The Government of India has officially designated September 23rd as Ayurveda Day. This decision, announced through a Gazette Notification issued on March 23, 2025, replaces the earlier practice of observing Ayurveda Day on Dhanteras, a Hindu festival that follows a variable lunar calendar.
Previously, the date for the celebration varied each year, falling between mid-October and mid-November. This inconsistency created challenges for national and international observances, prompting the Ministry of Ayush to seek a more stable and universally recognizable date.
Ayurveda Day is celebrated to promote the ancient Indian system of medicine as a scientific, evidence-based, and holistic approach to health and wellness. Recognizing the logistical issues caused by the fluctuating date of Dhanteras, the Ministry formed an expert committee to recommend suitable alternatives. After reviewing four proposed dates, September 23rd was chosen for its practicality and symbolic relevance.
The new date coincides with the autumnal equinox, a time when day and night are nearly equal. This natural balance reflects the core Ayurvedic principle of maintaining harmony between the mind, body, and spirit. By aligning Ayurveda Day with this cosmic event, the Ministry aims to emphasize the system’s foundational belief in living in harmony with nature.
The Ministry of Ayush is now encouraging citizens, healthcare practitioners, educational institutions, and international collaborators to adopt the new date and actively participate in the celebrations.
The Government believes this change will strengthen Ayurveda’s global presence and reinforce its role in preventive and sustainable healthcare.
