A Global Step for a Timeless Science: September 23 is now ‘National Ayurveda Day’
A Global Step for a Timeless Science: September 23 is now 'National Ayurveda Day'
The shift from Dhanteras to September 23 aligns Ayurveda with the autumnal equinox, symbolizing natural balance and global consistency.
In a historic move, the Union government has declared September 23 as ‘National Ayurveda Day’, moving away from the earlier tradition of celebrating it on Dhanteras, a date that varies each year based on the lunar calendar. This decision, formalized through a gazetted notification, is aimed at enhancing the global recognition, scientific framing, and cultural consistency of Ayurveda, India’s ancient and holistic healing system.
➡️ Government of India has officially designated 23rd September as the date for celebrating #AyurvedaDay each year
— PIB India (@PIB_India) May 13, 2025
➡️ This change, notified through a Gazette Notification dated 23rd March 2025, marks a significant shift from the earlier practice of observing Ayurveda Day on… pic.twitter.com/VoQJvreNxr
Why September 23?
The new date coincides with the autumnal equinox, an astronomical event when day and night are nearly equal. This natural equilibrium reflects the core Ayurvedic philosophy of harmony and balance between the mind, body, and spirit. The Ministry of Ayush described this alignment as symbolic and strategic, calling it a “landmark decision” that will promote Ayurveda as a sustainable, evidence-based healthcare model in both national and international narratives.
From Dhanvantari to Global Ayurveda
Since its inception in 2016, Ayurveda Day had been observed on the birth anniversary of Lord Dhanvantari, the Hindu deity of medicine. The first celebration took place on October 28, 2016. However, the reliance on the lunar calendar made annual planning inconsistent. With the new fixed date, the Ministry aims to mainstream Ayurveda celebrations globally, making it easier for institutions and communities to coordinate awareness activities, seminars, and wellness programs.
Recognized for its focus on preventive care, natural healing, and sustainable lifestyle, Ayurveda is gaining global traction as a complementary healthcare system. By anchoring Ayurveda Day to a universal date, the government is positioning it to be better integrated into global health calendars and public health discourse.
The Ministry of Ayush has called upon:
- Healthcare professionals
- Academic institutions
- Policy-makers
- International collaborators
to actively observe September 23 as National Ayurveda Day each year, and to promote Ayurveda’s holistic benefits worldwide.
This change is more than just a calendar update, it’s a symbolic reaffirmation of India’s commitment to preserving, modernizing, and globalizing Ayurveda as a pillar of well-being. With September 23 now enshrined as National Ayurveda Day, the focus sharpens on building awareness, trust, and research-backed legitimacy for this ancient system in the modern world.
