The Indian government has officially designated September 23 as National Ayurveda Day, replacing the previous Dhanteras date. This fixed date solves logistical challenges caused by Dhanteras' annual fluctuations while symbolizing balance through the autumnal equinox. The Ministry of Ayush emphasized how the equinox reflects Ayurveda's core philosophy of harmony between mind, body, and nature. The change aims to strengthen global recognition of India's ancient healing system.
May 15, 2025
Centre designates September 23 as new National Ayurveda Day
"The equinox, representing cosmic harmony,
underscores the essence of Ayurveda—living in balance with nature." –
Ministry of Ayush"
The Union government on Tuesday designated September
23 as Ayurveda Day, marking a significant shift from the earlier practice of
observing Ayurveda Day on Dhanteras.
Key Points
1 New
date ensures stable global celebrations
2 Aligns
with autumnal equinox symbolizing balance
3 Replaces
fluctuating Dhanteras festival date
4 Panel
recommended four potential dates
The
change was notified through a Gazette Notification dated March 23, the Ministry
of Ayush said.
Calling the decision to change the date as
"landmark", the ministry said it will enhance "the global
visibility and consistency" of Ayurveda which is India’s 5,000-year-old
system of healing rooted in ancient wisdom and sustainable living.
Notably, Dhanteras is a festival observed in the
Hindu month of Kartik (usually October or November). Its date fluctuates each
year, posing logistical challenges for organising national and international
observances of Ayurveda day, the Ministry said.
In addition, in the coming decade, the date of
Dhanteras would continue to vary widely between October 15 and November 12.
To addrress this, the Ministry constituted an expert
panel, which opined to establish a stable reference point for national and
global celebrations of Ayurveda. September 23 was among the four potential
dates proposed.
“This decision was guided by both practical and
symbolic considerations,” the Ministry said.
“The chosen date, 23rd September, coincides with the
autumnal equinox, a day when day and night are nearly equal. This astronomical
event symbolises balance in nature, perfectly aligning with the Ayurvedic
philosophy that emphasises equilibrium between the mind, body, and spirit. The
equinox, representing cosmic harmony, underscores the essence of Ayurveda --
living in balance with nature,” the ministry added.
The Ministry of Ayush initially declared National
Ayurveda Day in 2016 on the birth anniversary of Dhanvantari, the Hindu god of
Medicine. The first Ayurveda Day was first celebrated on 28 October 2016.
“Ayurveda Day has been commemorated annually to
promote Ayurveda as a scientific, evidence-based, and holistic system of
medicine that plays a pivotal role in preventive healthcare and wellness,” the
Ministry said.
The Ministry urged individuals, health
professionals, academic bodies, and international partners to embrace the newly
designated date and actively participate in Ayurveda Day celebrations.
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