In a landmark initiative to preserve India’s rich heritage in traditional medicine, the Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS), under the Ministry of Ayush, has successfully revived and published two rare Ayurvedic manuscripts—Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu and Dravyanāmākara Nighaṇṭu.
Manuscripts Unveiled at Special Event in Mumbai
As reported by pib.gov.in, the unveiling took place during a special event organised by the RRAP Central Ayurveda Research Institute (CARI), Mumbai. The event witnessed the esteemed presence of Prof. Vd. Rabinarayan Acharya, Director General, CCRAS, New Delhi, who delivered a keynote address on the Council’s ongoing initiatives in research, digitisation, and literary revival.
Scholarly Effort by Dr. Sadanand D. Kamat
Renowned manuscriptologist and Ayurveda expert Dr. Sadanand D. Kamat of Mumbai critically edited and translated both manuscripts. His efforts reflect decades of dedication to preserving classical Ayurvedic literature. Dr. Kamat has previously worked on seminal texts such as the Saraswati Nighaṇṭu, Bhāvaprakāsha Nighaṇṭu, and Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu.
Distinguished Guests Grace the Ceremony
Several dignitaries attended the release ceremony, including:
- Shri Ranjit Puranik, President, Ayurvidya Prasarak Mandal and MD, Shri Dhootapeshwar Limited
- Dr. Ravi More, Principal, Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, Sion
- Dr. Shyam Nabar and Dr. Ashanand Sawant, Ayurvidya Prasarak Mandal
- Dr. R. Govind Reddy, Assistant Director (Ayu), CARI, Mumbai
Reconnecting Ancient Wisdom with Modern Research
Prof. Vd. Acharya emphasized the vital role of such revivals in integrating ancient Ayurvedic knowledge into modern research frameworks. He remarked,
“These texts are not just historical artefacts—they are living knowledge systems that can transform contemporary healthcare approaches when studied and applied thoughtfully.”
About Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu: A 15th-Century Treasure
Authored by Mudgala Paṇḍita in 1480 AD, Dravyaratnākara Nighaṇṭu is a comprehensive lexicon featuring eighteen chapters. It offers detailed insights into drug synonyms, therapeutic actions, and medicinal properties. Referenced widely in Maharashtra until the 19th century, the text draws from classical sources like the Dhanvantari and Raja Nighaṇṭus, while introducing numerous previously undocumented substances of plant, mineral, and animal origin.
Dr. Kamat’s critical edition restores this monumental work, making it a significant resource for the study of Dravyaguna and allied branches of Ayurveda.
About Dravyanāmākara Nighaṇṭu: An Insightful Companion Text
Attributed to Bhisma Vaidya, Dravyanāmākara Nighaṇṭu serves as a unique supplement to the Dhanvantari Nighaṇṭu, focusing exclusively on homonyms of drug and plant names—a complex yet crucial area in Ayurvedic studies. Comprising 182 verses and two colophon verses, the manuscript has been meticulously edited and annotated by Dr. Kamat, enhancing its relevance for scholars of Rasashastra, Bhaishajya Kalpana, and Ayurvedic pharmacology.
Strengthening the Future of Ayurvedic Education and Practice
These revivals go far beyond academic accomplishments. They act as guiding lights for students, researchers, educators, and Ayurveda practitioners. CCRAS and its collaborators are critically editing, digitising, and translating these rare works. They are safeguarding India’s literary heritage. Additionally, they are enriching the country’s traditional healthcare systems with time-tested insights.