5 Iconic Teacher’s In The Indian History
India has been a haven of knowledge and wisdom. Since, time immortal, teaching has been one of the noblest and enriching professions where a teacher shapes the calibre, ignite the imagination, instil a love for learning, and brightens the future of an individual. Indian history has been blessed to witness iconic teachers who have made a mark for themselves by contributing to intellectual, social, and spiritual levels. They have transformed lives, open horizons of great possibilities, bought intellectual revolutions and pushed India to newer heights. Of all the noble souls, we remember famous five, this Teacher’s Day.
1. Valmiki
The Indian history revered Valmiki as the Adi Kavi (first poet) for writing the epic Ramayana. Ramayana, written by Valmiki is composed of 24000 shlokas, and 7 kandas, including Uttara Kanda. It is consists of 480002 words. By penning down Ramayana, Valmiki imparts to the human population the invaluable teachings of loving and respecting your family, the importance of siblings relationship, differentiating between right and wrong, and the most important lesson of the victory of good over evil.
2. Guru Dronacharya
The epic Mahabharata states that Dronacharya was the guru of Kauravas and Pandavas. He was the master of advanced military arts, including Astras. Therefore, he was appointed by the princes’ great grandfather, Bheeshmapitahmah to educate them about archery and warfare. Legends state that Arjun was Guru Dronacharya’s favoured pupil because he was the most dedicated, hardworking, and naturally talented. Arjun surpassed Drona’s expectations in many challenges. And, he paid his homage by assiduously serving his teacher, Dronacharya.
3. Chanakya
Chanakya, also popularly known as Kautilya was an Indian teacher, philosopher, jurist and royal advisor to king Chandragupta Maurya of Magadha Empire. In the history of the world, he is the best teacher and strategist to be born and raised in the soil of India. He wrote two books, namely ‘Arthashastra’ and ‘Neetishastra’(called as Chanakya Niti) are highly regarded in the field of Economics and Politics. These books discuss monetary and fiscal policies, welfare and international relations, and strategies of war in details.
4. Savitribhai Phule:
Savitribhai Phule is one of the greatest icons of social reforms in India. She along with her husband Jyotirao Phule pioneered the cause of girl education in India, and in 1948 founded the country’s first girl school in Pune which was a revolutionary step in the Indian education. She was also a noted poet. She has fought extensively of the rights of the girls and women bringing about a progressive change at both educational and social front. Therefore, history remembers her as an inspiring teacher and a great soul!
5. Rabindranath Tagore:
Tagore is a noted Indian poet and teacher. He is well known for his scholar-like excellence. Home educated, he advocated learning by activities as a map to develop the physical and mental capabilities of a child. His methods include teachings through tours and trips, narrations, debates, discussions, heuristic method, etc. It can be said he was a staunch believer and promotor of outdoor and practical teachings. The educational development of children was close to his heart.
Even in the present times, their work continues to inspire millions. The knowledge and wisdom of these 5 great teachers have paved the way for educated India.
