trramesh

The Thanjavur Maratha king Raja Serfoji II, whose birth anniversary is celebrated today, was a multi-faceted personality. I had earlier written about his immense contribution to the restoration and renovation of the Thanjavur Rajarajeswaram Temple. Here is another fascinating aspect of his life. The Modi records preserved in the Saraswathi Mahal Library in Thanjavur reveal his deep interest in medicine, particularly Siddha, Ayurveda and Unani systems. He established the Dhanvantari Mahal, where medicines based on Siddha, Ayurveda and Unani traditions were prepared. He also maintained herbal gardens. Several works dealing with diseases and their treatment were compiled during his period, an important one being the “Sarabhendra Vaidhya Muraigal,” which deals with various ailments and their treatment. His interest in ophthalmology is particularly fascinating. Documentary evidence survives showing the treatment of cataract, corneal ulcers, eye infections and other ophthalmic conditions. Cataract operations were also performed. What is remarkable is the integration of Indian and European systems of medicine. The records mention treatments such as castor oil, rhubarb powder, an indigenous “blue pill” and leech therapy, while European medicines included silver nitrate, belladonna solution and other preparations. The records were remarkably systematic: diagnosis, medicines administered, surgical procedures and even the patient’s post-treatment vision were carefully documented. The contributions of Maharaja Serfoji II constitute an extraordinary chapter in the medical history of India.