CGI Toronto Event Highlights Ayurveda’s Role in Preventive Health

Ayurveda’s potential role in treating serious diseases and providing complementary approaches to health care was among the topics discussed at events held on September 22 to mark the 11th Ayurveda Day.

The Government of India’s Ministry of AYUSH and the Consulate General of India in Toronto organized the observance in partnership with the Canadian Ayurvedic Practitioners Association. The theme was “Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow.”

The Toronto event focused on Ayurveda’s traditional principles and its expanding role in preventive health, holistic well-being, research and innovation. Organizers said the observance was part of India’s continuing effort to promote international awareness of Ayurveda and encourage dialogue about its traditional knowledge and contemporary applications.

Participants also discussed a proposal to establish an Ayurvedic medical college in Canada to train practitioners in the traditional health care system. Details about the proposal, including its regulatory framework, curriculum and timeline, were not provided.

The program began with Dhanvantari Poojan and an invocation, followed by remarks from India’s Consul General in Toronto, Mahavir Singhvi.

“Ayurveda represents India’s timeless wisdom on health, holistic wellness and harmony with nature, with enduring relevance in today’s world. Ayurveda Day provides a meaningful opportunity to deepen awareness of this ancient knowledge while strengthening India-Canada engagement in traditional knowledge, holistic wellness and preventive healthcare. Through greater awareness, research, innovation and responsible engagement, we can further advance the understanding and appreciation of Ayurveda in Canada and around the world,” Singhvi said.

Singhvi also released “AYURVEDA@HOME,” a book by Vaidya Harish Kumar Verma, founder and president of Best Ayurveda Limited in Canada, and Rohit Mehra, who creates forests using the principles of Vriksha Ayurveda. The book offers practical guidance on incorporating Ayurvedic principles into daily life to support preventive health and holistic well-being.

The program featured presentations examining Ayurveda from several perspectives.

• Verma spoke on “Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow,” focusing on the use of Ayurvedic approaches to encourage healthier lifestyles and preventive care.
• Sanjay Makkar, vice chair of the Canada India Foundation, discussed initiatives promoting Ayurveda and yoga in Canada. His presentation outlined efforts to increase awareness of and engagement with India’s traditional wellness systems.
• Surendra Chaudhry addressed the integration of Ayurveda with research and innovation, emphasizing the importance of scientific study and responsible application in evaluating its contemporary relevance.
• Manju Setia discussed Ayurveda’s potential contribution to community well-being and holistic health.

The Ministry of AYUSH has designated Sept. 23 as the annual date for Ayurveda Day to provide a consistent schedule for international observances and increase the traditional health system’s global visibility. The date coincides with the autumnal equinox, which organizers said symbolizes the principles of balance and harmony associated with Ayurveda.

The Consulate General of India in Toronto reaffirmed its commitment to raising awareness of Indian wellness traditions, including Ayurveda and yoga, and supporting dialogue about their potential role in promoting healthier communities.

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