Lord Dhanvantari, avatar of Bhagwan Vishnu, is revered as the Father of Ayurveda who brings health and long life. Devotees perform Dhanvantari puja vidhi for protection from illness and spiritual well-being. His worship is central to Dhanteras and National Ayurveda Day, celebrating divine healing and ancient wisdom.
Origins in Hindu Scriptures
The Ramayana Balakanda recounts the cosmic churning of the Ocean of Milk, a mighty event that prepared the way for the Dhanvantari story Samudra Manthan. This episode describes how the devas and asuras, seeking amrit, the nectar of immortality, joined forces to churn the ocean. The Bhagavata Purana identifies Lord Dhanvantari as the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu who arises from this churning as the divine physician. Appearing with a shining aura and carrying the pot of amrit, He becomes the celestial healer and the eternal Father of Ayurveda, bringing the science of life and health to the world.
Samudra Manthan
In the Dhanvantari story Samudra Manthan, the devas and asuras selected the mighty Mandara mountain as their churning rod and used the serpent Vasuki as the rope. As they pulled back and forth, the ocean frothed and released treasures, divine beings, and potent substances. Among these wonders emerged Lord Dhanvantari, radiant and powerful, holding the sacred amrit kalash filled with the nectar of immortality. He also carried the shankha and chakra, symbols of cosmic order and protection, along with healing herbs that signified His role as master of medicine.
The asuras, overcome with desire, rushed to seize the amrit. To protect the nectar, Bhagwan Vishnu manifested as the enchantress Mohini, captivating the asuras and skillfully distributing the amrit to the devas. Through this divine intervention, the devas gained renewed strength and triumphed over their foes. This pivotal moment confirmed Lord Dhanvantari as the source of eternal health and the Father of Ayurveda, ensuring that the wisdom of healing and the promise of longevity would be passed to humanity for all time.
Iconography of Lord Dhanvantari
Lord Dhanvantari appears with a calm, radiant visage, clad in yellow silk and a flower garland, standing or seated on a lotus. His form signals protection and healing, with a gentle smile and a clear medicinal focus. Two armed images exist in temples, but the four armed form is the standard for worship.
Four hands and their attributes
One hand holds the amrit kalash signifying nectar, longevity, and restoration of balance. A second displays the leech jalauka between the fingers, referencing classical bloodletting and the surgical stream within Ayurveda. The remaining hands bear the shankha and chakra as Vishnu emblems, though some traditions replace one with herbs or a scripture to stress medical knowledge.
Variations and symbolism
Herbs in hand indicate pharmacology and the plant based foundation of treatment. A scripture represents transmitted medical wisdom and the lineage of instruction. The shankha marks auspicious sound that begins healing rites, while the chakra affirms divine authority guiding precise intervention.
Lord Dhanvantari Symbolism
In Dhanvantari iconography leech meaning points to the ancient Ayurvedic method of bloodletting used to cleanse impurities and restore the body’s natural balance. It highlights purification and the power of natural healing practices in traditional medicine.
Kalash
The kalash filled with amrit represents life, health, and the nectar of immortality. It shows Lord Dhanvantari as the eternal source of vitality and divine healing.
Tulsi Garland
The tulsi garland symbolizes purity and spiritual protection while honoring the medicinal strength of this sacred plant. It connects herbal wisdom with the divine energy of Ayurveda.
Yellow Silk and Blue Complexion
Yellow silk garments express prosperity and knowledge, while the deep blue complexion reflects Vishnu’s infinite cosmic nature and the boundless reach of divine medicine.
Lord Dhanvantari Story and Earthly Incarnation
Birth as Prince of Kashi
Lord Dhanvantari, the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu, is honored in the Kashi tradition as the son of King Dirghatamas of the ancient Varanasi lineage. Texts describe a child of extraordinary wisdom who from the earliest years showed deep detachment from royal pleasures. Instead of seeking power or luxury He immersed Himself in meditation, scriptural study, and the pursuit of spiritual discipline. His presence drew scholars and ascetics from distant regions, all eager to learn from His profound understanding of the body, mind, and cosmic order. As He matured, His compassion for the suffering of humanity became the guiding force behind His mission on earth.
Teaching and Transmission of Ayurveda
Revered as the Father of Ayurveda, Lord Dhanvantari carried the divine science of healing into the human realm and organized it into a complete medical system. The Agni Purana records His instruction on the balance of the three doshas, methods of diagnosis, principles of diet, and precise surgical techniques. He explained how plants, minerals, and natural preparations could restore health and maintain longevity. The Dhanvantari Nighantu, an authoritative Ayurvedic lexicon, preserves His detailed catalog of medicinal herbs and formulations that remain central to Ayurvedic practice. Through disciplined teaching He trained sages and physicians who spread this knowledge across India, ensuring that the science of life would endure through generations. His earthly incarnation stands as the bridge between celestial wisdom and practical medicine, confirming His eternal role as the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu and the unchanging Father of Ayurveda.
Significance and Teachings of Lord Dhanvantari
Why He Is Called the Father of Ayurveda
Lord Dhanvantari is called the Father of Ayurveda because He revealed the complete science of life and organized it into eight distinct branches known as Ashtanga Ayurveda. His teachings formed the foundation of both preventive and curative medicine and guided physicians for centuries.
Eight Branches of Ashtanga Ayurveda
- Kaya Chikitsa – internal medicine focused on balancing body energies and treating systemic diseases
- Shalya Tantra – surgery including removal of foreign bodies and complex operations
- Shalakya Tantra – treatment of eye, ear, nose, and throat disorders
- Kaumarabhritya – pediatrics and prenatal care
- Agada Tantra – toxicology dealing with poisons and antidotes
- Bhuta Vidya – healing of mental disorders and spiritual therapy
- Rasayana – rejuvenation therapy to enhance vitality and longevity
- Vajikarana – reproductive health and therapies for vitality
Sushruta and Surgical Tradition
Among His foremost disciples was Sushruta, revered as the father of surgery in classical India. Sushruta’s compendium details surgical instruments, methods of suturing, and complex procedures like rhinoplasty, all rooted in the instructions of Lord Dhanvantari. This legacy established a surgical tradition that influenced medical practice across the Indian subcontinent and continues to inform modern Ayurvedic surgery today.
Interesting Facts About Lord Dhanvantari
Salt and Turmeric in Healing
Lord Dhanvantari, revered as the Father of Ayurveda and the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu, emphasized simple yet powerful remedies such as salt and turmeric. Salt is valued for cleansing wounds and maintaining fluid balance, while turmeric supports natural healing with strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. These ingredients remain central in Ayurvedic treatments and household health care.
Healing Poisons and Snakebites
Texts on Agada Tantra credit Lord Dhanvantari with guidance for neutralizing toxins and snake venom. His teachings describe herbal antidotes and purification practices still used in rural traditions. Reciting a Dhanvantari mantra for health is believed to provide protection and strengthen recovery from poisonous bites.
Leech Therapy Context
The Dhanvantari Nighantu and later Ayurvedic works describe leech therapy, or Jalaukavacharana, for drawing impure blood and reducing inflammation. This practice, linked to Dhanvantari iconography leech meaning, illustrates His role as a pioneer in surgical and therapeutic methods that continue to influence modern medicine and Ayurveda alike.
How to Perform Dhanvantari Puja at Home
Begin with a clean and quiet space facing east. Place an image or idol of Lord Dhanvantari on a decorated altar with a copper or brass plate. Keep items for achamana (sipping water for purification), a vessel of clean water for sankalpa (prayerful intention), fresh flowers, incense, ghee lamp, panchamrit made of milk, curd, honey, ghee, and sugar, fruits, betel leaves, and small offerings for dakshina.
Core Rituals
- Achamana and Sankalpa – Purify yourself with sips of water while reciting a short prayer, then state your intention for the puja.
- Panchamrit Abhishek – Bathe the idol with panchamrit and pure water while chanting the Dhanvantari mantra for health.
- Naivedya and Tamboola – Offer fruits, sweets, and betel leaves with devotion.
- Dakshina and Pradakshina – Give a symbolic offering and circumambulate the altar while chanting His name for blessings of health and long life.
Dhanvantari Shloka
“Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Dhanvantaraye Amrita Kalasha Hastaya Sarva Bhaya Vinashaya Trailokya Nathaya Shri Mahavishnave Namah”
Meaning
Salutations to Lord Dhanvantari, the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu, who holds the nectar of immortality and removes all disease and fear, protector of the three worlds and eternal Father of Ayurveda.
Benefits of Worshipping Lord Dhanvantari
Worship of Lord Dhanvantari, the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu and revered Father of Ayurveda, is a tradition for sustaining health and vitality. Performing Dhanvantari puja vidhi with devotion and reciting a Dhanvantari mantra for health are considered powerful ways to prevent illness, improve immunity, and restore balance to the body’s natural energies. Many devotees observe special prayers on Dhanvantari Jayanti or Dhanteras Ayurveda Day to seek His blessings for a long and active life.
The benefits of Dhanvantari worship extend beyond physical wellness. Daily or festival puja fosters calmness, reduces stress, and brings mental clarity. Remembering the Dhanvantari story Samudra Manthan during these rituals deepens the sense of divine protection and strengthens spiritual confidence, creating harmony within the household and community.
Who Should Perform the Puja
Parents praying for their family’s well-being, those facing chronic conditions, and Ayurvedic practitioners honoring their lineage find particular meaning in this worship. Anyone can learn how to do Dhanvantari puja at home, following simple steps of preparation, panchamrit abhishek, and heartfelt prayer. Sincere devotion to Lord Dhanvantari invites lasting health, peace of mind, and spiritual guidance for every stage of life.
Festivals Dedicated to Lord Dhanvantari
Dhanteras and Dhanvantari Trayodashi
Dhanteras, celebrated as Dhanvantari Trayodashi, honors Lord Dhanvantari, the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu and revered Father of Ayurveda. This day is also observed as Dhanvantari Jayanti or Dhanteras Ayurveda Day and recalls the Dhanvantari story Samudra Manthan when He emerged with the amrit kalash holding the nectar of immortality. Devotees perform Dhanvantari puja vidhi at home or in temples and chant a Dhanvantari mantra for health to seek protection from disease and to gain vitality.
Customs and Ritual Practices
Families draw colorful rangoli at entrances and purchase gold, silver, or brass items as symbols of lasting prosperity. Temples of Dhanvantari at Thottuva in Kerala, Srirangam, and Kanchipuram hold elaborate ceremonies with abhishekam and offerings. These rituals highlight the benefits of Dhanvantari worship and strengthen the connection to the healing wisdom of Ayurveda.
Spiritual Significance
Observing this festival reinforces faith in holistic health and balance of mind and body. By honoring Lord Dhanvantari through Dhanvantari puja vidhi and mindful living, devotees celebrate His enduring guidance as the source of Ayurvedic knowledge and the eternal healer of the three worlds.
Rudra Centre Recommended Products
Enhance your worship with spiritual items such as a finely crafted Mahalakshmi or Dhanvantari Yantra for daily prayers. Silver idols of Lord Dhanvantari bring auspicious energy to a home altar, while religious coins engraved with His image are ideal for offerings and gifting during Dhanvantari Jayanti or Dhanteras Ayurveda Day. These products support regular devotion and strengthen the benefits of Dhanvantari worship in every household.
Book Dhanvantari Puja and Yagna
Rudra Centre offers dedicated services to perform Dhanvantari puja vidhi and yagna for health and longevity. The rituals are led by experienced Vedic priests who chant the Dhanvantari mantra for health and invoke blessings of Lord Dhanvantari, the Dhanvantari avatar of Vishnu and Father of Ayurveda. These services help devotees seek relief from illness, protection from chronic ailments, and overall well-being.
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