Abstract

DARSHANA AND AYURVEDA: A SHARED PHILOSOPHICAL BACKGROUND

Dr. Chhavi Mahajan*

Abstract

Indian philosophy is essentially known as Darshan Shastra. The roots of Darshan Shastra can be traced back to the period of the Upanishads, and it continued to evolve even after them. Its main objective is to reveal the mysteries of human existence and the principles behind the origin of the universe. The ultimate aim of all the Darshanas is to guide human beings toward true happiness. According to philosophical traditions, the Darshanas are broadly classified into two categories: Astik and Nastik. The Astik Darshanas accept the existence of God, revere the Vedas, and follow their teachings, whereas the Nastik Darshanas neither follow the Vedas nor believe in the presence of God. This article seeks to highlight the similarities between the philosophy of Ayurveda and the Darshanas, particularly the Astik Darshanas. For this purpose, we have undertaken a study of Ayurveda in relation to the Astik Darshanas.

Keywords: DarshanaS, Astik darshanas, Pramana, Ayurveda.