By: Raghavendra Balkur, Kundapur

Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur (JD)

Kundapur, Oct 5: The ‘Chitrakoota Ayurveda Habba’, organised at the Chitrakoota Ayurveda premises in Alur of Kundapur taluk, was inaugurated in the presence of several dignitaries. The guests lauded the efforts of founder Dr Rajesh Bayari and his team in preserving and promoting the ancient tradition of Ayurveda in a rural setting while making it accessible to the community.

Speaking after being felicitated at the programme, national award-winning professor Dr Pradeep Kenchanur said Chitrakoota offers a rare atmosphere where patients are treated with the care and affection normally extended to family members.

“People from all sections of society, irrespective of caste and religion, are welcomed here with affection. Visitors from around 40 to 50 countries have also visited the institution and benefited from its services, which is a testimony to its sincere commitment,” he said.

Dr Umesh Puthuran, medical director of Kundapur Chinmayi Hospital and a renowned dermatologist, said that doctors can provide better healthcare when they remain connected with the people.

“The festive atmosphere extending from the highway to the institution reflects the love and trust of the people. Dr Rajesh Bayari’s dedicated efforts to take the ancient Indian knowledge of Ayurveda to people in rural areas are truly commendable,” he said.

Anupama, managing trustee of Bandya Education Trust, stressed the need to return to natural lifestyles and traditional food practices. She said changes in modern lifestyles and dietary habits had contributed to several health problems and called for more Ayurveda festivals to create awareness about healthy living among children and the wider community.

Ramesh Vaidya, assistant general manager of Karnataka Bank, appreciated the efforts of Dr Rajesh Bayari and his wife to serve their native place instead of moving to metropolitan cities after completing their education.

“Establishing an institution in their hometown and providing employment to more than 60 people is a matter of pride. The integrated facility, which also includes a medicinal plant garden, complements the Ayurvedic principle of preventing diseases before they occur,” he said.

Krishnananda Chatra, president of Kundapur Taluk Dravida Brahmana Parishat, congratulated Dr Rajesh Bayari for choosing to remain in his native village and work for the welfare of the community at a time when many medical professionals prefer to move to foreign countries or major cities.

In his introductory remarks, Dr Rajesh Bayari, head of Chitrakoota Ayurveda Chikitsalaya, said there was a need to pass the rich tradition of Ayurveda on to future generations.

“We felt it was important to take an initiative in this direction. We have received tremendous support from the people,” he said.

Mahabala Bayari, Kalavathi Bayari and Dr Anulekha Bayari were present on the dais.

Ayurveda enthusiasts, local residents and medical staff of the institution attended the programme. The Chitrakoota Ayurveda Habba aims to create awareness about traditional healthcare practices, the importance of medicinal plants and healthy living, while bringing the benefits of Ayurveda closer to the rural community.