Zoho CEO Sridhar Vembu has backed IIT Madras Director V Kamakoti's recent statements on the medicinal properties of cow urine, or 'gomutra.' Taking to social media platform X, Vembu expressed his support, calling India's traditional wisdom profound and asserting that it is gaining global recognition.
In his post, Vembu wrote, "India has deep wisdom that the world is gradually recognizing. As a civilization, we will create technology that helps humans live in harmony with nature."
He also criticized what he called "ignorance disguised as 'rationalism,'" which, according to him, is challenging India's thinkers with outdated Western ideas. Vembu added, "We will fight this battle."
Vembu's comments came in response to a social media post that criticised Kamakoti's claims. The user had remarked, "This nation will not be destroyed because of illiteracy. But intellectuals who are behaving worse than illiterates."
Kamakoti made these remarks during an event at a Go Samrakshana Sala on the occasion of Maatu Pongal in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. He shared an anecdote about a sanyasi who allegedly recovered from a high fever after consuming gomutra.
According to Kamakoti, cow urine possesses "anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and digestive properties." He also suggested that it could be beneficial for conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and called for recognising its medicinal value.
His statements quickly gained traction on social media, sparking discussions and debates. Congress leader Karti Chidambaram shared a video of Kamakoti's speech on January 18, which further amplified the conversation. Kamakoti, in his address, also stressed the importance of protecting indigenous cow breeds and promoting organic farming.
As expected, reactions poured in from various quarters. While some users expressed support for Kamakoti's views, others questioned the scientific validity of his claims. The debate highlights the ongoing conversation about integrating traditional knowledge with modern scientific approaches.
(By arrangement with Livemint.com)