About this day
Why it is kept and where it comes from
Teachers' Day in India is celebrated annually on 5 September with deep respect, gratitude, and joy. It marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888–1975)—one of India's most distinguished philosophers, visionary educators, scholars of comparative religion, and the second President of the Republic of India. In schools, colleges, and universities nationwide, students organize cultural programs, present heartfelt speeches, flowers, and handmade greeting cards to honor their teachers. Senior students often don formal attire to step into the shoes of educators for the day, experiencing the dedication and patience required to nurture young minds. Government bodies and academic institutions confer prestigious National Awards to outstanding teachers for their transformative contributions to education.
In Indian civilization, the Guru (teacher) occupies the highest echelon of respect, revered as the spiritual guide who dispels darkness (Gu = darkness, Ru = remover) and illuminates the path of righteousness, knowledge, and self-realization. Teachers' Day honors not only classroom instructors but everyone who shapes human intellect, moral character, and critical thinking. It is a day to reflect on the transformative role of education in nation-building, social justice, and enlightened citizenship.
Sacred Story & Divine Lore
Scriptural history and divine legends in sacred lore
“When Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan became President of India in 1962, students requested to celebrate his birthday. He humbly responded: "Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proudest privilege if September 5th is observed as Teachers' Day."”
How the day is observed
- 1Step 1
Students offering floral tributes and respectful greetings to teachers in schools and universities.
- 2Step 2
Organizing student-led cultural performances, debates, poetry recitations, and plays.
- 3Step 3
Presenting tokens of appreciation, handwritten letters, and awards to veteran educators.
- 4Step 4
Instituting special academic symposiums and seminars on innovative pedagogical methods.
- 5Step 5
Remembering legendary teachers of history such as Maharishi Vashistha, Dronacharya, Chanakya, and Savitribai Phule.
Sacred Deity & Powerful Mantras
Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan / Sacred Guru Parampara • Vedic and Puranic chants for peace and blessings
Guru Vandana (गुरु वंदना)
गुरुर्ब्रह्मा गुरुर्विष्णुः गुरुर्देवो महेश्वरः । गुरुः साक्षात् परं ब्रह्म तस्मै श्रीगुरवे नमः ॥
Gurur Brahma Gurur Vishnuh Gurur Devo Maheshvarah, Guruh Sakshat Param Brahma Tasmai Shri Gurave Namah
Shanti Mantra for Knowledge (ज्ञान शांति मंत्र)
ॐ सह नाववतु । सह नौ भुनक्तु । सह वीर्यं करवावहै । तेजस्वि नावधीतमस्तु मा विद्विषावहै ॥ ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः ॥
Om Saha Navavatu, Saha Nau Bhunaktu, Saha Viryam Karavavahai, Tejasvi Navadhitam Astu Ma Vidvishavahai, Om Shantih Shantih Shantih
Regional Celebrations & Heritage
Diverse cultural and spiritual traditions across Bharat and worldwide
Senior high school students dress in formal attire and take over teaching junior classes for the day to understand the dedication, patience, and leadership required of teachers.
The President of India confers National Awards to meritorious primary and secondary school teachers from across the country for outstanding educational contributions.
Traditional Bhog & Sacred Offerings
Sacred food offerings prepared with devotion