Celebrated across India every year on September 5, Teachers’ Day recognises the contribution of educators who guide students through their academic journeys and often influence their lives beyond the classroom. Hindi cinema has repeatedly explored this relationship, presenting teachers as mentors, disciplinarians, reformers and compassionate figures who help young people discover their potential. On the occasion of Teachers’ Day, several memorable Bollywood performances stand out for bringing different sides of teaching and mentorship to the screen.
Hrithik Roshan as mathematician Anand Kumar in Super 30
Hrithik Roshan played mathematician Anand Kumar in the 2019 film Super 30, inspired by the educator known for coaching students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds for the IIT entrance examinations. Directed by Vikas Bahl, the film also featured Mrunal Thakur and Pankaj Tripathi in important roles.
The story follows a mentor determined to provide opportunities to talented students who may not have access to expensive coaching institutions. Through Anand Kumar’s work with his students, the film highlights personal sacrifice, persistence and the importance of education as a means of expanding opportunities.
Aamir Khan’s compassionate mentor in Taare Zameen Par
Aamir Khan’s role as art teacher Ram Shankar Nikumbh in Taare Zameen Par remains one of Bollywood’s most widely remembered portrayals of an educator. The character notices that eight-year-old Ishaan is struggling in school and eventually identifies that the child has dyslexia.
Rather than judging him by conventional academic standards, Nikumbh uses creativity and patience to understand his difficulties. The film focuses on the value of recognising individual learning needs and presents a teacher as someone capable of changing a child’s confidence and outlook through empathy and encouragement.
Rani Mukerji takes on a difficult classroom in Hichki
In Hichki, Rani Mukerji portrayed a teacher living with Tourette syndrome who faces the challenge of teaching students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Directed by Siddharth P. Malhotra, the film follows her efforts to connect with a class that has largely lost faith in the education system.
Her character refuses to give up on the students despite their troubled behaviour and the barriers between them. The story explores how trust, persistence and an unconventional approach can gradually change the relationship between a teacher and students who have become disconnected from learning.
Amitabh Bachchan portrays a demanding guide in Black
Amitabh Bachchan delivered a powerful performance as Debraj Sahai in Sanjay Leela Bhansali’s Black. His character is an unconventional teacher who takes on the demanding task of educating Michelle McNally, played by Rani Mukerji, a young woman who is deaf and blind.
The film centres on the intense and sometimes difficult bond between the two characters. Through relentless training and guidance, Sahai helps Michelle learn to communicate, read and write, opening new possibilities in a world that had remained largely inaccessible to her.
Boman Irani’s strict professor in 3 Idiots
Boman Irani played Professor Viru Sahastrabuddhe, popularly known as Virus, in the blockbuster 3 Idiots. Unlike the compassionate teachers featured in several other films, his character represents a highly rigid approach to education, one centred on discipline, competition and perfection.
The conflict between his philosophy and the ideas of Aamir Khan’s character, Rancho, drives much of the film’s discussion about learning and creativity. As the story develops, the clash between the strict educator and his unconventional student also highlights the need to recognise talent beyond marks and established rules.
Why India celebrates Teachers’ Day on September 5
Teachers’ Day in India is observed on the birth anniversary of Dr Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan, the scholar, philosopher and Bharat Ratna recipient who was born on September 5, 1888. He served as independent India’s first Vice President from 1952 to 1962 and later became the country’s second President, holding office from 1962 to 1967.
The occasion remains a tribute to teachers and their role in shaping knowledge, confidence and future aspirations. These Bollywood characters, though fictional or inspired by real people, reflect the many ways educators continue to leave a lasting mark on their students’ lives.