Folk medicine practices must be preserved: Mandya University VC

The Hindu

26-06-2025

K. Shivachittappa, the Vice-Chancellor of Karnataka's Mandya University, on Thursday said that traditional folk medicine systems, which offer treatment for various ailments, must be preserved and passed on to future generations.
He was speaking at a seminar and interactive session on 'Folk medicine in present times' held at Mandya University. The event was jointly organised by Karnataka Janapada Academy, Mandya University, Karnataka Sangha, and Janapada Janneyaru.
Mr. Shivachittappa spoke on the relevance of indigenous healing practices and stated that 'the use of naturally grown medicinal plants is still prevalent in many communities'.
'In the past, elders treated allergies with Amrutaballi decoctions, chickenpox with Tulsi-Amrutaballi mixtures, and leg swelling with Uttarayana Soppu poultices,' he claimed.
He stressed that primary care should begin at home, and communities should have basic knowledge about the medicinal plants around them.
Jayaprakash Gowda, president, Karnataka Sangha, urged the youth not to view success solely through academic achievements but through meaningful contributions to society. 'Folk art forms are on the verge of extinction. The youth must take an active role in preserving folk traditions,' he said.
Gollahalli Shivaprasad, president, Karnataka Janapada Academy, called for the revival of folk wisdom in today's context. 'Our relationship with plants and nature defines the essence of folk traditions. The responsibility of sustaining our cultural heritage lies with the youth. Are they living up to this role?' he asked.
Mangala S.C., president, Janapada Janneyaru; Veena B.N., registrar, and Yoganarasimhachari K., registrar (examinations) of Mandya University; folk scholars V.N. Shivaramu, R. Gow, D.K. Rajendra, and others were present.