On Teachers’ Day, we take a look at 10 Indians who’ve inspired generations

Sep 5, 2023

By: Anagh Pal

Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan

Teachers’ Day is celebrated on September 5, on the birthday of Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, to honour his role in education. India's former President and philosopher believed that "teachers should be the best minds in the country".

Credit: BCCL

Savitribai Phule

Savitribai Phule, a pioneering figure, was an Indian educator, social reformer She made significant contributions to advancing women's rights in India and is hailed as a pioneer in Indian feminism.

Credit: BCCL

Rabindranath Tagore

Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, was not only a celebrated author and philosopher, but a great teacher who revolutionised education and promoted cultural exchange. For this, he even founded a public central university called Visva-Bharati in Santiniketan, West Bengal.

Credit: BCCL

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, known as the "Missile Man of India," was not only a brilliant scientist but also a great teacher who “Ignited Minds” of young Indians and taught them to reach for the stars.

Credit: BCCL

Chanakya

Chanakya (350-275 BCE), an ancient Indian scholar and strategist, assisted the first Mauryan emperor Chandragupta in his rise to power, was a remarkable teacher whose wisdom in economics, politics, and statecraft continues to inspire and guide leaders and learners to this day.

Credit: BCCL

Adi Shankaracharya

Adi Shankaracharya, an Indian philosopher who lived during 8th century AD, was a revered teacher who profoundly influenced Advaita Vedanta and revitalised Vedic traditions, leaving a lasting impact on spirituality and philosophy across ages.

Credit: BCCL

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar

Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar, a revered educator and social reformer who gained recognition for his work in simplifying and modernising Bengali prose, notably through his influential creation, "Barnaparichay."

Credit: BCCL

Bal Gangadhar Tilak

Balgangadhar Tilak, an eminent Indian nationalist and educator, inspired generations with his teachings, fostering patriotism and advocating educational reform during the freedom struggle.

Credit: BCCL

Madan Mohan Malviya

Madan Mohan Malaviya, a prominent Indian educationist and freedom fighter, was a great teacher who founded the Banaras Hindu University, contributing significantly to education and nation-building.

Credit: BCCL

Anand Kumar

Anand Kumar, a mathematician and educator, founded the Super 30 program, transforming the lives of underprivileged students by providing them with high-quality maths education and opportunities for a brighter future.

Credit: Wikipedia

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