History behind Celebrating Teachers Day
Dr Radhakrishnan was the first Vice President of India (1952тАУ1962) and went on to become the second President of India (1962-1967). He was born in the erstwhile Madras Presidency near the Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu border. Being a bright student, he completed his education by winning scholarships, despite lack of finances. After completing his MA in Philosophy in 1908, Dr Radhakrishnan taught the subject at Madras Presidency College. He then held the post of Vice-Chancellor of Andhra University from 1931 to 1936, followed by Vice-Chancellor of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1939, succeeding Madan Mohan Malviya.
Radhakrishnan was awarded several high awards during his life, including a knighthood in 1931, the Bharat Ratna , the highest civilian award in India, in 1954, and honorary membership of the British Royal Order Of Merit in 1963. He was also one of the founders of Helpage India, a non profit organisation for elderly underprivileged in India. Sarvepalli believed that "teachers should be the best minds in the country". When Sarvepalli became the President of India, some of his students and friends requested him to allow them to celebrate his birthday, on 5 September. He replied,Instead of celebrating my birthday, it would be my proud privilege if September 5th is observed as Teachers' Day. His birthday has since been celebrated as Teacher's Day in India.