Health is wealth

 Want proof of how lazy misunderstanding and consumerist razzmatazz and shenanigans delude the common man? Have a look at Dhanteras.

Most all Diwali wishes for the day consisted of forwarding a gold coin or a gold plate that had Devi Laxmi as the superscripted icon. There were jewellery shop adverts enticing us with unbelievably lovely jewellery. So the perception created is that today is the special occasion to go on a buying spree as far as gold goes! Sure the ads, rather creative, would make us believe that the New Normal has made the  sky rocketing gold prices nosedive. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

I am talking not of the gold rate, please. Rather I am talking of the significance of the day. It is a day dedicated to Dhanwantari, the God of medicine, the Lord of Ayurveda. It is a reminder, much needed in our stressed out times, that health is the real wealth. 

On this day, traditionally a dia/an earthen lamp is lighted that is facing the south, the direction traditionally associated with Lord Yama, the deity of death. The faith behind this tradition is that this ritual saves the family from any untimely death.

Actually, I would say, it is the day when we should gratefully remember and salute our doctors, and other health warriors. During the pandemic, they made our lives tolerable. Even otherwise, doctors, especially geriatric specialists, and paramedics make the lives of senior citizens rather tolerable.

Here is thanking doctors (of all pathies, please)! In holistic medicine, Health is wealth. LONG Live Dhanteras!!!

Pratima @ health is indeed wealth