The future of research in Ayurveda

Contrary to what is believed or said in the medical field, a lot of research is being conducted in Ayurveda, but there is an Amalgamation of both good and bad research going on.

Research is conducted at institute level and also through funding agencies, such as Ministry of AYUSH , CCRAS, DST, DBT, ICMR to name  a few. In this day and age, the Ayurvedic Academic institutions and  also practicing doctors have a knowledge about the significance of what research  stands for Ayurved .Hence many of the research institutes and academic institutions support research in Ayurved through post graduation,post doctoral fellowship,Phd, etc.

 Though ,in many of the institutes, the guides and the PG students are not updated in research methodology, CCRAS (Central Council for Research in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine) conducts various workshops in research methodology and scientific writing for Pg guides and also Pg students.Hence there is a vast scope for teachers and students to update themselves in both these areas.

One resounding block, what we see is that even today, there are many successful Ayurvedic doctors who preach against the conduction of research. According to them Ayurveda is a science which is already proven and hence it  needn’t be proven again using contemporary investigative tools.This causes a lot of confusion in the minds of young students . They are torn between whether research is necessary for Ayurveda or to just follow the ancient scriptures of Ayurveda and practice it as it is without testing it.( Iam specifically mentioning testing and not proving. As I have recently learnt there is a significant difference between testing and proving in research,courtesy Dr Kishor Patwardhan,Prof, IMS,BHU.

When such confusion is present, it is difficult to have one single goal in undertaking research. There fore one common question which resides in the young minds is -

Is research required for Ayurveda?

The answer is definitely yes. Ayurveda was written about 5000 years ago. The Sharira Kriya, Sharira Rachana,Basic concepts of Ayurveda, diseases it’s management etc was explained on the basis of the tools which were available to the Vaidya’s I.e Darshana( inspection) sparshana( palpation) Prashna( interrogation) and apta  vachana.After many centuries , human beings have evolved, diseases have modified, and new diseases have been investigated. Hence there is a need to test the drugs and formulations again in various diseases. There are many thrust areas of research in Ayurveda such as to study the mode of action of  Ayurvedic formulations, their efficacy in various Srotas dusti or various systems of the body , adverse event related to  inappropriate use or excess use of drugs,appropriate drug dose for different formulations , etc.

 Research in Balrog:( Ayurvedic Pediatrics) 

Since the literature related to Balrog is sparse and incomplete, Ayurvedic physicians heavily rely on adult formulation and dosage. The adult dose is then converted  to pediatric dose using established dose calculation formulas of modern medicine. There is a major pitfall to this method. Since our herbal formulations contain multiple herbs and 

there are herbal mineral formulations also,there can be herb interactions and also herb- mineral interaction in the child’s body. Unless rigorous clinical trials are conducted we won’t be in a position to confidently say whether a formulation is completely safe for a child.

Thrust areas  of research in Balrog( Ayurvedic Pediatrics)

• Pediatric dose calculation method and drug safety.
• Standardisation of pediatric dose for various ayurvedic formulation
• Study on half life of drugs and duration of treatment required for various pediatric diseases
• Herb interaction , herb mineral interaction and herb food interaction in children.
• Acute and chronic toxicity preclinjcal studies to correlate the effects in children
• Mode of action of various formulations 
• Effect of certain thikshna drugs like vatsanabha, guggulu , parada, gandhaka and other minerals in a child.any untoward side effects should be documented.
• Effect of various formulations at srotas level for various disease conditions 
• Recording adverse event if any during clinical studies

Solution: Research work is being carried out at PG and PhD level In post-graduate institutes .A solution lies here itself, amongst us teachers. The clinical studies conducted by students should follow a rigorous methodology following the international guidelines for various study designs. These studies should then be published in indexed journals. This will place Ayurveda in the global map and will be a convenient way to get accepted by contemporary system of medicines.

Now coming to the main question, which is the title of this blog, that is, what is the future of Research in Ayurved. This can be classified under two headings 

A. Research in adults 

B Research in children 

A.Research in adults is not just studying the effectiveness or ineffectiveness of a drug in a particular disease, but it should focus on studying the mode of action, the OMICS pathways of the formulation and how each ingredient of the drug acts at the cellular level. 

B. Research in children 

As mentioned above in the thrust areas of research in Balrog,  the focus should be on Basic drug research such as pediatric dose, half life, toxicity and adverse events. Along with this research should be conducted on mode of action of drugs, herb interactions etc (please refer the above paragraph -thrust areas of research in Balrog) 

So, even though we know the indication of a drug for a disease we need to do Research at cellular level and understand the pathways and the mode of action.  It is important to know the Omics  pathway to take  Ayurved at an international level  at par with the allopathic system of medicine.

A letter to my future self

 If you could write a letter to your future self, what advice would you give? Below is the letter I wrote to my future self. Do read and post your opinion in the comment section.

Dear future me,

The hectic life of a Doctor, academician, and researcher you chose for yourself has kept you busy every day, sparing you the holidays.

 So, be brave now and take breaks from your schedule to smell the flowers, feel the breeze, and hear the birds chirping in the early mornings.

Oh, what a treat it would be to walk barefoot in the garden, crushing the dry leaves as you tread. The cool morning breeze, filled with the scent of flowers, would brush your delicate skin, enriching it with a natural scent.

It would be such a delight to be idle during the weekend. Just by keeping the mind empty and unoccupied, you will be surprised by how inertia itself boosts you with energy the next day.

I pity you more during holidays, when you kept yourself busy with hobbies like drawing and gardening that it looked as though you had brought the work home and just replaced it with hobbies.

My dear, what use is a holiday if you can't relax, let your guard down, and for once forget about your work?

You have been consumed and absorbed in your current prestigious job as an academician, doctor, and researcher. Though it was worthwhile, life should be meaningful. Meet strangers and lend an ear to their life’s journey. It will give you a life's worth of lessons on people's humble beginnings, hardships, pain and suffering. It is also a delight to know about people's adventures and mischief.

It would be enticing to read about the history of India, its empires, and colonisation by the British Empire.  History will also unearth details about partition, migration, loss of family, their pain and how India became a stronger and independent country today.

And then, turn the pages of your own history.

Reflect on the past 60 years of your life, your childhood, upbringing, education, and how it transformed you into the person who you have become.

Look back at your own journey.

Reflect on your own journey and your contribution to society. Were these noteworthy, and what more can you do to help society and the scientific community?

In times when the going gets tough, and the tough gets going, I will tell myself to be patient, take a deep breath and relax.

Life is simple; we make it complicated by working exhaustingly, like a beast of burden. Just enjoy each day as it goes, do your duty, love and give time to your family. Life doesn't ask for anything more. Life itself should be meaningful.    

And when the going gets tough, and you feel that you must keep going because the tough are supposed to get going, remind yourself to pause.

Take a deep breath.

Relax and Live a Life

Me

Dr Preetham Pai

Professor & HOD

Dept of Kaumarabhritya -Balroga

BVDUCOA

Timings: 9 am-5 pm
Contact no: 8149005256

Dr Pai’s Atri Ayurved clinic, Undri-411060

Timings: 6 pm- 7.30 pm

 

 

Swarnaprashan- Benefits

 

In Ayurveda, Swarnaprashan refers to administering medicated gold (Swarna Bhasma) to children. This practice has been advised since infancy and is traditionally administered with honey and ghee in unequal quantities.

In today’s era, where the incidence of allergic and chronic diseases is increasing, this time-tested Ayurvedic practice is gaining renewed attention as a natural immunity-enhancing therapy for children.

Parents are increasingly seeking natural and preventive healthcare approaches for their children, and Ayurveda offers time-tested solutions not only to maintain health but also to support immunity and manage both acute and chronic illnesses. A detailed blog on Swarnaprashan is available on the following website.

Rudraansh Agroventure  https://share.google/wFNd4zWwmSFfYVHiD

What is Swarnaprashan?

Swarnaprashan is an Ayurvedic preparation given to children that primarily consists of purified gold (Swarna Bhasma) mixed with honey and ghee, often along with herbs such as Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) or Vacha (Acorus calamus).

It is administered orally in small doses, usually on specific days such as Pushya Nakshatra or daily for a defined period under medical supervision.

According to Ayurvedic belief, the auspicious day of Pushya Nakshatra enhances the medicinal potency of herbs and formulations. Hence, this day is traditionally chosen for administering Swarnaprashan.

Classical Reference and Indications

According to Kashyapa Samhita, Swarnaprashan is considered a Medhya Rasayana — a rejuvenative therapy that enhances intellect, digestion, immunity, and overall development in children.

“Swarna prashana hi etat medha agni bala vardhanam,
Ayushyam mangalam punyam vrishyam varnyam grahapaham.”

Meaning of the Verse

• Medha – intellect and memory
• Agni – digestion and metabolism
• Bala – physical strength and immunity
• Ayushya – longevity
• Mangala and Punya – overall well-being and auspiciousness
• Varna – healthy complexion
• Grahapaham – protection from harmful influences and diseases

Benefits of Swarnaprashan

1. Enhances Immunity (Vyadhi Kshamatva)
Swarnaprashan is believed to strengthen the immune system, helping children resist recurrent infections such as colds, coughs, and fevers.

2. Improves Cognitive Development (Medha)
It supports brain development by improving memory, concentration, grasping power, and learning ability.

3. Promotes Digestion and Metabolism (Agni Deepana)
Swarnaprashan helps regulate digestive fire (Agni), thereby improving digestion and metabolism.

4. Enhances Physical Strength (Bala)
Regular administration may improve stamina, growth, and overall physical strength.

5. Supports Longevity (Ayushya)
The formulation is traditionally believed to promote healthy growth and longevity.

6. Improves Complexion (Varna)
Swarnaprashan is also said to support skin health and promote a natural glow.

7. Protection from Harmful Influences (Grahapaham)
Traditionally, it is believed to protect children from harmful environmental and subtle influences.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

• Swarna Bhasma – Enhances immunity, intellect, and vitality
• Honey (Madhu) – Supports respiratory health and digestion
• Ghee (Ghrita) – Nourishes tissues and enhances memory
• Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) – Supports cognitive functions
• Vacha (Acorus calamus) – Traditionally used to improve speech and intellect

Traditional vs Commercial Swarnaprashan

Today, Swarnaprashan is available in various commercial formulations such as drops, syrups, and herbal mixtures. While these products offer convenience, parents should ensure that they are sourced from reputed Ayurvedic pharmacies.

When and How is Swarnaprashan Administered?

• Given monthly on Pushya Nakshatra
or
• Administered daily for 1–6 months for enhanced benefits

Age Group:
Traditionally administered from birth up to 16 years of age.

Best Time to Administer:
Usually administered in the morning on an empty stomach or as advised by the physician.

Modern Scientific Perspective

Recent studies suggest that Swarna Bhasma may possess immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties^1,2. Preliminary research supports several classical Ayurvedic claims, particularly regarding immunity and cognitive development.

Precautions

• Should only be administered using properly purified and prepared Swarna Bhasma
• Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner
• Avoid unreliable over-the-counter products

Who Should Avoid Swarnaprashan?

• Children with acute fever or active infections
• Children with known allergies to ingredients
• Situations where administration is not advised by a physician

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Swarnaprashan safe for children?
When prepared properly and administered under professional supervision, it is generally considered safe.

Can Swarnaprashan be given along with vaccines?
Yes, traditionally it is administered alongside routine childcare practices.

Are there any side effects?
When used appropriately in proper dosage and formulation, side effects are uncommon.

Conclusion

Swarnaprashan, as described in Kashyapa Samhita, represents a holistic approach to pediatric healthcare. It supports immunity, intellect, digestion, growth, and overall well-being.

As modern parents increasingly rediscover traditional wisdom, Swarnaprashan remains one of Ayurveda’s most valued pediatric practices.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified Ayurvedic physician before administering Swarnaprashan to children.

References

1. Bhaskaran JK, Patel K, Rajagopala S. Immunomodulatory activity of Swarna Prashana in infants - A randomised controlled clinical trial. AYU. 2019;40(4):230–236.

2. Khan S, Ojha NK. Clinical evaluation of immunomodulatory effect of Swarnaprashan in children. African Journal of Biomedical Research. 2024;27(3S).

Dr Preetham Pai

Professor

Dept of Kaumarabhritya -Balroga

BVDUCOA

Timings: 9 am-5 pm
Contact no: 8149005256

Dr Pai’s Atri Ayurved clinic, Undri-411060

Timings: 6 pm- 7.30 pm

 

Invisible glass ceiling and obstacles for working women: A glance

 

Invisible glass ceiling and obstacles for working women: A glance

Dr Preetham Pai, Professor, Department of Kaumabhritya-Balroga,

Bharati Vidyapeeth(deemed to be) University College of Ayurved, Pune

The term "glass ceiling" was coined by Marilyn Laden in 1978, when she was a panellist at the women's expo in New York. The term was coined to describe the barriers that women face in their careers. We have commonly come across this term in discussions over the past decade, either in the entertainment industry or the corporate sector.

Though these cultural and caste differences are common to both males and females, women have to face additional barriers.Whereas for men, they have always received support from their fellow men who are in executive positions at organisations, educational institutions or the corporate sector. If a woman has to give an opinion or make her voice heard, let alone get a deserved promotion, she has to work twice as hard and has to fight for it every time. It is never easy for her. Since it is never served on a platter.

Many corporate leaders have publicly emphasised the value women bring to organisations. For example, Julie Sweet, Chair and CEO of Accenture, has consistently advocated for gender equality, stating that diverse and inclusive workplaces perform better and drive stronger innovation and growth. Yet, despite such endorsements, statistical evidence reveals the persistence of the “glass ceiling.” Women constitute nearly half of the global workforce but hold only about 10% of CEO positions in Fortune 500 companies and less than one-third of senior leadership roles. According to reports by McKinsey & Company in collaboration with LeanIn.Org, for every 100 men promoted to managerial roles, significantly fewer women receive similar promotions—creating an early leadership gap that widens over time. These disparities in representation, promotion rates, and pay clearly demonstrate that while opportunities appear open in theory, invisible structural barriers continue to restrict women’s advancement at the highest levels.

Figure 1 'The glass ceiling' by toons(cartoon) courtesy Toonpool

These disparities may be because of the century-old tradition that leads us to believe that women are good at only running the household. In the last century itself, we have seen women succeeding at different roles, like being a scientist or a teacher or educational reformer or as a police officer, where she has successfully lead such esteemed positions by example. she has achieved all of this by also taking up responsibilities at home, looking after her children’s needs, caring for her parents and in-laws alike. Somehow, even if the lady is highly qualified, the responsibility of the house fell on her already-burdened shoulders. As girls received education and became qualified, we failed to teach equality between boys and girls at home. In most households, the responsibilities at home and work are inequally distributed among boys and girls. This rule has continued into adulthood. Hence Men are not expected to give a helping hand with the household chores. Whereas the woman has to shoulder the responsibilities both at home and at the workplace. Inequality amongst the sexes is one such barrier that we have created in our society. Since young age, girls and boys should be treated equally at home. Responsibilities, either domestic or professional, should be divided equally among them. If such good habits are inculcated at home, then society will not differentiate between the sexes, and there will be a hopeful future with equal opportunities for both genders.

Therefore, it is high time that we seriously consider the invisible ceiling that lies before us, women. This invisible ceiling can be a privileged male worker getting the best opportunities, a non-cooperative husband who expects the wife to be a stay-at-home mom/being on maternity leave, etc.

Figure 2 Hope for the future. Image generated by AI

So, as women, how do we break this invisible ceiling when it is not visible at all? Some of the pointers that I would suggest are as follows:

·       Strong voices matter: In a man’s world, a lady receives a lot of criticism if she speaks her mind, gives opinions and is generally penalised for it. Without thinking much about the backlash, it is high time that women speak up and share their experiences in team meetings. By doing so, she will be recognised for her exceptional capabilities and will be rewarded with promotions. Visibility leads to recognition, and recognition paves the way for leadership opportunities.

·       Celebration of motherhood: Instead of penalising women through demotions or withdrawal of responsibilities during maternity leave, organisations should recognise and respect this phase as an essential and valuable part of life. Supporting women during maternity fosters loyalty and long-term commitment.

·       Seek Mentorship and Sponsorship: Identify mentors irrespective of sex who are willing to guide, advocate, and recommend women for leadership roles.

·       Upgrade Skills Continuously: Women should invest in soft skills like leadership training, negotiation skills, financial literacy, and emerging technologies to stay competitive, achieve excellence and be indispensable.

·       Negotiate Assertively: It is high time to shed the shyness and not hesitate to negotiate salaries, promotions, and leadership opportunities. Preparation and data strengthen confidence.

·       Build Strong Networks: Professional networks create opportunities. Seek information and experiences independently by attending conferences, seminars, and industry events. This will also expand the reach and help women to break barriers.

·        Share Responsibilities at Home: Having open communication with partners and family members about shared responsibilities reduces burnout and enables career growth.

·        Support Other Women: Lift as you rise. Collaboration among women strengthens collective progress and challenges systemic barriers.

·       Permissible sick toddlers' leave: understanding and having compassion towards a lady who has toddlers at home is very crucial. Supporting her, showing empathy towards her when she has to take leave and take care of her sick toddler, will make her appreciate and respect the company more. Providing flexibility when a child is unwell builds trust and strengthens employee morale.  Women-friendly workplace: Many CEOs acknowledge that women are diligent, honest, and committed professionals. Creating safe, inclusive, and supportive work environments enhances productivity and retention. Institutions such as Bharati Vidyapeeth have been recognised for fostering supportive environments for women employees.

·       Safer environment: Organisations must uphold zero tolerance toward harassment or unlawful behaviour. Standing firmly by women employees and ensuring justice reinforces a culture of dignity and safety.

Breaking the glass ceiling is not only a woman’s responsibility. Governments must help break down barriers for women by strengthening and enforcing equitable policies; organisations must implement transparent promotion systems and supportive workplace practices; and families must nurture equality from childhood. True progress will be achieved only when merit, not gender, determines opportunity. It is high time that we as a society move beyond acknowledging inequality and actively dismantle it—through courage, policy reform, accountability, and everyday actions. The ceiling may be invisible, but our resolve to shatter it must be unmistakably visible and unwavering.

PS: AI has been used to spell-check and grammar-check this article.

This article is a transcript from my main article published in Campus chronicles of Bharati Vidyapeeth (deemed to be university). Please scan the QR code to read my full article, "The invisible ceiling for women-A stark reality

Dr Preetham Pai

Contact details: 8149005256

email:pai_preetham@yahoo.co.in

Potential health benefits of Traditional food for children.

 

    In my previous blog, I had explained the use of lehana to make medicines palatable to children. Similarly, if we have to use or introduce healthy food to children, the preparations have to be attractive, colourful, and tasty. At the same time, these recipes should be time-tested so that the method of preparation does not destroy the potency of the ingredients. Hence, what better way to introduce healthier food than to try out traditional time-tested recipes? We can make some changes in these recipes by adding different vegetables and herbs, which are packed with nutrients and micronutrients and have medicinal value.

Significance of Traditional Food Choices for Children

Traditional diets are not just about recipes—they reflect generations of practical nutrition science. The benefits of such healthy recipes are as follows:

1.Better Digestion and Gut Health
Food items like lightly cooked grains, lentil soups, and fermented preparations are easy to digest and support a healthy gut microbiome. A strong gut improves nutrient absorption and immunity. Breakfast Food items of South India like steamed preparations-e.g  sevige, idiappam and idli are generally served with coconut chutney and sambar. By providing such combinations, these food items complement each other, filling in the nutritional gaps in the accompanying food. Idlis, idiappam and sevige are rich in carbohydrates but deficient in fats, proteins and micronutrients. This deficiency is corrected by having coconut chutney and sambar as an accompaniment with idli. According to Ayurveda, these combinations are tridosha hara, and the addition of dal and herbs like curry leaves (Murraya koenigii) , haridra (turmeric:curcuma longa), hing(asafoetida), Jeeraka (Cumin: Cuminum cyminum L.), Coriander (Dhanyaka: Coriandrum sativum L.) and Methi (Fenugreek seeds: Trigonella foenum-graecum L )in sambar improves digestive fire, immunity, and is packed with proteins, antioxidants, iron and minerals.

Figure 1 Idli sambar .pic courtesy Kind kitchen

2. Balanced Nutrition
Meals like rice with lentils, such as Khichdi, provide a natural nutritional balance because each component complements the other. Rice supplies easily digestible carbohydrates for energy, but is low in certain essential amino acids, such as lysine, whereas lentils are rich in protein and provide the missing amino acids. When combined, they form a complete protein profile, improving overall protein quality without needing animal sources. Lentils also provide fibre, iron, and vitamin B, while rice adds calories and supports easy digestion. The inclusion of spices such as pepper and ginger provides essential antioxidants and builds immunity by preventing cellular damage. All this accounts for the enhanced immunity. The addition of vegetables further enhances micronutrient content, absorption and assimilation. By including ghee in tempering, it kindles digestive fire, promotes intellect and helps the smooth movement of the joints. Thus, this simple combination achieves a balanced intake of carbohydrates, proteins, and micronutrients naturally and synergistically.

Figure 2 kichdi,pic courtsey Jordon Timperly blog

 

3. Fewer Additives, More Real Nutrition
Homemade traditional foods are free from preservatives, artificial flavours, and excess sugar or salt—common in processed foods.

4. Cultural and Sensory Development
Traditional foods expose children to diverse textures and flavours, helping develop healthy eating habits early in life. This also connects children to the culture and its relation to culinary foods.

Nourishing the Next Generation: Benefits of Traditional Foods in Children (with Ayurvedic Insights)

In today’s fast-paced world, children’s diets are increasingly dominated by packaged snacks and ultra-processed foods. While convenient, these often lack the depth of nutrition needed for optimal growth and development. Traditional food practices—especially those described in Ayurveda—offer time-tested, simple, and highly adaptable ways to nourish children holistically.

Ayurvedic Perspective: Food as Medicine

Ayurveda emphasizes that a child’s digestion (Agni) is delicate and evolving. Hence, food should be:

• Light and easy to digest
• Warm and freshly prepared
• Gradually progressing in consistency

This is where classical Ayurvedic preparations become highly relevant.

 Key Ayurvedic Foods for Children

1. Early and Recovery Diets (Light & Digestible)

• Manda (Rice water) – A clear, thin liquid obtained after boiling rice.
  Benefit: Hydrating, easy to digest, ideal during fever or diarrhoea, and as an initial weaning food for healthy infants.

Figure 3 Manda.pic courtsey Telugu one life.

• Peya (Thin rice gruel) – Slightly thicker than manda.
  Benefit: Provides mild nourishment while remaining gentle on digestion.
• Yavagu (Rice porridge/kanji) – Semi-solid gruel.
  Benefit: Sustains energy and is suitable during recovery phases of Gastroenteritis, fever etc
• Yusha (Lentil soup) – Light pulse-based soup (often from green gram).
  Benefit: Easy protein source, supports growth without burdening digestion. This is also beneficial for infants as a weaning food after 7 months of age.
• Mamsa Rasa (Meat broth) – Clear meat soup.
  Benefit: Rich in strength-giving nutrients, useful in undernutrition or convalescence. Beneficial for healthy children above 1 year of age and children suffering from malnutrition and neurological disorders.

 

2. Everyday Nourishing Foods

• Krishara (Khichdi) – Rice and lentil preparation.
  Benefit: Complete, balanced meal; easy to digest and highly adaptable.
• Vilepi (Thick porridge)
  Benefit: Provides satiety and nourishment as the child grows.
• Ksheerapaka (Herbal milk decoction)
  Benefit: Enhances the nutritional and therapeutic value of milk. Immunoboosting ksheerapaka is beneficial for children. Herbs like shunti ( dried ginger) and pippali( piper longum) can be given in this form to treat respiratory infections like cold and cough. This ksheerapaka can be tailored to the child’s needs depending on the disease.
• Takra (Buttermilk)
  Benefit: Improves digestion and gut health, especially in older children.
• Ghrita (Ghee)
  Benefit: Supports brain development, memory, and overall vitality.

 

 

3. Complementary Feeding (6–12 Months)

Ayurveda introduces semi-solid foods gradually for weak digestive fire. This principle can be applied during weaning, and it aligns closely with modern pediatric guidelines:

• 6 months: Start with manda of rice.
• Slowly progress to peya assessing the digestion of the child.
• Then yavagu
• Finally vilepi and soft solids

This stepwise approach ensures the child’s digestive system adapts smoothly.

Modern Science Supports Traditional Wisdom

Research increasingly validates traditional diets:

• Fermented foods improve gut microbiota
• Balanced grain-legume combinations provide high-quality protein
• Homemade diets reduce the risk of obesity and metabolic disorders

Traditional Ayurvedic foods are not outdated—they are foundational.

 

Practical Tips for Parents

• Prefer freshly cooked meals over stored or packaged foods
• Use simple spices like cumin, ginger, and asafoetida to aid digestion
• Maintain meal regularity
• Adjust food consistency based on the child’s age and health
• Introduce new foods gradually

 

Conclusion

Traditional food recipes, especially those rooted in Ayurveda, offer a powerful blend of nutrition, digestibility, and therapeutic value. From the simplicity of rice water to the wholesomeness of khichdi, as mentioned in Ayurveda, these foods are designed to grow with the child—supporting health at every stage.

Reintroducing these practices into modern diets is not just about tradition—it’s about giving children the best possible start in life.

Dr Preetham Pai

Professor

Bharati Vidyapeeth (deemed to be) university

College of Ayurved,Pune

Timings: 9am-5 pm

Dr Pai’s Atri Ayurved clinic

Undri.

Timings: 6pm-7.30pm

 

 

Is Karma a Bitch?

 

Every now and then, we hear the word “karma.” But what does this word truly mean?

The word Karma comes from the Sanskrit root Kri, which means “to do” or “to act.” Karma simply means action. It can be a good action or a bad action. The concept of karma was initially mentioned in the Vedas and later elaborated in the Upanishads. The Bhagavad Gita explains that virtuous actions lead to pure and uplifting results, passionate actions lead to suffering, and ignorant actions lead to delusion.

Ayurveda, too, mentions karma as a cause for health and disease. Good karma, i.e., indulging in healthy food and activities, leads to a disease-free life. Similarly, the opposite, i.e., bad karma, results in disease and disabilities.

Human existence is not merely about survival and a disease-free life, but about responsible participation in society and nature. Therefore, karma in its true sense should be understood as performing good actions for the benefit of fellow human beings and other living beings.

In one of my previous blogs -growing fondness towards the unknown and what is or who is a linchpin, I had mentioned that to become successful, one needs excellence in their profession and should be an expert in their subject speciality. Such excellence can be achieved only through hard work, discipline, and the practice of the right karma in the right direction. However, achieving excellence is not easy. It demands sacrifice, patience, and continuous effort.

This leads to an important question: What is the ultimate purpose of gaining excellence in a profession?

Most human beings desire immortality in some form. We wish to leave behind a legacy. Perhaps this desire is uniquely human. At the same time, we often behave as though we are superior to every other living creature. In that process, we have polluted nature, destroyed ecosystems, and made Earth increasingly unsafe not only for animals but also for ourselves. Human greed and selfishness have disturbed the balance of life on this planet.

When we think deeply about leaving a legacy behind, we must first remind ourselves that we are mortal. Time eventually erases almost every name. A few people may remember us for some years, family members may mourn us, and anniversaries may briefly bring memories back — but life moves on. This is not pessimism; it is a reality. We are ultimately a small part of nature, just like every other living being.

Then what is the true purpose of achieving excellence?

The purpose of excellence is service. The knowledge, skill, and success we gain should help us serve humanity and reduce suffering around us. Since we are fortunate enough to be born as humans, let us perform good karma and contribute positively to society through our profession and actions.

A saying by the famous Bollywood actor Salman Khan, ‘help three people and let these three people help three more, thus starting a chain reaction of philanthropy. Perhaps there is no permanent legacy to leave behind. But kindness, compassion, and sincere actions do create a meaningful impact in the lives of others, even if the world eventually forgets our names.

Therefore, our moral responsibility as human beings is simple:

• Be kind.
• Help others.
• Do no harm.
• Strive for excellence, not for ego, but for service.

Being in my late forties has given me a different perspective on life and professional achievement. This blog is the result of that insight.

I welcome opinions both in favour of and against these thoughts. Different perspectives help us grow.

Dr Preetham Pai

Professor,

Department of Kaumarabhritya-Balroga

BVDUCOA,Pune.