Tag: Plato

Special Occasion

Celebrating the Power of Thought: World Philosophy Day

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Philosophy has been an essential part of human civilization since the 6th century BC, influencing the way people think, live, and interact with the world around them. From Socrates’ inquiries into virtue and ethics to Plato’s dialogues that laid the foundation of Western thought, philosophy has consistently guided humans in understanding concepts, solving problems, and questioning the nature of existence. Its influence spans governments, religions, education, and cultural life, offering a framework to explore values, ideals, and the art of living.

On a personal level, studying philosophy enhances critical thinking, refines reasoning skills, and fosters an appreciation of the interconnectedness of ideas, encouraging individuals to act thoughtfully within their communities. Recognizing this profound impact, UNESCO introduced World Philosophy Day in 2002 and formally established it in 2005, celebrating the role of philosophy in the development of societies and cultures worldwide.

The day serves to promote the teaching and learning of philosophy, as well as to recognize its significance in cultivating reflective and thoughtful citizens. People can celebrate World Philosophy Day in many ways, from attending global events such as workshops, debates, and presentations, to exploring philosophical literature by seminal thinkers like Plato, Pierre Hadot, and modern authors who bring complex ideas into accessible forms.

Engaging with philosophy encourages a deeper understanding of the world and empowers individuals to navigate life’s questions with clarity, insight, and curiosity, making it a discipline that continues to inspire personal growth and collective wisdom across generations.

Special Occasion

Soul-Shaping Heroes: A Teacher’s Day Tribute

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Intern Queeny George M.H & Tanisha Cardozo, Team Allycaral

Every year on September 5, India celebrates Teacher’s Day — a heartfelt tribute to educators who dedicate their lives to shaping the future. The day marks the birth anniversary of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, India’s second President, a scholar, philosopher, and teacher. When asked if his birthday could be celebrated, he humbly requested that the day be observed as Teacher’s Day instead — emphasizing the value of education and those who impart it.

Throughout history, the role of a teacher has always transcended the classroom. In ancient times, the ‘Guru’ was not merely an instructor but a guide, a mentor, and often a spiritual force who sought out students, trained them rigorously, and passed down generations of knowledge. These Gurus didn’t just teach—they transformed.

Great leaders of history often stood behind even greater teachers. Emperors like King Ashoka the Great were shaped by wise mentors like Chanakya. King Alexander the Great had the philosopher Aristotle as his tutor, while Plato once learned under the guidance of Socrates. Even in modern times, Anne Sullivan’s mentorship of Helen Keller reminds us that teaching is more than instruction—it is empowerment.

This lineage of impactful teaching continues today. Classrooms across India and the world were filled with teachers who cared deeply. Teachers who weren’t just present for the syllabus, but for the students. Many of them acted as a team, building students’ character, guiding them toward the right path, and shaping not just academic outcomes but lives.

These teachers were strict when needed, but also the first to smile, laugh, and celebrate with their students. They taught lessons beyond the textbook—showing up during our struggles, asking the questions others missed, and believing in us long before we believed in ourselves.

Their impact doesn’t end at the classroom door. It lingers in our decision-making, our confidence, and our resilience. Whether they stayed back after hours to explain a difficult concept or gave us advice that stayed with us for decades, these educators have left a permanent mark on our journey.

This Teacher’s Day, we celebrate not just the knowledge they pass on, but the compassion, encouragement, and belief they give us in every small interaction. 

Because every student deserves a teacher like that. 

So here’s to them — the chalk-holding, soul-shaping, heart-hugging heroes of our lives. 

Happy Teacher’s Day — and to all the amazing teachers out there… hip hip hooray!