Kaviraj Gangadhar Roy: Catalyst of Ayurveda’s revival in the 19th century

Abstract Kaviraj Gangadhar Roy was a prominent figure in the nineteenth century who played a crucial role in revitalizing Ayurveda, which had been neglected during Muslim rule. His significant contributions include founding the Gangadhar Niketan in Murshidabad, which marked the beginning of the “Gangadhar Era,” which restored Ayurveda’s importance in the nation. His commentary on the Charak Samhita titled “Jalpakalpataru” is highly regarded for its innovative insights into Ayurvedic philosophy. He authored 76 books covering Ayurveda and Sanskrit literature, which enriched the field and attracted many scholars, including Dwarakanath Sen and Pareshnath Sen. The influence of his teachings reached cities like Jaipur, Haridwar, Varanasi, and Delhi, demonstrating his lasting legacy in shaping modern Ayurvedic practices. This brief overview highlights Kaviraj Gangadhar Roy’s crucial role in the revival of Ayurveda and the significant impact of his disciples on the field.