Ayurveda is believed to be one amongst the most ancient and documented system of medicine with historical roots. Ayurveda is popular across the world with its aim as prevention of disease and promotion of health. The Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) has decided to observe National Ayurveda Day on Dhanvantari Jayanti. Here, we have listed interesting facts students should know about National Ayurveda Day!

Image Courtesy: Ministry of AYUSH
When Is National Ayurveda Day?
The National Ayurveda Day is celebrated on the Dhanvantari Jayanti. The Hindu God Dhanvantari is considered as the propagator of Ayurveda. His birthday is observed two days before Diwali festival.
Who Is Lord Dhanvantari?
The Hindu ancient story described Dhanvantari in the Puranas. He arose from the Ocean during the Samudramanthan with immortality nectar. Many worship Dhanvantari for good health on Dhanteras or Dhanvantari Trayodashi. The government has declared this Trayodashi as National Ayurveda Day.
Why National Ayurveda Day Is Observed?
The government has taken this decision to encourage the practitioners and students of Ayurveda. A dedicated day for Ayurveda will also increase the awareness about Ayurveda in society.
When Was The First National Ayurveda Day Celebrated?
The first National Ayurveda Day is observed on October 28, 2016. The declaration from the government was welcomed by professors associated with Ayurveda.
National Ayurveda Day Logo
Lord Dhanvantari was placed in the centre of the logo. There are five petals in the logo which symbolize Pancha Mahabhuta. The three dots below the petals represent Vata, Pitta and Kapha, the fundamental principals of Ayurveda. An overleaf encircling all the elements describe nature is the best way for healing.
National Ayurveda Day Theme And Date
Year | National Ayurveda Day Dates | National Ayurveda Day Theme |
2020 | November 13, 2020 | Ayurveda for COVID |
2019 | October 25, 2019 | Ayurveda for longevity |
2018 | November 5, 2018 | Ayurveda for Public Health |
2017 | October 17, 2017 | Ayurveda for Pain Management |
2016 | October 28, 2016 | Ayurveda for Prevention and Control of Diabetes |
National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Award
On National Ayurveda Day, the Ministry of AYUSH facilitates three to four Ayurveda experts with the National Dhanwantari Ayurveda Award. The award comprises of citation, trophy (Dhanwantari Statue) and a cash reward of five lakh.
What Is Ayurveda? Scope And Career Opportunities
On the occasion of National Ayurveda Day 2020 on November 13, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be inaugurating Institute of Teaching and Research in Ayurveda (ITRA) at Jamnagar and National Institute of Ayurveda (NIA) at Jaipur. He will inaugurate these institutions virtually.
Prime Minister @narendramodi to dedicate two future-ready Ayurveda institutions at Jamnagar & Jaipur to the nation on 13th November, 2020, which are expected to play global leadership roles in the growth and development of Ayurveda in the 21st Century#AyurvedaDay2020 pic.twitter.com/pYcfJWwheU
— PIB India (@PIB_India) November 10, 2020