– Lalit Garg–

Teachers are the true architects of civilization and culture. No matter how much progress science, technology, or politics may achieve, if education and teachers do not provide direction, humanity becomes directionless. This is precisely why the tradition of celebrating National Teachers’ Day on 5 September began. This date marks the birth anniversary of India’s former President, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, which is observed as Teachers’ Day in India. The purpose of this day is to honor the significance, contribution, and guiding role of teachers in society. It serves as a reminder to students and the community that teachers are not only knowledge-givers but also role models, inspirers, and builders of character. In today’s era of creating a New India—a strong and developed India—the role of teachers has become even more relevant.

Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on 5 September 1888 in Tiruttani, Andhra Pradesh. He was a distinguished philosopher, scholar, teacher, and statesman. He taught philosophy at prestigious institutions like Oxford University and Calcutta University. His books Indian Philosophy, The Hindu View of Life, and An Idealist View of Life gained global recognition. He served as Vice President of India from 1952 to 1962, and as President from 1962 to 1967. In 1954, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna. When some of his students and friends wished to celebrate his birthday after he became President, he humbly suggested that instead of celebrating his birthday, the day should be observed as Teachers’ Day. Since then, 5 September has been commemorated as National Teachers’ Day. Dr. Radhakrishnan’s message was clear: teachers are the backbone of society, and honoring them is the true foundation of nation-building. This respect is not merely ceremonial but a manifesto for the future of human civilization.

This day renews the nation’s commitment to education, science, peace, and progress. India’s history is deeply connected with the glorious tradition of learning. Since ancient times, India has been a global center of education and has played the role of Jagatguru (World Teacher). Universities like Nalanda and Takshashila earned India this status. The great philosopher Acharya Mahaprajna once said: “The task of building character is extremely difficult, and it can only be accomplished by a selfless and aware teacher.” This reminds us that a teacher is not merely an informer, but a guide to life itself. In the ancient Indian vision, the purpose of education was expressed as “Sa Vidya Ya Vimuktaye”—education is that which liberates. But in the modern context, it has become “Sa Vidya Ya Niyuktaye”—education is that which gets you a job. That is why, despite the increase in schools and universities, crimes and corruption are also on the rise. Mahatma Gandhi’s words remain relevant: “When a school opens, a hundred prisons close.” Sadly, today the reverse seems to be happening.

The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has tried to change this perspective. It emphasizes not only what to study but also how to study. Critical thinking, problem-solving, entrepreneurship, and ethics have been placed at the heart of education. But the central figure in all of this remains the teacher. If teachers are uninspired, demotivated, or insensitive, no policy can succeed. Education becomes meaningful not merely through books and curricula, but through the living presence of the teacher. Former President and scientist Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam once said: “If a country is to be corruption-free and become a nation of beautiful minds, three key persons can make a difference—the father, the mother, and the teacher.” This places teachers in the highest position of responsibility. As India moves toward Amrit Kaal, envisioning itself as a developed nation by 2047, this dream can only be realized if teachers shape a generation that is not only knowledgeable but also virtuous.

Globally too, education has a decisive role. Nelson Mandela said: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” Since seeds of war and terrorism are sown in the human mind, we must sow seeds of peace and coexistence from childhood itself. Along with patriotism, children must also be taught the spirit of universal love—humanity. Only then can war, violence, and terror be eradicated. The Indian cultural maxim “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam” (the whole world is one family) can guide this path. Yet, in reality, both education and the teaching profession are gradually shifting from mission to business. Knowledge is being commercialized, and reports of distrust and even violence between teachers and students are on the rise. The responsibility of halting this commercialization and reconnecting education with human values rests foremost on teachers themselves.

Today, what we need is not only an educational revolution but also a teacher revolution. Good curricula, new technology, and modern institutions become meaningful only when they are centered around inspiring teachers who can guide students toward holistic development. Just as fields, seeds, and tools are useless without the farmer, schools, curricula, and technology are meaningless without teachers. Swami Vivekananda said: “All-round development means expansion of the heart, elevation of the mind, and greatness in action.” Teachers are the ones who shape such personalities. The changing meaning of education has altered society’s mindset. Today people merely want to be educated, not well-educated—that is, not virtuous and value-oriented. Their goal seems limited to intellectual growth alone. This is where teachers have to play a transformative role, and much is expected from the new education policy in this regard.

The NEP’s primary aim is not just literacy but also the development of social and emotional skills. The goal of universal school education by 2030 has been set in this spirit. However, lack of resources, scarcity of trained teachers, and the challenges of a changing social environment remain major obstacles. Even so, India’s ancient and rich educational tradition continues to inspire admiration among foreign scholars. F. W. Thomas wrote: “Education in India is not an exotic plant. There is no country in the world where the love of knowledge arose so early or exerted such a lasting and powerful influence.” Though the role of teachers has changed with time, their importance and responsibility in shaping personalities has only grown. Without the development of comprehensive abilities, it is difficult to keep pace with the age. Strong determination and the power to act are what refine personality, and teachers are the ones who cultivate such traits.

In this modern era of economic pressure, terrorism, wars, and violence, the role of teachers has become more vital than ever. They do not just impart knowledge but also teach essential life skills. Teachers collaborate with students to instill moral values and peaceful living, which are essential for good citizenship. To ensure holistic development, teachers must prepare students who are both scientific and spiritual, whose intellectual, emotional, physical, and mental faculties are harmoniously developed. The true message of Teachers’ Day 2025 should be that teachers are not merely professionals but the soul-makers of society. If India truly wishes to become a world leader once again, it will require not only a strong education policy but also a dedicated army of visionary and committed teachers

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