GANDHIAN PRINCIPLES ON HEALTH: EVIDENCES, RELEVANCE AND IMPLICATIONS IN THE MODERN CONTEXT OF HEALTH

Mohan Das Karamchand Gandhi, popularly known as Mahatma Gandhi is one of the greatest visionaries who is known for his anti-imperialistic views and strong political strategies. Right from his childhood till his last breath, he had a keen interest in practising medicine. In spite of the odds going against him to pursue a formal medical degree, he practiced medicine throughout his life. He recommended and followed strict principles on health that have valid scientific coherence. The objective of this article is to describe his principles on health and analyse it in the light of scientific literature. Vocational medical practice formed a major part of his activities in parallel to his political reforms. His service at Sevagram and his role in the lives of many sick are quiet evident. Gandhi believed in the power of will and hence emphasised on psychological support and reformation as the foremost principle. He followed and recommended natural therapy like- mud cures, fasting and Citrus diet. Throughout his life he strongly emphasised strict palatal control and regular physical exercises which would address the vast magnitude of non-communicable diseases today. He believed fasting not only as a political strategy but also as a therapy for many illnesses. He also recommended occasional fasting for healthy individuals. He followed chastity and believed it to be an important factor for physical and mental well-being. His views on euthanasia are controversial. Following Gandhian health principles will build a healthy human and thence a healthy nation. Keywords: Gandhian views; Natural cure; Palatal control; Fasting; Vegetarianism; Euthanasia.