Observance of Siddha Day
Siddha Day 2026: Siddha Day 2026 marked the 9th annual celebration of this important observance dedicated to India’s ancient medical heritage. The event was organised by the Ministry of AYUSH, which oversees the promotion and development of India’s traditional healthcare systems.
Siddha Day is observed every year on 6 January. The date commemorates the birth anniversary of Sage Agathiyar, the foundational figure of the Siddha medical tradition.
Venue and Institutional Participation
The 2026 celebrations were held at Kalaivanar Arangam, a prominent cultural venue in Chennai. The programme witnessed active participation from national and State-level Siddha institutions, reflecting strong institutional support for the system.
Tamil Nadu played a central role in the celebrations, highlighting the State’s historical and cultural association with Siddha medicine.
Theme of Siddha Day 2026
The official theme for the year was “Siddha for Global Health.” The theme emphasised the growing relevance of Siddha principles in addressing modern global health challenges.
It focused on preventive healthcare, lifestyle-based healing, and holistic well-being. The theme also aligned with India’s broader effort to position traditional medicine as a complementary global health solution.
Sage Agathiyar and Siddha Tradition
Sage Agathiyar is revered as the father of the Siddha system of medicine. Ancient Tamil texts attribute the compilation of medical, spiritual, and alchemical knowledge to him.
Static GK fact: Agathiyar is counted among the 18 Siddhars, a group of enlightened Tamil sages associated with Siddha philosophy.
His teachings stressed harmony between the body, mind, and environment, which remains a core principle of Siddha medicine today.
Origin and Significance of Siddha Medicine
Siddha medicine originated in Tamil Nadu and represents one of the oldest traditional healthcare systems in India. It uses natural substances such as herbs, minerals, and metals, combined with strict dietary and lifestyle regulations.
Static GK fact: Siddha medicine places strong emphasis on preventive care and the concept of maintaining equilibrium among bodily elements.
The system is officially recognised under India’s AYUSH framework, which promotes indigenous medical practices alongside modern medicine.
Role of the Ministry of AYUSH
The Ministry of AYUSH plays a crucial role in research, education, standardisation, and global outreach of Siddha medicine. Dedicated Siddha research councils and colleges operate under its administrative framework.
Static GK Tip: AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy.
Through Siddha Day celebrations, the Ministry aims to increase public awareness and encourage scientific validation of traditional practices.
Global Outlook of Siddha
The 2026 theme highlighted India’s intention to globalise Siddha medicine. Emphasis was laid on integrative healthcare models and cross-border research collaboration.
Siddha Day thus serves not only as a cultural observance but also as a strategic platform for promoting India’s traditional medical knowledge worldwide.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
| Topic | Detail |
| Event | Siddha Day 2026 |
| Observed on | 6 January |
| Occasion | Birth anniversary of Sage Agathiyar |
| Theme | Siddha for Global Health |
| Organising authority | Ministry of AYUSH |
| Venue | Kalaivanar Arangam, Chennai |
| Origin of Siddha | Tamil Nadu |
| Medical system type | Traditional and holistic healthcare |
| National framework | AYUSH system |
| Significance | Promotion of Siddha at national and global levels |
