Teachers’ Day is more than an annual celebration—it is an opportunity to acknowledge the educators whose guidance, patience and wisdom leave a lasting impression on generations of students.
Across India, September 5 is observed as Teachers’ Day every year. Schools, colleges and educational institutions organise special programmes to honour teachers, with students taking part in cultural performances, games, speeches and other activities. In several institutions, senior students also take over teaching responsibilities for a day, creating a symbolic role reversal between teachers and students.
Students in many schools also recreate the mannerisms of their teachers in a light-hearted and respectful way, making the occasion both memorable and entertaining.
Why September 5 Is Celebrated as Teachers’ Day
The date has a special connection with Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, renowned philosopher, educationist and the second President of India. Born on September 5, 1888, Radhakrishnan devoted a substantial part of his life to education and philosophy.
The tradition of observing his birthday as Teachers’ Day began in 1962. When his students and admirers proposed celebrating his birthday, Radhakrishnan suggested that the occasion should instead be dedicated to teachers and the teaching profession.
Radhakrishnan taught philosophy at several institutions and served as Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University and Banaras Hindu University. He subsequently became India’s first Vice-President and later the country’s second President.
September 5, 2026, also comes during the 51st anniversary year of his death. Radhakrishnan passed away on April 17, 1975.
Messages of Gratitude from Odisha
On the occasion, people from different walks of life—including public representatives, administrators, police officers, writers and social workers—shared messages remembering the teachers and mentors who influenced their lives.
Dr Satyajit Nayak, IPS:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the mentor whose knowledge and kindness helped shape my life.”
Dr Rabindra Behera, MP, Jajpur:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher who guided me whenever I felt lost and helped me find the right direction.”
Priti Ranjan Ghadei, former Minister:
“Your lessons continue to live in my heart and influence the person I have become. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Amar Kumar Nayak, MLA, Barchana:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher whose patience helped build my confidence and encouraged me to believe in myself.”
Akash Das Nayak, MLA, Korei:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher whose patience and guidance gave me confidence at every step.”
Himanshu Sekhar Sahoo, MLA, Dharmasala:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher who gave me the courage to dream and the confidence to pursue those dreams.”
Manoj Mohapatra, BJP Odisha spokesperson:
“You were the light that brightened my path and helped me move forward. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Writer Taraprasad Mishra:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher who helped me recognise my own potential.”
Dr Suresh Chandra Dalei, IAS:
“Happy Teachers’ Day! Thank you for being a wonderful guide and an inspiration.”
Amber Kumar Kar, Collector, Jajpur:
“Happy Teachers’ Day! I may have forgotten some of my school lessons, but I have never forgotten the teacher who taught them.”
Yashpratap Shrimal, SP, Jajpur:
“Wishing you a very happy Teachers’ Day. Your work may happen inside a classroom, but its influence reaches far beyond it.”
Ajay Kumar Behera, Government Officer:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher whose words stayed with me long after the school bell stopped ringing.”
Dr Ratnakar Dalei:
“Happy Teachers’ Day! I hope you know how many students continue to carry a piece of your advice with them.”
Er Komal Kumar Swain:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher who taught me how to turn challenges into achievements.”
Writer Jayaprakash Nayak:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher who always believed in me, even when I doubted myself.”
Manas Kumar Tripathy, OAS Officer:
“You gave me much more than academic knowledge—you gave me values that continue to guide my life. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Samir Ranjan Das, Tehsildar:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher whose lessons have become lifelong treasures.”
Rasmita Naik, Social Worker:
“Happy Teachers’ Day to the teacher who taught with compassion and touched lives beyond textbooks.”
Sarat Chandra Patra, Police Officer:
“To the teacher who inspired and encouraged every student equally, heartfelt wishes on Teachers’ Day.”
Ranjit Kumar Mohanty, Police Officer:
“A teacher holds a hand, opens a mind and touches a heart. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Tapan Kumar Nayak, Police Officer:
“The influence of a dedicated teacher never truly disappears. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Rakesh Kumar Tripathy, Police Officer:
“Teachers sow the seeds of knowledge that continue to grow throughout a lifetime. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Sushanta Kumar Sethy, Police Officer:
“Great teachers inspire us, challenge us and give us the confidence to achieve more. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Chinmayee Sahoo, Police Officer:
“Teachers have the power to transform lives by combining knowledge, encouragement and meaningful challenges. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Anshumala Das, Police Officer:
“A teacher is a compass that awakens curiosity and guides us towards wisdom. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Zahar Abeddin, Police Officer:
“Teachers are among the silent architects who help build a stronger and more enlightened society. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Pratap Kumar Debata, Police Officer:
“Behind the success of many students stands a teacher who believed in their ability to succeed. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Pramod Kumar Kabi, Social Worker:
“Thank you for caring, guiding and supporting me like a member of your own family. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Sanjeeb Kumar Jena, Social Worker:
“Teachers sow the seeds of knowledge that continue to bear fruit throughout life. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Abhisek Rout, Youth Leader:
“Great teachers inspire, challenge and empower their students to become better versions of themselves. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Dr Nihar Ranjan Kar:
“Education has the power to transform individuals and society. On Teachers’ Day, we honour those who dedicate their lives to that transformation.”
Gyanaranjan Mohapatra, Social Worker:
“A teacher is a compass that encourages curiosity, builds confidence and guides students towards wisdom. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Sasmita Behera, Social Worker:
“Teachers quietly shape the future of society by nurturing knowledge, character and confidence. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Sudhansu Bhanja, Social Worker:
“The finest teachers do not simply provide answers; they encourage students to observe, question and discover for themselves. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Gyanaranjan Sahoo, Social Worker:
“Good teachers recognise the potential in every student and know how to bring out the very best in them. Happy Teachers’ Day.”
Teachers’ Day serves as a reminder that education extends far beyond textbooks and examinations. The lessons imparted by a dedicated teacher often remain with students throughout their lives, influencing their choices, character and contribution to society.