Perfect Health Mela is based on the Vedic principles of knowledge

Four types of knowledge have been described in our ancient texts. Correspondingly, there are four types of people who seek these four types of knowledge: What is it? What should be done with the information? How is it done? Why should it be done?

Some people only want the information i.e. facts (“what is it”), nothing more. The second group wants to know “what should be done” with the information they have obtained. The third group wants to know “how”, the technique or procedure of how something is done (upasana). Lastly, some people seek answers to their questions; they ask “why” i.e. they look for logic or reasoning for the information given.

These four aspects of knowledge or learning correspond to the four Vedas. Rig Veda (it is the first Veda i.e. the first step to acquiring knowledge), Yajur Veda (Karma kand), Sam Veda (Bhakti Marg or Upasana) and Atharva Veda (Gyana Marg).

The Perfect Health Mela, the flagship annual event of Heart Care Foundation of India (HCFI), is based on these Vedic principles of knowledge and learning. The Mela creates awareness about different aspects of health, incorporating all pathies under one roof, for people from all sections of society, all age groups and all walks of life; hence, it caters to all the above-mentioned four types of people.

Vedic knowledge has two components: Shruti and Smriti. While Shruti is original knowledge (Vedas; evidence-based), Smriti is interpretation or review (Upanishads). People can get expert opinions at the Mela, or they can display any original work, they would like to share with the community.

In ancient era, Vedic knowledge was imparted through verses or songs or “geet” (Gita), folktales and short written plays (puranas) and epics. We have been using low cost infotainment modules as education tools at the Mela, which showcase various activities of the Mela across categories such as health education seminars, check-ups, entertainment programs, lifestyle exhibitions, lectures, workshops and competitions.

We also use one-line health “sutras” at the Mela to impart knowledge. Sutra is a Sanskrit word, which literally means string or thread. Sutra uses only few words to meaningfully express a truth. Every word in a sutra has a meaning by itself. All Vedic knowledge is in the form of Sutras. For example, a sutra to create awareness about child sexual abuse can be as follows: “Child sexual abuse, evident or suspect, is a common, preventable, punishable, acute medicolegal emergency.”

All these activities are based on Vedic knowledge.

This year, we have also included Modicare and Mohalla Clinics. Perfect Health Mela will be a perfect and unique opportunity to understand these concepts in affordable health care.

This year marks the Silver Jubilee of the Mela, which will be held from 24th to 28th October at the Talkatora Indoor Stadium, New Delhi.

I invite you all to the Silver Jubilee Perfect Health Mela.