Dhanvantari Yagna: Significance, Procedure & Benefits

Dhanvantri, the Divine Physician

Dhanvantri is the Celestial Physician. Regarded as an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, the preserver, and sustainer of the universe, Dhanvantri remains the Supreme Healer. It is also believed that he introduced Ayurveda, the ancient system of medicines, to the world and hence, is hailed as the 'Father of Ayurveda.'

This Vishnu Avatar is depicted as a handsome divinity with 4 hands. In one of the hands, he is seen holding Amrut Kalash, the pot of Divine nectar and the elixir of life, while Shankh (the conch), the medicinal herbs, and the Ayurveda Book or a book of scriptures are there in the others. There are also depictions, which show Dhanvantri as a Vishnu form, with a conch and discus, and also holding the blood-sucking insect leech, which is said to have played a crucial role in the ancient system of medical treatment.    

The Legend of Dhanvantri

According to legends, Lord Dhanvantri emerged as a result of the churning of the Divine ocean of milk done to obtain Amrit, the Divine nectar. Amrit, which was embedded in the depths of the vast celestial ocean, was the heavenly liquid that could act as an antidote to death and grant immortality to those who consumed it. Seeking such a state of immortal existence, Devas, the celestials, and Asuras, the demons churned the ocean using the Mandara Mountain as the central pole and serpent Vasuki as the rope, for obtaining the nectar. Supported extensively by Vishnu, who assumed many forms, the churning brought out a variety of precious and invaluable things from the ocean, which included the wish-fulfilling tree Kalpavriksha and cow Kamadhenu, and Goddess Mahalakshmi. And at last emerged from the ocean, Lord Dhanvatri carrying the all-important Amrit Kalash, the pot of Divine nectar.   

Dhanvantri's day of advent, which falls on the 13th lunar Day of the waning Moon in the Karthik month (October-November), just 2 days before the Festival of Lights Diwali, is celebrated as Dhantrayodashi or Dhanteras. It is also observed as National Ayurveda Day.      

Dhanvantri Yagna

Dhanvantri Yagna is a powerful Fire ritual dedicated to this Divine Healer that seeks his blessings, both for robust health and overall welfare. People suffering from illnesses and wanting to get rid of their health concerns invoke Dhanvantri in the Homa for wellness and regaining fitness. They also pray to this Vishnu aspect for wealth, prosperity, and success in life.  

Dhanvantri Yagna, which serves as a wellness booster, is a unique Fire Lab consisting of 3 sections dedicated to Dhanvantri, Ayur Devata, and Mrityunjaya, the divinities meant for curing diseases, bestowing longevity and triumphing over death and is performed principally for good health and long life.

The 11th lunar day of Ekadasi thithi is held Sacred for Vishnu worship, and that occasion also remains ideal for performing this Yagna to the Vishnu incarnate, Dhanvantri. In addition to Ekadasi, the 12th lunar day of Dwadasi, the Full Moon day of Purnima, and the Dhanvantri birthday of Dhanteras are also regarded as suitable for this fire ritual. Besides, the person looking for a cure for the illness he is suffering from, can perform the ritual on the day of his birth star. It is also ideal to do this Yagna once a year.     

Another specialty of Dhanvantri Yagna is the use of as many as 108 types of herbs in it. These highly efficacious herbs, with high medicinal value, are offered to the Sacred fire of the Yagna along with ghee amidst the chanting of the powerful Mool Mantras of Dhanvantri, Ayur Devata, and Mrityunjaya. The ritual continues with the recitation of the hymns Dhanvantri Stotram, Dhanvantri Raksha Kavacham, and Vishnu Sahasranamam. The Yagna ends with Poornahuti, the grand finale, when a piece of new cloth kept in worship is dipped in ghee and offered to the holy fire as an oblation.

People can perform this Dhanvantri Yagna with devotion and faith in temples, halls, and also in their homes, following all the laid down procedures.

Benefits

Dhanvantri Yagna can earn Lord Vishnu's blessings, cure illnesses, remove health concerns, and keep devotees hale and hearty. It can eliminate harmful energies and restore positivity, grant strength, and immunity, bestow longevity and help lead a life of prosperity and joy.