HC’s speech on International Ayurveda Day 2025

Distinguished guests, esteemed colleagues, and friends, Sanibonani

It is an honor and privilege to address you all on International Ayurveda Day 2025. This year, we embrace the theme: "Ayurveda for People & Planet," which shines a spotlight on the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda and its relevance to both individual and planetary well-being. As the High Commissioner of India to the Kingdom of Eswatini, I find this theme especially pertinent to our interconnected journey towards holistic health and sustainable living.

Ayurveda, an ancient Indian system of medicine, offers a science of life that integrates balance, prevention, and a deep respect for nature. It reminds us that the health of people and the health of our planet are inseparable. In a rapidly changing world—where lifestyle diseases are on the rise and the environmental crisis threatens our shared future—Ayurveda’s emphasis on harmony between humanity and nature has never been more relevant.

For the Kingdom of Eswatini, which treasures its own rich heritage of traditional medicine and indigenous healing practices, this year’s theme offers a unique opportunity for reflection and collaboration. The Eswatini Institute for Research in Traditional Medicine, Medicinal and Indigenous Food Plants at the University of Eswatini is a beacon of research and knowledge, dedicated to preserving and advancing indigenous medical wisdom. Both India and Eswatini recognize the immense value of traditional systems, and together we can harness these treasures to confront today’s health challenges.

The partnership between India and Eswatini in the field of health and traditional medicine is not new. Our countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding in 2018 covering wide-ranging cooperation, from medical research to pharmaceutical development and public health initiatives. Through this collaborative spirit, we are poised to expand our knowledge exchange, conduct joint research, and promote innovative healthcare solutions that draw from the best of both our traditions.

How, then, can we carry this theme forward and deepen the bonds between our nations?

• First, we must encourage academic and scientific collaboration. Joint research projects between our universities and institutes can explore the efficacy and applications of medicinal plants, as well as the integration of Ayurveda and Eswatini’s indigenous therapies.
• Second, capacity building is vital. Organizing training programs, workshops, and exchange visits for practitioners, researchers, and students will foster the next generation of experts in both Ayurvedic and Eswatini traditional medicine.
• Third, community outreach is essential. Together, we can develop awareness campaigns that educate people about preventive health, nutrition, and lifestyle—core pillars of both Ayurveda and local traditions—empowering our citizens to make informed choices for themselves and the planet.
• Finally, as governments and stakeholders, we must ensure a consultative, ethical approach. The voices of traditional practitioners, local communities, and patients themselves should guide the future course of our collaboration.

Let us approach this Ayurveda Day with renewed commitment. By blending the knowledge and strengths of our heritage systems, India and Eswatini can set an inspiring global example of how ancient wisdom can serve modern needs—from personal health to environmental stewardship.

I thank you for your active participation today in this important discussion and for joining this important journey—for the well-being of our people and our planet.

Siyabonga Kakhulu