IMA-AYUS celebrates Dhanwantari Day, honours pioneers in traditional Indian medicine promoting Ayurveda, writes Abhi Singhal
With historical roots in the Indian subcontinent, Ayurveda is an alternative medicine system which has always been pushed to heights for desi and better recovery. The theory and practice of Ayurveda is heavily practised throughout India majorly with the help of Ayurvedic medicines. The IMA-AYUS is an organisation working for the betterment of the integrated system of medicine from the past 12 years.
IMA-AYUS has been organising Lord Dhanwantri Jayanti every year to celebrate Lord Dhanwantri, god of medicine, the founder of Ayurveda, and an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The organisation celebrates the day as a tribute to Lord Dhanwantri and honouring pioneers in traditional Indian medicine.
The event was graced by K. K. Sharma, Founder and Managing Director of AIMIL Pharmaceuticals, as the Guest of Honour, bringing his invaluable support for traditional Indian medicine. AIMIL is a science-driven Ayurveda company producing herbal and Ayurvedic healthcare products promoting Ayurveda for 40 years.
In his keynote speech, Dr. R.S. Chouhan, Patron of IMA - AYUS, reaffirmed the association’s commitment to the advancement of Indian medicine and supporting the fraternity’s betterment. Dr. Chouhan spoke about the association’s role in promoting the rich heritage of Ayurveda, Unani, and other traditional medical systems, underscoring their significance in contemporary healthcare.
The event was inaugurated by Ram Niwas Goyal, Hon’ble Speaker of the Delhi Vidhan Sabha, who addressed the audience and emphasised on how the Indian system of medicine is vital for future health and wellness in the country.
The event had sessions explaining Ayurveda and its impact deeply to the audience. The organisation unveiled its monthly magazine Souvenir 2024, with all the yearly events that take place within the organisation.
Students from Ayurvedic & Unani Tibbia College Delhi, School of Unani Medical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard Delhi, Gaur Brahmin Ayurvedic College Rohtak Haryana, Shri Krishna Ayush University Kurukshetra, Divya Jyoti Ayurvedic Medical College & Hospital, Modi Nagar, Ghaziabad (U.P.) and more were facilitated as promising students in the field of Ayurveda and Unani.
In conversation with Dr Raman Khanna
Dr Raman Khanna, B.A.M.S and medical practitioner from the past 41 years is the the National General Secretary IMA-AYUS. He joined the organisation in 1988, it's year of formation. He is dedicated to his career as a doctor and to promote Ayurveda. He talked about Ayurveda, it's incorporation in daily life and the history of Lord Dhanwantari Jayanti. Excerpts
What is the history of the Lord Dhanwantri Jayanti celebrated by IMA-AYUS?
Integrated Medical association IMA(Ayus) has been celebrating Dhanwantari Diwas for the last 38 years to honor Lord Dhanwantari, who is regarded as the God of Ayurveda and health. Celebrated on Dhanteras, this day recognizes the contributions of traditional medicine and promotes awareness about Ayurvedic practices. It serves as a platform to emphasize holistic health, wellness, and the importance of integrating ancient healing traditions into modern healthcare.
Why do you organise this event every year in the field of Ayurveda?
All the practitioners of Ayurveda worship Bhagwan Dhanwantari because he is considered the god of Ayurveda and the divine physician. In Hindu tradition, Dhanwantari is believed to have emerged from the ocean during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) carrying the nectar of immortality (amrita) and the knowledge of healing. His association with health and wellness makes him a central figure in Ayurvedic practices, symbolizing the holistic approach to healing and the importance of balance in life. Worshiping Dhanwantari is a way for practitioners to seek blessings for health, knowledge, and the successful practice of Ayurveda.
How do you think this event inspires medical practitioners and students to pursue Ayurveda?
Yes, the Celebration of Dhanwantari Diwas serves as a significant source of inspiration for AYUS practitioners and students. It honors Lord Dhanwantari, regarded as the deity of Ayurveda, highlighting the importance of this ancient healing system. This celebration can motivate practitioners and students to deepen their commitment to Ayurveda, emphasizing its potential for enhancing human wellness. It also fosters a sense of community and encourages the exploration of traditional knowledge in contemporary health practices.
Do you think incorporating Ayurveda in daily wellness can help you?
Incorporating Ayurveda into daily wellness routines can be beneficial for many people, as it promotes balance through diet, lifestyle, and natural remedies. Ayurveda, a holistic system of medicine from India, emphasises a personalised approach based on your unique constitution (or "dosha")—Vata, Pitta, or Kapha. It’s built around the idea of maintaining health by harmonising mind, body, and spirit. Here are some ways it can support daily wellness:
Dietary Balance: Ayurveda suggests foods suited to your dosha to promote digestion and energy. For example, grounding, warming foods are advised for the Vata dosha, while cooling foods benefit the Pitta type.
Daily Routines: Ayurveda encourages routines that support natural rhythms, like waking up early, oil pulling, and self-massage (Abhyanga). These can promote better sleep, circulation, and stress management.
Stress and Mental Health: Ayurveda includes mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises (pranayama) to reduce stress and increase mental clarity.
Natural Remedies: Using herbal remedies tailored to your dosha and needs (like turmeric for inflammation or ashwagandha for stress) can provide gentle, plant-based support.
Many find that following Ayurvedic principles helps them feel more in tune with their body, improves digestion, and enhances overall well-being. However, it’s important to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner, especially if you’re new to it, to ensure the practices align with your health needs.
