As we all know, teaching is truly a rewarding and unique profession, long regarded as one of the most sacred, noble, and pious services to both society and the nation. Teachers’ Day is celebrated by students across the country with the purpose of expressing their gratitude towards their mentors for their invaluable contribution. The date of celebration varies from country to country. Since 1994, UNESCO has observed Teachers’ Day on October 5. In India, however, it is celebrated on 5 September, the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Apart from being the first Vice-President and the second President of India, he also served as Chairman of the University Grants Commission in 1949. Radhakrishnan was a great scholar and an excellent teacher, admired widely for his contribution to education. When his students and friends once sought his permission to celebrate his birthday, he modestly suggested that it would be far better if the day were dedicated to the entire teaching profession by honouring the hard work and commitment of teachers across the nation.
The purpose behind celebrating Teachers’ Day is to acknowledge the dignity of the profession and the contribution of educators in nurturing young minds and nation-building. The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 also advocates restoring high respect for teachers and inspiring the best minds to join the profession. This year’s celebration held special significance for Aligarh Muslim University, as Professor Vibha Sharma of the Department of English was selected for the National Education Award 2025 in recognition of her outstanding contribution to the field of education. The role of educators in shaping society is undeniable. Teaching is one of the most essential aspects of human life, pervading individuals, society, culture, and every dimension of human endeavour. Teachers, with their profound understanding of subject matter and deep reservoirs of wisdom, continually enrich the lives of their students. It is no coincidence that UNESCO has recognised India as one of the most linguistically diverse countries in the world, a fact reflected in the richness of its teaching traditions.
The principal role of a teacher is to transmit knowledge from one generation to another, ensuring that art, ideas, and cultural nuances are effectively preserved and carried forward. In India, there has long been a tradition of respecting and honouring teachers, known traditionally as gurus. Irrespective of religious belief or linguistic background, Teachers’ Day is celebrated throughout the country. From childhood, we have heard the story of Eklavya, which defines exemplary discipleship. This tale illustrates dedication, hard work, obedience, and the spirit of guru-dakshina, the offering traditionally made by students in gratitude for learning. Dronacharya, by asking for Eklavya’s thumb, immortalised his disciple’s loyalty.In Islamic tradition, too, the teacher holds a very high status. Hazrat Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) once said, “If a person teaches me even one single word, he has made me his servant for a lifetime.” The role of a teacher extends far beyond imparting knowledge or preparing students for examinations. It includes guiding them to distinguish right from wrong, correcting their mistakes, and shaping their moral character. Teachers are recognised for their contribution to society by inspiring, enlightening, and preparing students to become responsible citizens.