Ayurveda Day to be Observed Every Year on 23 September
For the first time since its inception in 2016, Ayurveda Day will be observed on a fixed date – 23 September every year. The Ministry of Ayush formalized this through a Gazette notification in March 2025. Earlier, Ayurveda Day was celebrated on Dhanvantari Jayanti (Dhanteras), which varied annually. The fixed date now gives Ayurveda a universal calendar identity, making global participation easier.
Theme for 2025: Ayurveda for People & Planet
The theme for Ayurveda Day 2025 is “Ayurveda for People & Planet”. Announcing this, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Ayush, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, said Ayurveda is not just a healthcare system but a science of life rooted in harmony with nature. He stressed that the new theme reflects India’s resolve to harness Ayurveda for global wellbeing and a healthier planet.
Adding to this, Secretary, Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, remarked that since 2016, Ayurveda Day has grown into a global movement. He highlighted that the NSSO survey shows Ayurveda as the most commonly used treatment system across both urban and rural areas in India. The 2025 theme underscores a commitment to holistic health and ecological balance.
Ayurveda Day has evolved beyond being a symbolic event. In 2024, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Phase II of the All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) in New Delhi, launched four Centres of Excellence in Ayurveda, and rolled out the Desh Ka Prakriti Parikshan Abhiyan campaign. These initiatives, worth nearly ₹12,850 crore, showcased India’s commitment to strengthening traditional medicine.
Ayurveda is now seen as a solution for modern challenges such as lifestyle disorders, stress, and climate-linked health issues. The move to fix 23 September as Ayurveda Day aligns with India’s vision of positioning Ayurveda as a global answer to preventive and sustainable healthcare.
Global Reach and Future Plans
Ayurveda Day celebrations have expanded globally. In 2024, activities were organized across 150 countries, underlining Ayurveda’s growing international appeal. In 2025, the Ministry of Ayush plans awareness campaigns, youth engagement programs, wellness consultations, and international collaborations to amplify its impact.
Experts believe the universal recognition of Ayurveda Day will further boost India’s traditional knowledge systems. It also strengthens the role of Ayurveda in promoting sustainable living, ecological responsibility, and community health.
Key Takeaways
- Ayurveda Day will now be observed annually on 23 September.
- Theme for 2025: “Ayurveda for People & Planet.”
- Ayurveda is India’s most used treatment system, per NSSO survey.
- Global participation in 2024 reached 150 countries.
- Future events will focus on holistic health, youth awareness, and ecological balance.
With Ayurveda Day gaining international recognition, India is positioning itself as a global leader in holistic and preventive healthcare. The 2025 edition marks a turning point, integrating ancient wisdom with modern challenges.