Dr. Harish Patankar, a respected Ayurvedacharya from Pune, just picked up the International Ayurveda Ratna Award at the Second World Ayurveda Health Summit in Bengaluru. It’s a big deal in the field—this award goes to folks who’ve really moved the needle in Ayurvedic practice, research, teaching, and sharing the tradition with the world.
The whole thing happened at Palace Grounds. Prakash Belawadi, who’s both an actor and a theatre director, handed Dr. Patankar the award in front of an audience packed with leaders and experts from India and beyond. The energy in the room? Pretty electric.
The Prashanti Ayurved Center pulled the summit together, backed by the Ministry of Ayush and the Karnataka Department of Ayush. Their goal was clear: put Ayurveda on the global map. And judging by the turnout—over 8,000 people signed up, from doctors and researchers to students and industry heads—it’s safe to say people are paying attention.
It was not about trophies, either. The event was full of scientific talks, all kind of discussions, keynotes, and research presentations. The big topics? Evidence-based Ayurveda, integrative medicine, preventive healthcare, and why India’s ancient wisdom still matters today.
Dr. Patankar stood out for good reason. He’s spent decades not just treating patients but also teaching and pushing for real, authentic Ayurvedic methods—both in India and abroad. He’s always talking about holistic, preventive care grounded in classic texts. His session on using Ayurveda in modern clinics turned a lot of heads.
When Dr. Patankar accepted the honour, he thanked his mentors, Dr. Sameer Jamadagni and Dr. Gopakumar, as well as his spiritual guide, Shri Anandnath Maharaj. He made sure to mention all his students, patients, family, and friends, everyone who’s been part of his journey.
This recognition comes at a pretty interesting time for Ayurveda. More people are looking for healthcare system that brings tradition and modern science together. Awards like this? They’re not just about the past—they enlightened new ideas, build partnerships, and encourage a new generation of Ayurvedic practitioners.