In India, every month has a special occasion and September always remains special for kids because of Teachers Day. A day no less than a festival and the preparations start almost a month ahead. Teacher’s Day as we all know is celebrated in the memory of our second President of India, Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan. Born on 5^th of September 1888, he was a philosopher, academic and a statesman who believed that “teachers should be the best minds in the country”. Honouring him and his noble thought, since 1962, his birthday is celebrated as Teacher’s Day in India. This day is celebrated to thank the teachers for all their contributions, hard work, love for children and most importantly their passion for teaching. The bond between teachers and their students is really special and thus, this day is important for both.

There are children in every school who may not be quite popular as students, and needless to say that every teacher is equally loved and respected, however, one thing they know is each one of them has a favourite teacher and likewise every teacher has a favourite student. The way kids are excited to make this day special for teachers, even the teachers wait eagerly to see what they have in store. Teacher’s Day always has been like a part of the festive season in our country. Going to school, especially during the pre Teacher’s Day phase becomes even more exciting because apart from studies, there’s always  something else happening which seems extremely exciting. Sometimes even the teachers with the help of few senior students, generally take up most of the responsibilities of the celebrations in school right from deciding the performances to choosing the actors, auditioning them, managing rehearsals while making sure the classes are not hampered, decorations, etc and honestly, managing all such activities so meticulously is nothing less than any corporate strategic management. Sometimes, on one hand there are students who are quite versatile, generally put up a very good show and on the other hand, we come across a different lot who are quite shy or the naughtiest put up some real surprises which remain as sweet memories throughout everyone’s lifetimes. This is also one reason that everyone waits eagerly for Teacher’s Day because it is that day when we get to understand clearly that for the teachers, everyone is the same as they consistently encourage inclusion of every child, no matter how shy, naughty, unpopular or talented one could be.

Students also love to gift something to teachers every year. After all, this is a day when every teacher seems even more special to each and every child. This generation is quite fortunate today as it has an advantage of interacting with their teachers by being friends on various social networking platforms and can share mutual admirations & gestures of gratitude, unlike the previous generations where there wasn’t enough scope except discussing studies, projects, etc. Sometimes students with whatever limited money that they have decide to buy either cards or gifts. But the joy of making own cards always remains special and will continue to be a seamless excitement. Interestingly, the amount of colours and decoration is directly proportional to the amount of love for teachers. We still see this enthusiasm among kids as they get into their best creative modes and make something on their own. They would buy small showpieces, pens or a diary for their teachers and the least would be chocolates or flowers in case if they don’t have enough.

Finally it’s Teacher’s day, and there is happiness in every face and the students are all excited to wish the teachers. The teachers on the other hand, would come dressed in their best attires; and honestly they too love to look composed & best dressed for this auspicious day. Usually, the event starts with a short welcome speech followed by a song or dance performance. There are some zealous performances by students followed by speeches from few teachers sharing their experiences and stories. Teachers sometimes come up with some amazing speeches where they share their lighter sides with some of their own funny experiences of life, thereby making the event more lively & vibrant.

The celebration of any relation is not limited to a specific day. Teachers play an important role in all our lives; be it in schools, colleges or any other institution. Just like our parents, they are also the ones who take the responsibility of showing us the right path to move ahead in life. They become our idols; the way they talk, dress up, behave and present themselves, their tastes, etc, everything influences us and helps us mould our personalities towards the reformation of a better human being. We should be thankful to them for all their untiring efforts and celebrate this bond…not just on 5^th September, but every possible moment of our lives. We would feel extremely happy & blessed if after reading this, we somehow try to surprise our good old teachers by connecting with them and just slowly whisper and wish “Happy Teacher’s Day” to bring that same loving smile back on their faces. May God bless us all and make this world an even better place to stay, Amen!!

Published by SFS Narengi