National Ayurveda Day: Transition from Dhanteras

Dr Sakshi Sharma

drsakshimahajan 03@gmail.com

For several years, National Ayurveda Day was celebrated on Dhanteras, also known as Dhanvantari Jayanti, the day associated with Lord Dhanvantari, revered in the Ayurvedic tradition as the divine embodiment of Ayurveda and the physician of the Gods.

According to traditional belief, Lord Dhanvantari emerged during the Samudra Manthan, carrying the nectar of immortality. He is therefore, regarded as the God of Ayurveda and is deeply associated with healing, longevity and the preservation of health. Dhanteras or Dhantryodashi falling on Krishna paksha of kartik month,just before Diwali has traditionally been considered an auspicious occasion for worshipping Dhanvantari and Goddess lakshami for prosperity, health and well-being.

The association between Ayurveda and Dhanteras therefore carries profound cultural and philosophical significance. It reminds us that the true meaning of Dhan or wealth is not restricted to material prosperity-good health itself is the greatest wealth.However, Dhanteras follows the lunar calendar and consequently falls on different dates every year. This variability created practical difficulties in establishing a uniform national and international observance of Ayurveda Day.When Government of India introduced National Ayurveda Day in 2016 it deliberately chose Dhanwantari jayanti as the occasion .The Ministry of AYUSH stated that there had been long standing demand to observe Dhanwantari Jayanti as AYURVEDA DAY. From 2025 onward, Ayurveda Day is officially celebrated every year on 23 September.

Why 23 September?

Recognising the need for a fixed and internationally consistent date, the Government of India, through a Gazette Notification dated 23 March 2025, designated 23 September as Ayurveda Day every year, replacing the earlier practice of celebrating it on Dhanteras. (Ayush)The choice of 23 September is not merely administrative. It carries a beautiful philosophical symbolism. Around this date occurs the autumnal equinox, when day and night are nearly equal. This balance in nature resonates strongly with the fundamental Ayurvedic principle of maintaining equilibrium-Samatva-in the body, mind and environment.In AYURVEDA principle of SAMATWA Is important as it is related to equilibrium of doshas, dhatus,malas,agni,.In other words it is important for equilibrium state of body with mind as Health has been described by WHO as a' State of complete physical,socialwell being and not merely absence of disease' so Principles of AYURVEDA Justifies this definition . The symbolism of the equinox therefore beautifully reflects Ayurveda's central message: Health is harmony, and Harmony is balance.

The adoption of a fixed date also gives India an opportunity to develop Ayurveda Day as a truly global platform. It enables educational institutions, hospitals, practitioners, researchers and international organisations to plan programmes, conferences, awareness campaigns and scientific activities around a common date every year.

THEME OFNATIONAL AYURVEDA DAY

The theme of National Ayurveda Day 2026 is "Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow."

It reflects the vision of integrating the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with modern approaches to healthcare. The theme emphasizes the importance of holistic health, preventive practices, research and innovation, and the role of Ayurveda in promoting sustainable well-being for individuals, families, and communities.

Role of Ayurveda in prevention of diseases

Ayurveda places strong emphasis on prevention of disease and preservation of health rather than focusing only on treatment after illness occurs. Through principles such as Swasthavritta, Dinacharya (daily regimen), Ritucharya (seasonal regimen), appropriate diet, adequate sleep, exercise and maintenance of mental well-being, Ayurveda encourages individuals to maintain balance in the body and mind. By understanding one's Prakriti (BODY TYPE)and responding appropriately to changes in lifestyle, season and environment, Ayurveda promotes healthy living and may help reduce the risk of lifestyle-related disorders. Thus, its preventive approach remains highly relevant to the concept of "Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow."

A Journey from heritage to global health

The change in the observance of National Ayurveda Day from Dhanteras to 23 September should not be viewed as a departure from India's rich Ayurvedic tradition. Rather, it represents a meaningful bridge between ancient heritage and contemporary healthcare needs. Dhanteras will continue to hold its deep cultural and spiritual significance, being traditionally associated with Lord Dhanvantari, the divine physician and revered symbol of Ayurveda. The association of Ayurveda with Dhanteras therefore remains an important part of India's cultural heritage.

The observance of National Ayurveda Day on a fixed date of 23 September provides a consistent annual platform for highlighting the contribution of Ayurveda to health and well-being. It creates greater opportunities for academic discussions, scientific research, educational programmes, public awareness and international collaboration. A fixed date also enables institutions, universities, healthcare organisations and communities to plan activities throughout the country in a coordinated manner.

This transition reflects the evolving journey of Ayurveda-from an ancient system of knowledge rooted in Indian tradition to a healthcare system that is increasingly engaging with modern research, evidence-based practices and global health initiatives. At the same time, its fundamental principles of prevention, healthy living, balance and holistic well-being continue to remain relevant. Thus, the journey from Dhanteras to 23 September is not a replacement of tradition, but an expansion of its reach-from cultural heritage towards a broader vision of global health.

As Ayurveda enters a new era, the responsibility rests with educators, practitioners, researchers, students, policymakers and society at large to carry its wisdom forward-not merely as a matter of heritage, but as a living science that can contribute to a healthier and more balanced world.

From Dhanteras to 23 September, the date may have changed, but the essence remains unchanged: Ayurveda's timeless message of balance, prevention, longevity and harmony with nature.

(The author is Professor & Head, Department of Kriya Sharir, Government Ayurvedic Medical College, Akhnoor, Jammu)