Why is Teachers Day Celebrated on September 5 in India?

India marks National Teachers’ Day on September 5th to remember the birth of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Radhakrishna was India’s second President and a lifelong educator. 

On this day in 2026 President Droupadi Murmu will give the National Teachers’ Award to 48 school teachers at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. The Ministry of Education acknowledges these teachers through a three-step selection process at the district, state, and national levels. 

Games, plays, and mock lessons are generally organized by students in schools on National Teachers' Day. However, the national celebration revolves around honoring teachers that help create a conducive classroom environment.

Why Do We Celebrate Teachers Day on September 5th? The Story of Dr. Radhakrishnan

The decision to observe Teachers' Day on September 5 was made in 1962 after Dr. Radhakrishnan had become the President of India. Some of his old students had come to pay their respects and requested him that his birthday be celebrated as a festival.

Instead of taking the credit Radhakrishnan asked them to use September 5th to show respect to all teachers across the country.

Before entering politics Radhakrishnan worked as a professor at Madras Presidency College, Mysore University, and Calcutta University. He also headed Andhra University and Banaras Hindu University. 

Education according to Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan goes beyond books and examinations. The information that is acquired outside books enables individuals to think independently, he says.

Biographical Timeline of Dr. Radhakrishnan 

• 1888: Born on September 5 in Tirutani, Tamil Nadu

• 1948: Headed the University Education Commission

• 1958: Indian Government started National Teachers' Awards

• 1962: First Teachers' Day celebrated in India

• 1975: Passed away on April 17

National Teachers Day vs. World Teachers Day

Many people mix up India’s celebration with the global Teachers Day event. But they take place on different days for different reasons.

India focuses on Dr. Radhakrishnan's life on September 5 while World Teachers' Day on October 5 looks at pay, safety, and training for teachers globally.