The WAU 2025 Congress (Antigua, Guatemala) webpage and call for panels are now open - Please visit waucongress2025.org for more info.

WORLD ANTHROPOLOGICAL UNION

CONGRESS 2024​

Paper

Resilience and Revelation: The Role of Indian Knowledge Systems in the COVID-19 Pandemic

presenters

    R Rajesh

    Nationality: India

    Residence: Karnataka

    Bangalore University

    Presence:Face to Face/ On Site

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the indispensable role of local knowledge systems in addressing global health crises, with Indian traditional practices playing a crucial role in the nation's pandemic response. This paper delves into how these indigenous knowledge systems, particularly Ayurvedic medicine, yoga, and community-driven initiatives, have not only provided effective alternatives to conventional medical resources but have also enhanced community resilience and psychological well-being across diverse populations in India. At the core of India's response was the utilization of Ayurveda and yoga, promoted by the Ministry of AYUSH, which provided guidelines for boosting immunity with herbs and holistic health practices. These traditional health practices gained substantial adherence, helping individuals manage symptoms and maintain health during the pandemic. The resurgence and acceptance of these practices underscored their cultural significance and practical relevance in contemporary health crises. Moreover, the paper examines the role of community solidarity and local networks in pandemic management. Indian communities exhibited remarkable cohesion, mobilizing resources, and supporting vulnerable groups through organized local responses. This community-centric approach, deeply rooted in Indian social fabric, proved crucial in mitigating the impacts of the pandemic at the local level, highlighting the effectiveness of culturally adapted health strategies. The anthropological analysis presented in this study uses ethnographic methods and participatory research to document and understand the application and impact of these knowledge systems. The findings suggest that integrating traditional knowledge into modern health interventions can offer more comprehensive and culturally sensitive health solutions, enhancing the efficacy of global health responses. In conclusion, the study argues for a broader acknowledgment and integration of Indian traditional knowledge systems in global health policy. This paper calls for a continued dialogue between traditional and scientific communities to foster a holistic approach to health and well-being.

Keywords:

Indian Ethnomedicine, Traditional Knowledge Systems, Pandemic Resilience