In the fabric of our lives, teachers play the crucial role of weavers, shaping the patterns of our future. They are beacons of knowledge, the architects of our intellect and an unwavering source of guidance and inspiration, lighting the path of generations of students. Teacher’s Day is dedicated to honouring these unsung heroes.

In India, Teacher’s Day is celebrated yearly on the 5th of September, to commemorate the birth anniversary of India’s second President – Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a remarkable scholar, philosopher a staunch believer in education and a great teacher. On becoming the President, when some of his students and friends requested him to allow them to celebrate his birthday, in a touching gesture he voiced, “Instead of celebrating my birthday separately, it would be my proud privilege, if 5th September is observed as Teacher’s Day.” Since then, 5th September is observed as Teachers Day in India. Being a teacher himself, Dr. Radhakrishnan clearly understood the power that lay in teachers when it came to shaping not just individual lives or society, but entire nations.

The influence of a teacher doesn’t fade away with the passing of years. From the moment we step into the hallowed halls of a school, their influence starts shaping our minds. They impart knowledge, stimulate curiosity, and ignite a passion for learning. They teach us how to think, how to question, and how to navigate life’s challenges and complexities. Most of us carry this wisdom and guidance all through our lives, rendering our teachers as lifelong mentors and sources of inspiration that we turn to in moments of doubt or dilemma.

Beyond academics, teachers play a pivotal role in moulding our character, instilling values like honesty, perseverance and empathy through their actions and words, exemplifying kindness, respect, and the importance of moral integrity. Teachers are character builders, fortifying our moral codes with solid ethical foundations. They are the stepping-stones that identify, mould and nourish our raw talents and potentials into success.

Teaching is indeed the noblest profession of all, opening young mind to infinite possibilities, instilling it with logic and confidence, encouraging one to become the best version of themselves and live a happy, successful life. India’s inarguably most-loved statesman and 11^th President – the late Dr. A P J Abdul Kalam, said, “If a country is to be corruption free and become a nation of beautiful minds, I strongly feel there are three key societal members who can make a difference. They are the father, the mother and the teacher.” Truer words were never spoken. A natural teacher at heart, he loved being with students, inspiring them to dream big and motivating them to realise their dreams. So great was his passion of teaching and his love for students, that he was with a similar gathering even when he breathed his last!

The extremely demanding job of a teacher is one with the greatest responsibility and accountability of all. There are no ‘working hours’ for a teacher just like there aren’t any for parents. Teachers assume the role of secondary parents, thinking of the welfare of their students, beyond academics. Their role is personalised because they are mentors and role model to their students, especially young minds who tend to learn not from what they are told, but from what they see.

Teacher’s Day is a day of profound gratitude and appreciation for the dedicated educators who shape our lives and futures. It’s an opportunity to recognize the invaluable role teachers play in nurturing knowledge, character, and the pursuit of dreams. As we honor their tireless efforts and commitment, let us remember to share our gratitude for their untiring efforts and commitment which influences and motivates generations. Happy Teacher’s Day to all the remarkable teachers who inspire, guide and empower us!