India is renowned for its contribution to education across the globe. Some of the most influential world leaders dating back from the pre-independence era were rooted here on Indian soil. All great leaders in India were also great teachers who imparted their wisdom to generations and showed the path ahead. Without this base of knowledge, India would never have made its mark on the world map. From Nobel laureates like Rabindranath Tagore to several inspiring leaders, Indian teachers continue to inspire teaching communities across the globe.
Chanakya
Let’s rewind back to the era which hosted stalwarts like Chanakya. A name etched in the minds of every economist, he was the guru who drafted India’s ‘Arthashastra’ in which he revealed the science of trade and the psychology of humans. He was renowned for his unmatched expertise in political science and economics. Not just a great economist, Chanakya contributed his insights to medicine and astronomy as well. He prioritized learning over material gains and showed the light towards educating oneself. He reiterated the fact that it is never too late to start learning.
Swami Vivekananda
A spiritual leader and reformer, Swami Vivekananda was a noteworthy educator. Swami Vivekananda established the importance of education in his speeches around the globe. He motivated youth to build physical and mental strength as he believed in their power to make reforms in the society. Swami Vivekananda encouraged ideas. His famous quote follows the same principle: “Take up one idea. Make that one idea your life – think of it, dream of it, live on that idea.”
Gautama Buddha
Renowned the world over for his life teachings, this ancient philosopher is a role model for teachers till date. His persistence towards seeking knowledge and being a learner throughout life is noteworthy. He is also a role model for his quality of patience and composure which are the ideal qualities of a good teacher. In his teachings, he encouraged people to tap into their curiosity and seek knowledge. He motivated people to become learners for life.
Dr. Radhakrishnan
India’s most memorable teacher whose birth anniversary is celebrated as ‘Teacher’s Day’ contributed significantly to education. He served as a guiding force for teachers all over the world. He encouraged education to be viewed beyond the boundaries of academics. With meaningful insights, he valued education as a contribution to humanity. One of the most significant learnings that he gave was a shift in perspective towards teaching. He imparted the knowledge that teaching and education go beyond academics and professional goals.
Dr.APJ Abdul Kalam
The man who revolutionized India’s space mission, Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam, was first and foremost an exemplary teacher. He believed strongly in the power of knowledge and highlighted the same in his autobiography ‘Wings of Fire’. He encouraged students to innovate and create from scratch. He made teachers realize their true responsibility towards shaping the nation’s future. His vision is still an inspiration to millions of teachers across the globe.
Rabindranath Tagore
A poet, philanthropist and a reformer, Rabindranath Tagore portrayed the power of the pen to the world. His book titled ‘Nationalism’, a compilation of his speeches from the first world war and the Swadeshi movement, is a classic. He highlighted the need for moral and spiritual growth for the welfare of humans. A quote by Tagore inspires teachers even today: “The main objective of teaching is not to give explanations, but to knock at the doors of the mind.” Tagore believed in the ‘gurukul’ system of education and reinvented the same. He believed education to be a connecting link between India and the world.
Teaching as a profession has gone through several transformations from the blackboard to an online teaching app. The education system in India may have evolved over the years but the principles of teaching are etched in gold. With a golden treasure of eminent world educators, India continues to progress with its rich educational heritage today.
