The light that gives: Lessons in teaching

In India, we celebrate Teachers’ Day on September 5th, marking the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan – a philosopher, scholar, and former President of India whose life was itself a lesson in learning and humility. But beyond dates and dignitaries, this day is really about pausing to acknowledge the quiet, persistent power of teaching.

In Indian tradition, the word “teacher” is not a single definition – it is a constellation. Be it Guru, Acharya, or Upadhyaya, they awaken the light in a student in different ways. And beyond them, the world itself becomes a teacher – through nature, experiences, companions, even silence. Each role carries its own sacred thread in the fabric of learning.

Teaching, after all, is not everyone’s cup of tea. It demands more than knowledge – it asks for patience, empathy, discipline, and the courage to grow alongside the student. Good teachers don’t teach for recognition – they light the path so fully that their brilliance lives on in their students. In the way a lamp disappears into its own flame, the teacher’s light is seen in the life of the one who learns. And such a teacher is always remembered.

This poem is a tribute – not just to my father and mother, who have been my first and most enduring teachers, but to every person, mentor, moment, and element that has helped shape me. From books to birds, from hardships to hopes, I believe the world is a vast and patient teacher – if only we choose to learn.

To My Teachers

A teacher shines through word and deed,
A guru sows the deepest seed.
Forever grateful, I remain,
My father’s lessons flow through every vein.

His silence speaks, his actions guide,
With gentle strength he walks beside.
If I become even a shade of his hue,
My heart will count that dream come true.

My mother taught with tireless grace,
A shining light, a warm embrace.
She built my world with steady hand,
And helped my spirit learn to stand.

Though books were foreign, tasks were new,
She walked each path until I flew.
Her love became my guiding art,
Her lessons live within my heart.

Grateful for all the teachers,
Who have been and are inspirations,
Pushing me to do better,
My hardwork trend setters.

Teachers dwell in all that exists,
Everywhere knowledge persists.
Thank the sun, embrace the rain,
Read a book, set your mind free.

With love I bow, on this day,
May every teacher’s light never fade away.

-R. Priya

Be Priyafied!