The Government of India has officially designated September 23 as Ayurveda Day, replacing the earlier practice of observing it on Dhanteras. This change, announced through a Gazette Notification dated March 23, 2025, aims to provide a consistent annual date for global celebrations and enhance Ayurveda's international visibility. 

Key Points

Fixed Annual Date: Previously, Ayurveda Day was celebrated on Dhanteras, a festival whose date varies each year based on the lunar calendar, typically falling between mid-October and mid-November. The new fixed date of September 23 aligns with the autumnal equinox, a day when day and night are nearly equal, symbolizing balance—a core principle of Ayurveda. 

Reason for Change: The fluctuating date of Dhanteras posed logistical challenges for organizing national and international events. To address this, the Ministry of AYUSH constituted an expert panel to examine suitable alternatives. After considering four potential dates, September 23 was selected for its symbolic significance and practicality. 

Symbolic Significance: The autumnal equinox represents a time of balance in nature, reflecting Ayurveda's emphasis on harmony between the mind, body, and spirit. This alignment underscores the essence of Ayurveda—living in balance with nature. 

Global Outreach: The Ministry of AYUSH encourages individuals, health professionals, academic bodies, and international partners to embrace the newly designated date and actively participate in Ayurveda Day celebrations on September 23 each year. This shift is seen as an opportunity to further embed Ayurveda into global health narratives and promote its timeless value as a preventive and sustainable healthcare system.