9th Siddha Day celebrations

The Vice President of India, Shri C. P. Radhakrishnan, on 3 January 2026, inaugurated the 9th Siddha Day celebrations at Kalaivanar Arangam, Chennai, highlighting the growing relevance of Siddha medicine as a comprehensive, preventive and sustainable healthcare system in the modern world.

Traditional Medicine as Living Knowledge Systems
Addressing the gathering, the Vice President said that India’s traditional systems of medicine—including Siddha, Ayurveda, Yoga and other AYUSH disciplines—are not relics of the past, but living traditions that continue to make significant contributions to the health and well-being of millions in India and globally.

Theme: ‘Siddha for Global Health’
The event was organised around the theme “Siddha for Global Health”, reflecting India’s vision of positioning its traditional medical systems as part of global healthcare solutions. The celebrations brought together Siddha practitioners, scientists, academicians, scholars and students from across the country.

Commemorating Sage Agathiyar
Siddha Day commemorates the birth anniversary of Sage Agathiyar, revered as the father of Siddha medicine. The Siddha system is among the oldest medical traditions in the world and is deeply rooted in Tamil culture and knowledge systems.

Annual Observance on January 6
Siddha Day is observed annually on 6 January, marking the enduring legacy of the Siddha tradition and its relevance in promoting holistic health, disease prevention and sustainable medical practices.