Shodh Prabha: A Multidisciplinary Journal

The theory of Surgery in Ancient India with Special Reference of Suśruta Saṁhitā

Abstract Āyurveda is one of the oldest systems of medicine in the world and has played a significant role in preserving the health of the Indian people from thousands of years. Every nation possesses its own traditional system of healing which aims at maintaining the physical, mental and spiritual well-being of its people. In India, Āyurveda occupies a prominent position among such traditional medical systems. Its principles have been applied not only to human health but also to veterinary medicine, which indicates the universal applicability of its fundamental concepts. The origin of Āyurveda can be traced back to the Vedic period. The Vedas contain references to various methods of healing and rejuvenation associated with divine physicians such as the Aśvinīkumāras and Indra. Although many of these descriptions are symbolic and not fully understood today, they reflect the advanced medical knowledge and health consciousness of ancient India. The Vedic sages aspired to live a complete life of one hundred years with health, prosperity and happiness. This aspiration led to the development of a holistic healthcare system that emphasized the physical, mental, intellectual and spiritual dimensions of human life. The term Āyurveda literally means "the science of life" or "the knowledge of life." It is regarded as the foundation of many natural and alternative systems of medicine. The Ayurvedic approach to health is comprehensive and includes Ācāra (conduct and lifestyle), Vicāra (thought and mental attitude) and Āhāra (diet and nutrition). Thus, Āyurveda presents a complete philosophy of healthy living and continues to remain relevant in the modern world.