Abstract:
Introduction of Western medicine to Sri Lanka resulted in the marginalization of
Ayurveda which was the mainstay of traditional empirical medicine among the
Sinhalese. In spite of the emergence of a vibrant Sinhalese-Buddhist nationalist
movement in the late 19th century in opposition to the erosion of traditional
values and institutions such as Buddhism and Ayurvedic medicine, the dominance
of the Westernized, propertied and professional elite could not 'be checked. Introduction
of democratic institutions and subsequent political independence, however
allowed marginalized native groups such as Ayurvedic physicians to come forward
and win certain privileges which were hitherto denied to them. Even though the
events have not reversed the ,historical trend, they have nevertheless been significant
,developments with implications for rhe present and future position of Ayurveda
within the healthcare system of Sri Lanka.
