Teachers’ Day 2021: Know why it is celebrated

Teachers’ Day is celebrated every year on September 5 in honour of those who mentored and led us in the path of life. This day is dedicated to the teachers who have guided us constantly through the ups and downs in our lives. While it could be said that it is unfair to dedicate just one day to them, one can’t really forget the magnanimous role they play in moulding and helping us to face the tough world outside the homely comfort of a school or a college.

History of Teachers’ Day

Celebrated on the birthday of India’s first vice-president and second president, Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, Teacher’s day was born out of his students’ love and respect for him during his teaching career. 

He served as a Vice-Chancellor of Andhra and Banaras Hindu University and was, in later years of his career, acknowledged by Oxford University to fill the chair of Spalding Professor of Eastern religions.

Being an esteemed educationist, on being asked if his students could celebrate his birthday, Radhakrishnan denied any special treatment and instead suggested that they celebrate the day as Teachers’ Day to recognise their contribution to society.

Significance

On this day, students across the country honour their teachers and show gratitude for all that they do for them. A tribute to Dr Radhakrishnan is paid while students offer gifts and cards to their teachers in schools and higher education institutions. 

Also known as ‘Shikshak Parv’, it will be celebrated by the Ministry of Education from September 5 to September 17 this year. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the event on September 7. 

The 10-day-long programme will witness seminars and presentations on the National Education Policy 2020. Furthermore, the event is scheduled to stream online on all the social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube channels of the Education Ministry.

44 teachers will be awarded the National Teachers Award 2021, conferred by President Ramnath Kovind on Teacher’s day.