Teachers’ Day (India)

Celebrated on 5 September every year to honor Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s second President and great philosopher.

• Introduced In: 1962

ABOUT DR. SARVEPALLI RADHAKRISHNAN

Early Life & Education

• Born: 5 September 1888, Tiruttani (Tamil Nadu).
• Education: Studied Philosophy (B.A. & M.A.) at Madras Christian College.

Academic Career

• Professor of Philosophy at Mysore, Calcutta, and Oxford universities.
• Vice-Chancellor: Andhra University and Banaras Hindu University (BHU).
• Chancellor: Delhi University.

Diplomatic Career

• India’s Delegate to UNESCO (1946–52), also Chairman of UNESCO Executive Board (1948–49).
• Ambassador to the Soviet Union (1949–52).

Political Career

• Vice President of India (1952–62): First person to hold this post.
• President of India (1962–67): Elected with 25% votes; served till 1967.

Legacy & Honours

• Bharat Ratna (1954): India’s highest civilian award.
• Requested that his birthday be celebrated as Teachers’ Day instead of a personal celebration.
• Many institutions are named after him, including medical, arts, and Ayurvedic universities.