Teachers' Day marks the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan - the first Vice-President and the second President of India. He was a great philosopher and scholar. He was awarded Bharat Ratna, the highest civilian award in India, in 1954 and honorary membership of the British Royal Order of Merit in 1963.

Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan was born on September 5, 1888, in the Madras Presidency. A renowned teacher, Dr Radhakrishnan served as a professor at prestigious institutions like the University of Calcutta and Oxford University. He was also a prolific writer and promoted intercultural understanding through his lectures across the US and Europe.

When Dr Radhakrishnan became the President of India in 1962, he was visited by a few students with a request to celebrate his birthday on September 5. However, he suggested that the students dedicate the day to teachers. Thus, September 5 started being observed as Teachers' Day in India.