Ayurveda and responsibility of India
Since India has a rich historical, religious and spiritual heritage, the country has become glorious and powerful at all these levels. In addition, India also has the gift of Ayurveda. Ayurveda originated from Deity Brahma and has an expansive and lofty tradition of approximately 3,000 years. Today, this Ayurveda is accepted all over the world. Another source of pride is the announcement of Mr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organisation (WHO) on 13th November that it will set up a Centre for Traditional Medicines in India. “During the coronavirus pandemic, India has made a name for itself as the Pharmacy of the World”, he said. In the age of modernity, the glory of India in the whole world is certainly pleasing.
Ayurvedic treatment is recognised in modern India and Ayurveda is also taught in many educational institutions. Now, after the announcement of the World Health Organisation, Ayurveda has gained world recognition in a way. However, the Ministry of AYUSH, the Ayurvedic Association, as well as every Vaidya must work tirelessly at all levels to make Ayurveda universal without being overwhelmed by India’s success. Each component has equal responsibility.
In 2016, the Ministry of AYUSH, Government of India declared Dhanvantari Jayanti as the ‘National Ayurveda Day’. As a result, we reached the national level. Now with the announcement of the World Health Organisation, Ayurveda has reached an international platform.
There is respect and curiosity about Indian Ayurveda in the world. Therefore, India should take advantage of this situation and open the doors of various branches of Ayurveda to the world.
Various definitions of Ayurveda should be placed before the world. For example, the word ‘diabetes’ is called ‘Prameh’ or ‘Madhumeh’. This definition should be communicated to the people. When the whole world adopts the Ayurvedic lifestyle provided by India, that day will be the day of real respect for Ayurveda, and consequently for India.
Ayurveda says that an individual’s life should be 100 years. The Sushruta Samhita says, ‘Ayursmin Vidyate, Anen va Ayurvindanti Ityayurvedah I’ (Ayurveda is that which deals with Ayuh [Life] or increases life-span). Only Ayurveda can give a person the key to lead a healthy life for 100 years. This greatness of Ayurveda should be realised. This precious gift of Ayurveda from our Sages and Ascetics should be preserved. After this announcement of the World Health Organisation, India has a rare gem in its crown now.
Now, it is everyone’s responsibility to restore this Ayurveda on the throne of sovereignty. Everyone should try to play their role.