Drishti: Bridging Ayurvedic Insight with Modern Scientific Vision"

Abstract

Abstract

The Ayurvedic Samhitas highlight five sense organs, known as Panch Gyanendriya: the eye (Chakshu), ear (Shrota), nose (Ghrana), tongue (Rasana), and skin (Twak). Among these, the eye (Drishti) stands out as the most vital sensory organ. Acharya Sushruta, a distinguished figure in Ayurveda, meticulously detailed the concept of Drishti in his renowned treatise, the Sushruta Samhita. According to Ayurvedic classics, six Netra Patala (layers of the eye) are described, which can be anatomically correlated with the layers identified in modern ophthalmology.

In Shalakya Tantra, Drishti is a term surrounded by controversy and ongoing exploration within Ayurveda. While it has been addressed multiple times, it remains an evolving concept in traditional medicine. Ayurvedic texts offer various perspectives on Drishti, interpreting it either as an anatomical or structural component of the eye or as a functional entity responsible for vision. This study seeks to delve into the diverse interpretations of Drishti presented in both Ayurvedic and modern literature, aiming to shed light on this complex and debated terminology.

Keywords: Drishti, sense organ, Acharya Sushruta, vision, Netra.