New Delhi, May 13 The Government of India has made a significant change by officially designating 23rd September as Ayurveda Day each year. This decision, announced in a Gazette Notification on 23rd March 2025, shifts the observance from the previously variable date of Dhanteras, which depends on the lunar calendar.
Ayurveda Day has been celebrated annually to highlight Ayurveda as a scientific and holistic medical system essential for preventive healthcare and wellness. Previously, this observance coincided with Dhanteras, a festival in the Hindu month of Kartik, typically falling in October or November. However, the fluctuating date of Dhanteras made it challenging to have a consistent yearly celebration of Ayurveda Day.
Acknowledging this issue, the Ministry of Ayush formed a committee to explore alternative dates. After reviewing several options, the committee recommended 23rd September. This date aligns with the autumnal equinox, a moment when day and night are almost equal, symbolizing balance. This concept resonates deeply with Ayurvedic principles, which emphasize harmony among mind, body, and spirit.
The Ministry of Ayush encourages individuals, health professionals, educational institutions, and international partners to embrace this new date. They see this change as a chance to integrate Ayurveda into global health discussions and highlight its enduring value as a sustainable healthcare approach.
