Dharmendra Pradhan
The Guru-Shishya relationship has long been a cornerstone of Bharat’s pursuit of knowledge and excellence. Its profound significance is illustrated by the fact that even divine figures like Lord Ram and Lord Krishna sought the guidance of their Gurus—Maharishi Vasishtha and Maharishi Sandipani, respectively, during Treta Yuga and Dvapar Yuga. This tradition highlights the sacred and indispensable role of teachers in our society.
From ancient times, educators in India have nurtured a deep tradition of mentorship, guiding students on their journey to enlightenment. Throughout India’s rich history, teachers have held a central, revered position, recognized for their ability to transform lives. Swami Vivekananda famously said, “Education is the manifestation of the perfection already in man,” underscoring the belief that teachers do not merely impart knowledge; they awaken the latent greatness within each student, steering them toward self-realization.
The impact of a teacher is both subtle and profound, often extending far beyond what they may ever realize. As one scholar put it, “A teacher affects eternity; she can never tell where her influence stops.” Teachers shape not only the minds but also the hearts and souls of their students, instilling values, ethics, and a sense of purpose that endures long after formal education has ended.
Today, as we celebrate Teacher’s Day on the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, we are reminded of the profound contributions of our teachers towards nation building. Dr. Radhakrishnan, a philosopher, scholar, and statesman, deeply believed that "teachers should be the best minds in the country." No one can possibly disagree with him. His dedication to education and his belief in the power of teachers to shape society are ideals that continue to inspire us today.
We stand at the precipice of a transformative era in education, driven by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This policy recognizes teachers as 'Transformers', emphasizing their crucial role in shaping children's futures as also the nation. It unfolds profound changes in teaching, learning, and educational administration. The emphasis of NEP on flexible learning, interdisciplinary knowledge, multilingualism, technology, and inclusivity heralds a new chapter in the learning ecosystem. Today, teachers are called upon to focus on the holistic development of students ensuring their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive well-being. For teachers, this is an onerous responsibility.
The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi through his "Pariksha pe Charcha" programme exemplifies the essence of a true educator. Like a teacher, he engages with the students offering valuable insights on managing stress and navigating life's complexities. "Pariksha Pe Charcha" is a movement championed by Prime Minister Modi to unite students, parents, teachers, and the broader community creating an environment where every child's unique individuality is celebrated, nurtured, and allowed to flourish.
The NEP 2020, with its emphasis on experiential learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving, underscores the need for a new kind of educator—one who is adaptable, innovative, and deeply committed to the holistic development of their students. This policy is a call to action for all stakeholders in education to invest in the professional growth of teachers, ensuring they are equipped to meet the challenges of the future.
While competition in educational pursuit is necessary, an overemphasis on it is invariably counter-productive. Teachers can well guide their students to follow the tenets of healthy competition and desist from any kind of temptations and allurements. It is the responsibility of teachers to instil in students not just academic excellence but also strength of character, ethics, perseverance, passion, and motivation. These qualities are the anchors that help students navigate not just exams, but the broader challenges of life.
In today’s world, where commercialization often threatens the purity of education, we must be cognizant of the inherent strength of the Guru-Shishya Parampara. This ancient tradition of mutual trust and respect between teacher and student has evolved over time, but its essence remains the same even today. New educational practices can and should blend with these timeless values to create a harmonious and effective learning environment.
As the saying goes, "No printed word, nor spoken plea, can teach young minds what they should be. None of the books are on the shelves. But what the teachers are themselves." Teachers, through their own lives and examples, teach us the most valuable lessons, that go beyond the classroom and shape who we are as individuals. The task of realising the vision of a Viksit Bharat greatly hinges on the shoulders of our teachers.
In conclusion, the legacy of the Guru-Shishya tradition is not just a relic of the past but a living, breathing philosophy that continues to guide us today. As we navigate the complexities of the modern world, the wisdom of our teachers remains a beacon of light illuminating the path to a brighter, more enlightened future. On this Teacher’s Day, I extend my heartfelt thanks and profound gratitude to all the teachers who have touched my life. Your influence is immeasurable and your impact eternal. May we continue to honour and support the teachers who are the true guardians of our future. Happy Teacher’s Day!
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