Ayush Minister Urges Dhanvantari Puja and Healthy Lifestyles

New Delhi, November 2: Union Ayush Minister Prataprao Jadhav has highlighted the health significance of Dhanteras while extending Deepavali and Dhanvantari Diwas wishes to citizens. He said the festival is about more than prosperity and reminds people that health is life's most valuable possession.

Jadhav said a healthy person is better placed to enjoy material comforts, and that health should therefore be given the same priority as wealth. He pointed out that Lord Dhanvantari is worshipped as the god of health, and called for Dhanvantari puja to be held in every home and every institution across the country.

The minister linked the discussion to the rapid transformation of everyday life. He said diet and daily routines have changed significantly, and in many cases have been severely disturbed. As a result, non-communicable lifestyle diseases are spreading on a large scale, both in India and around the world.

He identified several conditions that are becoming more common, including diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, mental health issues, cancer, heart disease and kidney disease. He said these represent a major challenge for governments in every country.

Explaining the role of Ayush, Jadhav said the system is designed to prevent lifestyle diseases. Ayurveda and yoga, he said, support this goal. While conventional treatment responds once disease has developed, Ayurveda and yoga help ensure that disease does not occur.

He also highlighted the ancient principle of Ayurveda, 'Swasthasya Swasthya Rakshanam', meaning the protection of the health of the healthy. He said adopting good food habits, a proper routine and balanced living is the best way to stay away from lifestyle-related illnesses.