Gurur brahma, gurur Vishnu, gurur devo Maheshwara, gurur sakshat param brahma, tasmai shri gurave namah. These ancient verses emphasise that a teacher is equivalent to the divine trinity, highlighting the pivotal role educators play in shaping us as successful individuals. Teachers are the architects of our future, sculpting not just our minds but also our characters.
As we celebrate Teacher’s Day, it’s essential to recognise that teachers come in various forms, not just within classroom walls. From parents nurturing their children to mentors guiding their proteges and even life experiences acting as silent instructors, the wisdom we learn from diverse sources enriches our journey. Let us explore the profound impact teachers have had on individuals from different walks of life.
‘Owe immense gratitude to all who shaped my journey’
VVS Laxman, former Team India cricketer, director, National Cricket Academy
I have been fortunate to receive guidance and inspiration from key individuals who profoundly shaped my journey. My parents, unwavering pillars of support, instilled a strong foundation for excellence from an early age. My maternal uncle, Babakrishna Mohan, emerged as a significant mentor, skillfully guiding me toward self-discovery and recognising my potential.
In the realm of education and sports, dedicated educators and coaches fuelled my ambitions. The St. John’s Cricket Foundation played an indispensable role, providing invaluable guidance. Representing Hyderabad in cricket at a young age, I owe immense gratitude to the exceptional coaches at HCA who diligently honed my skills. Amid academic pursuits, one teacher stands out: Jay Prakash, our PT instructor at Little Flower High School. His unwavering encouragement spurred my passion for cricket, despite our school's academic focus.
My uncle, along with devoted coaches, unlocked my potential and honed my game, crucial during my transition to a cricketing career.
Yet, my most cherished memory revolves around the unwavering support and freedom my parents offered, especially in the early 1990s when a cricket career was uncertain. My parents imparted a crucial lesson: glorify one’s profession through actions, not seek personal glory.”
Jayesh Ranjan, Principal Secretary for Information Technology, Electronics & Communications (ITE&C) and Industries & Commerce Departments of Government of Telangana
The teacher whom I remember and admire the most was my kindergarten teacher. She was a British woman, her name was Mrs. Crabbe. What stands out in my memory is the way she taught us, tiny tots, with so much vigour and enthusiasm. When teaching us a rhyme, she wouldn’t simply read it out, instead, she enacted it, sang loudly, and expressed herself fully — she didn’t have to go to such lengths. But she created a joyful learning environment.”
Fond memories
Pragnya Chigurupati, breast oncologist
Teachers’ Day used to be a significant event for us during school when we raided the rose stands the night before. We used to compete to give the maximum number of roses to teachers! Half of my pocket money was be spent on it. In the 6th grade, I remember being asked to talk about my favourite teacher during Assembly. I chose a teacher who was substituting for another English teacher. I was so fond of her that I went to great lengths to obtain her phone number. During the speech, I shared her number and encouraged all students to call her when they had doubts. Not only was she shocked, but she eventually had to change her phone number. She never returned to that school again!”
‘My father, my guiding light’
Priyanka Aelay, artist
My favourite teacher is my father, Laxman Aelay. We share the same career and workspace. He serves as both my teacher and advisor. In his role as a teacher, he would provide guidance on what is right and wrong but always allowed me to make my own decisions. We have created numerous memories together, and his advice continues to be my guiding light.”
My music teacher was my favourite
HARINI RAO, singer
I’ve always had great relationships with my teachers. My favourite and longest-lasting connection was with my music teacher, Swati Phadkeji, who tragically succumbed to COVID two years ago. I practically grew up in her house, and she not only guided us in the intricacies of music but also imparted invaluable life lessons.”
