#### Strategy to Give New Energy and Global Branding to Indian Ayurveda

Ayurveda is the world’s oldest medical system. It has been an integral part of Indian healthcare since ancient times and enjoys a unique identity and prestige globally. Ayurveda is considered naturally close to creation, science, and life. Its importance is highlighted in Vedic and Puranic texts over thousands of years. For example, during the Treta Yuga, in the Ramayana, when Meghnad used his powers and Nagpash weapons to incapacitate Lakshman, Hanuman brought the Sanjeevani herb to restore him. Such instances emphasize the significance of Ayurveda.

In 2025, the Ministry of AYUSH has decided to celebrate Ayurveda Day on 23rd September every year, replacing Dhanvantari Jayanti, which was earlier observed during Dhanteras before Diwali. This change is not just a date shift but a strategic step to energize Ayurveda and establish it as a global brand.

The selection of 23rd September ensures consistency and ease in planning, as Dhanvantari Jayanti falls on different dates each year (October–November), making awareness campaigns and programs difficult to organize. The new fixed date will enable universities, state governments, and Indian missions abroad to plan programs effectively. Ayurveda Day will now gain an independent identity, moving beyond purely religious or mythological associations. The Ministry of AYUSH will organize national conferences, seminars, workshops, free health camps, and consultations for the public. Schools, colleges, and universities will conduct awareness programs, debates, and exhibitions, while Indian embassies and cultural centers abroad will promote Ayurveda internationally.

The theme for this year’s Ayurveda Day, celebrated for the first time on 23rd September, is “Ayurveda for People and Planets.” It reminds us that Ayurveda is timeless and essential not just for humans but also for planetary health. Ayurveda is a holistic science that maintains physical, mental, and environmental balance—from the daily routine of humans to the health of the universe.

Globally, Ayurveda plays a crucial role in physical and mental health, fighting incurable diseases, strengthening social fabric, preventing conflicts, fostering love, harmony, and world peace, and protecting the environment and planets. Its effectiveness was widely acknowledged during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ayurveda emphasizes proper conduct (Achara Rasayana), daily routines (Nityakarma), and ethical living, guiding humans to avoid negative emotions like greed, anger, envy, and ego, thereby promoting a healthy mind and body.

Hinglish Shlokas on Health in Ayurveda:
Samadosh: Samagnishcha Samadhatumalkriya: |
Prasannatmandriyamana: Swastha ityabhidheeyate (Sushrut Samhita)

Prayojanam chasya swasthasya swasthya rakshanam |
Aturasya vikar prashamanam cha (Ch. Su. 30/26)

Ayurveda emphasizes balance in Vata, Pitta, Kapha (tridosha), Agni, Dhatu, and body-mind-soul, ensuring that both physical and mental health are maintained. True health exists only when a person is physically fit, mentally balanced, and surrounded by a positive, peaceful environment. Eyes should perceive goodness, ears hear pleasant sounds, tongue savor nutritious food, voice express sweetness and decorum, nose sense clean fragrances, skin eliminate toxins properly, and the body harmonize with seasonal and environmental changes. A healthy person is one who loves nature, contributes to family and societal welfare, respects all living beings, and strives for the wellness of the universe. Ayurveda guides this holistic development.

Every disease finds its solution in nature. Every plant carries medicinal properties; it is essential to identify, utilize, and research them extensively. Ayurveda is not just a treatment system but a complete science for a healthy, prosperous family, society, nation, and universe.

Today, Ayurveda is gaining global recognition. Its roots lie in Vedas, Puranas, and Upanishads, and it provides a holistic approach to preventive and healthy living. To promote this ancient science, the Indian government has designated 23rd September as Ayurveda Day. The aim is to raise public awareness that Ayurveda is a lifestyle-based holistic health science, not merely an alternative medicine.

Ayurveda Day will also encourage research, education, and industry, strengthening Ayurvedic medicines, therapies, and products to meet global standards. Public programs will demonstrate how Ayurvedic diets, daily routines, and yoga can prevent lifestyle disorders like obesity, diabetes, and stress.

Currently, India’s Ayurvedic and herbal industry is worth over ₹50,000 crore. Ayurveda Day will support industry growth, expand markets, boost exports, create employment opportunities, and increase public confidence in natural, safe, and long-term healthcare. This initiative strengthens India’s global contribution to health and wellness, aligning with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of a self-reliant health sector.

Call to Action:
Let us all embrace the world’s oldest medical system, Ayurveda. Love nature, seek solutions in it, and avoid taking any medicine without consulting a qualified practitioner.