Ayurveda Day 2024 – Bay Area

– A Gathering of Knowledge, Wellness, and Tradition

On October 29, 2024, the Bay Area hosted a vibrant celebration of Ayurveda Day. Organized by the California Association for Ayurvedic Medicine (CAAM), the event gathered Ayurveda practitioners, students, and enthusiasts to honor the ancient science of life and its modern applications in health and wellness. The theme, Ayurveda Innovations for Global Health, highlighted the potential of Ayurveda as a holistic approach to global healthcare. The evening began with the Dhanwantari Homa, performed with deep reverence. This sacred Vedic ritual, dedicated to Lord Dhanwantari, the divine physician and father of Ayurveda, was conducted to invoke blessings for health, healing, and well-being for everyone present. Hindu University of America (HUA) and the California College of Ayurveda (CCA) played significant roles in supporting the event, promoting Ayurveda’s integration into contemporary health practices and raising awareness about its preventive benefits. Distinguished guests included the Consul General of India in San Francisco, Dr. K. Srikar Reddy, and Deputy Consul General Mr. Rakesh Adlakha, both of whom emphasized Ayurveda’s global significance and its ability to address current health challenges.

Key Discussions and Speakers

Theme: Ayurveda in Daily Life

1. Dr. Rammohan Rao on the Importance of Food and Mindful Eating

Dr. Rammohan Rao from the California College of Ayurveda (CCA) and Hindu University of America (HUA) delivered an insightful talk on Ayurveda’s approach to diet and lifestyle. Dr. Rao underscored the significance of understanding the quality and source of food (Ahara). “Consider where your food is grown and how it is processed,” he advised, pointing out that natural, fresh food aligns better with our bodies than highly processed or fried foods. He encouraged attendees to observe their eating habits: “Are you eating too quickly, or are you chewing thoroughly? Chewing creates memory circuits within our body, allowing us to fully experience our food’s nourishment.”

He further highlighted that eating habits extend beyond the meal itself. Timing is key in Ayurveda, with the largest meal ideally eaten during midday when digestive fire is strongest. Dr. Rao also advised against eating mindlessly in cars or while walking, which can disrupt digestion and contribute to stress. Such mindful eating practices allow people to connect more deeply with food, aiding in both physical and mental health.

2. Dr. Rucha Kelkar – Traditional Ayurvedic Home Remedies

Dr. Rucha Kelkar shared practical Ayurvedic remedies and their everyday applications, focusing on natural ingredients that support health. She emphasized Turmeric for its well-known wound-healing properties and Trikatu (a blend of black pepper, ginger, and long pepper) as a potent aid for digestion. Additionally, Dr. Kelkar recommended Tulsi (holy basil) and turmeric for daily immunity support, as both have significant anti-inflammatory properties. She also spoke on Sandalwood (Chandana) as a cooling herb that soothes the mind and heart; applying it to the forehead, she noted, promotes calmness and is especially beneficial during stressful times. This focus on traditional herbs demonstrated how Ayurvedic remedies can be easily incorporated into modern lives, showcasing Ayurveda’s flexibility and timeless relevance.

3. Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath – Aligning with Nature’s Rhythms through Dinacharya and Ritucharya

Dr. Jayarajan Kodikannath from Kerala Ayurveda discussed the Ayurveda concept of Vihaar, or lifestyle, emphasizing that “all healing ultimately happens within our own bodies.” He explained Ayurveda’s approach to aligning with nature’s rhythms through Dinacharya (daily routine) and Ritucharya (seasonal routine). Dinacharya promotes activities such as waking up early, engaging in gentle exercise, and eating meals at regular intervals. “The timing of your biggest meal, the intervals between meals, and even the practice of fasting can influence your well-being,” Dr. Jayarajan explained.

He discussed sleep as an essential aspect of this alignment, advising against late hours that disrupt the body’s natural rhythms. Dr. Jayarajan also recommended prioritizing downtime, such as spending relaxed moments with family, which fosters mental well-being and allows the body to rejuvenate. “Not all time needs to be productive,” he noted, reminding attendees to balance effort with rest—a core Ayurvedic principle. This emphasis on cyclical and balanced living provides a framework that supports not only physical health but also emotional and mental well-being, showcasing Ayurveda as a holistic science of life.

Key Takeaways for Health & Wellness

Perspective on Ayurveda Innovation for Global Health

There are several concepts, principles or innovations in Ayurveda that are Nobel Prize-worthy, concepts that resonate with modern scientific research that is on-going:

1. Dinacharya (Daily Routine) and Circadian Rhythm: The concept of Dinacharya in Ayurveda emphasizes a structured daily routine, including set times for waking, eating, exercise, work, and sleep. This aligns with modern circadian science, which emphasizes that the body’s internal clock is synchronized with the earth’s light-dark cycles, affecting metabolism, mental health, and cellular repair. The 2017 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine highlighted the importance of circadian rhythms, reflecting what Ayurveda advocated thousands of years ago as essential for health.

2. Ayurvedic Clock and Seasonal Cycles (Ritucharya): Ayurveda also aligns health with seasonal cycles through Ritucharya, which advises adjusting diet and lifestyle according to the seasons. This anticipates modern insights into seasonal variations in immune function, metabolism, and mental health, showing Ayurveda’s comprehensive approach to environmental adaptation.

3. Aama (Toxins) and Gut Health: Ayurveda’s concept of Aama describes toxins resulting from poor digestion, which can accumulate in tissues and cause disease. This ancient view aligns with recent research on gut health, showing how inflammation, poor digestion, and imbalances in the gut microbiome contribute to chronic diseases. Ayurvedic practices for detoxification, such as fasting and herbal therapies, emphasize a balanced digestive fire (Agni), aligning with what we now know about the gut-brain connection and immune health.

4. Gut Microbiome: Ayurveda’s emphasis on balanced digestion and gut health is way ahead of its time, paralleling modern studies on the microbiome’s influence on conditions like obesity, immunity, and mental health. Ayurveda promotes probiotics, herbs (ex: Triphala, fermented foods), which are now known to support beneficial gut bacteria and health.

5. Prakriti (Individual Constitution) and Personalized Medicine: Ayurveda’s Prakriti principle—personalized health based on unique body constitutions (Vata, Pitta, Kapha)—is analogous to today’s personalized medicine, which considers individual genetics, lifestyle, and environment. Ayurveda’s tailored dietary, lifestyle, and treatment recommendations align with the personalized healthcare movement, which seeks to match treatment to genetic and phenotypic variations.

6. Rasayana (Rejuvenation) and Anti-Aging: Rasayana therapies, Ayurveda’s rejuvenation practices using herbs like Ashwagandha and Amalaki, aim to enhance vitality, mental clarity, and immunity. This is closely related to the field of anti-aging and longevity research, which investigates antioxidants, adaptogens, and cellular repair. Ayurveda’s proactive approach to aging anticipates much of today’s research on disease prevention and health optimization.

7. Mental Health and Holistic Preventive Care: Ayurveda considers emotional well-being essential to physical health, advocating lifestyle practices like meditation, Yoga, and a balanced diet for mental clarity and resilience. This aligns with modern integrative health, which sees mental health and lifestyle modifications as central to disease prevention.

These Ayurvedic insights show a sophisticated understanding of the body’s balance with nature, preventive health, and personalized care. I anticipate that many of the insights will be validated by modern science over time.

A Broader Vision for Global Health: Insights from CAAM

The California Association for Ayurvedic Medicine (CAAM) organized this event to raise awareness of Ayurveda’s potential in preventive and promotive healthcare. The association has been working actively to integrate Ayurveda into the mainstream healthcare system by promoting educational events and fostering collaborations with medical professionals. CAAM’s representatives shared that Ayurveda’s philosophy aligns with sustainable, preventative healthcare model that could greatly benefit global healthcare systems overwhelmed by chronic diseases. The Consul General of India in San Francisco reiterated Ayurveda’s value as a bridge between ancient wisdom and modern health needs. He spoke about the Indian Government’s efforts to support Ayurveda globally through educational partnerships and initiatives aimed at making Ayurveda more accessible and integrated with modern medical practices.

Conclusion: A Day of Connection, Learning, and Tradition

Ayurveda Day 2024 was a celebration of ancient wisdom and modern health insights, offering a space for learning and connection among Ayurveda enthusiasts and practitioners. The event showcased how Ayurveda’s principles—mindful eating, aligning with natural rhythms, and incorporating traditional remedies—are timeless practices that can be adapted for modern life. Through their commitment to this event, the Hindu University of America, California College of Ayurveda, and CAAM demonstrated the growing interest and respect for Ayurveda within California’s health and wellness community. By integrating Ayurveda into broader health practices, these organizations are paving the way for a healthier and more balanced approach to living, where ancient knowledge continues to inform and inspire today’s wellness trends. The evening concluded with a sense of collective enthusiasm and commitment to Ayurveda’s growth in the U.S., symbolizing Ayurveda’s enduring role in promoting holistic health. As more people incorporate Ayurvedic principles into their lives, Ayurveda Day serves as an annual reminder of the importance of balance, nature, and self-care in the pursuit of wellness.

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Speaking on the occasion, in his keynote address, Dr. Marc Halpern said: ‘Thank you so much
for welcoming me into your community. The California College of Ayurveda was founded in
1995 in Nevada City, California. We have a beautiful campus up there in the foothills of the
Sierras. To bring together our journey of CCA of almost thirty years with the journey of HUA is
truly beyond words for me. We have been promoting the knowledge and principles of
Ayurveda, Yoga, and Hindu Dharma all this time. Coming together with the traditional Hindu
community is a dream beyond anything I could have imagined. This union is itself a yoga for the
benefit of humanity.’

Dr. Halpern then offered a prayer to Lord Dhanwantri and invoked his blessings on the
upcoming occasion of International Ayurveda Day. Dr. Halpern spoke about his seven-year
healing process, which led him through his personal, professional, and spiritual journey to
Ayurveda. He wondered what it would look like to bring the best of the West and the best of
the East together. He said, Vedic knowledge is the path of understanding how to create
harmony in our lives,’ adding that ‘Ayurveda holds the key to healing our communities and the
world as it goes deeper into the psyche and consciousness.’ Dr. Halpern received a standing
ovation for his remarks.

In his talk, Shri Kalyan Viswanathan, President of the Hindu University of America, said, ‘Marc is
now part of the Hindu University of America. A fundamental commitment of this merger
between HUA and CCA is the recognition of the growing Western community of spiritual but
not religious (SBNR) people in the USA, who have been nurtured in the wake of the many
teachers from India who brought Hindu thought to the US. Starting from Swami Vivekananda in
1893, Paramahamsa Yogananda in the early twentieth century, followed by Maharishi Mahesh
Yogi, Swami Vishnudevananda, Swami Chidananda, Osho, Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada,
Swami Chinmayananda, Swami Dayananda Saraswati, Mata Amritanandamayi, Sri Sri
Ravishankar, Sadguru Jaggi Vasudev, and many more have seeded ideas from Bharat in the West, resulting in this ever-growing community that is now open to Yoga, Ayurveda,
meditation, mindfulness, and spirituality in general.’

Speaking on the potential of this merger, Mr. Viswanathan spoke about the possibilities and
challenges that lay ahead, highlighting the opportunity for ‘filling the evidentiary gap in
Ayurveda that remained a stumbling block when it came to mainstreaming Ayurveda in the
West.’ He said that the ‘development of clinical studies, the publication of papers, accreditation
standards, procedures for licensure at the state levels, and securing the potential for
reimbursements from insurance companies all lay ahead in the future, as milestones yet to be
accomplished.’ He also called out the possibility of ‘defining the field of integrative medicine
from an Ayurvedic foundation, as opposed to an allopathic as yet another exciting possibility
that lay in front of us.’ Shri Kalyan Viswanathan added that ‘creating a university such as HUA is
the work of many generations. We are merely marking a significant milestone now. Many more
crucial developments in the form of other schools, centers, departments, and institutes will
emerge in the next few decades.’ He then called on the Hindu community to embrace HUA and
contribute generously towards its growth.

The highlight of the gala event was the honor bestowed on Shri B. U. Patel by Dr. Jashvant
Patel, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Hindu University of America, for his significant
contribution towards the growth and mission of HUA at a formative time in its journey of
rejuvenation. Dr. Jashvant Patel recalled that ‘when I took over as the Chair of the finance
committee of HUA, Shri B. U. Patel and his family were the first stop I made to ask for funds,
and the HUA family is deeply grateful to Shri B. U. Patel and Pushpaben for their invaluable
contribution to HUA. We cannot acknowledge them enough for their support.’ On behalf of the
university, Mr. and Mrs. B U Patel were warmly felicitated with the ‘Dharma Rakshaka’ award
inscribed on a plaque. Shri Naresh Solanki, the Mayor of Cerritos, presented a proclamation
from the city honoring the Hindu University of America for its contribution, Shri B. U. Patel for
his philanthropic gifts that have made a significant impact on society, and Dr. Marc Halpern,
who has served the Ayurveda community in the West for nearly three decades. This was
followed by a beautiful four-minute video presentation of Shri B. U. Patel and Pushpaben’s life
and accomplishments. The short film covered their early days in India, their initial venture into
Africa, their emigration to the USA in 1976, and their extraordinary business success in the
West. However, the film’s highlight was the selfless philanthropic work they have focused on
for the last quarter century, which has sown so many seeds that will impact millions of people
for generations to come, both in India and the West.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Jashvant Patel added, As allopathic doctors, we know that we
can heal people fast, but Ayurveda excels in providing long-term health. Medical communities
globally recognize the value of integrative medicine today, especially that of Ayurveda.
Recently, I had the privilege of meeting the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, on
September 22, and he received the news about the merger of our two institutions with great
enthusiasm. He gave us the responsibility to authenticate Ayurveda using modern methods of
science and promised the support of the Government of India for our efforts.’

The décor was Diwali-themed. Attendees had the opportunity to celebrate Hindu culture,
support HUA’s mission of preserving and promoting Hindu traditions, and network with like-
minded individuals. The event featured various cultural activities, including a live Bhakti music
performance by the renowned duo Ashwin (AKS) & Lakshmi, an exhibition of Hindu-themed
paintings and art provided by Shri Srinivas Rao Mangu, and devotional music on the keyboard
during lunch by Aniketh Arun, a young and upcoming musician.

About Hindu University of America (HUA):

Hindu University of America (HUA) is an upcoming university offering an extensive curriculum in
the knowledge systems rooted in Hindu thought, including its philosophy, culture, Sanskrit,
yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and more. HUA equips students with deep insights into Hindu
culture and traditions and their contemporary relevance in the modern world.
For more information about Hindu University of America, please visit the university website at
www.hua.edu or contact us at info@hua.edu.

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Waves 2024 – A Grand Confluence of Academic Scholarship and Vedic Wisdom

The 16th World Association for Vedic Studies (WAVES) Conference, hosted by Hindu University of America (HUA) in partnership with the Wider Association for Vedic Studies (WAVES India), convened over 250 scholars, participants, and attendees from around the world. From September 13th to 15th, 2024, the HUA campus in Groveland, Florida, became the focal point for elevating the academic discourse around Vedic Studies through panels, presentations, and plenaries, with this year’s theme being the Prevention, Management, and Resolution of Conflicts in Vedic Traditions.

A Platform for Global Scholarship

The world’s premier academic conference on Vedic Studies brought together a diverse range of voices, from seasoned scholars to emerging student researchers, reinforcing the breadth and depth of interest in Vedic thought. As WAVES International President Shri Sashi Kejriwal noted, “The diverse range of scholars who presented, attended, and participated in the WAVES 2024 Conference was impressive. What was unique about this conference was the great number of scholarly youth presentations. It was heartening to observe high school and college students not only in the audience but also at the podium articulating their own research.” This year’s conference was the first in-person WAVES gathering since the global pandemic, marking a significant milestone in the community’s return to face-to-face academic exchan

Confronting Contemporary Challenges with Vedic Wisdom

The world’s premier academic conference on Vedic Studies brought together a diverse range of voices, from seasoned scholars to emerging student researchers, reinforcing the breadth and depth of interest in Vedic thought. As WAVES International President Shri Sashi Kejriwal noted, “The diverse range of scholars who presented, attended, and participated in the WAVES 2024 Conference was impressive. What was unique about this conference was the great number of scholarly youth presentations. It was heartening to observe high school and college students not only in the audience but also at the podium articulating their own research.” This year’s conference was the first in-person WAVES gathering since the global pandemic, marking a significant milestone in the community’s return to face-to-face academic exchange.

Confronting Contemporary Challenges with Vedic Wisdom

The conference’s focus on conflict prevention and resolution drew attention to the enduring relevance of Vedic wisdom in today’s world. Shri Kalyan Viswanathan, President of HUA, shared his thoughts: “Hindu University of America is very proud to host the 16th biennial WAVES conference at its campus in Florida. WAVES has consistently provided a platform for scholars to express their perspectives through research papers and presentations. Vedic knowledge, even though ancient, is also very relevant for our contemporary age. This year’s conference theme centered around the challenges of conflict prevention, crisis management, and resolution. With many conflicts raging around the world, the scholars who attended the conference explored the relevance and value of Vedic wisdom in approaching the varied conflicts that we face today around the planet.”

The theme was explored through more than 100 research papers covering a wide range of disciplines, such as Philosophy, Anthropology, Medicine, Conflict Management, and Psychology. Focused panel discussions delved into subjects like Arthashastra, Ayurveda, and the distortions of Hindu ethos in educational systems. The sessions highlighted how the wisdom embedded in the Vedas could be instrumental in addressing today’s pressing issues, from global conflict to healthcare and education reform.

A Gathering of Eminent Minds

WAVES 2024 featured plenary speeches from several distinguished speakers, including Dr. Tony Nader (Virtually), Dr. Subash Kak, Dr. Vishwa Adluri, Dr. Debidatta Mahapatra, Dr. Joydeep Bagchee, Dr. Raj Vedam, Dr. Bal Ram Singh, Dr. Anil Maheshwari, to name a few; whose thought-provoking insights enriched the discussions and offered new perspectives on the application of Vedic knowledge to current challenges. Their contributions helped frame the ongoing conversation about how ancient wisdom can guide solutions to modern-day problems.

Bridging Generations of Scholars

One of the unique aspects of WAVES 2024 was the presence and active participation of the next generation of scholars. The conference provided a space for high school and college students to engage deeply with Vedic studies, both as learners and as contributors. This engagement not only showcased the growing interest among youth in their cultural heritage but also emphasized the importance of nurturing these young voices in academic forums. WAVES’ commitment to bringing together scholars across generations continues to build a bridge between ancient wisdom and contemporary inquiry.

A Blend of Academic Rigor and Cultural Immersion

Beyond academic discussions, WAVES 2024 also emphasized cultural and community engagement. Evening gatherings and jamming sessions allowed attendees to unwind and celebrate the vibrancy of Indian musical traditions, adding a dynamic cultural aspect to the conference.

The atmosphere of collaboration, community, and cultural celebration was palpable throughout the event, making WAVES 2024 a unique blend of scholarly rigor and immersive cultural experiences. HUA remains committed to hosting and facilitating the academic study of Vedic knowledge, and this conference further solidified its role as a hub for advancing Vedic studies.

Conclusion

WAVES 2024 successfully cleared space for escaping colonial frameworks and building an accurate Vedic worldview that speaks to today’s needs. This conference wasn’t just a series of scholarly sessions—it was a living, breathing testament to the relevance of Vedic knowledge in today’s world. With the successful conclusion of this event, all eyes are on WAVES 2025, where the conversations, research, and community spirit will surely continue to thrive.

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Ayurveda is a system of traditional, and holistic healthcare practice that originated in India. Dr. Marc Halpern founded the California College of Ayurveda in 1995 with the vision of bringing Ayurveda to the United States to transform the consciousness and well-being of society. Over the past 29 years, he has nurtured the college and witnessed the profession’s growth. “CCA began modestly by conducting a weekend program out of my remodeled garage and eventually became the most recognized college of Ayurveda outside of India. CCA’s graduates have been at the forefront of the profession’s development” added Dr. Halpern, remarking that “Our vision for this merger is to harmoniously blend the best of the East with the best of the West, ensuring a promising future for all. This is truly a remarkable development.” 

Dr. Jashvant Patel, Chairman of the Board of Hindu University of America, stated “As a medical doctor practicing western medicine and surgery, I have often tried to incorporate alternative and complementary modes of treatment. This merger will enable us to focus on the benefits of integrative health, bringing scientific rigor and discipline to the development of this field. This is a monumental milestone for HUA, and I am very excited to be a part of this phase of growth and expansion. Ayurveda and Allopathic medicine need not be antagonistic to each other. They can be complementary. I foresee HUA along with CCA making an important contribution to the field of healthcare and to humanity by expanding Ayurveda education and research.”

Kalyan Viswanathan, President of Hindu University of America, added, “The knowledge systems that originated in India, have always given primacy to the spiritual realm over the material realm. At HUA, it will be a priority for us to demonstrate the contemporary value of Ayurveda, consistent with the practices of modern science, even as we explore the possibilities of holistic healthcare. The HUA family has just grown considerably, and so have the opportunities in front of us. We wholeheartedly welcome the CCA community into the HUA family and to further advancing the field.”

Click here to visit the California College of Ayurveda’s website.

Click here to visit HUA’s Ayurveda and Integrative Health courses.

For questions or comments, please contact Ankur Patel at info@hua.edu or +1-818-470-4019.

For more information, please visit https://www.hua.edu or https://www.ayurvedacollege.com/.

About Hindu University of America (HUA)

Founded in 1989, authorized in 1993, and based near Orlando, Florida, Hindu University of America (HUA) offers outstanding education in the traditional knowledge systems based in Hindu thought, that originated in ancient India. HUA’s vision is centered on promoting dialogue across disciplines, cultures and civilizations while enabling self-discovery, conscious evolution, and harmony.

About California College of Ayurveda (CCA)

Established in 1995, and based in Nevada City, California, the California College of Ayurveda (CCA) is dedicated to transforming human consciousness by providing the highest quality education, health care, and research in the field of Ayurveda. It is the oldest, and most recognized state-approved college in the West offering education, healthcare, and research in the field of Ayurveda.

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Studies have shown the positive effects of children growing with a shared spiritual relationship during their childhood.

Why Spirituality for Youth

Introduction

“Spirituality is the central organizing principle of inner life in teenagers,” says Dr. Lisa Miller, Professor of Psychology and Education at Columbia University. Children are naturally spiritual and are closest to the rhythm of the universe.¹ They are filled with a sense of wonder — the Rasa of Vismaya — for all things new and dynamic, be it nature, animals, or man-made technological wonders. 

Religion and Spirituality are not two separate concepts. Similarly, yoga and spirituality are not separate concepts. When there is a leap of faith in something beyond the body and mind that makes us who we are, there is a seeker in us. When there is a faith in the rhythm of nature and its laws to take care of everyday life, there is peace within us. Practices such as worship and rituals, asana practice on the mat, or a seated meditation are all different paths of yoga and spirituality to reach Moksha, the highest freedom and supreme happiness. 

Dr. Lisa Miller has also shown in her research studies that children who grow up with spirituality and religious practices in the household are better at coping with difficulties in life; better than children who have no religious background. 

Adolescence – the cusp of life

Emotionally, adolescence is the most difficult stage of human life. As children turn into adolescents, they try to individuate and find their own identity. However, they lack the life skills and the strength of character needed to take complete responsibility for their lives. They are at the cusp of needing parents and wanting to be free from parental patronage. This brings duality in both the adolescent and the parent. Spirituality offers emotional resilience to be able to handle this confusion. Spirituality also helps adolescents build healthy relationships with their peers and keep an open communication with their parents.

As the child grows to be a teenager, their sense of wonder and curiosity turns into creativity and innovativeness, along with adventurous and risk-taking behaviours. They like to try everything new, whether it is positive or negative. They are prone to making mistakes, being impulsive and careless, and defy the rules set by the parents and by the community. 

Toxic environment

Adolescence is the time of life when one needs their entire “village” for support and encouragement if one wishes to grow up to be a healthy and happy individual. A positive spiritual experience with a family member or a mentor can bring a total inner transformation to the life of an adolescent. Dr. Lisa Miller notes in her book, “Spiritual Child”, “Even a single powerful childhood experience of spiritual awareness can be a lasting source of guidance through adulthood”.

However, youth today are growing up in dangerously difficult environments. The competitive atmosphere where they are pressured to outperform their peers brings a toxic environment where they are forced to develop jealousy and a judgemental nature towards their peers. It also forces them to seek unethical shortcuts to beat the competition. Social bullying is perhaps one of the side effects of this toxic environment. A few decades ago, youth were bullied in school during break time or after school. However, when they were back home, they were free of this humiliation. With social media weighing down on today’s youth, they are in a pressure chamber of being judged or bullied constantly. This ghost of a bully does not leave the teenager even at night. 

According to Center for Disease Control (CDC), 8.9% of American high school students surveyed attempted suicide and 18.8% of high school students “seriously considered” attempting suicide. This number is higher in competitive atmospheres such as within Asian families. 

Boredom and Restlessness

With a surge of technological advancements, youth are bombarded with devices to distract them. The pace of life has gained so much speed that every minute, the youth need something new and exciting to keep them busy. They are easily bored.² It is true that teenagers generally have raging hormones that make them restless. If they are not taught to handle this energy, they can easily get into trouble. 

Acting out

Youth are seeing their identity, but this is a slow process during their adolescence. They need leisurely time and space for trial and error before they know who they are or want to be. They will be unpredictable and impulsive because that is how they figure out their identity. However, this stage of psychosocial development where there is identity versus role confusion is exacerbated by peer pressure and parental expectations.

As a result, they tend to “act out” instead of being genuine and honest about themselves. This acting out can initially be seen as a show they are putting up for others. If this behavior continues, however, it can lead to self-denial and self-deceit. If they are not taught to be true to themselves, and express their vulnerability, they may become complex individuals with personality disorders and can develop anxiety and depression.

It can affect their growth, career, relationships and their social wellness. Youth need a safety net where family, friends, a yoga teacher, a mentor, or a guru is holding that space for them. We need to give them freedom to explore.

Addictions

We all seek happiness in the objects outside. Youths are no different. Adolescence is the most unhappy and restless period of our lives, owing to the identity-seeking that this period compels us towards. When the teenager is not trained to find happiness in the right way, they take to substance abuse or develop sexual irresponsibility. However, one should understand that the only attempt that the teenager is making is to become happy. If they are not properly guided, they can get into pleasure seeking substances compulsively.²

Sacred Relationship 

Youth need an environment to become authentic and to be willing to share their vulnerability with a mentor. While the West has developed the entire field of psychotherapy for this reason, it does not offer a sacred relationship. Almost half of people drop out prematurely (Swift, J. K., & Greenberg, R. P. (2012).³ And Western psychology is beginning to acknowledge the importance of “Therapeutic Relationship” for client compliance.

Yoga brings a relationship of reverence and an environment of ethical coziness for the youth. Here ethics (Yama and Niyama) are explored but not mandated. Patanjali’s yoga sutras start with ethics as the basic foundation to calming down the mind (Chitta Vritti Nirodha). The entire Ashtanga Yoga is centered on mastering the mind. Rituals such as namaste, bowing down, a little prayer/mantra before and after the class, or a simple Aum chanting are all followed, but never forced on anyone.

Divine and sacred blessedness is present, but there is no scope for debate of confusion about “my path” or “your path”. It is a purest form of religion that the ancient Hindu sages have nurtured from time immemorial.

Such a sacred relationship alone can enable the adolescent to be able to share their vulnerabilities and seek solutions. Let us provide our youth with such a space.

Yoga for the Youth

Yoga helps with the overall development of youth. It teaches patience and tolerance to the high achievers who might need to be in a class which is slower than their pace. On the other hand, yoga teaches will power, confidence, and concentration to those who are struggling. Mental awareness during their studies helps develop memory retention, and relaxing after every learning session helps them develop associative memory where they develop the ability to think deeper, associate concepts with real life situations, and develop intuition. 

Techniques to Build Concentration and Awareness

Gazing helps students to improve their focus and attention. In fact, one of the tests that is done for children to measure their attention span is by asking them to gaze on objects as instructed. An observed characteristic of some ADHD individuals is their inability to follow simple instructions related to focusing visually on two objects in succession. Classic Vriksasana (Tree Pose) helps them gaze at one point as they stand on one leg. With repeated practice, they will learn to stand still, gaze fixed and focus on a point. 

Balancing practices help youth develop focus as well. Vrikshasana (Tree Pose) or Veerabhadrasana (Warrior Pose) helps them to stand balancing their body along with giving them physical strength in the legs and the core. 

Chanting – Sound is the other way to calm down the mind, since the mind thinks in terms of chatter. Simple chants of Aum help them calm down the inner chatter. Chanting Bhramari in shashankasana (Child Pose) is shown to help with ADHD. 

Challenging Yoga poses – Practicing yoga helps youth strengthen their body and mind. A strong body makes a strong mind. When they regularly practice yoga as a weekly regimen, their awareness improves. It also sets the stage towards a healthy lifestyle as adults. A benchmark of health and happiness once tasted, will always be a thing to look forward to as they grow up.

In Summary

• Spirituality is necessary for children to grow up to become healthy and happy adults. Studies have shown the positive effects of children growing with a shared spiritual relationship during their childhood.
  
• Emotionally, adolescence is the most difficult stage of human life. They need to individuate and find their own identity. Unfortunately, adolescents of today are in a toxic environment of peer pressure and intense competition. The problems of adolescence include hormonal surges leading to boredom and restlessness, addiction tendencies, and acting out to seek validation from peers, teachers, and parents.
  
• Youth need an environment to become authentic and to be willing to share their vulnerability with a mentor. They need a positive shared relationship with a guru or a yoga teacher.
  
• Spirituality practice as family rituals can help them grow spiritually. Also, the practice of different yoga practices such as balancing poses, gazing practices, strengthening and challenging asanas, pranayama and meditation can help youth develop self-confidence. Healthy body can bring forth a happy mind. Then the youth does not have to seek happiness in substances outside.

Acknowledgements

1. The Spiritual Child: The New Science on Parenting for Health and Lifelong Thriving by Dr. Lisa Miller.
   
2. Harvard Graduate School of Education – Bored Out of Their Minds By Zachary Jason https://www.gse.harvard.edu/news/ed/17/01/bored-out-their-minds
   
3. Swift, J. K., & Greenberg, R. P. (2012). Premature discontinuation in adult psychotherapy: A meta-analysis. Journal of Consulting and Clinical Psychology, 80(4), 547–559. https://doi.org/10.1037/a0028226
   
4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Psychotherapy_discontinuation

Cover Image Source: Pixabay

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Defending Tradition vs Truth: Patanjali vs Indian Medical Association’s Legal Battle Over Ayurvedic Claims

Baba Ramdev: 

Baba Ramdev, born Ramkishan Yadav, is a prominent Indian yoga guru known for popularizing yoga among the masses through his mass yoga camps and television programs. Born in Haryana, India, he studied Indian scripture, yoga, and Sanskrit in various gurukuls (traditional Indian schools). He co-founded the Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. with his colleague, Acharya Balakrishna, and through this venture, they entered into various sectors including personal care and food products, promoting products based on Ayurvedic principles. Baba Ramdev has been a significant figure in advocating for Hindu social and political causes, and his teachings emphasize the health benefits of yoga and Ayurveda. He has also been involved in various social, political, and economic campaigns, such as anti-corruption and promoting indigenous products over foreign brands.

Acharya Balakrishna:

Acharya Balakrishna, born in Haridwar, India, is a close associate of Baba Ramdev and serves as the Managing Director of Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. He holds a degree in Ayurveda from the Sampurnanand Sanskrit University in Varanasi, India but the validity of this has also come into question. Nevertheless, Balakrishna has been instrumental in the formulation and development of Patanjali’s range of Ayurvedic products. His expertise in Ayurveda has led to significant contributions to the field, including research and development of new products and therapies. Balakrishna is also known for his philanthropic efforts and his role in promoting Ayurveda globally through Patanjali’s extensive network.

Together, Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balakrishna have turned Patanjali Ayurved into a major player in the Indian FMCG sector, championing the cause of traditional Indian herbal products and Ayurvedic practices.

Legal Situation:

The ongoing legal case against Patanjali Ayurveda, has been a significant focal point in India. Initiated by the Indian Medical Association (IMA) in August 2022, the case accuses Patanjali and Ramdev of making false claims against evidence-based modern medicine and its practitioners. The controversy largely revolves around misleading advertisements, including claims about the effectiveness of Ayurvedic products against chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure, as well as misleading information regarding COVID-19 vaccines and treatments.

The Supreme Court of India has taken a firm stance in this case. Patanjali Ayurved has faced severe rebukes for violating advertising standards, particularly those laid out in the Drugs & Other Magical Remedies Act, 1954 (DOMA), and the Consumer Protection Act, 2019. These laws prohibit misleading advertisements that suggest unverified medicinal benefits of products. The court has temporarily banned Patanjali from advertising some products, focusing on ensuring that consumers are not misled by unfounded medical claims. This legal battle underscores the importance of truthful advertising and the need for regulatory compliance in promoting medical products. A recent court session also highlighted the ongoing scrutiny of Patanjali’s actions, with the Supreme Court questioning the sincerity of the apologies offered by its founders.

Timeline of the legal case

Here’s a timeline of key events related to the legal case against Patanjali Ayurveda initiated by the Indian Medical Association (IMA):

• June 2020: Patanjali Ayurved introduced Coronil in June, 2020, during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The product was promoted by Baba Ramdev, claiming it was a cure for the coronavirus. Coronil was said to be made from a combination of ingredients known in Ayurveda to boost immunity, such as Mulethi, Giloy, Tulsi, and Ashwagandha.
• July 2022: Patanjali publishes advertisements claiming that their products can cure various chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure. These advertisements also include claims about COVID-19 that were contested by medical authorities.
• August 2022: The IMA files a petition against Patanjali and its brand ambassador, Baba Ramdev, citing misleading advertisements and derogatory statements against evidence-based modern medicine and its practitioners. The petition highlights the misuse of media to spread misinformation regarding allopathic treatments and vaccines for COVID-19.
• Early 2023: Preliminary hearings and responses are exchanged, with the Supreme Court of India beginning to review the claims and evidence presented by both sides.
• February 27, 2024: The Supreme Court delivers a significant ruling, imposing a temporary ban on Patanjali from advertising specific products that claim to treat diseases as specified under the DOMA and CPA. The court also warns against making negative statements about conventional medicine.
• March 19, 2024: The Supreme Court schedules a follow-up hearing to review the progress and adherence to its orders regarding misleading advertisements and public statements.
• April 16, 2024: The Supreme Court engages directly with Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna to assess the sincerity of their public apologies and their commitment to ceasing misleading advertisements. The court underscores the need for genuine corrective actions.
• April 23, 2024: A subsequent hearing is scheduled where the court will continue its scrutiny of Patanjali’s compliance with the law and ethical advertising standards.

Where are we today?

Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna offered an apology during their interactions with the Supreme Court of India. Their apology came under scrutiny as the court evaluated the sincerity and genuineness behind their expressions of regret for misleading advertisements and statements that disparaged modern medicine and the COVID-19 vaccination efforts. During the court proceedings, the justices were not fully convinced by the apologies, emphasizing the need for Patanjali to demonstrate concrete actions towards correcting their misrepresentations. The court highlighted the importance of taking responsibility for past actions and not just offering apologies. The Supreme Court’s response suggests that a mere apology would not suffice to resolve the issues raised by the Indian Medical Association regarding the false claims made by Patanjali about the efficacy of their products against various diseases and their criticisms of allopathic medicine. This ongoing scrutiny and the court’s demand for more substantial corrective measures indicate a critical stance towards ensuring that public health communications are accurate and responsible, especially from such influential entities. Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna must demonstrate genuine corrective actions and align with legal advertising practices.

Perspective and call to action

Patanjali Ayurved has played a significant role in promoting Ayurveda globally, bringing ancient Indian holistic health practices into modern relevance. The company, under the leadership of Baba Ramdev and Acharya Balkrishna, has been instrumental in advocating for natural and herbal products, aligning with India’s cultural heritage and the growing global trend towards natural health products. Patanjali has contributed economically by creating jobs and supporting local agriculture through its extensive use of herbal ingredients sourced from within India.

However, the recent developments involving Patanjali underscores the imperative for the Ayurveda community at large to embrace practices that ensure trust and adherence to ethical standards. For Ayurveda to grow and be recognized as a valuable and credible contributor to global health and wellness, the Community needs to pay attention and focus on a few major initiatives. These initiatives aim to guide the community in upholding the dignity of Ayurvedic traditions while navigating the modern health landscape responsibly.

In the spirit of fostering trust and upholding the integrity of the Ayurveda, here are some recommendations that could be beneficial for Ayurvedic practitioners and organizations:

1. Strengthen Scientific Validation:
   Engage in or sponsor research studies that explore the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments. This will provide evidence-based backing for Ayurvedic practices, products and claims, enhancing credibility among the wider medical community and the public.
2. Focus on Compliance and Review Processes:
   Establish a robust compliance framework that includes thorough review processes for all promotional and informational materials to ensure they adhere to legal standards and ethical advertising practices. This includes vetting claims with scientific evidence and legal guidelines before public dissemination.
3. Enhance Transparency:
   Establish a robust compliance framework that includes thorough review processes for all promotional and informational materials to ensure they adhere to legal standards and ethical advertising practices. This includes vetting claims with scientific evidence and legal guidelines before public dissemination.
4. Enhance Transparency:
   Improve transparency by disclosing the scientific basis of product claims more openly. This could involve publishing research or collaborating with academic institutions to validate the product’s health benefits.
5. Engage in Public Education:
   Initiate educational campaigns to inform the public about Ayurveda’s principles and practices, clearly distinguishing between general wellness advice and specific medical treatments. These campaigns should aim to educate without making overstated claims about curing diseases.
6. Collaborate with Modern Medicine Healthcare Professionals:
   To bridge the gap between traditional Ayurvedic practices and modern medicine, we should foster partnerships with medical communities, including conducting joint research projects and participating in medical conferences to build trust and credibility.
7. Commit to Ethical Marketing:
   Revising marketing strategies to focus on the holistic and preventive aspects of Ayurveda rather than curative claims could help maintain the market presence responsibly. This includes avoiding comparisons that disparage other medical practices.
8. Implement Community Feedback Mechanisms:
   Establishing mechanisms to receive and incorporate feedback from consumers and health practitioners can help the Ayurveda community stay aligned with consumer protection laws and societal expectations.

These steps could help not only comply with the legal regulations but also enhance brand integrity and consumer trust, ultimately contributing to the sustainable growth of the Ayurvedic industry globally.

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Bhagavan Shri Ganesha

The inauguration ceremony began with a traditional Hindu puja conducted by HUA’s esteemed faculty member Shri Sree Aswath ji, who teaches Vedic rituals at HUA. Shri Kalyan Viswanathan served as the yajamana, or ritual patron, while Aswath ji presided over the puja as the priest. The ceremony commenced with the lighting of the akhanda-jyoti, symbolizing eternal light, followed by an invocation to Bhagawan Shri Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

Shri Sree Aswath ji and Shri Kalyan Viswanathan doing homa.

As the puja progressed, Aswath ji explained the significance of each ritual, including the āhvahanti homa (आवहन्ती होम), a Vedic ritual aimed at attracting disciplined and dedicated students to the gurukula/ educational institution. During the homa, the attendees were encouraged to meditate on the deity being worshiped, with Aswath ji leading the chanting of mantras, invoking blessings for prosperity and abundance. Aswath ji chanted a profound shloka addressed to Agni/Yajna Purusha, rich with symbolism and deep meaning. The captivating significance of the shloka and its elaboration, which mesmerized the audience, merits its own dedicated post.

In his concluding remarks, Dr. Jashvant Patel added, As allopathic doctors, we know that we
can heal people fast, but Ayurveda excels in providing long-term health. Medical communities
globally recognize the value of integrative medicine today, especially that of Ayurveda.
Recently, I had the privilege of meeting the Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi, on
September 22, and he received the news about the merger of our two institutions with great
enthusiasm. He gave us the responsibility to authenticate Ayurveda using modern methods of
science and promised the support of the Government of India for our efforts.’

Attendees immersed in the puja

Aswath ji urged all the attendees to meditate (do dhyana) on the deity to be worshiped. He explained that in a homa/yajna, we start by meditating on Agni. A beautiful mantra with deep meaning and symbolism, addressed to Agni/Yajna Purusha, chanted by Aswath ji. The beautiful shloka and its equally mesmerizing meaning, which left the audience in awe, deserves its own independent post. The homa culminated with purnahuti and the hall reverberated with collective chanting of stotras, as the HUA staff and faculty, the representatives of the board, our generous patrons and the other attendees all joined as proud Hindus in the chantings and pradakshina.

Following the homa, Shri Kalyan Viswanathan expressed gratitude to staff, board members, patrons, and attendees for their support. He announced HUA’s completion of five years under his leadership and extended thanks to donors, Shri Brahmaratan Agarwal ji and Shri Suresh Gupta ji, for providing the office space.

Shri Kalyan Viswanathan ‘s note of thanks to Shri Bhramaratan Agarwal ji.

The event also served as an opportunity to introduce HUA’s staff, many of whom gathered in person for the first time since 2018 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees were introduced to key personnel, including Vice President Shri Aravind Swami, Director of Student Experience Smt. Sumedha Kashalkar, and Director of Advancement – Shri Ankur Patel, Director of Outreach – Smt. Esther Kamakshi Dhanraj, Accreditation Liaison Officer – Smt. Jyoti Yelagalavadi, Coordinator of Sanskrit Studies – Smt. Parvathi Sriram and Coordinator of Content – Smt. Jyoti Suravarjula.

HUA Staff, Members of Faculty for the Ayurveda Retreat and Members of the Board.

In addition, faculty members from the Ayurveda Retreat – Dr. Rupali Pense, Dr. Kanada Narahari, Dr. Shriram Sarvotham and Dr. Mahadevan Seetharaman, and local board member Shri Kiran Chhagganlal were recognized for their contributions.

The ceremony concluded with attendees enjoying a satvik feast at the retreat cafeteria, fostering camaraderie and celebration among all present.

The Newly inaugurated office with Vice President Shri Aravind ji working at his desk.

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Crow’s Teeth

Now that you are reading, I assume the title ‘Crow’s Teeth’ piqued your interest. Birds do not have teeth, at least the modern ones, and crows, for sure, do not have them. So, what is the phrase doing as a title in a HUA blog? The term is referenced in two texts – Nyāya Mañjarī and Āyurveda Dīpikā. There is not much to this amusing term other than that these texts say investigating crow’s teeth is a superficial and uninteresting endeavor. These texts emphasize the importance of communicating the utility of the subject of a discourse lucidly. By discourse I mean written work like treatises and verbal work like expositions.

Nyāya Mañjarī is viewed as an independent work on Nyāya philosophy written in the 10^th century (CE). Jayanta Bhaṭṭa, the author, was a poet, logician, scholar, and adviser to Kashmiri King Śaṅkara Varman of the Utpala dynasty. Though the work is independent, Jayanta based it on Nyāya Sūtra of ṛṣi Akṣapāda by selecting important topics and defending the essential features of the philosophy. Jayanta’s other prominent contribution to the world of Indian Knowledge Systems is his commentary on ṛṣi Pāṇini’s Ashtādhyāyī – a treatise on Sanskṛt grammar. While defending ṛṣi Akṣapāda, Jayanta uses the phrase crow’s teeth. J.V. Bhattacharya, in his translation (see references below) translates the words of Jayanta as follows (page 10):

Even a sentence which conveys sense, having its constituent words mutually connected, should be rejected as worthless if it answers no purpose like the following interrogatory one: “Are the teeth of crow good or bad?”

Āyurveda Dīpikā is an authoritative commentary on Caraka Saṁhitā written in the 11^th century. Cakrpāṇi Datta, who authored the text, was an Āyurvedic practitioner and scholar from the Bengal region of India. Caraka Saṁhitā by Agniveśa, Suśruta Saṁhitā by Suśruta, and Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdaya of Vāgbhaṭa are recognized as Bṛhat-Trayi – the “Great Trio” of Āyurvedic texts. Cakrpāṇi, in his commentary, supplied grammatical, philosophical, and syntactic interpretations of complicated and technical terms (Sharma, R.K. and Dash, Bhagwan, page xl). In addition, Cakrpāṇi justified the arrangement of sections, chapters, and even statements in the chapters. The phrase Crow’s Teeth becomes relevant in this context. Sharma and Bhagwan, in their translations (see references below) translate Cakrpāṇi’s words as:

Intelligent people are not motivated towards (the study of) something indistinct like “ka,” ca,” “ta,” “pa,” etc., nor even towards something distinct but useless examination of the teeth of a crow.” (page 4)

As I pointed out earlier, the phrase “Crow’s Teeth” itself is unimportant. The point driven by both Cakrpāṇi and Jayanta – subject, object, and treatise relationship and that is the significant idea of this blog. Vedantasāra, another text succinctly captures this relationship as anubandha catuṣṭaya. 

Jayanta’s point

Jayanta delivers a stunning technical explanation of Akṣapāda’s first Nyāya Sūtra. The sutra goes as:

        pramāṇa-prameya- saṅśaya -prayojana-dṛṣṭānta-siddhāntāvayava-
        tarka-nirṇaya-vāda-jalpa-vitaṇḍā-hetvābhāsa-cchalajāti-
        nigrahasthānānāṃ tattvajñānān niḥśreyasādhigamaḥ. [1.1.1]

It is the knowledge of the real essence (or true character) of the following sixteen categories that leads to the attainment of the Highest Good – 1) The means of Right Cognition, 2) The objects of the Right Cognition, 3) Doubt, 4) Motive, 5) Example, 6) Theory, 7) Factors of Inference, 8) Cognition, 9) Demonstrated Truth, 10), Discussion, 11) Disputation, 12) Wrangling, 13) Fallacious Reason, 14) Casuistry 15) Futile Rejoinder and 16) Clinchers [Mahāmahopādhyāya Gaṅganatha Jhā translation]

He raises questions for potential objectors and answers them with a flourish. He devotes time to the purpose and effectiveness of the first sentence and general openings of a treatise.

He drives the point that to encourage the listeners of a treatise, it is essential to lay out the subject, broad divisions of the content, and the end goals at the beginning of any written work. He sees that scholars would not consent to hearing something if they were not informed of the broad outline of the subject, as the utility of hearing the treatise remains unknown.

Having introduced that the utility of a treatise is an important motivator for the listeners, Jayanta tries to answer how to prove that utility at the beginning. Jayanta questions the notion whether a mere statement of the utility of a treatise is a good enough motivator. He points out the problem that to know the utility of a discourse, we need to listen to it but to read the treatise, we should first understand its utility. He concludes that the first sentence of a treatise informs the listener about its utility, motivating him to listen to the whole treatise. Jayanta dives into the psychological condition of the listener or reader, who only partially accepts the utility, by saying that there might be doubt of the validity of the proposed utility. However, their mind is convinced to study the treatise to confirm the author’s exposition. He further sees that humans tend to pursue an activity destined to yield positive outcomes that are easy to perform. If the positive result is achievable, intelligent humans will figure it out within a few days.

Jayanta cautions us on the futility of scrutinizing the results before the action has been performed as such a preemptive tendency impedes progress to understanding. This might sound familiar with modern phrase analysis paralysis. He adds an analogy of how a sick person should not doubt the prescriptions given by a physician and the harm of following instructions. He concludes that the learner, having read the utility, should devote his best attention and sincerity to studying the explained subject before deciding on its usefulness.

Jayanta highlights the importance of the first sentence of a treatise saying the purpose or usefulness in a meaningful way. In this context, he brings up the useless characteristic of the question, “Are the teeth of a crow good or bad?” Jayanta believes the first sentence should attract listeners or readers and silence hostile critics. His conviction is that the first sentence can create the necessary doubt in the mind of the listeners or readers to explore the topic and find for themselves if the author was correct.

He summarizes that it is essential to tell the relationship between the treatise and its content, between the content and the results.

Cakrpāṇi’s point

Cakrpāṇi is commenting on the first verse of the first chapter, Dīrgha Jīvatīyam – (Quest for Longevity) of Caraka Saṁhitā. He explains that Caraka, to make it easy for the readers, brought in the subject, object, and relationship as stimuli for the readers. He adds that intelligent people are unmotivated to study something like the Sanskṛt alphabet. Sanskṛt consonants are arranged in rows called Varga, and each row is affixed a label based on the starting alphabet in that row. Next, he points out that intelligent people are not interested in a useless examination of a crow’s teeth.

Cakrpāṇi deems it necessary to specify the subject and object of a treatise at the beginning because if the relationship were not stated, it does not stimulate a learner. Cakrpāṇi contends that the above relationship is conveyed by the phrase “Dīrgha Jīvatīyam” and that Caraka elaborates on it later in the text. He considers the motivator “usefulness” for the treatise as motivating for its learners to study. He contends that mere enumeration of the object does not yield the treatise learner to learn its usefulness. He chastises some works where the author lists the objects but does not deliver on the promise. The author’s credibility alone does not suffice because the learner might be unable to discern the credibility. This leads to a circular problem similar to how Jayanta had described the issue – that a learner will not be attracted to a treatise without knowing its usefulness, and the effectiveness of the treatise cannot be decided unless the learner is drawn to the treatise and studies it.

Cakrpāṇi, so then, arrives at the next motivator, “doubt,” that could attract the learner to the treatise. There are two types of doubts, he goes on to say – a general doubt on the effectiveness of the treatise and another about the specific object of study. He drops the former type of doubt as less motivating than the latter and he does not provide supporting reasons for that perspective. Nevertheless, one can reasonably assume it is because the human mind is better able to understand specific and concrete objects and relationships than general ones.

Cakrpāṇi concludes that telling the utility of the treatise via its relationships is more accessible for its learners to understand and start studying it.

Vedantasāra

I have not encountered the phrase “crow’s teeth” in my other reading. However, the concept of saying the subject, connection of the topic to the treatise, and utility or necessity appears in other works and we can examine this concept in Vedantasāra.

Vedantasāra is a well-known Prakaraṇa Grantha on Advaita philosophy from the 15th century. It was composed by Sadānanda Yogīndra Sarasvatī and it is a revered text that follows traditional pedagogical methods.

Right at the beginning of the work, in verse five, Sadānanda introduces the concept of Anubandha. The verse is:

tatra anubandho nāma adhikāri viṣya saṁbandaprayojanāni [verse 5]

The preliminary questions of Vedanta are the determination of the competency of the student, the subject matter, its connection with the book and the necessity for its study [Swāmī Nikhilānanda translation].

Anubandha has four components: the qualification of a student, subject matter, connection of the subject with the treatise, and the necessity of the treatise. This is popularly known as anubandha catuṣṭaya and can be depicted as below.

Conclusion

We can apply these concepts to any formal discourse or writing. It is essential to clearly state the subject and end results to create an interest in the reader. Apart from increasing this curiosity, this framework which was analyzed and developed by our ancestors, encourages the author to be reflective and use rigor. In an information dissemination format such as this blog, a seemingly irrelevant phrase hook “crow’s teeth” would suffice for the readers to begin reading

References

English translations of all the texts were consulted for this writing and where it was critical, the original Sanskṛt texts were also studied to ensure correctness in meaning and interpretation.

1. Caraka Saṁhitā by Agnivesa (redacted by Carka and Dṛḍhabala)
2. Nyāya Mañjarī by Jayanta Bhaṭṭa
3. Vedantasāra by Sadānanda Yogīndra

Translations

1. Sharma, R.K and Dash, Bhagwan, Caraka Saṁhitā [Text with English translation & critical exposition based on Cakrpāṇi Datta’s Āyurveda Dīpikā ], Vol I, Chowkhamba Sanskrit Series Office, Varanasi, 2023
2. Bhattacharya, Janaki Vallabha, Jayanta Bhaṭṭa’s Nyāya Mañjarī [The Compendium of Indian Speculative Logic], Motilal Banarsi Dass, New Delhi, 1978
3. Swāmī Nikhilānanda, Vedantasāra (The Essence of Vedanta) of Sadānanda Yogīndra, Advaita Ashrama, Kolkata, 2021
4. Jha, Mahāmahopādhyāya Gaṅgānātha, Gautama’s Nyāya Sūtras [with Vātsyāyana Bhāṣya], Oriental Book Agency (Poona, 1939)

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“Harmony of Wisdom and Wellness: Hindu University of America’s Impactful Role in Ayurveda Beyond Wellness Conference”

In the luminous landscape of Ayurvedic wisdom, the Ayurveda Beyond Wellness conference, held in Orlando from October 26 to 29, 2023, became a focal point for luminaries, experts, and enthusiasts. At the heart of this transformative gathering was the Hindu University of America (HUA), standing proudly as a Silver Sponsor and the gracious host of a memorable pre-conference dinner. This blog delves into the significant role played by HUA, showcasing not only its commitment to promoting the authentic essence of Ayurveda but also its dedication to fostering a community dedicated to holistic well-being.

HUA as a Silver Sponsor:

The National Consortium of Ayurveda Medicine (NCAM) orchestrated the Ayurveda Beyond Wellness conference, bringing together global stakeholders in Orlando. The event, held from October 26 to 29, 2023, featured pre-conference sessions, panel discussions, and experiential sessions led by luminaries like Sadhguru and David Frawley. With a diverse range of topics spanning health, education, entrepreneurship, and scientific integration, NCAM’s conference marked a pivotal initiative to advance Ayurveda in the United States.

HUA’s role as a Silver Sponsor reflected its commitment to the profound wisdom encapsulated within Ayurveda. By contributing valuable insights and financial support, the university demonstrated a shared vision with the conference organizers, advancing the cause of Ayurveda on a national and global scale. This sponsorship underscored HUA’s recognition of Ayurveda as an integral part of Vedic teachings, aligning seamlessly with its mission of preserving and disseminating Vedic knowledge.

Pre-conference Dinner Hosted by HUA:

HUA’s engagement extended beyond sponsorship, as the university took the initiative to host a pre-conference dinner, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for participants. This dinner served as a platform for networking, fostering connections, and initiating conversations that set the tone for the collaborative spirit of the upcoming conference. Hosted at the administrative offices of HUA, the dinner offered a seamless blend of cultural richness and intellectual exchange.

Key Highlights of the Pre-conference Event:

1. Welcoming Address by Dr. Mahadevan Seetharaman
2. Introductory Remarks by Shri Braham R. Aggarwal
3. Keynote by Shri Kalyan Viswanathan, President of HUA
4. Sitar Performance by Vaidya Kannada Narahari
5. Networking, Interactions with Ayurveda Community, and Dinner

Dr. Mahadevan Seetharaman, a conference organizer and Faculty at HUA, extended a warm welcome to all attendees, emphasizing the university’s dedication to promoting Ayurveda and Vedic knowledge. Sri Braham R. Aggarwal, Chairman of Park Square Homes, provided visionary insights and set the tone for a conference that blended business acumen with a profound dedication to well-rounded growth. His welcome highlighted HUA’s benefactors’ commitment to holistic well-being, reflecting in philanthropy, education advocacy, and spiritual initiatives.

Shri Kalyan Viswanathan, President of HUA, delivered a keynote address that drew on his extensive association with Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswati and his deep study of Hinduism, particularly from an Advaita Vedānta perspective. Emphasizing HUA’s commitment to supporting NCAM and Ayurveda initiatives in the United States, Viswanathan set the stage for harmonious integration of traditional wisdom and academic excellence in the pursuit of Ayurveda’s expansion.

Dr. Kannada Narahari, an Ayurveda doctor and accomplished sitar player, delivered a mesmerizing solo sitar performance. His musical prowess resonated, showcasing the integration of Ayurveda, literature, and music in a soulful presentation.

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Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been accepted and adopted with greater success in China compared to Traditional Indian Medicine – Ayurveda, in India. Both Ayurveda and TCM are holistic systems of health and healing, based on a philosophy of balance and harmony. These health systems work by restoring harmony within the human body as well as within our environment in order to create optimal health and well-being. Both systems follow the principle that ‘The body is a microcosm of the universe’. They emphasize detoxification, balancing human physiology, alleviating symptoms and more importantly treating the root causes of diseases. These methods are emotionally soothing, physically calming and spiritually invigorating for the patient and therefore being used traditionally for thousands of years in India and China to treat diseases. Compared to modern medicine, both consider not only the physical condition but also the mind of a patient for diagnosis and treatment.

TCM vs Ayurveda

TCM combines herbs and acupuncture with massage, diet, exercise, and other lifestyle strategies. Physiotherapy and moxibustion are also part of TCM’s treatment regimen. Ayurvedic approaches include diet and lifestyle changes, herbs, massage, steam therapy, natural poultice, Yoga and Panchakarma, ie, Vamana (emesis therapy), Virechana (purgation therapy), Basti (enema therapy), Nasya (nasal administration) and RaktaMokshana (traditional Ayurvedic method for purification and cleansing of the blood). 

While the Ayurvedic system of medicine has been in practice for over five thousand years, it has been only in the past few decades that it started getting attention from the international community. That said, TCM is still more successful and global as it is either legal or recognized in seventy countries while Ayurveda has only been recognized in about thirty countries. Studies also show that TCM is more integrated with modern medicine in Chinese hospitals compared to Ayurveda in Indian hospitals.

Governmental support

The government in China fares better in promoting its traditional medicine, spending hundreds of millions of dollars on promoting TCM compared to what the Indian government is doing for Ayurveda. The Chinese government took over the reins of TCM in China and made sure that it was well funded. Not so for Ayurveda in India, where it is mostly practiced as a form of traditional medicine rather than as a well-researched science. The Chinese government has announced the “Healthy China 2030” as part of their agenda for health and development, which also includes TCM as a National Strategy for its citizens. In India, on the other hand, the government has started recognizing the holistic curative power of Ayurveda only in recent years. Although India houses one of the largest herbal industries in the world, it is still unable to match China’s progress to promote its ancient medicines.

Research and Scientific Evidence

Globally, there is more research and clinical trials on TCM compared to Ayurveda. The Chinese have been researching on herbal medicines since 1970 and have published reports of their findings in internationally recognized journals. TCM has also been studied extensively worldwide, and there is a significant amount of scientific evidence available on its effectiveness. There are more medical journals publishing articles on TCM compared to those on Ayurveda today.

Influence of Modern Medicine

Chinese people generally do not question TCM as much as Indians question Ayurveda even though both have been around for centuries. Interest in western medical systems is rising globally, nevertheless, few people doubt the effectiveness of Traditional Chinese Medicine in China. In India, the influence has been the opposite. As a result of Ayurveda being brought into conflict with modern medicine and science, more people have taken up this ancient treatment method only as a last-minute alternative to western style medicine if things don’t work out.

Ayurveda and the Hindu Religion

TCM in China was not an integrated form of medicine like Ayurveda in India, but it was more widespread and accepted. It did not attach itself to the Hindu religion like Ayurveda did throughout India’s history, creating different philosophical and ideological differences between the two systems of medicine. The Chinese medicine is a form of traditional medicine based on the theory that health and disease are due to the natural laws. Ayurveda includes both medical and philosophical theories, as well as techniques for diagnosis and treatment which can involve spiritual methods and medicinal substances. Therefore, many people believe that Ayurveda as a system includes science, philosophy, and religious faith (Hinduism.) To be clear, while Ayurveda does have its theory rooted in the Vedic view of the world, there is no requirement for one to accept the origins in order to benefit from what the holistic medicinal system has to offer.

Outgoing thoughts

With the rise in popularity of Ayurveda over the last decade, it is fast catching up to TCM globally and becoming more familiar to many in the West. In India, the government has been supporting Ayurveda for many years now and has increased its funding. They are setting up Ayurvedic hospitals in each district making it more accessible and establishing universities for training and research in Ayurveda. The government is also increasing consumer awareness about the benefits of Ayurvedic products, promoting health consciousness among consumers, and expanding product availability across tier II and III cities. With increase in chronic conditions and lifestyle disorders, the world is starting to recognize the benefits of complementary and alternative healthcare systems like Ayurveda and Yoga for managing these diseases. Though Traditional Chinese Medicine is today performing better from mainstream adoption standpoint than Traditional Indian Medicine, the time for Ayurveda to shine has come!

Editorial assistance provided by Dr. Kalyani Samantray, Sri Sri University

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