technological changes is a requirement for modern educators, as they are expected to incorporate new tools and methods to improve learning experiences.
Educators in contemporary India are placing more emphasis on developing inclusive classrooms that accommodate a variety of learning needs and backgrounds, advancing equality and accessibility in education.
Insights for comparison between Gurus and Teachers
While ancient Gurus had a strong spiritual and philosophical aspect to their role, contemporary teachers prioritize academic teaching and skill enhancement, while also assisting students with emotional and social development. Teaching in the past was more individualized with the Guru-disciple bond, while modern education is more structured and uniform, but successful teaching still depends on establishing strong, supportive relationships with students.
Ancient education focused on holistic personal growth, while modern education prioritizes specialization in different subjects and skills. Essentially, although teachers' roles have changed from the past to the present, the fundamental task of guiding and moulding individuals remains primary. Ancient sages and contemporary educators both have important roles in nurturing knowledge, values, and skills that aid individual and societal development.
