Who Is Bhagwan Dhanvantari?
Bhagwan Dhanvantari is revered as the physician of the gods (Deva Vaidya) and the presiding deity of Ayurveda, the ancient Hindu science of life and healing. He is regarded as an avatar of Lord Vishnu, appearing to bring the knowledge of medicine and well-being to the world.
According to the Puranas, Dhanvantari emerged during the Samudra Manthan (the churning of the cosmic ocean) carrying the kalash of amrit - the nectar of immortality. He is usually depicted with four hands, holding the pot of nectar, a conch, a chakra and often a herb or leech, symbolising his power to heal. He is credited with revealing Ayurveda for the relief of disease and suffering. To this day, doctors, vaidyas and devotees who seek good health remember him with reverence.
Significance & the Dhanteras Connection
- Deity of health and healing: Dhanvantari is prayed to for good health, recovery from illness, and freedom from suffering of body and mind.
- Dhanvantari Jayanti / Dhanteras: His appearance is celebrated on Dhanteras (also called Dhanvantari Trayodashi), two days before Diwali. This is why the day is linked with health and well-being as well as prosperity, and why the Ministry of Ayush observes it as National Ayurveda Day.
- Patron of Ayurveda: Vaidyas and students of Ayurveda honour him as the source of their healing science, often beginning their studies and practice with a prayer to him.
- Blessing of wholeness: Because he carries the nectar of immortality, his worship is associated not only with curing disease but with vitality, longevity and inner well-being.
These are traditional beliefs held with devotion; medical care from qualified professionals remains essential for health.
Dhanvantari Mantra & Worship
A well-known Dhanvantari mantra chanted for health and healing is:
'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Dhanvantaraye Amritakalasha Hastaaya Sarvamaya Vinashanaya Trailokyanathaya Sri Mahavishnave Namah.'
This salutes Dhanvantari, holding the pot of nectar, as the destroyer of all disease and the lord of the three worlds.
Simple ways to worship:
- On Dhanteras, clean the home, light a diya, and offer a prayer to Dhanvantari for the family's health along with Lakshmi puja.
- Keep an image of Dhanvantari in the puja room; offer yellow flowers, tulsi and fruits, as he is a form of Vishnu.
- Chant the mantra with devotion, especially when praying for someone's recovery, while also ensuring proper medical treatment.
- Practising a healthy, sattvic lifestyle - the essence of Ayurveda - is itself a way of honouring him.
Worship is offered as faith and gratitude for the gift of health.
Common Questions From Devotees
Who is the god Dhanvantari?+
Bhagwan Dhanvantari is the physician of the gods and the presiding deity of Ayurveda, revered as an avatar of Lord Vishnu. He emerged during the Samudra Manthan holding the pot of amrit (nectar of immortality) and is credited with revealing the science of Ayurveda for the relief of disease.
What is the connection between Dhanvantari and Dhanteras?+
Dhanvantari's appearance from the churning of the ocean is celebrated on Dhanteras (Dhanvantari Trayodashi), two days before Diwali. This links the day with health and well-being alongside prosperity, and it is also observed as National Ayurveda Day.
What is the Dhanvantari mantra for good health?+
A well-known mantra is 'Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya Dhanvantaraye Amritakalasha Hastaaya Sarvamaya Vinashanaya Trailokyanathaya Sri Mahavishnave Namah', which salutes Dhanvantari as the destroyer of all disease. It is chanted with devotion for health, alongside proper medical care.
About the author
Acharya Vinaya Kapoor · M.A. Sanskrit, Mantra & Stotra Studies
Acharya Vinaya holds an M.A. in Sanskrit from Banaras Hindu University and writes the mantra and stotra commentary on Vandnaa. Her focus is on accurate pronunciation, traditional context, and helping modern readers connect with classical texts.
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