Brief Note on Teachers’ Day (India)

In ancient India, teachers were held in high regard. What they said was considered sacred truth. They led a pure, upright life, free from material luxury. The status of today’s teachers is very different.

Yet basically, a teacher must be a respectable personality and his task is much more than merely teaching a particular subject. The teacher moulds the mind of a boy or a girl at a time when it is most impressionable. That determines what kind of man the pupil will become when he grows up.

Teachers’ day is observed to remind the teachers of this noble aim of their profession. It is the time for them to remember that love for knowledge and concern for teaching come before love for money. On this day, the students should express their devotion and love for teachers in a sincere manner. The occasion is meant to assert the everlasting ties between the teachers and the taught.

In modern India, Teachers’ Day is observed every year on 5th September, which coincides with the birthday of Dr. Sarbapalli Radhakrishnan, the second President of Independent India. This great philosopher was an ideal teacher himself and earned the respect of people in all countries. So, very aptly, his birthday is remembered as Teachers’ Day.

On this day, school children present Teachers’ Day cards and various gifts to their teachers, decorate their class rooms, and arrange cultural functions. They also raise subscriptions for buying flowers and sweets. In some schools, the teachers willingly participate in quizzes and musical competitions organized by students. It s a sporting gesture promoting friendliness.

For the betterment of education and social life, it is essential that teachers get a decent salary. If they have to struggle against poverty, they can hardly think of superior thoughts and ideals. On Teachers’ day, every year, the government should review whether is is giving teachers proper remuneration and recognition.