Governor inaugurates National Ayurveda Festival 2025 in Panchkula

Haryana Governor Prof Ashim Kumar Ghosh has said that ayurveda is not just a system of medicine, but a philosophy of life that teaches harmony between the mind, body and soul. “It embodies a deep understanding of nature, health and human wellbeing, emphasising prevention, personalised care and sustainable living,” he said.

Prof Ghosh was speaking today after inaugurating the National Ayurveda Festival 2025 in Panchkula. He said, “The festival is a tribute to India’s ancient knowledge, scientific insight and holistic healthcare practices.” The Governor’s wife, Mitra Ghosh, and the Chief Minister’s Political Secretary, Tarun Bhandari, were also present on the occasion.

Ghosh said, “Haryana has always been a land of progress, education and wellness. Hosting an event of such scale reflects the state’s commitment to promoting ayurveda, innovation and holistic healthcare.”

The Governor noted that at a time when modern healthcare was grappling with challenges such as chronic diseases, lifestyle disorders and mental health concerns, the principles of ayurveda offered timeless and essential insights. He added that what makes ayurveda Mahotsav 2025 truly special was the scale and depth of participation. “The presence of leading academics, scholars and experts ensures that classical texts and traditional knowledge are interpreted, analysed and applied with scientific rigour, helping to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and contemporary needs,” Ghosh said.

He said the participation of major ayurvedic brands, wellness organisations and research institutions was equally inspiring. “Their efforts to develop high-quality formulations, standardised therapies and global healthcare solutions reflect a strong commitment to excellence. One of the most exciting features of the festival is the Startup Conclave, where innovators are presenting personalised wellness solutions, digital therapeutics, herbal diagnostic tools and AI-enabled healthcare platforms, integrating tradition with cutting-edge technology,” Ghosh said.

Prof Ghosh emphasised that ayurveda teaches that health was a state of balance, not merely the absence of disease, but harmony across every dimension of life. Its focus on prevention, lifestyle regulation and enhancing immunity was particularly relevant in today’s world, he said.

“By combining classical knowledge with modern research, clinical studies and technological innovation, ayurveda can offer holistic, sustainable and globally relevant solutions,” the Governor said. He also urged young practitioners and innovators to embrace research, evidence-based practice and ethical innovation to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives.

On this occasion, the Governor honoured representatives of Multani Pharma, Zandu and Emami for contributions in their respective fields. He also presented the Yogaguru Award and citation to social worker and Black Belt Taekwondo expert Amita Marwah during the National Ayurveda Festival 2025.

Those present on the occasion, included Ajit Pal Singh, vice-president of the Emami Group; Dr Rishabh Dixit, Chair of the National Ayurveda Festival; Dr Rampal Somani, former member of the Ministry of AYUSH; Dr Mahesh Dadheech, CEO of NMPB, Ministry of AYUSH; Acharya Balkrishna, MD of Patanjali; Dr Kartar Singh Dhiman, Vice-Chancellor of AYUSH University, Kurukshetra; Dr Hitesh Jani, Pro Vice-Chancellor of Gau Vidyapeeth, Gandhinagar; and CII Chandigarh Chairman Taranjit Singh Bhamra, along with ayurvedic physicians, scholars, acharyas, industry leaders, innovators and students.