After a ten-year hiatus, the coastal district of Dakshina Kannada is poised to host a grand celebration of India's ancient medicinal wisdom. The district's Ayush department has announced the much-anticipated 'Ayush Habba 2026', a two-day festival dedicated to promoting the nation's traditional healthcare systems.
A Decade-Long Wait Culminates in a Grand Event
The festival is scheduled to take place on January 31 and February 1, 2026, at the prestigious Dr TMA Pai International Convention Centre in Mangaluru. The event's promotional posters were officially released by Assembly Speaker UT Khader on a recent Saturday, marking the formal commencement of preparations.
Speaker Khader emphasized the global significance of India's traditional knowledge. "Our sages' contributions to the world are embodied in these indigenous healthcare systems," he stated. He explained that the habba would educate the public on the importance of these systems while focusing on holistic health and well-being. Attendees can expect comprehensive insights into Ayush-compliant lifestyles, modern technological innovations in the field, and the diverse wellness options available to them.
Massive Participation and Diverse Attractions
Dr. Ashajyothi Rai, the honorary president of the festival organising committee, provided staggering participation estimates. The event is expected to draw around 5,000 doctors, 10,000 Ayush medical students (including postgraduates and research scholars), and over 20,000 members of the general public.
An extensive exhibition will be a central feature, with 50 stalls showcasing various facets of Ayush, including Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy. Dr. Rai confirmed that entry to the festival will be completely free for all visitors.
The program is packed with engaging activities designed for all ages and interests. Key highlights include:
- A free wellness camp for all attendees.
- 'Nadi Pariksha' (pulse diagnosis) for registered participants using the advanced Nadi Tarangini device.
- Personalized treatment and dietary guidance from experts.
- Specialized Ayush care sessions for senior citizens.
- Workshops on stress management.
- A flavorful Ayush food festival.
Innovation, Special Focus Sessions, and Future Trends
The festival will also host a dedicated 'Mahila Swastya Habba' to address health issues specifically concerning women. Other unique segments include an Ayush beauty festival, heart healthcare awareness drives, scientific workshops, and sessions on the benefits of organic food.
Looking towards the future, the event will feature an Ayush Hackathon and Ideathon. This collaborative platform will bring together students from Ayush and engineering colleges along with startups to brainstorm and develop new technological innovations for the Ayush sector.
Further enriching the agenda are an entrepreneurs' meet, a diabetic food festival, a specially curated Ayush festival for Generation Z, and initiatives to promote Ayush-based wellness tourism. The overwhelming public response to the previous editions held in 2014 and 2015 has fueled the department's enthusiasm for this grand revival in 2026.
