Teachers: The Transcendental Beings

Today is Guru Pournima, an auspicious occasion of the Hindu Tradition. In Sanskrit, the Guru is more than a teacher, someone who helps mold values, shares experiential knowledge as much as literal knowledge. The following verse gives a more comprehensive understanding:

गुशब्दस्त्वन्धकारः स्यात्‌ रुशब्दस्तन्निरोधकः। अन्धकारनिरोधित्वात्‌ गुरुरित्यभिधीयते॥ The syllable gu means darkness, the syllable ru, he who dispels them, Because of the power to dispel darkness, the guru is thus named.

— Advayataraka Upanishad, Verse 16

I think the above verse beautifully encompasses what every teacher should strive to be. The one who "dispels the darkness of ignorance." It gives the word Guru a very powerful, almost reverential status. And I think every sincere teacher deserves that.

Teaching is the profession which is a prerequisite for all other professions to exist. It transforms a multitude of tiny blobs of ignorance into self reliant individuals thus furthering the progress of civilization itself.

Take a moment to think how integral your teachers have been to the nature of your existence today. It will go a long way in stripping off any sense of pride you hold about your successes. Teachers deserve all the respect they get and much more! Today I share with you a poetic tribute to my Xth Grade tuition teacher which I had composed during our farewell. She is one of the most intimidating mentors I have ever had. But I now understand that a true teacher (Guru) will do what is needed, regardless of how it makes you feel. Under her guidance, I went on to become the only student to score a perfect 100 in Mathematics and Science in Goa's SSCE 2012 (Xth Grade Exam). Thus, I shall forever remain indebted to her!

"Dear Teacher,

This is our debt of gratitude,

For improving our aptitude!

Your teaching full of verve and vitality,

Has made our success a reality!

Maths and Science have become a recreation,

Because of your persistent elucidation!

You have accepted all our mischiefs,

Often joining in our humour and grins!

Your efforts have shown your fortitude,

Driving away our mistakes and ineptitude!

We thank you for your quintessence,

Bringing us to the threshold of excellence!

I shall always be grateful to you,

Will remember and miss you too!"