"We must take the initiative to revive our traditional knowledge systems. To achieve this, we need to promote and market them on a global scale," stated Rajya Sabha MP Prof. Dr. Medha Kulkarni. She also highlighted that in recent years, the central government has made significant efforts to make Ayurveda more accessible and popular among the masses.
The awards given by the Vaidya Khadiwale Ayurvedic Research Institute were presented at the hands of Prof. Dr. Medha Kulkarni recently at the Dhanvantari Auditorium in Erandwane. On this occasion, Vaidya Prashant Bagewadikar from Solapur was honored with the 40th 'Maharshi Annasaheb Patwardhan Medical Award,' which includes a cash prize of ₹51,000, a memento, and a certificate of recognition. The event was attended by the Executive Trustee Vaidya Vinayak P. Khadiwale, Vaidya S. P. Sardeshmukh, Vaidya Yogesh V. Godbole, Vaidya Sangeeta Khadiwale, Vaidya Nikhil Khadiwale, Vaidya Vivek Sane, and Jayshree Tawre, among others.
Other Award Recipients are: Vaidya Purushottam Shastri Nanal Charak Award – Vaidya Gunwant Yewale (Pune), Vaidya D. V. Shende Rasaushadhi Award – Vaidya Vishakha Bakre (Pune), Vaidya V. M. Gogte Vanoushadhi Award – Vaidya Archana Bhaskarwar (Nashik), Vaidya Acharya Yadavji Trikamji Granth Award – Vaidya Aniruddha Kulkarni & Vaidya Amruta Joshi (Sangli), Vaidya Balshastri Lawganakar Panchakarma Award – Vaidya Sachin Chandalya (Nagpur), Vaidya Bapurao Patwardhan Sushrut Award – Vaidya Sheetal Asutkar (Wardha), Vaidya B. G. Ghanekar Teaching Award – Vaidya Aruna Bale (Goa), Vaidya M. V. Kolhatkar Research Award – Vaidya Kalpana Dhuri (Mumbai), Vaidya Laxmibai Borawankar Women Vaidya Award – Vaidya Hemlata Jalgaonkar (Pune), Vaidya Shankar Dajishastri Pade Activist Award – Vaidya Manish Joshi (Pune), Pujya Padacharya Creative Work Award – Vaidya Jay Tamahane (Pune), Dr. V. D. Vartak Vanmitra Award – Raghunath Dhole. Each award recipient was honored with a cash prize of ₹21,000 and a certificate of recognition.
Ayurveda is now witnessing a golden era, said Prof. Dr. Medha Kulkarni. She further added, "For many years, our traditional knowledge systems were neglected, leading to the loss of ancient research and proven experiments. However, the current scenario is favorable. Ayurveda experts should explore ways to collaborate with other medical disciplines, engage in discussions, and exchange ideas. This will help in reviving traditional knowledge systems in the modern era."
Vaidya Prashant Bagewadikar also emphasized the growing significance of Ayurveda and said, "Ayurveda has never seen such a favorable period before. Our previous generations have struggled immensely to keep Ayurveda alive, and we must acknowledge their contributions. The misinformation about not using Ayurvedic Rasashastra medicines must be stopped. It is our responsibility to promote and spread Ayurvedic knowledge so that it reaches the global stage."
Vaidya Vinayak Khadiwale, in his introductory speech, stated, "This is the 40th year of these awards. Vaidya Dada Khadiwale initiated these awards to recognize and honor individuals who have made significant contributions to society through Ayurveda. The objective is to spread awareness about their work and inspire others through their contributions."
All award recipients expressed their thoughts during the event. On this occasion, Prof. Dr. Medha Kulkarni felicitated Shri Krishna Chitale on the occasion of his Amrit Mahotsav (75th birthday celebration). Vaidya Sangita Khadiwale conducted the event, while Vaidya Vivek Sane delivered the vote of thanks.
