“History of Indian Medicine: Volume Two” by Girindranath Mukhopadhyaya offers an in-depth exploration of the evolution and current state of Ayurvedic studies in India, particularly focusing on the period of British colonial rule. The volume begins with a comprehensive introduction that examines the status of Ayurvedic education during the British era, highlighting the efforts made by both the colonial government and Indian scholars to rejuvenate and integrate traditional medical knowledge into the modern framework. This section delves into the initiatives of the Ayurvedic Committee of Bengal, the traditional training systems of Kavirajas (Ayurvedic practitioners), and the establishment of institutions like the Sanskrit College in Calcutta, which played pivotal roles in preserving and promoting Ayurvedic education.

Mukhopadhyaya meticulously details the contributions of key figures such as Dr. Tytler and Pandit Madhusudana Gupta, who were instrumental in bridging Western medical practices with traditional Ayurvedic methods. The narrative captures the transformative period when Lord William Bentinck appointed a committee to revise medical education in Bengal, leading to the foundation of the Medical College and the subsequent abolition of the Native Medical Institution. This transition marked a significant shift towards the inclusion of European medical science in the curriculum, reflecting the dynamic interplay between colonial influences and indigenous medical traditions.

A significant portion of the volume is dedicated to discussing strategies for the restoration and development of Ayurveda. Mukhopadhyaya emphasizes the necessity of establishing a Central College of Ayurveda, complete with hospitals, libraries, and translation centers to make ancient Sanskrit texts accessible to a broader audience. He advocates for the creation of therapeutic gardens and museums to serve as practical resources for students and practitioners. The author also addresses the importance of standardizing the collection and sale of medicinal drugs, ensuring quality and efficacy in Ayurvedic treatments. Furthermore, the text explores the roles of various administrative bodies, including universities, district boards, and municipalities, in supporting and recognizing Ayurvedic education and practice.

The appendices enrich the volume by providing valuable supplementary materials, such as the memorandum of association of Ayurveda Mahavidyalaya, extracts from proceedings of governing bodies of Ayurvedic colleges, and a comprehensive bibliography of Ayurvedic literature spanning general medicine, botany, materia medica, surgery, and midwifery. These additions offer readers a holistic understanding of the academic and practical facets of Ayurveda during a transformative period in Indian medical history. Mukhopadhyaya’s work stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Ayurvedic medicine, highlighting its evolution amidst colonial challenges and its enduring significance in contemporary healthcare.