Centre designates September 23 as new National Ayurveda Day

IANS May 13, 2025 468 views

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.

"The equinox, representing cosmic harmony, underscores the essence of Ayurveda—living in balance with nature." – Ministry of Ayush
Centre designates September 23 as new National Ayurveda Day
New Delhi, May 13: 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.

Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Great decision! Having a fixed date makes it easier for global participation. Ayurveda is our ancient treasure that needs proper recognition worldwide. The equinox connection is brilliant - truly captures Ayurveda's essence of balance. 🙏
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Priya M.
While I appreciate the logic behind changing the date, I hope this doesn't dilute the connection with Dhanvantari ji. Ayurveda's roots in our culture must be preserved even as we make it more accessible globally.
A
Amit S.
Finally some practical thinking! The old date kept shifting every year making it difficult for schools and colleges to plan events. Now we can have proper annual programs to promote Ayurveda among youth. 👏
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Sunita R.
As someone who practices Ayurveda daily, I love how they've chosen a date representing balance. But I hope the government will also focus on quality control of Ayurvedic products - that's the real need of the hour.
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Vikram J.
Good move, but will this remain just symbolic? We need more research funding for Ayurveda to prove its efficacy scientifically. Otherwise, Western countries will keep dismissing it as 'alternative medicine'.
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Neha P.
The autumnal equinox connection is so poetic! 🌿 Perfect timing too - just after monsoon when seasonal illnesses peak. Maybe hospitals can organize free Ayurvedic health camps on this day focusing on immunity.

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Ayurveda Day Ministry of Ayush National Ayurveda Day September 23 Dhanteras traditional medicine