National Ayurveda Day
National Ayurveda Day is observed every year to honor the birthday of Dhanvantari, the Hindu God Of Medicine.
From 2025 onwards, National Ayurveda Day would be celebrated on 23 September every year as decided by the Government of India on 23 March 2025.
India Designates 23 September as Ayurveda Day
In a groundbreaking decision, on 23 March 2025, the Government of India has declared 23 September to be the annual date of National Ayurveda Day.
Previously, it was celebrated on Dhanteras which resulted in no fixed date. Hence, through a Gazette Notification, the change of date was announced to provide consistency and exposure for the observance.
After a discussion with an expert panel, The Ministry of Ayush, chose this date as it coincides with the autumn equinox as it symbolizes balance in nature which aligns with the core principle of Ayurveda which is harmony between mind, spirit, and body.
Origin of National Ayurveda Day
National Ayurveda Day was celebrated in India on 28 October 2016 for the first time to commemorate Dhanwantari Jayanti.
Dhanwantari Jayanti honors the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanwantari who is known as the father of Ayurveda.
The India Institute of Ayurveda in New Delhi was first inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the first Ayurveda Day in 2016.
Ever since, the government has also been honoring individuals who made commendable contributions to the field of Ayurveda and research with the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Award.
The award includes a citation, a statue of Dhanwantari, and a cash prize of ₹5 lakh.
National Ayurveda Day Theme 2025
Every year, National Ayurveda Day is celebrated with a theme and the theme for 2025 is Ayurveda for People & Planet which shows our commitment to using Ayurveda for global health and a better planet.
What is Ayurveda
Over 2,000 years ago, the Indian subcontinent gave birth to the traditional medical system known as Ayurveda. The word “Ayurveda” means knowledge of life, and it focuses on balancing the body, mind, and spirit for overall health.
It is widely practiced in India and Nepal, where many people still use Ayurvedic treatments. Ayurveda therapies include herbal medicines, yoga, meditation, massage, special diets, and detox practices.
Central to Ayurveda is the idea of balancing the three doshas, Vata, Pitta, and Kapha, which are believed to influence health and disease.
While Ayurveda has historical importance and cultural value, some treatments may involve heavy metals like lead and mercury. So it is important to use Ayurvedic medicines carefully and under expert guidance.
History of Ayurveda
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine practiced for over 2,000 years. Some link its roots to the Indus Valley Civilization, while the Atharvaveda contains early references to healing.
Legends say Ayurveda was taught by Brahma to Dhanvantari and then to physicians.
The main classical texts Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, and Bhela Samhita were compiled between 200 BCE and 500 CE.
They describe herbal medicine, diet, yoga, and advanced surgeries like rhinoplasty and cataract removal.
Ayurveda spread to China, Arabia, and Europe, influencing global medicine. During colonial times, it declined but regained prominence after India’s independence, becoming part of the national healthcare system.
How to Celebrate National Ayurveda Day
On this day, people are encouraged to explore the benefits of Ayurveda and adopt its principles in daily life.
Across India, many institutions, colleges, and hospitals organize free health camps, offer consultations with Ayurvedic doctors, and distribute free medicines to spread awareness about holistic wellness.
You can celebrate Ayurveda Day by practicing yoga, meditation, and simple Ayurvedic routines such as eating balanced meals, using herbal remedies, or following detox practices.
Many also participate in awareness programs, quizzes, seminars, and workshops that highlight Ayurveda’s role in maintaining good health.
At home, Ayurveda Day can be marked by making small lifestyle changes like cooking with Ayurvedic herbs and spices, drinking herbal teas, or learning about your dosha (Vata, Pitta, Kapha).
By embracing these practices, we not only honor an ancient tradition but also take a step toward a healthier and more natural way of living.
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