Dhanvantari is considered the god of medicine and health in Hinduism. He is the father of Ayurveda and the physician of the gods, who is believed to have originated from the churning of the ocean with Amrit (nectar that provides immortality). Dhanvantari is also worshipped as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu and due to his contribution in the field of medicine, he is considered a symbol of Ayurveda science. His worship leads to health, longevity, and freedom from diseases.
Introduction to Dhanvantari
Dhanvantari originated from the churning of the ocean, when the gods and demons churned the ocean to obtain Amrit. At that time Dhanvantari appeared with the Amrit Kalash. The purpose of his incarnation was to free the gods and humans from the fear of diseases and death.
Features of Dhanvantari
Father of Ayurveda: Dhanvantari is considered the father of Ayurveda. He imparted the knowledge of Ayurveda to humans to live a healthy life and get rid of diseases. He is a symbol of the science and medical practices of Ayurveda.
Origin from Samudra Manthan: Dhanvantari appeared with Amrit Kalash during Samudra Manthan. This nectar was going to give immortality to the gods. He has a Kalash full of nectar in his hand, which is a symbol of immortality and health.
Incarnation of Lord Vishnu: Dhanvantari is considered to be an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. He appeared from the incarnation of Lord Vishnu and is worshipped for providing healing, health, and longevity.
Form of Dhanvantari
Dhanvantari is depicted as a four-armed deity. He is dressed in yellow clothes and is depicted holding various medicines, Amrit Kalash, Shankha, and Chakra in his four hands. The Amrit Kalash in his hand is particularly important, which symbolizes life and immortality.
Dhanvantari and Ayurveda
Dhanvantari is considered to be the main promoter of Ayurveda, who made significant contributions in the field of medicine. Ayurveda, called the "science of life", is an ancient science of natural medicines and healing methods, which teaches a person to live a healthy and disease-free life. Dhanvantri taught humans the ways of longevity and freedom from diseases through Ayurveda.
Worship and importance of Dhanvantri
Festival of Dhanteras: Dhanteras is also known as Dhanvantri Trayodashi, which is celebrated before Diwali. On this day people worship Dhanvantri, so that they can get the blessings of health, prosperity, and longevity. This day is especially important for people associated with the medical field.
Attainment of health: By worshipping Dhanvantri, a person gets freedom from diseases, healthy body, and mental peace. He is worshipped as the god of health and wellness.
Propagation of Ayurveda: Through Dhanvantari, the knowledge of Ayurveda was obtained, which even today is based on important principles of natural medicine and healthy living.
Major stories related to Dhanvantari
Samudra Manthan and Amrit: The most prominent story of Dhanvantari is related to Samudra Manthan. When the gods and demons were churning the ocean to obtain nectar, Lord Dhanvantari appeared with the Amrit Kalash. This nectar was going to give immortality to the gods.
God of medicine and health: Dhanvantari founded Ayurveda and medical science. He told humans the ways to live a disease-free life through various herbs and natural medicines.
Benefits of worshiping Dhanvantari
Freedom from diseases: Worshiping Dhanvantari frees a person from physical and mental diseases. He is the god of health and by his grace a person gets the blessings of health and longevity.
Longevity and prosperity: Worshiping Dhanvantari gives longevity and economic prosperity. With the knowledge of Ayurveda, he tells the ways to make life long and healthy.
People associated with health care: People associated with medicine and health care especially worship Dhanvantari. Ayurveda doctors and other medical professionals worship him on Dhanteras and Dhanvantari Jayanti.
Dhanvantari is the main god of health, medicine, and Ayurveda, by worshiping whom a person gets health, longevity, and prosperity. He is considered the father of Ayurveda and his contribution in the field of medicine is invaluable. Worshiping Dhanvantri paves the way for health, peace, and prosperity in a person's life.
