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Teachers’ Day 2026: Why we celebrate 5 September and the story behind it

Teachers' Day is a special occasion dedicated to honouring teachers and recognising their invaluable contribution to society. Teachers are not only educators who impart knowledge but also mentors, guides, and role models who inspire students to become better human beings
Published By : Bratati Baral | September 5, 2026 7:39 AM
Teachers’ Day 2026: Why we celebrate 5 September and the story behind it

Bhubaneswar, September 5: Teachers' Day is a special occasion dedicated to honouring teachers and recognising their invaluable contribution to society. Teachers are not only educators who impart knowledge but also mentors, guides, and role models who inspire students to become better human beings. They help us discover our talents, overcome our weaknesses, and build confidence for the future.

History of Teachers' Day in India

In India, Teachers' Day is celebrated every year on 5 September, the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, a distinguished philosopher, scholar, teacher, and the second President of India.

When Dr. Radhakrishnan's students and admirers wanted to celebrate his birthday, he suggested that the day should instead be observed as Teachers' Day to honour teachers across the country. Since then, 5 September has been celebrated as Teachers' Day in India.

The day reminds us of Dr. Radhakrishnan's belief in the importance of education and the vital role teachers play in shaping the future of a nation.

Significance of Teachers' Day

Teachers' Day gives students an opportunity to express their gratitude and respect towards their teachers. A good teacher does much more than teach lessons from textbooks. They encourage curiosity, teach discipline and values, motivate us during difficult times, and help us believe in ourselves.

Teachers play an important role in shaping the character and future of their students. Their patience, dedication, and guidance often leave a lasting impression on our lives.

Schools and colleges celebrate Teachers' Day through cultural programmes, speeches, cards, gifts, performances, and other activities. These celebrations make teachers feel appreciated and remind students to value the people who contribute to their growth.

Special quotes for a favourite teacher

“A great teacher can inspire hope, ignite imagination, and instil a love of learning.”

“You taught me lessons beyond the classroom—lessons about courage, kindness, and believing in myself.”

“A favourite teacher is not just someone who teaches a subject, but someone who leaves a beautiful lesson in our hearts.”

“Thank you for turning mistakes into lessons, challenges into opportunities, and dreams into possibilities.”

“Your words may have been part of a lesson, but your encouragement became a part of who I am.”

“Some teachers teach from books; the best teachers teach from the heart.”

“You believed in me even when I doubted myself. That is something I will always remember.”

“Dear teacher, your guidance has been my light, your encouragement my strength, and your lessons my inspiration.”

Teachers' Day is more than just a celebration—it is a reminder of the profound impact teachers have on our lives. We may forget some lessons from our textbooks, but we rarely forget a teacher who believed in us, encouraged us, and helped us grow. On this special day, let us thank all our teachers for their patience, wisdom, kindness, and dedication.

Happy Teachers' Day to all the wonderful teachers who inspire us to learn, dream, and become the best version of ourselves!