Ayurveda Day 2024 and the Legacy of Lord Dhanwantari
The National Ayurveda Day is celebrated every year on Dhanteras, coinciding with Dhanvantari Jayanti, the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician and the father of Ayurveda. Since its inception in 2016, this day has been a reminder of the profound wisdom of Ayurveda, a system of healing that has been guiding humanity for millennia. This year, Dhanteras falls on October 29, 2024, and we once again honor this ancient science that continues to provide holistic solutions to health and wellness.
In the ancient scriptures, it is said that when the body succumbs to age and disease, the only true remedy is the holy waters of Mother Ganga, which are believed to emanate from the sacred feet of Lord Narayana, and the ultimate healer is none other than Lord Dhanvantari himself. Lord Dhanvantari, who descended from the heavens with the Amrita (nectar of immortality), is revered as the Divine Physician, bringing the eternal knowledge of Ayurveda to humankind.
The Roots of Ayurveda: The Veda of Life
Ayurveda, which literally translates to the "Science of Life," is an ancient system of natural healing with its roots embedded in the Atharva Veda, one of the four sacred texts of Hinduism. According to tradition, Ayurveda was revealed by Lord Brahma, the Creator, long before the birth of the cosmos itself. This system, said to contain over 100,000 verses spread across 1,000 chapters, is a treasure trove of knowledge that has been guiding humanity in the art of healthy living for centuries.
Ayurveda is often referred to as the fifth Veda, signifying its profound importance and universality. It encompasses the causes, symptoms, and treatment of diseases, providing a holistic approach to healing. Great sages like Charaka, Susruta, Vagbhata, Madhava, and Sharangadhara were the pioneers of this science. These seers, with their extraordinary powers of observation, analysis, and generalization, laid the foundation for Ayurvedic principles, which are as relevant today as they were in ancient times.
Ayurveda: A Guide to Health and Longevity
Ayurveda, being the science of life, serves as both a preventative and curative system of medicine. It offers a path to not only remove diseases but also to maintain optimal health, harmony, and longevity. The Ayurvedic system, rooted deeply in the Indian subcontinent, has stood the test of time and remains a scientific, natural, and eternal approach to healing. Ayurvedic medicines, when prepared according to the strict guidelines outlined in the ancient texts, exhibit remarkable curative powers that cannot be doubted.
On this auspicious occasion of Dhanwantari Jayanti and Ayurveda Day, we are reminded of the time-tested and scientific nature of Ayurveda, which has proven its efficacy over centuries. This day encourages us to embrace Ayurveda in our daily lives, not just as a system of medicine but as a way of living, promoting balance, well-being, and inner peace.
A Pledge to Spread Ayurveda's Wisdom
As we celebrate Ayurveda Day, let us pledge to not only embrace this ancient system of health but also to share its healing wisdom with the world. Ayurveda has the potential to address both modern-day ailments and the root causes of mental and physical imbalances, offering a more comprehensive approach to health.
With a deep sense of gratitude and reverence, we recite the sacred prayer:
“Namami Dhanwanthari Aadi Devam, Surasura Vandita Paada Padmam, Loke Jara Rugbhay Mrityu Naasham,Daataaram Eesham Vividhaushadhinaam”
“I bow down to Lord Dhanwantari, the primordial deity, whose lotus feet are revered by both the Devas (gods) and Asuras (demons). You are the destroyer of old age, disease, and death, and the provider of divine medicines to heal all ailments.”
As we invoke the blessings of Lord Dhanwantari, may his grace protect us and grant us good health, freedom from suffering, and the wisdom to spread the message of Ayurveda across the world.
Comments