Every year on September 5, India celebrates the invaluable contributions of educators in honour of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan.
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, born on September 5, 1888, in a small town in the erstwhile Madras Presidency, was a distinguished philosopher and a renowned teacher. He was the first Vice President and the second President of independent India.
Dr. Radhakrishnan's journey in education began as a teacher at renowned institutions like the University of Mysore and the University of Calcutta. His teaching philosophy transcended textbooks, focusing on nurturing critical thinking and ethical values in his students. He believed that education should cultivate not only knowledge but also character.
A seminal figure in the world of philosophy, Dr. Radhakrishnan's interpretations of ancient Indian philosophy in works like "The Philosophy of Rabindranath Tagore" and "The Reign of Religion in Contemporary Philosophy" continue to be influential in philosophical discourse.
His transformative role as Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University saw him implement substantial reforms, making the institution a hub of academic excellence. He championed the idea that education should encompass holistic growth and ethical development.
However, it was his tenure as the President of India from 1962 to 1967 that elevated his influence on education. In a heartwarming gesture, his admirers proposed celebrating his birthday as Teachers' Day. Dr. Radhakrishnan humbly suggested that it should honor all teachers, emphasizing their pivotal role in shaping society.
On this Teachers' Day, let us pay tribute to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan's enduring legacy. His unwavering dedication to education and his belief in the transformative power of teachers continue to inspire generations, reminding us of the profound impact educators can have on the world.
