Teachers' Day
Next: September 5, 2027
For the ones who explained it twice.
The story
Where it comes from
India celebrates Teachers' Day on 5 September, the birthday of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan (1888–1975), philosopher, professor and the country's second President. When students asked to celebrate his birthday in 1962, he suggested the day be observed instead in honour of all teachers.
How it's celebrated
Students take over the classroom for the day in many schools, teaching the younger classes while their teachers watch; there are speeches, performances, cards and small gifts. Awards for outstanding teachers are presented by the President of India.
Did you know
- Radhakrishnan taught at Mysore, Calcutta and Oxford, where he held the Spalding Chair of Eastern Religions and Ethics.
- Many countries have their own Teachers' Day, most tied to a national figure or event; World Teachers' Day on 5 October is the UNESCO observance shared by all.
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