Dhanteras – A Celebration of Health Over Wealth: Embracing the Teachings of Lord Dhanvantari

Dhanteras , the first day of the Diwali festival , is usually marked by the buying of gold, silver, and other valuables. However, there's much more to this day than just the pursuit of material wealth. Dhanteras also coincides with Dhanvantari Jayanti, which celebrates the birth of Lord Dhanvantari , the divine figure associated with Ayurveda . Known as the God of Medicine in Hindu tradition, Lord Dhanvantari represents the healing and holistic approach to health that Ayurveda has promoted for thousands of years.

Who is Lord Dhanvantari?
According to Hindu mythology, Lord Dhanvantari emerged during the Samudra Manthan, the great churning of the ocean, holding a pot of Amrita, the nectar of immortality, and medicinal herbs. His appearance symbolizes the introduction of Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine, to humanity. He is considered the divine physician and is often worshipped for health, healing, and longevity. The teachings attributed to him emphasize preventive health measures, natural remedies, and lifestyle management as the keys to maintaining well-being.

Health as the True Wealth
The celebration of Dhanteras reminds us that true prosperity is not found in gold and jewels but in good health. The rituals performed on this day, such as lighting ghee lamps and offering prayers for health, signify a cultural understanding that health is the most valuable asset. Lord Dhanvantari's teachings advocate for a lifestyle that prioritizes well-being through holistic practices that address physical, mental, and spiritual health. In today's world, where lifestyle diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and stress-related conditions are on the rise, these teachings hold profound relevance.

Key Teachings of Lord Dhanvantari for Modern Life
1. Preventive Healthcare is Key
Ayurveda, the system of medicine associated with Lord Dhanvantari, emphasises preventing illness rather than merely treating it. The approach involves making lifestyle choices that support health, such as eating balanced meals, staying active, getting adequate sleep, and managing stress. These principles are in line with modern health advice that aims to reduce the risk of lifestyle-related diseases.

2. The Importance of Daily Routines
Following a daily routine (Dinacharya) is a cornerstone of Ayurvedic practice. It involves scheduling activities such as waking up, eating, and exercising at consistent times each day to align with natural body rhythms. Scientific research has shown that regular routines can help regulate metabolism, balance hormones, and support overall health.

3. Healing with Herbs and Natural Remedies
Lord Dhanvantari is associated with the use of medicinal herbs, which play a significant role in Ayurveda. Herbs like Ashwagandha, Triphala, and Turmeric have been used for centuries to manage stress, improve digestion, and reduce inflammation. Modern studies have validated the benefits of these herbs, showing that they can support health in various ways, such as boosting immunity and reducing chronic inflammation. But at the same time we should promote evidence based medicine.

4. The Mind-Body Connection
Ayurveda and Lord Dhanvantari’s teachings recognize the deep connection between mental and physical health. Practices such as meditation, yoga, and pranayama (breathing exercises) are integral to holistic healing. These practices not only help reduce stress and anxiety but also improve physical health by enhancing circulation, digestion, and energy levels.

5. Balance and Moderation in All Things
A key principle in Ayurveda is maintaining balance in life. This applies to diet, physical activity, work, and rest. Overdoing any one thing can lead to health issues, so the emphasis is on moderation. For example, eating a variety of fresh foods in appropriate quantities, engaging in regular but not excessive exercise, and taking time to relax are all ways to maintain balance.

A Shift Towards Holistic Well-Being
While buying gold and silver is a common practice on Dhanteras, the deeper significance of this day is in recognizing and valuing health as a form of true wealth. By focusing on holistic health practices, inspired by the teachings of Lord Dhanvantari, we can transform Dhanteras into a celebration of well-being. The rituals performed on this day, like lighting lamps, can be viewed as ways to illuminate the path to a healthier life, rather than just acts for acquiring material wealth.

Reframing Dhanteras as a Celebration of Health
In today’s fast-paced world, where lifestyle-related health issues are common, the teachings of Lord Dhanvantari offer timeless wisdom. His focus on preventive healthcare, natural therapies, and balanced living aligns perfectly with the needs of modern life. By shifting the focus of Dhanteras from the pursuit of material wealth to embracing holistic health, we can foster a culture that values well-being above all else. Celebrating health on Dhanteras means investing in practices that nurture the body, mind, and spirit, leading to a more balanced and fulfilling life. So this Dhanteras, let’s honour the true spirit of the day by prioritising health and adopting the holistic practices championed by Lord Dhanvantari. After all, good health is the foundation of true prosperity.
“ओम नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय धन्वंतराय अमृत-कलश हस्ताय सर्व-अमाय विनाशाय त्रैलोक्य नाथाय धन्वंतरि महा-विष्णवे नमः।”

Authors: Shambo Samrat Samajdar and Shashank R Joshi