VICE-PRESIDENT UNVEILS STATUES OF ACHARYA CHARAKA AND SAGE SUSRUTA AT RAJ BHAVAN
Panaji : In a grand ceremonial event held at the picturesque lawns of Raj Bhavan, Goa, the Vice-President of India, Shri Jagdeep Dhankhar, unveiled the statues of two eminent ancient Indian medical pioneers—Acharya Charaka and Sage Susruta. The unveiling was carried out in the distinguished presence of Goa Governor Shri P.S. Shreedharan Pillai and Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant.
Dr. Sudesh Dhankhar, spouse of the Vice-President, also graced the occasion along with other dignitaries including Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy Shri Shripad Naik, Rajya Sabha MP Shri Sadanand Shet Tanavade, Deputy Speaker Shri Joshua De Souza, Power Minister and former Chief Minister Shri Ramkrishna Dhavlikar, MLAs, and senior officials.
Addressing the gathering, Vice-President Dhankhar highlighted India’s growing global stature and resilience, referencing Operation Sindoor as a significant step in showcasing the country’s resolve against terrorism. He remarked that the operation sent a strong message globally and reaffirmed India’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty.
Praising Governor Pillai’s efforts in promoting culture and heritage through initiatives like the Vaman Vriksha Kala Udyan (Bonsai Garden), the Vice-President noted the garden’s collection of 1008 plants, positioning it as one of the most extensive among official residences in the country. He emphasized the value of the Atharva Veda in the realm of health and wellness and advocated for evidence-based validation of traditional knowledge to address contemporary challenges in healthcare.
The Governor, in his address, elaborated on his various outreach initiatives including the Goa Gram Sampurna Yatra, Saimik Daiz Yatra, Dweep Parichay Yatra, and Goa Giriarohan Yatra, all aimed at strengthening his connect with the people of Goa. He encouraged students, teachers, and parents to visit the Raj Bhavan’s Bonsai Garden and experience the richness of biodiversity firsthand.
Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant lauded the Governor’s unique initiative and emphasized the significance of preserving ancient Indian wisdom. He noted that the statue of Sage Susruta, regarded as the Father of Surgery, is prominently displayed at the Royal Australian College of Surgeons, Melbourne, and it is a matter of pride for Goa to now host one as well. Dr. Sawant also shared insights from his personal study of ancient medical texts authored by Acharya Charaka and Sage Susruta, which detail various illnesses and treatments.
The event concluded on a high note with the presence of First Lady of Goa, Smt. Rita Shreedharan Pillai, adding grace to the occasion.
