India and Bangladesh share bonds of history, language, culture, and a common heritage of traditional medicine, said Ann Mary George, Director of the Indira Gandhi Cultural Centre (IGCC).
She made the remarks while addressing a special programme organized by the Indian High Commission to mark National Ayurveda Day 2025 in Dhaka.
George reaffirmed India’s commitment to working closely with Bangladesh to promote cooperation in Ayurveda and other traditional systems of medicine through research, education, and exchange of best practices.
This year’s theme — “Ayurveda for People, Ayurveda for Planet” — highlighted Ayurveda’s contribution not only to individual well-being but also to ecological balance and sustainability. The event brought together dignitaries, medical experts, yoga practitioners, and members of the Bangladeshi youth delegation.
“Ayurveda has been practiced in Bangladesh for centuries and continues to play a significant role in public health. Alongside Unani, Yoga, and Homoeopathy, it remains an integral part of Bangladesh’s health policy,” George noted. She added that with many medicinal plants common to both countries due to similar geo-climatic conditions, there are vast opportunities for joint research and innovation.
The IGCC Director also pointed out that many Bangladeshi students pursue studies in traditional medicine in India, which further strengthens cultural and knowledge exchanges between the two neighbours.
Dr. Sarik Hasan Khan, Vice Principal of Unani and Ayurvedic Medical College, Dhaka, stressed the role of Ayurveda and Unani systems in preventive healthcare.
The programme featured a short film titled “Journey of Ayurveda” followed by a yoga demonstration led by IGCC instructor Shahanaz Parvin Shikha. Farhana Sultana Karim, founder of Yoga Bliss, also conducted an interactive session with participants.
The celebration additionally linked Ayurveda to India’s Swasth Bharat Yojana, which seeks to strengthen healthcare infrastructure, build disease surveillance systems, support biomedical research, and promote the “One Health” approach integrating human, animal, and environmental well-being.
The observance of National Ayurveda Day 2025 at IGCC Dhaka reflected the enduring relevance of Ayurveda and traditional medicine in fostering health, sustainability, and strengthening the bonds of friendship between India and Bangladesh.
