In a historical decision aimed at improving global visibility and consistency in observance, the Government of India has designated September 23 as the date to celebrate Ayurveda’s day every year.
This change, notified through a notification of the Gazette dated March 23, marks a significant change of the previous practice of observing Ayurveda’s Day in Dhanteras, which follows a variable lunar calendar, according to ayush’s minister.
The Ayurveda Day has commemorated annually to promote ayurveda as a system of scientific medicine, based on evidence and holistic that plays a fundamental role in preventive medical care and well -being. Until now, Ayurveda’s day coincided with Dhanteras, a festival observed in the Hindu month of Kartik (generally October or November). However, as the date of dhanters fluctuates every year, the observance of Ayurveda’s day lacked a fixed annual date.
The Ministry also pointed out that in the next decade, the date of Dhanters would continue to vary widely between October 15 and November 12 by raising logistics challenges to organize national and international observances.
To address this inconsistency and establish a stable reference point for national and global celebrations, ayush’s ministry was a committee to examine adequate alternatives. The expert panel proposes four potential dates, with September 23 as the favorite election. This decision was guided by practical and symbolic considerations.
The chosen date, September 23, coincides with the autumn equinox, a day when the day and night are almost equal. This astronomical event symbolizes the balance in nature, aligning perfectly with the Ayurvedic philosophy that emphasizes the balance between the mind, the body and the spirit. The equinox, which represents cosmic harmony, underlines the essence of Ayurveda’s useful life in balance with nature.
Ayush’s ministry urges individuals, health professionals, academic agencies and international partners to adopt the newly designated date and actively participate in Ayurveda Day celebrations on September 23 of each year. The Ministry sees this change as an opportunity to further embed a ayurveda in global health narratives and promote its timeless value as a preventive and sustainable health system.
Posted on May 14, 2025
