The National Institute of Siddha (NIS) in Tambaram, Chennai, has made history by setting a Guinness World Record for providing Varmam therapy to 567 individuals simultaneously.
This achievement underscores the growing recognition of Siddha medicine, a traditional Indian system known for its non-invasive, drug-free treatments.
Held on Wednesday at the NIS campus, the event featured 567 trained Varmanis (Varmam healers) administering the therapy to 567 participants.
The mass therapy session highlights the effectiveness and therapeutic potential of Varmam, a practice within the Siddha system of medicine that treats musculoskeletal, neurological, and orthopedic conditions.
The Union Minister of Ayush (Independent Charge), Prataprao Jadhav, applauded the institute’s efforts in a written message.
Secretary of the Ministry of Ayush, Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha, congratulated the NIS team, saying, “This record is not just about winning an award but raising awareness among younger generations about the value of traditional healing systems.”
Prof. Dr. R. Meenakumari, Director of the National Institute of Siddha, emphasized the importance of Varmam therapy, calling it a “unique, cost-effective, and non-pharmacological form of treatment” for various conditions, including cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder, and complicated neurological diseases.
The record-breaking event is part of the NIS’s larger mission to promote Siddha medicine and Varmam therapy globally.
With growing interest in alternative and traditional healing methods, this achievement is expected to enhance awareness of Siddha medicine both in India and worldwide.
As the National Institute of Siddha celebrates its success, the Guinness World Record for Mass Varmam Therapy marks a significant milestone in the global recognition of traditional Indian medicine.