Every single life is endowed with great potential, and it is a teacher who helps an individual manifest the same by providing much-needed guidance, support, and encouragement. That is why a teacher plays a significant role in shaping, not just a single person’s character and future, but also that of the society in the broader sense!
Celebrating Teacher’s Day
To honour teachers for their selfless dedication in fostering capable individuals and preparing leaders for the society, we celebrate Teacher’s Day every year on 5th September, across the country. This day serves as a reminder, that no matter how great or successful we may become, it would not have been possible without some brilliant teachers who supported us in different ways. From sending thank you messages to flowers and gifts to our beloved teachers, we all remember and celebrate our amazing mentors on this day.
Why is it Observed on Dr S. Radhakrishan’s Birth Anniversary?
Teacher’s day that pays tribute to the educators around the country is celebrated on the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan because he was a great teacher himself. Apart from this, Dr Radhakrishnan was a firm believer and supporter of education, a scholar, well-known diplomat and the President of India.
There is a small anecdote which explains how Teacher’s Day came to be celebrated on this particular date. Loved by all his students, Dr Radhakrishnan was once approached and requested that he allow them to celebrate his birthday. In response to this request, Dr Sarvepalli said that instead of celebrating his birthday separately, it would be his proud privilege, if 5th September could be observed as Teachers’ day. From that day onwards, the country observes 5th September as Teacher’s Day, in India.
This incident throws light on how Dr S. Radhakrishnan was a truly dedicated teacher.
A Look at Some Unconventional but Inspiring Teachers
Just like Dr Radhakrishnan, our country has seen, and continues to see many other teachers who work tirelessly, fighting against all the odds and bringing in new creative ways to educate kids. So, let us have a look at a few such wonderful teachers from across India who are shaping young lives with passion, determination and above all, commitment.
Aditya Kumar
~ Going Places, Promoting Education ~
Famously known as ‘Cycle guruji,’ Aditya Kumar rides for about 65 kms on his bicycle every day to reach out to and provide free education to the slum kids living in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. This inspiring teacher has been doing this selflessly since 1995.
Arvind Gupta
~ Making Learning Fun ~
Arvind Gupta is known for teaching different scientific concepts in creative ways. Through making toys out of trash, he helps kids learn new things in exciting ways. He also uploads videos of his creative techniques on YouTube for students from across the world to learn.
Roshni Mukherjee
~ Unleashing the Power of Digital Medium ~
Roshni Mukherjee, a young girl, has been operating an online educational platform by the name ExamFear.com. She uses the platform to teach students through videos she uploads on YouTube. Her videos have helped several students crack their exams and get admission in reputed colleges.
Rajesh Kumar Sharma
~ Spirit and Substance Over Matter ~
Rajesh Kumar Sharma runs a small school under one of the Delhi metro bridges, where he teaches kids from the nearby slum areas. Started in 2005, he calls the set up as ‘Under the Bridge School.’ Over 200 students attend the classes daily, and Rajesh also invites some noted personalities to volunteer as teachers on different occasions.
Abdul Mallik
~ Crossing all Hurdles ~
Abdul Mallik is a teacher in a primary school in Malappuram district of Kerala. To reach his school on time and to set the right example for his students, he swims to work daily, instead of taking a bus. It is because that is the shortest route for him to reach his school.
Vimla Kaul
~ Committed to the Cause ~
Vimla Kaul is an 80-year-old teacher who has been teaching students of Madanpur Khadar Village in Delhi, for the last 20 years. When there was a lack of teachers in the village, she brought the students to the nearby area of Sarita Vihar. With no proper building to teach, she conducted classes by moving from one park to another. Now, she has finally got a place where she teaches kids up to class two.
Shoutout To All Wonderful Teachers
Teaching is a noble profession which deserves special respect and dignity. Without great teachers, society cannot produce fine individuals to shoulder responsibility for a better future. To celebrate teachers and their most wonderful contribution at an individual level, let us reach out to the educators who have added meaning, lessons and love to our life at some point or the other!