New Delhi: Every year, September 5 brings back a familiar scene across India students preparing cards, schools organising special programmes and former students reaching out to teachers they still remember. But behind all the celebrations is a much bigger idea the people who teach us often leave a mark on our lives long after we leave the classroom.
India celebrates Teachers Day on September 5 to remember Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the country’s second President and a renowned philosopher, scholar and teacher. Born on September 5, 1888, Radhakrishnan believed strongly in the importance of education and the role teachers play in building society.
Teachers Day is also being marked nationally this year by recognising educators for their contribution to education. The National Teachers Awards 2026 are honouring school teachers for their dedication, innovative teaching practices and efforts to improve the learning experience of students.
But Teachers Day is not really about awards.
For many people, it brings back memories of a particular teacher the one who encouraged them when they were struggling, explained a difficult subject one more time, or simply believed in them when they did not believe in themselves.
Why Is Teachers Day Celebrated On September 5?
The answer goes back to Radhakrishnan’s birthday. He was born in 1888 and went on to have a distinguished career in education and philosophy before serving as India’s first Vice President and later its second President.
There is a popular account behind the September 5 tradition. When some of his students and admirers wanted to celebrate his birthday, Radhakrishnan reportedly suggested that the day should instead be observed as Teachers Day. The gesture reflected the value he placed on teachers and education.
India has continued the tradition ever since.
A Teacher’s Job Has Changed
Teaching today is very different from what it was decades ago. Classrooms have smartphones, digital learning platforms and artificial intelligence, while students have access to more information than ever before.
Yet, information alone cannot replace a good teacher.
A teacher helps a student understand what matters, asks the right questions and, sometimes, provides the confidence needed to take the next step. In an age when technology can provide an answer within seconds, that human connection matters even more.
That is perhaps the real meaning of Teachers Day 2026. It is a day to say thank you not only to the teachers standing in classrooms today, but also to those whose lessons continue to stay with us years later.
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