Sowa Rigpa is a traditional medical system practised in the Himalayan Region of India (particularly in Ladakh and Dharmshala) and Tibet. The paper uses a combination of historical and ethnographic research; it highlights various ways in which political and cultural forces have influenced the evolution of Sowa Rigpa over time.
Historically, this traditional system has been lineage-based and is popularly known as "Amchi medicine" in the region. The origin of this system is said to be traced to Medicine Buddha. This medical system is claimed to have worked both at a biological and a spiritual level and acted as a politico-social mechanism to impact people's everyday life.
With an analysis of the historical origins of Sowa Rigpa in Tibet and Ladakh, the paper traces its evolution from early medical practices to its integration with Buddhist philosophy and practice. It then examines how political changes, such as the Chinese annexation of Tibet and the Indian state's governance of Ladakh, have impacted the practice and dissemination of Sowa Rigpa.
This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the contemporary challenges facing the preservation and promotion of Sowa Rigpa in the face of political and cultural pressures. It includes an examination of the role played by institutions such as the Men-Tsee-Khang and the Amchi Association in promoting the practice of Sowa Rigpa, as well as the challenges they face in doing so.
The paper also highlights the intersection of politics and culture in the development of Sowa Rigpa. It contributes to a deeper understanding of the complex factors that have shaped this traditional medical system. It argues the importance of considering the historical and cultural context of traditional medical practices to appreciate their current and future role in healthcare.
