Swasthyamasa: a celebration of health and well-being

Swasthyamasa is a month-long health initiative observed annually from Divodasa Dhanvantari Jayanti to Devadhanvantari Jayanti. Rooted in the principles of Ayurveda, this month is dedicated to promoting holistic well-being across all sections of society. A wide range of impactful programs are conducted throughout this period, including:

1. School Health Education: Empowering young minds with the fundamentals of a healthy lifestyle through interactive and age-appropriate health education modules.

2. Women’s Health Awareness: Specially curated programs addressing women’s physical, mental and reproductive health.

3. Community Health Camps: Free diagnostic and treatment camps providing accessible healthcare to underserved communities.

4. Public Health Lectures, Rallies and Awareness Drives

And many more…

One among these events is the most awaited Inter-Ayurveda College Competition (IACC) - Fostering Vak Saushthava (Eloquent Expression) through Ayurveda.

This is a prestigious platform exclusively for Ayurveda students across institutions. First launched in 1989, the event now steps into its 36th year of celebrating Ayurvedic knowledge, creativity and articulation.

IACC is not merely a competition. It is an intellectual festival that cultivates confidence, sharpens communication and deepens the understanding of Ayurveda among budding Vaidyas.

IACC Competition Categories and Their Significance:

1. Recitation - This category emphasizes the importance of memorization, clear pronunciation and reverence for classical Ayurvedic scriptures, cultivating a deep-rooted connection with the shastra.

2. Impromptu Speech - Builds the skill to explain concepts quickly and easily, just like answering a patient’s spontaneous question with clarity.

3. Essay Writing - Encourages reflective analysis and thoughtful expression on Ayurvedic principles, helping students develop a mature and articulate Ayurvedic perspective in written form.

4. Elocution - Hones the skill of structured and persuasive public speaking, enabling students to present Ayurvedic ideas in an engaging and impactful manner. 

5. Debate - Trains students in evidence-based thinking and respectful argumentation, sharpening their ability to explore contrasting viewpoints while staying rooted in Ayurvedic wisdom. 

6. Group Song - Promotes creative interpretation and musical representation of Ayurvedic values, fostering both team collaboration and cultural appreciation.

7. Group Skit - Combines creativity with public health education, allowing students to convey complex Ayurvedic concepts through relatable and dramatic performances.

8. Quiz Competition - Tests knowledge of classical texts, speed of recall and comprehension reinforcing textual proficiency in a competitive and enjoyable format.