Today on April 7, a national-level ayurveda seminar and exhibition is being held in Nepal for the first time. It has been organized at Kirtipur by the Nepal Ayurveda Medical students society. Dr. Suman Khanal from the Prestigious Central Ayurveda College of Nepal is leading a team of students at the Seminar. He is a bright scholar and a firm believer in Ayurveda. He is also the president of nepal ayurveda medical students society (NAMSS). Dr. Suman Khanal talked to Nirogstreet about his convictions, learning, and the journey so far. read his interview here.
Please tell us about your educational background and professional qualifications.
I completed my 10+2 in science stream, then joined B.A.M.S. after being selected in the entrance examination by the institute of medicine. I have almost completed my bachelor's degree and doing my internship as a Doctor at Ayurveda Campus and Teaching Hospital (ACTH).
Why did you choose Ayurvedic practices?
I always had a huge interest in life sciences. Ayurveda in itself is a complete science. After I witnessed how this medicine system works i knew that i would be choosing this practice. Because of the potential and efficiency of Ayurveda, I eventually chose this medical science.
What are your objectives after completing B.A.M.S.? Are you going to pursue post-graduation or start practicing?
Actually, I have not planned that much but I know that I will be pursuing post-graduation along with practicing. I also love teaching Ayurveda, so who knows i might end up working as a professor. For now, I can only say that whatever I do, I will be trying my best to contribute to Ayurveda.
What are your views on the current Ayurveda education and infrastructure? Does it need to improve?
Well, there is much to do from where do I start. From what I have observed Ayurveda education seems to be more inclined towards Allopath. The education and practice of pure Shāstriya Ayurveda is very rare. The infrastructure, in context of Nepal, needs improvement. People need to know the importance and uniqueness of this science. We need to value what we have and continuously work on improving it.
Let’s talk about your college. What makes it a good college?
My institution is the Central Ayurveda College of Nepal. It has a history dating back to 1996. Most of the Brilliant Ayurveda Doctors of Nepal are the former Alumni of my college. My college is also recognized by the Indian Embassy so we are able to do our post-graduation in any Ayurveda University of India.
What do you think of the bridge course and integrated medicine?
It's good in its own way but I already told you Ayurveda is complete in itself, so I don't think there is any need for bridge course or integrated medicine. But as mentioned in our Shāstras, the most important thing for a Bhesaka (Doctor) is his Rogi's Swasthya (Patient's health). So, if the integrated medicine is best for the patient, then there is no harm.
Do you believe Ayurveda is the best medicine system?
Of course, I do! I am not saying this only because it's my field but because I have been in this field for some time now and I am proud to say that if practiced correctly and according to Shāstras, Ayurveda is the best medicine system.
Do you think Nirogstreet is making a difference by striving to connect the mainstream society exclusively to Ayurveda practitioners and students through its dedicated technology platforms?
Absolutely! Nirogstreet has contributed so much. We have knowledge and capacity but it doesn't reach the public unless there is a good medium. In the era of technology and communication, Nirogstreet is proving to be a very good knowledge and media platform.
How do you spend your leisure time? What are your hobbies?
I know it sounds cliché but i am a learner, so i spend most of my leisure time reading books, articles, and research papers. I meditate a lot. Speaking of hobbies, i don't have a specific hobby but i enjoy a good conversation, music, and cricket.
What is your message to the Ayurveda youth and students?
My message is very simple: just believe in yourself and our medicine system. Practicing and learning Shāstriya Ayurveda is today's need. If i being just a student can lead a team for a national level seminar, so can you take Ayurveda places and help make a better world!
Read More► Air, Water, Sunshine, Exercise, Diet, and Rest are six best doctors: Dr. Satish Agrawal