23 September 2026 | Embassy of India, Belgrade

Dear Branko ji, Dr. Gordana,

Distinguished guests, experts, ladies and gentlemen,

I extend a warm welcome to you all to the Embassy of India, Belgrade, on the occasion of the 11^th Ayurveda Day.

As you are fully well aware, Ayurveda is a traditional Indian system for holistic health, of both body and mind, with an emphasis on harmony between the individual and the environment.

This year’s theme, “Ayurveda for a Healthier Tomorrow,” highlights the continuing relevance of Ayurveda in promoting health and well-being.

From the last year onwards, 23^rd September is observed as Ayurveda Day every year. While for most of the Indians and I assume for most of our friends here, each day is Ayurveda Day, each day is influenced by Ayurveda in some way of the other, be it the ingredients on our food to our ‘dincharya’, i.e. daily rituals, it is only fitting that a seminal gift to the humankind like Ayurveda should have a dedicated day to remind the uninitiated of it’s wonders. The date also symbolically corresponds with the autumnal equinox, reflecting the Ayurvedic emphasis on balance and harmony with nature.

Today’s seminar provides a valuable opportunity for experts and participants in Serbia to exchange views and learn more about Ayurveda and its contemporary relevance. I am particularly pleased with the gathering today to celebrate the Ayurveda Day. We have amidst us eminent Ayurveda and yoga experts, academics, businesspersons engaged in taking Ayurveda to masses, friends from media, fellow Indians and Serbian friends. This event incidentally is the first such event we are organising in the new Embassy building. Again, its only fitting that we have such an auspicious start.

I thank all our speakers, partners and participants for joining us.

May Ayurveda bring more joy and enable a more fulfilling existence for all of us!

Thank you!

Hvala Vam!