Why Celebrate Teachers’ Day in Schools?

Quick Answer

Teachers’ Day is celebrated in schools to honour educators who shape students’ minds, instill values, and inspire lifelong learning. It is a day to pause, show gratitude, and recognise the dedication, patience, and impact of teachers on society and individual lives.

Quick Overview

Teachers’ Day is more than speeches, gifts, and performances; it’s a meaningful celebration of those who guide, mentor, and support students. In India, it is celebrated on September 5 to honour Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a philosopher, teacher, and former President. Globally, October 5 marks International Teachers’ Day, recognized by UNESCO. Schools celebrate through assemblies, cultural programs, creative student-led activities, and thoughtful gestures to express appreciation. Beyond fun events, the day highlights the role teachers play in shaping confidence, discipline, curiosity, and values in students.

Table of Contents

• What Is Teachers’ Day?
• History Behind Teachers’ Day
• Importance of Teachers’ Day in India
• Role of Teachers in Shaping Students’ Lives
• Celebration of Teachers’ Day in Schools
• Teachers’ Day Activities in Schools
• How Can We Celebrate Teachers’ Day?
• Best Gifts to Give Teachers on Teachers’ Day
• Inspirational Quotes for Teachers
• Cool Facts About Teachers in India
• Encouraging Participation
• Conclusion
• FAQ

Why celebrate Teachers’ Day at all? Is it just another day with speeches, gifts, and a few performances? Or is there something deeper behind it?

Think about it for a moment. Who was the first person outside your family who believed in you? Who corrected you when you were wrong, encouraged you when you felt low, and pushed you to do better even when you didn’t feel like it? In most cases, the answer is a teacher.

Teachers’ Day is not just about giving flowers or writing “Thank You” cards. It is about pausing our busy routines and asking ourselves a simple question: have we really appreciated the people who shaped our thinking, discipline, and confidence? Why do schools celebrate this day every year? Why do students eagerly wait for it? And why does this day still matter in today’s fast-changing world?

If you have ever wondered why we celebrate Teachers’ Day, how it started, and why it holds such a special place in schools across India, you’re in the right place. This blog will walk you through the meaning, history, importance, and joyful ways Teachers’ Day is celebrated with some interesting facts and ideas along the way.

So, before you move on to your next task, take a moment. Read on, and rediscover why this one day means so much to teachers, students, and schools alike.

What Is Teachers’ Day?

So, what exactly is Teachers’ Day, and why do we celebrate it?

Teachers’ Day is a special occasion dedicated to appreciating teachers for their dedication, patience, and the impact they have on students’ lives. It is a day to pause and say thank you to the people who guide us, support us, and help shape who we become  not just academically, but personally too.

In India, Teachers’ Day is celebrated every year on September 5th, in honour of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a great teacher, philosopher, and former President of India. On this day, schools and colleges conduct special assemblies, cultural programs, speeches, and fun activities where students often take charge to make their teachers feel valued.

At the same time, there is also International Teachers’ Day, celebrated globally on October 5th. This day is recognized by UNESCO to highlight the importance of teachers worldwide and to address issues related to teaching, education quality, and teachers’ rights.

Whether it is celebrated at a national or international level, the meaning remains the same: Teachers’ Day is about respect, gratitude, and recognizing the people who play a key role in shaping future generations.

History Behind Teachers’ Day

Have you ever wondered how Teachers’ Day started and why it is celebrated on different dates? In India, the history of Teachers’ Day is closely linked to Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. He was not only a great scholar and philosopher but also a teacher who truly believed that education shapes a nation. When his students wanted to celebrate his birthday, he humbly suggested that the day should instead be dedicated to all teachers. That’s how September 5 became Teachers’ Day in India.

On a global level, International Teachers’ Day is celebrated on October 5, following a UNESCO recommendation made in 1994. This day was created to recognise teachers’ rights, responsibilities, and their contribution to quality education worldwide. Over time, Teachers’ Day has grown from a simple tribute into a global reminder of how powerful and impactful teaching really is.

Importance of Teachers’ Day in India

Teachers’ Day in India is more than just a celebration; it is a moment to recognise the role teachers play in shaping students’ minds and futures. It reminds us to pause and appreciate the dedication, patience, and guidance teachers offer every day, often beyond classrooms.

Importance of Teachers’ Day:

• Recognises the efforts and dedication of teachers
• Encourages respect for the teaching profession
• Strengthens the relationship between teachers and students
• Promotes the importance of education in society
• Motivates teachers through appreciation and recognition
• Reminds students of the values taught by educators

Role of Teachers in Shaping Students’ Lives

Teachers play a much bigger role than just finishing the syllabus. They influence how students think, behave, and grow as individuals. Many life lessons students carry forward actually begin in classrooms.

Teachers help students by:

• Building confidence and self-belief
• Guiding them to identify their strengths
• Teaching discipline, values, and responsibility
• Encouraging curiosity and critical thinking
• Acting as mentors during difficult phases

For many students, a teacher becomes a role model long before any career choice is made.

Celebration of Teachers’ Day in India

In India, Teachers’ Day is celebrated on September 5, marking the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a great teacher and philosopher.

Common ways it is celebrated:

• Students conduct assemblies and programs
• Teachers are honoured with speeches and awards
• Cultural events like dance, music, and drama
• Students take up the role of teachers for a day
• Thank-you cards and messages are shared

The day reflects India’s deep respect for teachers.

Teachers’ Day Activities in Schools

Schools make Teachers’ Day special by involving students actively. These activities create joyful memories for both teachers and students.

Popular school activities include:

• Student-led morning assemblies
• “Student as Teacher” classroom sessions
• Cultural performances and skits
• Essay writing and speech competitions
• Thank-you note or greeting card making
• Teacher appreciation wall or board
  

Checkout Extracurricular activities for the school students: https://vishwankarschool.com/extra-curricular/ 

How Can We Celebrate Teachers’ Day?

Teachers’ Day doesn’t need big arrangements. Simple gestures often mean the most.

Easy ways to celebrate:

• Say a heartfelt “thank you”
• Write a personal appreciation note
• Organise a small class event
• Share gratitude messages on notice boards
• Respect and follow classroom values

Best Gifts to Give Teachers on Teachers’ Day

The best gifts are thoughtful, not expensive. Something meaningful always stands out.

Gift ideas teachers love:

• Handwritten letters or cards
• Customised mugs or pens
• Books or planners
• Indoor plants
• Student-made crafts or artwork
• A Special cake or treats
• Gift Vouchers

Inspirational Quotes for Teachers

“A good teacher can inspire hope, ignite imagination, and instill a love for learning.”

“Teachers plant the seeds of knowledge that grow forever.”

“Behind every successful student is a dedicated teacher.”

Cool Facts About Teachers in India

• The ancient Gurukul system in India is one of the earliest forms of structured education in the world.
• Many Indian teachers continue teaching even after retirement, purely out of passion for learning and sharing knowledge.
• Some of India’s most respected leaders, scientists, and entrepreneurs openly credit their school teachers for their success.
• Teachers in India often play multiple roles: mentor, counselor, role model, and guide, not just subject experts.
• In rural areas, teachers are often seen as community leaders, helping beyond classrooms.
• India has one of the largest education systems in the world, with millions of teachers shaping young minds every day.
• Teaching in India happens in over 20 languages, reflecting the country’s cultural diversity.
• Nearly 50% of India’s teachers are women, a huge rise compared to a few decades ago.
• Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan wrote 20+ books on philosophy, education, and Indian culture.
• These facts highlight how deeply teachers influence not just education, but India’s future itself.

Encouraging Participation

Teachers’ Day becomes more meaningful when every student participates.

Schools can encourage participation by:

• Giving students creative roles
• Allowing leadership opportunities
• Promoting teamwork across classes
• Appreciating effort, not perfection

Participation helps students build confidence and respect.

Conclusion

So, when was the last time you truly thanked a teacher who changed your life? Teachers’ Day gives us that moment to pause, reflect, and express gratitude. A small message, a simple activity, or a heartfelt gesture can mean more than we realise.Vishwankar Public Schools play a powerful role in making this day memorable by encouraging students to participate and celebrate together. This Teachers’ Day, let’s go beyond just wishing and create moments that teachers will remember forever.

Celebrate. Participate. Appreciate.

FAQ

1. Why do we celebrate Radhakrishnan’s birthday as Teachers’ Day?

To honour Dr. Radhakrishnan and recognise teachers’ role in nation building.

2. What are the special points of Teachers’ Day?

It celebrates teachers’ dedication, impact on students, and value of education.

3. Why do we celebrate Teachers’ Day on 5 October?

October 5 is World Teachers’ Day, recognised by UNESCO to honour educators.

4. What is the aim of Teachers’ Day?

To appreciate teachers and highlight their role in shaping future generations.

5. What is the main theme of Teachers’ Day?

Recognising teachers’ contribution to quality education and lifelong learning.